Open Meetings and Public Records Bills
View: Open Meetings Bills • Public Records Bills • Combined
Browse historical data dating back to 2011
Click/tap on the states below to browse bills from that state. The darker the state’s color, the more bills we’re tracking.
Please note that the bills shown here are from the current legislative session. To see each state’s 2026 legislative calendar, follow this link. [NCSL.org, opens in new window/tab]
Please note that the bills shown here are from the current legislative session. To see each state’s 2026 legislative calendar, follow this link. [NCSL.org, opens in new window/tab]
Looking for historical data? Spot trends and apply historical context to in-session bills with this year-by-year collection of open meetings and public records bills dating back to 2011.
DC bill #B26-0670 • Last Action 06/29/2026
District of Columbia Government Data Privacy and Protection Act of 2026
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the District of Columbia Government Data Privacy and Protection Act of 2026, aims to create comprehensive privacy rules for how District government agencies and third parties handle the personal data of individuals, referred to as "covered individuals." It will grant these individuals enforceable rights over their data and establish a new Chief Privacy Officer position within the Office of the Chief Technology Officer to oversee these protections. The bill also includes standard provisions regarding its fiscal impact and effective date, which will occur after mayoral approval and a 30-day congressional review period, as is typical for legislation in the District of Columbia.
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Bill Summary: A BILL IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To establish comprehensive privacy protections governing the collection, use, and disclosure of covered individuals’ personal data by District government agencies, to establish requirements for third party’s handling personal data of covered individuals, to provide covered individuals with enforceable rights regarding their personal data, and to establish a Chief Privacy Officer in the Office of the Chief Technology Officer.
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• Introduced: 04/29/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 4 : Brianne Nadeau (D)*, Janeese George (D)*, Christina Henderson (I)*, Zachary Parker (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 04/27/2026
• Last Action: Public Hearing
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1154 • Last Action 06/23/2026
Public contracts: best value procurement: community college districts.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes community college districts to use a "best value procurement" method for public projects costing over $1,000,000, allowing them to select contractors based on a combination of price and qualifications, rather than solely the lowest bid. This method, which will be in effect until December 31, 2030, defines "best value" as a process where the chosen bidder offers the best combination of price and qualifications, with "qualifications" encompassing factors like financial stability, relevant experience, management competency, labor compliance, and safety record. The bill also mandates that community college districts report on their use of this procurement method to the Legislature by January 1, 2030, and establishes specific requirements for bid solicitations, prequalification of bidders, and the evaluation process to ensure fairness and transparency.
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Bill Summary: An act to add and repeal Article 41.6 (commencing with Section 20666) to Chapter 1 of Part 3 of Division 2 of the Public Contract Code, relating to public contracts.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2026
• Added: 02/19/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Eloise Reyes (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/18/2026
• Last Action: Assembly Higher Education Hearing (13:30:00 6/23/2026 State Capitol, Room 126)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1159 • Last Action 06/23/2026
Artificial intelligence: transparency and governance.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that for various California transparency and governance laws, including those related to public records, open meetings, political reform, administrative procedures, and environmental quality, terms like "person," "interested person," and "member of the public" refer to natural persons or legally recognized entities capable of genuine participation, and explicitly exclude artificial intelligence (AI) systems, autonomous agents, or robots, whether physical or digital. The bill defines AI as an engineered or machine-based system that can infer and generate outputs to influence environments, and it authorizes governmental agencies to use AI detection tools to identify the presence of AI. This measure aims to prevent AI from overwhelming government agencies with automated interactions that could simulate human participation but lack genuine deliberation, thereby preserving the integrity of public processes and ensuring that governmental decisions remain responsive to actual constituents.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 7920.520, 9072, 11405.70, and 11500 of, and to add Sections 11121.5, 11342.575, 11370.1.5, and 54951.5 to, the Government Code, and to amend Sections 21066 and 30111 of the Public Resources Code, relating to artificial intelligence.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2026
• Added: 02/19/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Christopher Cabaldon (D)*, Ben Allen (D), Josh Becker (D), Brian Jones (R), Josh Lowenthal (D), Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R), Blanca Pacheco (D), Akilah Weber Pierson (D), Rick Zbur (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Assembly Privacy And Consumer Protection Hearing (13:30:00 6/23/2026 State Capitol, Room 437)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1114 • Last Action 06/23/2026
Data collection: sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status: disclosure.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance the privacy and protection of sensitive personal information related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status (SOGISC) collected by various California state entities. It defines "information pertaining to SOGISC" broadly to include sexual orientation identity, gender identity or expression, and identification as intersex or having sex characteristics that vary from typical associations. The bill prohibits the disclosure of personally identifiable SOGISC information collected by specified state agencies, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and public postsecondary education institutions to entities outside of California state government or its contractors, with limited exceptions for federal programs, interstate agreements, or valid court orders, and requires such disclosures to be minimal. Furthermore, it declares SOGISC information confidential and exempt from public disclosure under the California Public Records Act unless it is deidentified. The bill also clarifies that information that could reasonably be used to infer transgender or intersex status is also protected, and violations are subject to penalties under the Information Practices Act of 1977. The legislation includes findings that this protection is necessary to safeguard individuals who voluntarily provide this sensitive self-identification data.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 44230.6 and 66027 of the Education Code, to amend Section 8310.8 of, and to add Section 8310.8.5 to, the Government Code, and to amend Section 1808 of the Vehicle Code, relating to data collection.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 05/16/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Christopher Cabaldon (D)*, Rick Zbur (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 05/14/2026
