Bill > SB535

This bill modifies Oklahoma's Open Records Act by introducing several key changes to how public bodies handle records requests. The bill expands the definition of "law enforcement agency" to include state and local fire marshals when investigating potential criminal law violations, and updates various statutory references. It authorizes public bodies to require advance payment for records requests that are estimated to cost over $75 or when a requestor has outstanding fees, with any overpayment to be returned. The bill also allows public bodies to require requestors to complete a standardized records request form and gives them the right to ask for clarification on requests that lack specificity. To be considered specific, a records request must now include a general time frame for record creation, seek identifiable records rather than general information, and include sufficiently specific search terms. If a public body has attempted to help a requestor clarify their request by providing potential topics or record lists, they may deny the request if it remains insufficiently specific. The bill maintains existing provisions about protecting confidential information and limiting copying fees, while providing public bodies more flexibility in managing records requests. The changes will take effect on November 1, 2025.