Bill > HB2095

This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act by modifying the records request response procedures for public bodies. Specifically, the bill introduces a new requirement that public bodies must respond to records requests within thirty business days of receipt, which is a significant change to the existing law. The bill maintains the existing provisions of the Open Records Act, which require public records to be generally accessible during regular business hours, while preserving numerous existing exemptions for confidential information such as privileged legal documents, personal identification information, investigative files, and sensitive government records. The bill continues to limit copying fees (no more than 25 cents per page for standard documents and $1 per page for certified copies) and ensures that fees cannot be used to discourage information requests. The new response time requirement aims to provide more predictability and transparency in how public bodies handle open records requests, giving requestors a clear timeline for receiving the information they seek. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, allowing public bodies time to adjust their procedures to comply with the new 30-business-day response requirement.

Government Affairs, Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2095&Session=2600