• Last Action: Assembly Privacy And Consumer Protection Hearing (13:30:00 6/23/2026 State Capitol, Room 437)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1206 • Last Action 06/17/2026
Insurance: omnibus.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to insurance laws, including expanding the reasons a licensee's license can be made inactive to include dissolution, forfeiture, termination, cancellation, or surrender by the Secretary of State, and indefinitely extending a temporary increase in the amount insurers can invest in certain projects that are approved by the Insurance Commissioner and identified by the California Organized Investment Network (COIN), which encourages investments in underserved communities. It also clarifies that general provisions for licensing production agencies apply to all applicants and licensees unless otherwise specified, and it pauses the 12-month period for passing an exam if an applicant's background information is under review for a potential license suspension or revocation. The bill also extends eligibility for estate certificates of convenience to include the estates of deceased accident and health or sickness agents, allows the Department of Insurance to submit biannual information requests to district attorneys for workers' compensation fraud cases, sets a two-year term for non-insurer members of the assigned risk plan advisory committee, and requires officers of the State Compensation Insurance Fund to provide annual and quarterly investment reports to the Department of Insurance. Additionally, it changes the California Earthquake Authority's (CEA) process for selecting auditors to require the CEA to select and retain them, subject to the commissioner's approval, and makes CEA employees subject to incompatible activities provisions. For public insurance adjusters, the bill requires their email address to be included in contracts, shortens the timeframe for depositing claim settlement funds in escrow accounts during emergencies, and shortens the timeframe for remitting funds to insureds during emergencies. Finally, it makes technical changes related to the calculation of adjusted premiums and present values for life insurance policies.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 805, 1628, 1629, 1661, 1666, 1668, 1668.5, 1670, 1676, 1686, 1712.5, 1728, 1729, 1729.2, 1736.5, 1738, 1742, 1748.5, 1807.5, 1821, 1872.83, 10089.7, 10089.13, 10163.2, 10168.25, 11623, 11797, 12928.7, 15027, 15028.7, and 15029 of, and to amend and repeal Section 1210 of, the Insurance Code, relating to insurance.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Insurance
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Assembly Insurance Hearing (09:30:00 6/17/2026 State Capitol, Room 437)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1786 • Last Action 06/17/2026
Public contracts: best value construction contracting for counties, cities, and the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the "best value construction contracting" program, which allows government entities to select contractors based on a combination of price and qualifications rather than solely the lowest bid, to include general law cities and the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments, in addition to counties. The minimum project cost for using this method is lowered from $1,000,000 to $500,000, and the program's sunset date is extended from January 1, 2030, to January 1, 2040. The bill also removes provisions that allowed counties to use this method for specific annual contracts for repair and remodeling work, and changes the reporting deadline for participating entities from March 1, 2029, to March 1, 2031. The term "best value" refers to selecting a bidder based on objective criteria that balance price with qualifications like financial condition, experience, management competency, labor compliance, and safety record.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 20155, 20155.1, 20155.3, 20155.4, 20155.5, 20155.6, 20155.7, and 20155.9 of, and to amend the heading of Article 3.7 (commencing with Section 20155) of Chapter 1 of Part 3 of Division 2 of, the Public Contract Code, relating to public contracts.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : John Harabedian (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: Senate Local Government Hearing (09:30:00 6/17/2026 State Capitol, Room 112)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2359 • Last Action 06/17/2026
In access, providing for nondisclosure agreements.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Right-to-Know Law, which governs access to public information, by adding a new section that prohibits government agencies from entering into agreements with entities concerning the construction, development, or location of a "data center" – defined as a facility primarily used for processing, storing, retrieving, or transmitting data – that would require confidentiality, nondisclosure, or otherwise prevent the agency from disclosing information to the public. Any such agreement or contract entered into after the bill becomes law that violates this prohibition is considered void and unenforceable because it goes against public policy.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in access, providing for nondisclosure agreements.
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• Introduced: 04/06/2026
• Added: 04/07/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 42 : Joe Ciresi (D)*, James Prokopiak (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Dave Madsen (D), Kyle Mullins (D), Bob Freeman (D), Tarah Probst (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Jim Haddock (D), Nancy Guenst (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Kyle Donahue (D), Anthony Bellmon (D), Mandy Steele (D), Ben Waxman (D), Steve Malagari (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Jeanne McNeill (D), John Inglis (D), Lindsay Powell (D), Dan Deasy (D), Tarik Khan (D), Brandon Markosek (D), Dan Williams (D), Pat Harkins (D), Scott Conklin (D), Rick Krajewski (D), Steve Samuelson (D), Danielle Otten (D), Chris Pielli (D), Paul Friel (D), James Walsh (R), Scott Barger (R), Kristine Howard (D), Joseph Webster (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Emily Kinkead (D), Mark Gillen (R), Lisa Borowski (D), Izzy Smith-Wade-El (D), Liz Hanbidge (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 04/06/2026
• Last Action: Energy (h) Hearing (10:00:00 6/17/2026 Room 523 Irvis Office)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB381 • Last Action 06/16/2026
Vital records: adoptees’ birth certificates.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective July 1, 2028, will allow adopted individuals and descendants of deceased adopted individuals to access the original birth certificate, which is the birth certificate issued at the time of birth before adoption proceedings. It also establishes a process for requesting this original birth certificate and requires the State Registrar to create a "contact preference form" for birth parents to indicate their wishes regarding contact with their adopted child or their descendants, which will be provided when an original birth certificate is requested. Additionally, the bill removes an exception that allowed adopting parents to request that certain information, like the facility of birth and the race/color of parents, be omitted from the new birth certificate issued after adoption.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 1798.24 of the Civil Code, and to amend Sections 102645 and 102685 of, to amend, repeal, and add Section 102705 of, to add Sections 102620 and 102706 to, and to repeal Section 102675 of, the Health and Safety Code, relating to vital records.
