This bill amends the Public Records Act in Idaho, specifically updating Section 74-115 to allow individuals aggrieved by the denial or partial denial of a public records request to file a complaint in district court. The new provisions require that complaints be filed within ninety days of the agency's response and include specific documentation related to the request and response. The bill also establishes a $100 filing fee and outlines the timeline for the court's review and decision-making process. Additionally, it clarifies that individuals may still pursue legal action to compel disclosure even if a complaint has been filed, with a longer timeframe of 180 days for such actions.

Furthermore, Section 74-114 is amended to ensure access to air quality, water quality, and hazardous waste records, while also protecting trade secrets. The bill specifies the types of records that must be disclosed under federal law, and it establishes procedures for handling claims of trade secrets, including timelines for substantiation and appeals. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 74-115, 74-114