The bill amends the Open Records Act to establish reasonable fees for electronic copies of public records, ensuring that charges do not exceed the actual cost of providing the requested records, including staff time calculated based on employee salaries without benefits. It also requires public agencies to communicate with requesters when the estimated cost of fulfilling a records request exceeds $200 or requires more than five hours of staff time. Additionally, the bill exempts from disclosure records compiled during formally closed investigations with no violations found and records containing obscene material. It mandates that county or district attorneys report violations to the attorney general in October instead of January, aiming to enhance transparency while balancing access to public records.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions regarding the confidentiality of certain information, specifically stating that records related to the Kansas offender registration act will be disclosed, but personal identifying information of victims will remain confidential. It creates a batterer intervention program certification unit within the attorney general's office, which will have access to domestic violence case records. The bill also clarifies that all meetings of public bodies must be open to the public, with specific provisions for notice and agenda availability, while allowing for exceptions in certain sensitive discussions. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve transparency in public records and meetings while protecting sensitive information.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 45-219, 75-7d01, 75-753, 75-4318, 45-221, 75-4319
As Amended by Senate Committee: 45-219, 75-7d01, 75-753, 75-4318, 75-4319, 45-221
{As Amended by Senate Committee of the Whole}: 45-219, 75-7d01, 75-753, 75-4318, 75-4319, 45-221
As Amended by House Committee: 45-221, 45-219, 75-7d01, 75-753, 75-4318, 75-4319