The proposed bill amends the Inspection of Public Records Act to enhance protections for victims of crimes and accidents by requiring individuals requesting law enforcement records to certify that these records will not be used for soliciting victims or their relatives. It introduces a definition of "commercial purpose" and mandates that requesters intending to use records for commercial purposes must also certify this intention. Public bodies are allowed to charge fees for processing requests related to commercial use, including an hourly fee for time spent reviewing and preparing the records, and they must provide an estimated fee to the requester. The bill also establishes a process for addressing denied requests, giving public bodies fifteen calendar days to remedy any claimed violations before enforcement actions can be initiated.

Additionally, the bill creates an "Inspection of Public Records Task Force" to oversee and improve the implementation of the Inspection of Public Records Act. This task force will consist of representatives from various sectors, including public schools, state institutions of higher education, news media organizations, open government advocacy groups, and record custodians. Chaired by the attorney general or their designee, the task force will operate from July 1, 2025, until January 1, 2026. Its objectives include exploring alternative enforcement options for violations, recommending the use of ombuds to assist both requesters and public bodies, and standardizing procedures for inspecting public records. The task force is also tasked with investigating the misuse of the Act and gathering feedback from affected parties, with a requirement to submit legislative recommendations by December 15, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 14-2A-1, 14-2-6, 14-2-8, 14-2-9, 14-2-11, 14-2-12