This bill aims to enhance the management and accessibility of local government records by establishing a publicly accessible website for the storage and public access of electronic records. It amends existing laws, specifically RSA 5:35, to require the director to designate a website for this purpose with the approval of the municipal records board. Additionally, it introduces new responsibilities for the local government records manager, including the authority to employ specialists to ensure the website's proper development and guidance. The bill also allows for electronic municipal records to be stored on this designated website, eliminating the need for municipalities to keep additional copies, provided they offer at least one cost-free method for public access.

To support these initiatives, the bill appropriates $150,000 from the General Fund for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, to fund the local government records manager position and the website's creation and maintenance. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of the local government records manager, including advising on records policies and procedures. Furthermore, it modifies existing provisions regarding public access to records, ensuring that if records are uploaded to the new website, the public is informed of the website's domain name. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

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