This bill amends the Public Records Act in Idaho, specifically focusing on the procedures for filing complaints regarding the denial of requests for public records. It introduces a new provision allowing individuals aggrieved by a denial or partial denial of a disclosure request to file a complaint in the magistrate court within ninety days of the agency's response. The complaint must include specific documentation, such as the original request and the agency's response, and a filing fee of $100 is required. The public agency must respond within fourteen days, and the judge will issue a decision within another fourteen days. The bill also clarifies that individuals may still pursue legal action in district court regardless of whether they have filed a complaint under the new provision.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 74-114 to ensure access to air quality, water quality, and hazardous waste records, while also protecting trade secrets. It outlines the process for determining whether information qualifies as a trade secret and establishes timelines for responses to requests for such information. The bill emphasizes the importance of safeguarding trade secrets while ensuring transparency in environmental records. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2026.

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