The bill amends the Freedom of Information Act of 1967, specifically addressing the provisions related to personnel records. It modifies the exemption criteria for disclosing personnel records by clarifying that any portion of a record that constitutes a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy will not be disclosed if it pertains to a private citizen, a public official not related to their official duties, or a personnel record of a public official. Additionally, the bill stipulates that such information must be of a personal or intimate nature that gives rise to a substantial privacy interest, which must outweigh the public's interest in disclosure.
Furthermore, the bill ensures that personnel or evaluation records exempt from disclosure must still be made available to the individual concerned or their designated representative. It also updates the notification process for subjects of records, allowing for contact via electronic message with confirmed receipt, in addition to in-person or telephone communication. If the subject cannot be reached within 24 hours, written notice must be sent via overnight mail to their last known address. This amendment aims to enhance transparency while protecting individual privacy rights.
Statutes affected: SB 248: 25-19-105(b), 25-19-105(c)