Due to the U.S. Freedom of Information Act, state governments adopted their own laws relating to government record transparency, and because of Washington's 1973 Public Records Act, which recognized its centennial anniversary in 2001, occupants of Bridgeport can also enjoy transparency of their municipality. Because of these laws, Washingtonians can access, examine, and procure information about arrest records, marriage licenses, court documents, and traffic infractions, all of which contain names, dates, sentences, and specifics on events that occur inside the municipality. This legislation, which was largely using the U.S. Freedom of Information Act, are in place to be certain U.S. Citizens and people of Bridgeport have the ability to understand their own protection under the law, and hold government bodies and criminals responsible with regard to their actions, promoting a free and open culture for all.