Bill > H3665

This bill aims to improve public records access by ensuring that electronic records can be searched and retrieved in common formats, such as ASCII or UTF-8, and that public information can be separated from exempt information for maximum accessibility. It mandates that government entities designate "records access officers" who will help requesters identify and obtain records, and that agencies must publicize information about these officers and maintain lists of their record categories, databases, and past public record requests. The bill also clarifies that custodians of public records must allow inspection and provide copies at reasonable cost, with specific limits on fees for employee time and reproduction, and that records should be provided in electronic form if available and requested. Furthermore, it establishes a process for handling "exceptional circumstances" that might delay responses or require special fees, and it revises penalties for non-compliance, including daily fines for public entities that refuse or neglect their duties regarding public records.