The bill amends the Freedom of Information Act of 1967 to establish specific requirements for records custodians when responding to public records requests. It mandates that custodians must respond in writing within a designated timeframe, detailing whether records exist, identifying any applicable exemptions if records are subject to them, or directing the requester to the appropriate custodian if they lack control over the records. Additionally, the bill allows for responses to be delivered via electronic mail.

Furthermore, the bill introduces penalties for custodians who knowingly fail to respond as required, aligning with existing penalties for violations of the Freedom of Information Act. It also clarifies that custodians must still provide any responsive records that are not in active use or storage immediately, regardless of the new response requirements.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB380 V2 - 3-27-2023 09:43 AM: 25-19-105(a)
Old version SB380 V3 - 3-29-2023 01:53 PM: 25-19-105(a)
SB 380: 25-19-105(a)
Act 879: 25-19-105(a)