This bill amends various provisions related to data practices in Minnesota, specifically focusing on data request and retention processes. It introduces a new subdivision to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.03, allowing individuals to apply for a fee waiver for data requests based on specific criteria, such as the data's relevance to government operations and its potential to enhance public understanding. Additionally, the bill mandates that state agencies must fulfill data requests within 30 days, providing written explanations for any delays, and requires reporting to the Legislative Commission on Data Practices regarding these requests.

Further amendments include changes to the process for compelling compliance with data access laws, where the court is now required to issue orders to compel compliance rather than having the discretion to do so. The bill also clarifies definitions related to government records, including the inclusion of correspondence as a type of state record, and establishes a requirement for state agency correspondence to be digitized and retained for a minimum of 25 years. These changes aim to enhance transparency and accountability in government data practices while ensuring that public access to information is maintained.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 13.03, 13.08, 138.17