Bill > S0582

This bill amends the existing Rhode Island law regarding public records access by adding a new provision that waives fees for search, retrieval, and copying of public records specifically for members of the General Assembly when they are acting in their official capacity and need documents to fulfill their legislative responsibilities. Currently, the law allows public bodies to charge up to 15 cents per page for copied documents and up to $15 per hour for search and retrieval, with the first hour free. The bill introduces an exception to these standard fees for legislators, recognizing their need to access information as part of their governmental duties. By explicitly stating that these fees shall be waived when a legislator certifies they are acting in an official capacity, the bill aims to facilitate easier and more cost-free information gathering for elected representatives. The bill will take effect immediately upon its passage, meaning the fee waiver for legislators will be implemented as soon as the bill becomes law.