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PA HB802

PA HB802
In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.


summary

Introduced
03/04/2025
In Committee
03/04/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.

AI Summary

This bill amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law to expand exceptions for public records in two key ways. First, it modifies the existing provision about notes and working papers prepared by public officials, adding a new category that allows materials created to assist individuals with disabilities (such as braille translations or large print materials) to be exempt from public disclosure. Second, the bill creates a new exception that protects the identity of claimants or victims in settlements involving sexual harassment or sexual assault claims. Additionally, the bill clarifies that while financial records are generally open to public access, agencies can still redact certain protected information, including the new sexual harassment/assault settlement exception. The changes aim to provide additional privacy protections for vulnerable individuals, particularly those with disabilities and those who have experienced sexual harassment or assault, while maintaining the general principle of transparency in government records. The amendments will take effect 60 days after the bill's enactment.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (12)

Last Action

Removed from table (on 02/04/2026)

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