This bill aims to enhance the accessibility of local government records by establishing an online platform for their storage and public access. It amends RSA 5:35 to require the director, with the approval of the municipal records board, to designate a publicly accessible website for the retention and access to local electronic records. Additionally, the bill amends RSA 5:49 II to outline the responsibilities of the local government records manager, including advising on local government records policies and procedures. A new paragraph is inserted, authorizing the local government records manager, or the State Archivist in their absence, to employ necessary specialists to provide and maintain the publicly accessible website and issue guidance for its use.

The bill also amends RSA 33-A:5-a to allow electronic municipal records to be stored on the designated website, eliminating the need for municipalities to keep an additional copy if they provide a cost-free method of accessing the website. Furthermore, it amends RSA 91-A:4, IV(a) to require public bodies to provide the domain name of the website where records are stored if they have been uploaded in accordance with RSA 33-A:5-a III. The bill appropriates $150,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, to the secretary of state for the creation and maintenance of the website, the local government records manager position, and the implementation of the act's provisions. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage. The fiscal note indicates that the Department of State will need to purchase records management software and hire a local government records manager, with costs estimated between $82,000 and $106,000 for salary and benefits, and anticipates requesting additional funding for the position in future budgets.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the House: 5:35, 5:49, 33-A:5-a, 91-A:4