This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding public records. Key changes include the clarification of definitions, such as specifying that "officer" includes any person elected or appointed to hold office in a public body, and refining the definition of "public body" to emphasize that it includes entities that spend state or political subdivision funds. The bill also mandates that all officers and public bodies maintain records necessary for an accurate account of their activities, and it establishes clearer responsibilities for the preservation and maintenance of public records.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for custodians of public records, including a response timeframe of fifteen business days for requests, with provisions for written notices if responses are delayed. It also allows individuals denied access to public records to appeal through a special action in superior court or submit a complaint to the office of ombudsman-citizens aide. Furthermore, it requires acknowledgment of public records requests and outlines the necessary information to be included in such acknowledgments, enhancing transparency and accountability in the handling of public records.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 39-121.01, 39-121.02, 39-171, 41-151, 41-151.15, 41-151.19, 39-121.03, 39-122, 39-127, 41-1001, 12-349