As used in this chapter the following terms have the meanings indicated unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

     (1) "Authorized agency" means a public agency or its official representative having legal authority to investigate criminal activity or the cause of a fire or to initiate criminal proceedings, including the following persons and agencies:

     (a) The chief of the Washington state patrol and the director of fire protection;

     (b) The prosecuting attorney of the county where the criminal activity occurred;

     (c) State, county, and local law enforcement agencies;

     (d) The state attorney general;

     (e) The federal bureau of investigation, or any other federal law enforcement agency;

     (f) The United States attorney's office; and

     (g) The office of the insurance commissioner.

     (2) "Insurer" means any insurer, as defined in RCW 48.01.050 and any self-insurer.

     (3) "Relevant information" means information having any tendency to make the existence of any fact that is of consequence to the investigation or determination of criminal activity or the cause of any fire more probable or less probable than it would be without the information.

[2000 c 254 § 1. Prior: 1995 c 369 § 36; 1995 c 285 § 21; 1986 c 266 § 77; 1985 c 470 § 27; 1979 ex.s. c 80 § 2.]

NOTES:

     Effective date -- 1995 c 369: See note following RCW 43.43.930.

     Effective date -- 1995 c 285: See RCW 48.30A.900.

     Severability -- 1986 c 266: See note following RCW 38.52.005.

     Severability -- Effective date -- 1985 c 470: See notes following RCW 43.44.010.