The bill amends Chapter 38-3 of the General Laws, titled "Public Records Administration," to enhance the management and retention of public records. It introduces new definitions for key terms such as "Administrator," "Electronic record," "Record copy," and "Records officer," clarifying the roles of individuals involved in public records administration. The bill establishes a structured framework for the public records administration program, detailing the responsibilities of the administrator, which include the establishment of a public records management program and a local government records program, as well as the development of records control schedules.

The bill outlines procedures for the reproduction and disposal of public records, stating that reproductions can serve as official records under certain conditions. It mandates that agencies submit records control schedules and specifies the roles of the attorney general and auditor general in reviewing these schedules. Proposed schedules may be finalized if not returned within 120 days, and the language regarding record transfers shifts from mandatory to discretionary. Agencies are required to obtain prior approval for record destruction.

Additionally, the bill empowers the administrator to take legal action against violations and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any provision is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the efficiency, accountability, and accessibility of public records management while ensuring better security and preservation of public records.

Statutes affected:
5451: 38-3-5