Bill > H2717

This bill aims to improve public access to government records by requiring state agencies to designate "records access officers" who will manage requests and facilitate the informal resolution of issues, ensuring that public record information can be separately retrieved from electronic systems, even if other information within those systems is exempt from disclosure. It also mandates that agencies provide public internet access to certain types of records, such as final opinions, annual reports, and proposed regulations, and maintain reference materials like document classification schemes and database indexes on their websites. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that fees for reproducing electronic records should only cover the actual cost of storage devices or materials, and that programming necessary to retrieve or format existing electronic records should not be considered the creation of a new record, while also allowing for the recovery of reasonable attorney's fees for parties who substantially prevail in seeking public records.