Bill > SB554

This bill modifies Maryland's Public Information Act (PIA) to provide clearer procedures for addressing frivolous, vexatious, or abusive public records requests. The bill expands the powers of the State Public Information Act Compliance Board, allowing it to receive and review complaints from record custodians about requestors who submit requests that are considered burdensome or made in bad faith. The Board can now issue orders that allow custodians to ignore specific requests or future requests on similar topics, respond to a less demanding version of the request, or take other appropriate actions. The bill also allows both custodians and requestors to file complaints with the Board or circuit court, and provides a pathway for appealing the Board's decisions. A key innovation is that the Board can now dismiss complaints it considers frivolous before even requesting a response. The legislation aims to balance the public's right to access government information with protecting government agencies from overwhelming or harassing records requests. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving state and local agencies time to prepare for the new procedures.

Education

Education, Energy, and the Environment (Senate)

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0554?ys=2025RS