Bill > H3301

This bill makes several significant changes to Massachusetts public records law. It establishes a new Commission of Public Records within the Secretary of the Commonwealth's office, composed of five members appointed by the governor, secretary of state, and attorney general, who will serve five-year terms and are subject to removal for misconduct. The bill creates a new Supervisor of Public Records position responsible for managing and preserving public records across state and local government entities, including church and religious society records. It also updates the process for public records requests, requiring custodians to respond within 10 days and provide electronic records if requested, with clear mechanisms for appealing denials through a new Division of Public Record Appeals. The legislation establishes stronger enforcement mechanisms, including the ability to seek judicial intervention and potential fines up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to one year for individuals who unlawfully possess, alter, or destroy public records. Additionally, the bill removes previous restrictions on publishing city council debate substance, potentially increasing transparency in local government proceedings. These changes aim to improve public access to government records and create more robust accountability measures for record management and disclosure.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3301