Open Records (H 7521, S 2471)

For the third consecutive year, legislation was introduced that would strengthen the state‘s Access to Public Records Act in numerous ways. Among other things, the bill would shorten the timeframe for public bodies to respond to open records requests, increase penalties for violations of the law, and require training of public information officers on the obligations of public bodies under APRA. The bill passed both Houses in 2008, but was vetoed by the Governor. After passing the Senate last year, the bill got entangled in political maneuvering on the House side. The Affiliate is looking forward to a better outcome this session. Need for the bill is greater than ever, as problems with violation of the statute seem to remain virtually unchecked.