The bill amends Section 38-2-3 of the General Laws in Chapter 38-2, which pertains to "Access to Public Records." It introduces new provisions that require public bodies to establish clear procedures for accessing public records. These procedures must include the identification of a designated public records officer, instructions on how to make a public records request, and the location for submitting such requests. A copy of these procedures must be posted on the public body's website if available. The bill clarifies that requests for public records do not need to be submitted on a specific form, as long as they are readily identifiable as requests for public records.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that all requests to inspect and/or copy public records must include sufficient identifying information to verify the requester's identity, explicitly prohibiting anonymous requests. At a minimum, a requester must provide their name and a valid mailing address or electronic mail address. The bill does not specify a timeframe for public bodies to respond to requests.

Statutes affected:
7985: 38-2-3