Bill > SB1665

This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify exemptions related to draft documents and studies. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that allows for the exemption of studies, drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records containing opinions or policy formulations. However, this exemption is not absolute: if a draft record has remained in draft form for more than 12 months and was funded by public dollars from a local government unit, it can no longer be kept confidential. This change aims to increase transparency by preventing government entities from indefinitely keeping draft documents secret, while still protecting preliminary work products during the active development stage. The modification is part of Illinois' ongoing efforts to balance government transparency with the need for agencies to develop and refine policy recommendations without premature public scrutiny.