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• Introduced: 02/14/2025
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 17 : Aisha Wahab (D)*, Bob Archuleta (D), Angelique Ashby (D), Catherine Blakespear (D), Sabrina Cervantes (D), Steven Choi (R), Dave Cortese (D), Matt Haney (D), Mike McGuire (D), Jerry McNerney (D), Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R), Liz Ortega (D), Sasha Perez (D), Laura Richardson (D), Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D), Suzette Martinez Valladares (R), Scott Wiener (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Assembly Health Hearing (13:30:00 6/16/2026 1021 O Street, Room 1100)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB957 • Last Action 06/16/2026
Privacy: social media companies: administrative subpoenas: remedies.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Stopping Harmful Information Exploitation and Lawless Data Sharing Act," requires social media companies to take specific steps before disclosing an individual's personal information in response to an administrative subpoena, which is a formal request for information issued by certain government officials, particularly those involved in immigration enforcement. Specifically, social media companies must promptly notify the individual whose information is sought and provide them with at least 30 days to respond to or challenge the subpoena before complying, unless there's an exception. Before responding, companies must also determine if the subpoena is invalid for reasons such as being too broad, indefinite, or irrelevant to the authorized purpose. If information is disclosed, the company must notify the individual about the disclosure, the reason for it, and the basis for its validity. Furthermore, social media companies are prohibited from responding to a subpoena if they know a legal challenge to it is pending, and they must notify the Attorney General within five business days of any response to an administrative subpoena, with the Attorney General developing a process for this notification, which will be exempt from public records requests. Both the Attorney General and individuals whose information is improperly shared can take legal action to stop such disclosures.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Chapter 31.7 (commencing with Section 22946.5) to Division 8 of the Business and Professions Code, relating to privacy.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 04/28/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sasha Perez (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 04/27/2026
• Last Action: Assembly Privacy And Consumer Protection Hearing (13:30:00 6/16/2026 State Capitol, Room 447)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1337 • Last Action 06/15/2026
Information Practices Act of 1977.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective January 1, 2028, significantly updates the Information Practices Act of 1977, which governs how agencies (government bodies) collect, store, and share personal information. Key changes include removing the exemption for local agencies, meaning cities, counties, and other local public bodies will now be subject to the same privacy rules as state agencies. The definition of "personal information" is expanded to encompass a broader range of data. The bill also revises requirements for providing notice to individuals about data collection, changing periodic notices from annually to at least every three years. It clarifies rules for agencies regarding the use of personal information, ensuring it's only used for its original purpose unless otherwise permitted by law, and introduces provisions for collective bargaining agreements to influence these rules. The bill also modifies the circumstances under which personal information can be disclosed, allowing for more specific disclosures related to real property, social safety net programs, and medical information. Furthermore, it expands the grounds for disciplinary action against agency employees to include negligent violations of the act and makes intentional disclosure of sensitive medical information a misdemeanor even without resulting economic loss or personal injury. Finally, the bill includes legislative findings to justify these changes as necessary to balance public access to government information with individual privacy rights in the digital age.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend, repeal, and add Sections 1798.3, 1798.16, 1798.17, 1798.19, 1798.20, 1798.24, 1798.24b, 1798.25, 1798.26, 1798.27, 1798.29, 1798.44, 1798.55, 1798.57, and 1798.68 of the Civil Code, relating to information privacy.
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• Introduced: 02/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Ward (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 06/01/2026
• Last Action: Senate Privacy, Digital Technologies, and Consumer Protection Hearing (15:00:00 6/15/2026 1021 O Street, Room 1200)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB883 • Last Action 06/15/2026
Data brokers: deletion of personal information of elected officials and judges.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new process for elected officials and judges to request the deletion of their personal information held by data brokers, which are companies that collect and sell personal data. Specifically, the Secretary of State and local government filing officers will provide lists of elected officials' personal information to the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA), and the Judicial Council will provide a list of judges. These officials and judges will have an opportunity to opt out of having their information included on these lists, which will then be uploaded to a public deletion mechanism managed by the CPPA. Data brokers will then have 10 days to delete the personal information of individuals on these lists. The lists themselves will be kept confidential. The bill also allows elected officials, judges, the Attorney General, or local legal counsel to file civil lawsuits for violations and will become effective on July 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Section 1798.99.86.5 to the Civil Code, relating to data brokers.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Josh Lowenthal (D)*, Isaac Bryan (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 06/03/2026
• Last Action: Senate Privacy, Digital Technologies, and Consumer Protection Hearing (15:00:00 6/15/2026 1021 O Street, Room 1200)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB311 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Consumer Driving Data Protection Act of 2026.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Consumer Driving Data Protection Act of 2026, allows consumers to voluntarily use telematics, which is technology that collects data about driving behavior like speed and braking, to help determine their auto insurance rates, an option not previously available under Proposition 103, a 1988 voter initiative that governs insurance rates. The bill sets strict rules for how this data can be collected and used, requiring explicit consumer consent, prohibiting its use for anything other than rating auto insurance, and mandating that insurers delete the data once a rate is assigned and not keep it for longer than six months, while also preventing the collection of audio or visual recordings of vehicle occupants. Additionally, the bill reinstates and modifies provisions allowing tenants to temporarily house individuals at risk of homelessness, including those displaced by disasters, in their rental units with landlord approval, and permits landlords to adjust rent accordingly. The bill aims to modernize insurance practices, protect consumer privacy, and further the original goals of Proposition 103 by offering consumers more choices and potentially fairer rates based on their actual driving habits.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Article 10.5 (commencing with Section 1861.5) to Chapter 9 of Part 2 of Division 1 of the Insurance Code, relating to insurance.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 06/11/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tina McKinnor (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 06/10/2026
• Last Action: From committee chair, with author's amendments: Amend, and re-refer to committee. Read second time, amended, and re-referred to Com. on JUD.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB1377 • Last Action 06/10/2026
In transportation infrastructure, providing for design build best value.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a "design build best value" procurement process for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (Commission) for highway and bridge projects, allowing them to select contractors based on a combination of technical merit and price, rather than solely the lowest bid. This alternative method can be used when projects are complex, offer potential for innovation, involve unique equipment, present risks, have tight schedules, or have other specific considerations. The bill outlines two methods for this process: a one-step approach where technical and price proposals are submitted together, and a two-step approach where initial qualifications are reviewed before technical and price proposals are requested. It also defines key terms like "alternative technical concept" (ATC), which is a proposed variation to the project requirements that is equal to or better than the original specifications, and "responsible offeror," an entity capable of fulfilling the contract. The bill specifies limitations on the number of design-build best value procurements the Commission can undertake annually and includes provisions for public notice, proposal submission, evaluation committees, and potential compensation for ATCs and for shortlisted offerors in the two-step process. Importantly, the powers granted under this chapter will expire after four years, though contracts fully executed within eight years will remain valid. Finally, the Commission is required to report on its use of this procurement method and post relevant project information online.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 74 (Transportation) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in transportation infrastructure, providing for design build best value.
