The privilege described in RCW 43.06A.060 does not apply when:

(1) The ombuds or ombuds's staff member has direct knowledge of an alleged crime, and the testimony, evidence, or discovery sought is relevant to that allegation;

(2) The ombuds or a member of the ombuds's staff has received a threat of, or becomes aware of a risk of, imminent serious harm to any person, and the testimony, evidence, or discovery sought is relevant to that threat or risk;

(3) The ombuds has been asked to provide general information regarding the general operation of, or the general processes employed at, the ombuds's office; or

(4) The ombuds or ombuds's staff member has direct knowledge of a failure by any person specified in RCW 26.44.030, including the state family and children's ombuds or any volunteer in the ombuds's office, to comply with RCW 26.44.030.

Severability—Effective date—1998 c 288: See notes following RCW 43.06A.020.