This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to enhance the regulations surrounding the retention of government records, specifically defining "correspondence" and establishing a minimum retention period for such records. The bill introduces a new definition of "correspondence" as any written or electronic communication that documents the events, decisions, and functions of public agencies, while explicitly excluding personal communications and unsolicited advertisements. Additionally, it mandates that all correspondence must be retained for a minimum of three years from the date of creation or receipt.

The bill also makes several amendments to existing statutes regarding the responsibilities of public officers and the Records Disposition Panel. It clarifies that public officers are responsible for preserving government records and outlines the procedures for the destruction or reproduction of records deemed no longer valuable. The amendments include the removal of certain phrases related to the types of records and the addition of new definitions and requirements, ensuring that the management of government records is more structured and accountable.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 15.17, 138.17