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• Introduced: 06/09/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Judy Ward (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: First consideration
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB1150 • Last Action 06/10/2026
In open meetings, further providing for notification of agency business required and exceptions.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania law concerning open meetings, specifically how agencies notify the public about their business and what exceptions exist. The key changes focus on how an agency can add new items to a meeting's agenda after it has already been announced. Previously, an agency could add an item to the agenda with a majority vote and an announcement of the reason, and then take action on it, provided the amended agenda was posted. This bill clarifies that new agenda items can only be added if they arise from specific exceptions to open meetings (outlined in subsections (b), (c), or (d) of the law), require a majority vote of those present and voting, and the reason for the change must be announced before the vote. After such an addition, the agency can take official action on the new item, and the amended agenda must be posted on the agency's website, if available, and at its main office by the next business day. The bill also removes a previous provision that allowed adding any matter of agency business to the agenda, not just those related to specific exceptions.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 65 (Public Officers) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in open meetings, further providing for notification of agency business required and exceptions.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Pat Stefano (R)*, Jarrett Coleman (R), Lisa Baker (R), Dawn Keefer (R), Patty Kim (D), Scott Martin (R), Lindsey Williams (D), Elder Vogel (R), Joseph Picozzi (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/23/2026
• Last Action: Third consideration and final passage (50-0)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S3327 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Establishes the office of inspector general to investigate the management and operation of agencies in an effort to prevent and deter fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new independent and nonpartisan agency called the Office of Inspector General, tasked with investigating the management and operations of state government agencies to prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the spending of public funds, which are defined as state, federal, or local funds. The Inspector General, appointed by the governor with the senate's approval, will oversee this office, which will employ staff with expertise in areas like investigations and auditing, and investigative staff must be certified within three years. The bill outlines the qualifications for the Inspector General, including a bachelor's degree and at least ten years of relevant professional experience, and establishes an advisory commission to help select candidates. The Inspector General has jurisdiction over executive branch agencies and employees, with powers to investigate, report findings to the governor and other relevant authorities, and recommend corrective actions, while also coordinating with other oversight bodies like the Attorney General and Auditor General. The office will maintain a public-facing system for receiving complaints and will report its activities annually to various state officials and the public, with provisions for protecting whistleblowers and ensuring access to agency records for investigations, and the act will take effect upon passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would establish the office of inspector general to investigate the management and operation of agencies in an effort to prevent and deter fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 05/26/2026
• Added: 05/27/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Frank Ciccone (D)*, David Tikoian (D), Jessica de la Cruz (R), Sue Sosnowski (D), Victoria Gu (D), Bob Britto (D), John Burke (D), Lou DiPalma (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 06/10/2026
• Last Action: Placed on Senate Calendar (06/11/2026)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1907 • Last Action 06/10/2026
In access, further providing for requests; in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law to make several modifications to public record access and exceptions. First, it expands the circumstances under which an agency can deny access to historical, ancient, or rare documents by allowing curators to protect records that might be physically damaged, specifically including records in the State Archives. Second, the bill modifies exceptions to public records by clarifying language around library, archive, and museum materials, particularly those donated with specific limitations, and adds a new provision protecting digital reproductions and metadata created by third parties unless they expressly agree in writing to their release. Third, the bill adjusts fee limitations for document duplication, requiring fees to be reasonable and based on prevailing rates for comparable duplication services, with specific consideration for contemporary media and historical or rare document reproduction. These changes aim to provide more nuanced protections for unique and fragile documents while maintaining transparency in public record access. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in access, further providing for requests; in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.
