The bill, S.B. No. 919, amends the Government Code to enhance the response protocols for governmental bodies regarding public information requests. It introduces new requirements for governmental bodies to notify requestors in writing if they have no responsive information or if the requested information is subject to a previous determination that allows for withholding. Specifically, the bill mandates that such notifications be made within ten business days of receiving the request. Additionally, it requires that if information is withheld, the governmental body must identify the specific previous determination justifying the action.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a process for requestors to file complaints with the attorney general if a governmental body fails to respond as required. The attorney general is tasked with notifying the governmental body of any non-compliance and mandating open records training for the relevant personnel. The bill also stipulates that the governmental body cannot charge the requestor for producing the information if it is found to have improperly failed to comply with the response requirements. These changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to requests received after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 552.221, Government Code 552.301 (Government Code 552)