The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise:

(1) "Authorized representative" means a person permitted to receive a certification who is:

(a) Identified in a notarized statement signed by a qualified applicant; or

(b) An agency identified in a power of attorney as defined in chapter 11.125 RCW.

(2) "Board" means the state board of health.

(3) "Certification" means the document, in either paper or electronic format, containing all or part of the information contained in the original vital records from which the document is derived, and is issued from the central vital records system. A certification includes an attestation by the state or local registrar to the accuracy of information, and has the full force and effect of the original vital record.

(4) "Department" means the department of health.

(5) "Informational copy" means a birth or death record issued from the central vital records system, containing all or part of the information contained in the original vital record from which the document is derived, and indicating it cannot be used for legal purposes on its face.

(6) "Legal guardian" means a person who serves as a guardian for the purpose of either legal or custodial matters, or both, relating to the person for whom the guardian is appointed. The term legal guardian includes, but is not limited to, guardians appointed pursuant to chapters 11.88 and 13.36 RCW.

(7) "Legal representative" means a licensed attorney representing either the subject of the record or qualified applicant.

(8) "Qualified applicant" means a person who is eligible to receive a certification of a vital record based on the standards established by chapter 70.58A RCW and this chapter.

(9) "Report" means an electronic or paper document containing information related to a vital life event for the purpose of registering the vital life event.

(10) "Vital life event" means a birth, death, fetal death, marriage, dissolution of marriage, dissolution of domestic partnership, declaration of invalidity of marriage, declaration of invalidity of domestic partnership, and legal separation.

(11) "Vital record" or "record" means a report of a vital life event that has been registered and supporting documentation.

(12) "Vital records system" means the statewide system created, operated, and maintained by the department.