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• Introduced: 10/02/2025
• Added: 10/02/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 13 : Rob Matzie (D)*, La'Tasha Mayes (D), Anita Kulik (D), Tarah Probst (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Ben Waxman (D), Nancy Guenst (D), Jeanne McNeill (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Ed Neilson (D), Roni Green (D), Lee James (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 09/30/2025
• Last Action: Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations (h) Hearing (09:30:00 6/10/2026 Room G50 Irvis Office)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB4056 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Legislators; public records; fees; exemption
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, by adding a new section to Arizona Revised Statutes, establishes that any legislator making a public records request in their official capacity is exempt from paying any fees or costs associated with that request, and that any public records provided must be made available in any format the legislator requests. This aims to ensure legislators can access public information without financial barriers, facilitating their oversight and legislative duties.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending title 39, chapter 1, article 2, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 39-130; relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 02/09/2026
• Added: 02/27/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Teresa Martinez (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 10 • Actions: 36
• Last Amended: 04/13/2026
• Last Action: Transmitted to Governor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3365 • Last Action 06/10/2026
MEDICARE/MEDICAID DUAL ELIGIBL
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to Illinois' medical assistance programs, including expanding coverage for sickle cell disease and seizure detection devices, and introducing a Distressed Hospital Loan Program to provide interest-free loans to hospitals facing financial difficulties. It also increases Medicaid reimbursement rates for certain mental health services, requires hospitals with outstanding debts or those using the loan program to submit financial contingency plans, and allows the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) to adopt emergency rules for hospital data reporting. The bill modifies how the Medicaid Technical Assistance Center operates, shifting its focus to a network requirement plan and dissolving its dedicated fund. It also allows for unexpended funds from previous fiscal years to be allocated for healthcare transformation programs and permits disbursements from the Public Aid Recoveries Trust Fund for payment recapture audits. Additionally, the bill transfers responsibility for facilities licensed under the ID/DD Community Care Act to HFS, extends eligibility for Safety-Net Hospital designation, and updates prenatal care coverage to include preeclampsia biomarker testing without cost-sharing. It also adjusts reimbursement rates for Care Coordination Units, mandates minimum treatment hours for specialized mental health rehabilitation facilities, and modifies per diem reimbursement for community-integrated living arrangements. The bill revises how Medicaid inpatient utilization rates are calculated for certain hospitals, increases rates for adult day services and transportation, and makes changes to add-on payments for safety-net hospitals. It also updates deadlines for rules on managed care organization (MCO) service authorization policies, requires MCOs to meet specific network adequacy and transparency requirements, and modifies claim payment timelines and dispute resolution processes. The bill extends the deadline for submitting a State Plan Amendment for inpatient psychiatric services by certified PRTFs and revises reporting deadlines for mental health parity reports. It also clarifies that the Medicare-Medicaid Alignment Initiative (MMAI) applies to fully integrated dual eligible special needs plans and managed care plans for dual eligibles, and establishes a framework for "cottage style" skilled nursing facilities, including a per diem add-on for these facilities. The bill also includes provisions on non-citizen eligibility for medical assistance, eligibility redeterminations, retroactive eligibility, emergency rule authority, coverage for proteomic blood tests, MCO behavioral health post-payment reviews, supportive living dementia care services, and payment rates for specialized mental health rehabilitation facilities. It also introduces annual training requirements for nursing home staff based on recurrent citations and modifies penalties for non-compliance. The bill also includes provisions for enforcement of advance payment agreements and establishes a Staffing Improvement and Long Term Care Oversight Fund, with specific allocations for training, compliance efforts, CNA workforce development, and nursing home staffing fines.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides medical assistance coverage for sickle cell disease (rather than sickle cell anemia); coverage for seizure detection devices; and coverage for virtual intensive outpatient program services. Establishes the Distressed Hospital Loan Program under a new Article of the Code to provide interest-free cash flow loans to public hospitals and not-for-profit hospitals in significant financial distress to prevent the closure of or to facilitate the reopening of those hospitals. Requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to administer the Distressed Hospital Loan Program in coordination with the Department of Public Health and the Governor's Office of Management and Budget. Amends the Rebuild Illinois Mental Health Workforce Act. Provides that, subject to federal approval, for dates of service on and after July 1, 2026, the Medicaid reimbursement rates for Assertive Community Treatment and Community Support Team services shall be increased by an amount no less than the following targeted pools: (1) Assertive Community Treatment, $10,600,000; and (2) Community Support Team services, $17,500,000. Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Requires any licensed hospital that has outstanding debts to the State in the form of tax arrears or that maintains debt through the Distressed Hospital Loan Program or other Medicaid advance payments to submit to the Department of Public Health a hospital emergency and financial contingency plan for the rapid and orderly resolution of finances and operations in the event of material financial distress. Amends the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act. Permits the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to adopt emergency rules to implement certain financial and utilization data reporting requirements on hospitals. Amends the Medicaid Technical Assistance Act. Amends the State Finance Act. Requires the Medicaid Technical Assistance Center to collaborate with public and private partners throughout the State to identify, establish, and maintain best practices necessary for health providers to ensure their capacity to participate in the Illinois Medical Assistance Program (rather than ensure their capacity to participate in HealthChoice Illinois or YouthCare). Removes provisions concerning the Medicaid Technical Assistance Center's administration of network adequacy reports, and instead requires the Medicaid Technical Assistance Center to administer a network requirement plan. Repeals a provision creating the Medicaid Technical Assistance Center Fund. In the State Finance Act, provides for the dissolution of the Medicaid Technical Assistance Center Fund on July 1, 2026, or as soon thereafter as practical, after the transfer of all remaining funds into the Healthcare Provider Relief Fund. Amends the Hospital Services Trust Fund Article in the Illinois Public Aid Code. In provisions concerning annual funding for the health care transformation program, provides that funds that had been budgeted but unexpended in State fiscal years 2021 through 2027 may be allocated in State fiscal year 2028 in an amount not to exceed $150,000,000. Amends the Administration Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that disbursements shall be made from the Public Aid Recoveries Trust Fund for the payment of contingency fees to third-party entities that the Office of Inspector General authorizes to conduct payment recapture audits and other specified audits under the medical assistance program. Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that for dates of service starting July 1, 2027, reimbursement calculations and direct payments for services provided by facilities licensed under the ID/DD Community Care Act are the responsibility of the Department of Healthcare and Family Services; and that appropriations for facilities licensed under the ID/DD Community Care Act must be shifted from the Department of Human Services to the Department of Healthcare and Family Services. Extends the period of eligibility within which a hospital, that would have qualified for the rate year beginning October 1, 2011 or October 1, 2012, shall be a Safety-Net Hospital. Amends the Hospital Licensing Act. Removes provisions requiring the Department on Aging to adopt rules to address instances when a case coordination unit is unable to complete an assessment in a hospital prior to the discharge of a patient 60 years or older to a nursing home to ensure that the patient is able to access nursing home care, the nursing home is not penalized for accepting the admission, and the patient's timely discharge from the hospital is not delayed, to the extent permitted under federal law or regulation. Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. In provisions concerning prenatal and perinatal care, provides that, for dates of service on and after January 1, 2026, the medical assistance program shall provide coverage, without imposing a deductible, coinsurance, copayment, or any other cost-sharing requirement, for preeclampsia biomarker testing for predictive screening in asymptomatic individuals, or for diagnosis and management when symptoms are present. Amends the Illinois Act on the Aging. Provides that effective July 1, 2026, subject to federal approval, the Department on Aging shall reimburse Care Coordination Units at specified rates for case management services. Amends the Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Act of 2013. Provides that each consumer shall be offered at least 15 hours of treatment programming per week and encouraged to attend the treatment domains that meet the consumer's needs, as reflected in the consumer's treatment plans. Amends the Community-Integrated Living Arrangements Licensure and Certification Act. In provisions concerning per diem reimbursement for a community-integrated living arrangement provider, provides that, if it is determined by third-party medical personnel that a resident that required a medical absence is unable to return to the community-integrated living arrangement, or if the resident dies during the medical absence, the provider shall receive 100% of the per diem reimbursement for up to 20 medical absence days. Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that, beginning on and after October 1, 2026, for rate year 2027 and thereafter, the Medicaid inpatient utilization rate used in the determination of eligibility for inpatient adjustment payments provided under the Code shall be modified to exclude from both the numerator and denominator all days of care funded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at a hospital approved to conduct its operations from more than one location within contiguous counties under a single license, if at the time of its licensing application the hospital was located in a county with fewer than 125,000 inhabitants and the hospital's second facility is located in a contiguous county with fewer than 235,000 inhabitants. Amends the Illinois Act on the Aging. Provides that within 30 days after the effective date of the amendatory Act, rates for adult day services shall be increased to $17.84 per hour and rates for each way transportation services for adult day services shall be increased to $13.44 per unit transportation. Amends the Hospital Services Trust Fund Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Makes changes to provisions concerning certain add-on payments to safety-net hospitals. Amends the Illinois Public Aid Code. Changes certain deadline dates for adopting permanent rules on guidelines related to the publication of MCO service authorization policies and procedures listed on the Medicare Inpatient Only list that, due to medical complexity, must be reimbursed under the applicable inpatient methodology. Makes changes to provisions concerning (i) quality and compliance audits regarding Medicaid managed care organizations' compliance with nationally recognized clinical decision guidelines for inpatient and outpatient hospital services and (ii) an analysis that compares and contrasts a Medicaid MCO's service authorization determination outcomes for inpatient and outpatient hospital services to the outcomes of each other MCO plan and the State's fee-for-service program model. Makes other changes. Amends the Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTF) Act. Extends the date by which the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall submit a State Plan Amendment to establish coverage of federally authorized, medically necessary inpatient psychiatric services delivered by a certified PRTF to medical assistance beneficiaries under 21 years of age. Extends the publication deadline for the Department's PRTF capacity analysis. Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. In provisions requiring the Department of Insurance to issue a joint report with the Department of Healthcare and Family Services on the methodology the Departments use to check for compliance with the federal Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, changes the reporting deadline date to March 1 (rather than January 1) of each year, beginning in calendar year 2027; and requires the Departments to post the report on their websites. Amends the Medicare-Medicaid Alignment Initiative (MMAI) Nursing Home Residents' Managed Care Rights Law of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Provides that the Article applies to a fully integrated dual eligible special needs plan and any managed care plan for persons who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Amends the Nursing Home Care Act. Adds an Article that creates a framework that encourages the construction and operation of skilled nursing facilities that are consistent with State and federal laws and referred to as "cottage style". Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code by adding provisions requiring a per diem add on for cottage style nursing homes. Extends the period of eligibility within which a hospital shall be a Safety-Net Hospital if the hospital would have qualified for (i) the rate year beginning October 1, 2011 or October 1, 2012 or (ii) the rate year beginning October 1, 2020, if the hospital was also designated a federal rural referral center. Contains provisions limiting non-citizens eligibility for medical assistance based on federal requirements under Public Law 119-21. Contains provisions on eligibility redeterminations; the duration of retroactive eligibility; emergency rule authority; coverage for proteomic blood tests; MCO behavioral health post-payment reviews; supportive living dementia care services; and other matters. Amends the Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Act of 2013. Adds provisions concerning payments to specialized mental health rehabilitation facilities for improving the quality of life and the quality of care of residents; payment rates, beginning January 1, 2027, for facilities with 100 licensed beds to 130 licensed beds; and forensic add-on payments. Amends the Nursing Home Care Act. Contains provisions concerning annual training requirements for facility staff based on the most recurrent citations as specified by the Department of Public Health; rules on monetary penalties for non-compliance with certain requirements; and other matters. Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code by adding provisions concerning per diem rate increases based on a facility's STRIVE staffing levels; the enforcement of advance payment agreements; and other matters. Effective immediately, except some provisions take effect July 1, 2026 and some provisions take effect July 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2026
• Added: 06/02/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Omar Aquino (D)*, Anna Moeller (D)*, Elgie Sims (D), Rachel Ventura (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 51
• Last Amended: 06/01/2026
• Last Action: Sent to the Governor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1821 • Last Action 06/10/2026
California Public Records Act: methods of submission, fees, and agency response time.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the California Public Records Act to establish clearer procedures for submitting public records requests and to adjust response times and fees. It requires state and local agencies to designate specific physical office locations and email addresses for receiving requests, and allows for other reasonable submission methods, but deems requests improperly submitted if not made through an agency-approved channel, which could delay response timelines. For requests deemed to be for "commercial use" (meaning for profit or trade), requesters will now have to pay fees for the agency's search and review time, in addition to duplication costs, though certain entities like educational institutions, scientific organizations, government agencies, and news media representatives are exempt from this commercial use fee. The bill also allows agencies to petition courts to determine if a request was made with malicious intent, and if so, to impose search and review fees on the requester, suspending the agency's response duty during such proceedings. Furthermore, the bill changes the response timeframe from 10 calendar days to 10 business days and allows for extensions of up to 14 business days, also in business days, for agencies to determine if records are disclosable and to notify the requester. The legislation includes findings that these changes are necessary to balance public access with the agencies' ability to manage requests effectively and receive appropriate compensation for their work.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 7922.530 and 7922.535 of the Government Code, relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 02/12/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Blanca Pacheco (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 06/10/2026
