The bill amends the Idaho Code concerning public records by introducing a new definition for "Resident," which specifies that it includes individuals whose domicile has been in Idaho for at least thirty days, while excluding full-time students from other states. It clarifies the rights of individuals to examine and copy public records, requiring requests to be specific and potentially accompanied by a written declaration of residency. The bill also establishes a fee structure for public records requests, stating that residents will not incur charges for the first two hours of labor or the first one hundred pages of copies, and allows public agencies to set different fee schedules for residents and non-residents, ensuring that resident fees do not exceed actual costs. Provisions for waiving fees are included if the requester can demonstrate that their request significantly contributes to public understanding of government operations and that they lack financial resources.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all public records requests be directed to a designated custodian and clearly labeled as such. Public agencies are required to respond to requests from residents within three working days and from non-residents within twenty-one days, with a possible extension to thirty-five days if needed. It also outlines the responsibilities of the board of trustees of the society regarding state-created records and historical research, allowing them to charge reasonable fees for records management services. The bill includes provisions for the acceptance and preservation of historical documents and establishes rules necessary for the society's duties. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.

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