Bill > S00387

This bill requires governmental and certain nongovernmental entities to proactively publish public records on the internet that are of public interest. The legislation amends the existing Public Officers Law to enhance transparency by expanding the definition of what constitutes an "agency" and mandating that state agencies make their publishable data available online. Key provisions include requiring every state agency to maintain a website with contact information for record requests, publish their current fiscal year budget, and make publishable state data available either on their own website or through the state's open data website. The bill also strengthens the Committee on Open Government by expanding its membership, requiring monthly meetings, and establishing an appeals process for record request disputes. The committee is now empowered to assign appeals officers, conduct informal mediations, and issue binding decisions on record access challenges. Additionally, the bill creates new guidelines for responding to record requests, including stricter timelines for acknowledgment and response, and allows for potential attorney's fees to be assessed against agencies that improperly deny access to records. The overall goal is to increase government transparency and public access to information by leveraging technological advances and establishing clearer procedures for record requests.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S387