• Last Action: From committee chair, with author's amendments: Amend, and re-refer to committee. Read second time, amended, and re-referred to Com. on JUD.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2327 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Identifying information; records; confidentiality
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the definition of "identifying information" to include any data that can be used directly or indirectly to identify an individual, such as government-issued identifiers, biometric data, and unique digital identifiers, while excluding property-related information like parcel numbers and property addresses. It also clarifies that these protections do not apply to voter registration records. The bill amends existing Arizona Revised Statutes concerning records confidentiality maintained by county recorders, assessors, and treasurers, allowing eligible individuals, such as peace officers, public officials, and those protected by court orders, to request that their identifying information be kept confidential from the general public for five years if they can demonstrate a reasonable belief that their life or safety is in danger. This process involves filing an affidavit with the presiding judge of the superior court, who then reviews the request and issues an order to the relevant county offices to restrict access to the specified information. The bill also outlines procedures for combined requests, affidavit filing, court review, and notification of expiration of restrictions, and it explicitly states that these confidentiality measures do not prevent access for parties to an instrument, law enforcement performing official duties, or licensed title and escrow agents.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 11-483 and 11-484, arizona revised statutes; relating to records confidentiality.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Laurin Hendrix (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 10 • Actions: 36
• Last Amended: 04/13/2026
• Last Action: Transmitted to Governor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1627 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Public employment: disqualifications.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to disqualify individuals from serving as peace officers if they were employed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) between September 1, 2025, and January 20, 2029, defining "immigration enforcement" broadly to include efforts related to civil and criminal immigration laws. It also requires background investigations for peace officer applicants to include an examination of prior ICE employment. Individuals disqualified under these new provisions can petition the State Personnel Board to have their eligibility restored, with the board required to assess their rehabilitated moral character. The bill clarifies that these changes apply to all cities, including charter cities, as they address a statewide concern, and outlines procedures for state reimbursement of any mandated local costs.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 1029 of the Government Code, relating to public employment.
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• Introduced: 01/26/2026
• Added: 01/27/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Anamarie Avila Farias (D)*, Isaac Bryan (D), Juan Carrillo (D), Mike Gipson (D), Corey Jackson (D), Ash Kalra (D), Alex Lee (D), Catherine Stefani (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 04/23/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Com. on PUB. S.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1236 • Last Action 06/10/2026
State Records Management Act.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the State Records Management Act, revises how state agencies manage their records and how the Secretary of State determines which records have archival value. The head of each state agency is already required to maintain a program for efficient record management, ensuring information is collected with minimal burden and is useful to others. This bill clarifies that agencies must transfer records deemed to have archival value to the State Archives once they are no longer needed for administrative, legal, fiscal, or evidential purposes by the agency. The Secretary of State will continue to determine what constitutes archival value, and agencies must still notify the Secretary of State if a transferred record contains information that is not publicly accessible or is restricted by laws like the California Public Records Act or the Information Practices Act. Additionally, the bill adds new requirements for agencies to comply with the Secretary of State's rules, appoint a Records Management Coordinator, and notify the Secretary of State when records are stored with third-party vendors or digitized.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 12274 of the Government Code, relating to state government.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 02/20/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Governmental Organization
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. with recommendation: To consent calendar. (Ayes 18. Noes 0.) (June 10). Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB467 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Los Angeles Community College District: California Center for Climate Change Education.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the California Center for Climate Change Education at West Los Angeles College within the Los Angeles Community College District, with a mission to promote climate change education across California Community Colleges and create hands-on learning and internship opportunities for students, recognizing climate change as an issue of equity and social justice and aiming to build pathways to green jobs. Additionally, the bill extends the authorization for specific neighborhood city councils in Los Angeles to use alternate teleconferencing provisions for their meetings until January 1, 2030, allowing them to continue holding public meetings remotely with certain requirements to ensure public access and participation, a measure deemed necessary due to the unique circumstances of these volunteer bodies.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Article 7.5 (commencing with Section 78085) to Chapter 1 of Part 48 of Division 7 of Title 3 of the Education Code, relating to public postsecondary education.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Fong (D)*, Isaac Bryan (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Re-referred to Com. on RLS.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7357 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Creates the sensitive healthcare information privacy act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Sensitive Healthcare Information Privacy Act," aims to protect sensitive health data, specifically concerning reproductive and gender-affirming care, by establishing new privacy rules for entities that collect, process, share, or sell this information. Key provisions include requiring organizations to obtain explicit, opt-in consent from consumers before collecting such data, and prohibiting the sale of this data without separate, specific authorization from the consumer. The bill defines "consumer health data" broadly to include information related to gender-affirming care and reproductive or sexual health, as well as any data derived or inferred from it. It grants consumers rights to access, correct, and delete their data, and to withdraw consent. The act also mandates that organizations maintain a clear privacy policy detailing data collection and sharing practices, implement reasonable data security measures, and prohibits the use of geofencing around facilities providing reproductive or gender-affirming care to track or collect data from individuals seeking these services. Enforcement mechanisms include allowing individuals to bring civil lawsuits for violations, with potential for attorney's fees, and empowering the Attorney General to pursue enforcement actions, treating violations as deceptive trade practices. The act includes various exemptions for data already protected under federal laws like HIPAA, research data, and certain other health-related information.
