House Bill No. 6882 seeks to revise the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in accordance with recommendations from the Freedom of Information Commission, with an effective date of October 1, 2025. The bill introduces new legal language to enhance clarity and compliance, including the requirement for the Freedom of Information Commission to conduct annual training sessions for public agency members on FOIA requirements. It also clarifies the definition of "education records," specifying that they are not subject to disclosure under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Additionally, the bill modifies the process for public agencies responding to record requests involving sensitive information, requiring notification to appropriate commissioners and allowing them to direct agencies to withhold records if necessary.

Key amendments include a clearer definition of "governmental function," which now emphasizes the involvement of public agencies in program management, and mandates that contracts exceeding $2.5 million must allow access to related records under FOIA. The bill also updates requirements for posting notices of special meetings electronically and allows individuals to copy public records using mobile devices, with a fee structure not exceeding twenty dollars. Several outdated provisions are deleted, including previous definitions and references that did not adequately capture the necessary involvement of public agencies. Overall, the bill aims to modernize FOIA processes, enhance transparency, and ensure compliance with federal regulations while maintaining the public's right to access information.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 1-200, 1-218
GOS Joint Favorable: 1-200, 1-218
File No. 81: 1-200, 1-218