The bill amends the Idaho Code to enhance the framework surrounding public records requests, introducing a new definition for "Resident" that specifies individuals who have lived in Idaho for at least thirty days, while excluding full-time students from other states. It clarifies the rights of residents to examine and copy public records, stipulating that requests must be specific and may require a written declaration of residency. Residents are entitled to the first two hours of labor and the first one hundred pages of copies free of charge, while non-residents may face fees determined by the public agency. The bill also mandates public agencies to provide itemized statements of fees and prohibits them from outsourcing their duties to non-governmental entities, thereby ensuring greater transparency and accessibility.

Further provisions in the bill require that requests for public records be directed to a designated custodian and clearly labeled as such. Public agencies are obligated to respond to requests from residents within three working days and from non-residents within twenty-one days, with allowances for extensions if necessary. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the board of trustees regarding state-created records and allows them to charge reasonable fees for records management services. Importantly, the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 74-101, 74-102, 74-103, 67-4126
Engrossment 1: 74-101, 74-102, 74-103, 67-4126