Bill > H2822

This bill amends the public records law by granting the Secretary of the Commonwealth, acting as the supervisor of records, or a designated officer, expanded authority to investigate and enforce compliance with public records requirements. This includes the power to conduct inquiries, require sworn statements from individuals, and issue orders for compliance. The bill also empowers these officials to administer oaths, issue subpoenas to compel witness attendance and the production of relevant documents, and to initiate judicial action, including civil lawsuits and contempt proceedings in superior court, if a records custodian refuses to cooperate or obey a subpoena. Furthermore, the Secretary is authorized to create regulations for these proceedings and appeals, and the bill includes a severability clause ensuring that if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest will remain in effect.