This bill amends the right-to-know law by eliminating fees and charges associated with governmental records, specifically removing the provisions that allowed public bodies or agencies to charge for the inspection or delivery of records. The bill proposes to amend RSA 91-A:4, IV by deleting the language that permits public bodies to charge for costs associated with providing copies of records beyond the actual cost of copying. Additionally, it repeals RSA 91-A:4, VIII and IX, which pertain to fees for records provided, thereby ensuring that no fees will be charged for accessing governmental records.

Furthermore, the bill reinstates potential liability for public bodies or agencies that disclose information exempt from disclosure. This reinstatement is aimed at holding these entities accountable for any wrongful disclosures, unless they can demonstrate that they acted in good faith to redact exempt information. The bill's changes are expected to have an indeterminable impact on revenue for state, county, and local governments, as the removal of fees may lead to decreased revenue, while the reinstatement of liability could result in increased legal costs or damages in the event of a civil action. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 91-A:4