The bill amends the Administrative Procedures Act of 1969 by clarifying the process for judicial review of final decisions made by state agencies. It specifies that once a person has exhausted all administrative remedies within an agency and is aggrieved by a final decision or order—regardless of whether it is affirmative or negative—they are entitled to seek direct review by the courts. The bill also states that the exhaustion of administrative remedies does not necessitate filing a motion or application for rehearing unless required by agency rules. Additionally, it allows for court review of preliminary or intermediate agency actions if such review is necessary to provide an adequate remedy.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a provision that permits individuals who have been denied a permit by a state agency, after exhausting all administrative remedies, to file a lawsuit against the agency for monetary damages and reasonable attorney fees. This addition aims to enhance accountability and provide recourse for individuals adversely affected by agency decisions regarding permits.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 24.301