Bill > S1700

This bill proposes changes to existing law regarding public records, specifically Chapter 66, Section 10(b) of the General Laws. It mandates that a custodian of a public record must respond to a request for inspection or a copy within ten days of receiving it, whether the request is delivered in person or by mail. If the custodian fails to comply, the requester can ask the supervisor of records to determine if the record is public. If the supervisor agrees, they will order the custodian to comply. If the custodian still refuses, the supervisor can inform the attorney general or district attorney, who can take action to ensure compliance. Furthermore, if the custodian doesn't comply within 30 days of the supervisor's order, a daily penalty of fifty dollars will be imposed until compliance. This bill clarifies that these administrative remedies do not prevent other administrative remedies available through the commissioner of administration and finance or judicial remedies, and that courts can order compliance if a custodian refuses. If a custodian fails to comply with a court order, they will be responsible for the requester's court costs incurred after 60 days from the initial request.