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Bill Summary: This act would create the sensitive healthcare information privacy act to protect reproductive and gender-affirming care data. The act would require the holders of such data, with certain exceptions, to obtain consent from a consumer before collecting the data and would prohibit the sale of the data without the permission of the consumer. The act contains several enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with the law, including an individual cause of action and authority for the attorney general to bring enforcement of an action. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Jason Knight (D)*, Jennifer Boylan (D), Carol McEntee (D), June Speakman (D), Susan Donovan (D), Lauren Carson (D), Grace Diaz (D), Terri Cortvriend (D), Tina Spears (D), Katie Kazarian (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 06/10/2026
• Last Action: Placed on House Calendar (06/11/2026)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1801 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Public agencies: approval: detention facilities.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing law to require public agencies, including cities and counties, to follow specific public notice and comment procedures before approving or executing any document related to the building or reuse of existing facilities by private entities for the purpose of housing or detaining individuals in civil immigration custody. These procedures include providing public notice at least 180 days in advance, making related documents accessible, and holding at least two public meetings to solicit and hear comments. The bill also specifies the content, posting, publication, and broadcast requirements for the public notice, as well as the conduct of the meetings, and clarifies that these provisions apply independently to each public entity. The bill states that these requirements are declaratory of existing law, meaning they are intended to clarify and confirm what is already understood to be legally required.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 1670.9 of the Civil Code, relating to detention facilities.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Alex Lee (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on L. GOV. (Ayes 10. Noes 2.) (June 9). Re-referred to Com. on L. GOV.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1193 • Last Action 06/10/2026
Personal identifying information; disclosure; prohibition
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits the state department from selling or disclosing personal identifying information of individuals it licenses or certifies, including emergency medical care technicians, defining "personal identifying information" broadly to include government-issued identification numbers, contact details, biometric data, and certain demographic or employment information when combined with other details that could identify an individual. The bill allows for disclosure with the individual's explicit consent, for de-identified or aggregated data, and for sharing information with other regulatory entities, such as those administering licensure compacts, and clarifies that such information is confidential and exempt from public records requests made for commercial purposes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Amending title 36, chapter 1, article 1, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 36-104.01; Amending title 36, chapter 21.1, article 1, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 36-2202.02; relating to personal identifying information.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Kevin Payne (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 13 • Actions: 42
• Last Amended: 03/24/2026
• Last Action: Transmitted to Governor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #HB314 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Limit certain public record requests; allow contractor response
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Ohio's public records law, specifically section 149.43 of the Revised Code, to introduce new provisions for handling public records requests. It allows public offices to limit or deny requests that are deemed harassing or disruptive, providing a legal avenue for public entities to seek court intervention if they believe requests are intended to disrupt their essential functions. Additionally, the bill permits public offices to contract with private entities to respond to voluminous public records requests, potentially streamlining the process for both the government and the requester. This change aims to balance the public's right to access information with the operational needs of government agencies.
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Bill Summary: To amend section 149.43 of the Revised Code to restrict harassing or disruptive public records requests and permit private contractors to respond to voluminous public records requests.
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• Introduced: 06/04/2025
• Added: 06/04/2025
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Dani Isaacsohn (D)*, Sharon Ray (R)*, Cindy Abrams (R), Sean Brennan (D), Joe Miller (D), Allison Russo (D), Jean Schmidt (R), Tom Young (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 06/10/2026
• Last Action: Passed
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0298 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Public Records/Victims of Domestic and Dating Violence
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the existing Address Confidentiality Program for Victims of Domestic Violence to include victims of dating violence, making their personal information exempt from public records requirements. Specifically, it protects the addresses, telephone numbers, and social security numbers of these program participants held by the Office of the Attorney General, as well as their names, addresses, and telephone numbers found in voter registration and voting records managed by supervisors of elections and the Department of State. This exemption aims to safeguard victims from potential harm by their abusers, recognizing that their physical safety outweighs the public's right to access this information. The bill also includes provisions for retroactive application of these exemptions, future legislative review, and a contingent effective date tied to the passage of similar legislation.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 741.465, F.S.; providing that certain identifying information of victims of dating violence who participate in the Address Confidentiality Program for Victims of Domestic and Dating Violence which are held by the Office of the Attorney General or contained in voter registration or voting records held by the supervisor of elections or the Department of State are exempt from public records requirements; providing for retroactive application; providing for future legislative review and repeal; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/28/2025
• Added: 10/28/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Criminal Justice, Lori Berman (D)*, Barbara Sharief (D), Tracie Davis (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 46
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Officers and presented to Governor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1259 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Campaigns; protected residential addresses
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows individuals to provide an alternate mailing address for campaign and financial disclosure filings if their residential address is protected from public disclosure under Arizona law, specifically section 16-153. This change applies to the information required in a committee's statement of organization, which includes details like the committee's name, mailing address, and contact information, and also to the financial disclosure statements required of public officers, which detail their income, assets, and debts. The intent is to protect the privacy of individuals whose residential addresses are considered sensitive information while still ensuring that necessary campaign and financial information is available through the alternate mailing address.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 16-906 and 18-444, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to campaigns.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 01/21/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : John Kavanagh (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Transmitted to Governor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1515 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Pub. Rec./Uterine Fibroid Research Database
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a public records exemption for certain information submitted to the Florida Department of Health for a uterine fibroid research database, meaning this information will not be accessible to the public under current public records laws, including the state constitution's provisions on open government. This exemption applies to all records and personal identifying information about women diagnosed with or treated for uterine fibroids, and it is deemed a public necessity because the Department of Health needs this confidential medical information, which could include data protected by federal privacy laws like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996), to effectively research and track uterine fibroids while protecting individuals' privacy. The exemption will be reviewed by the Legislature and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless it is renewed.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 381.9312, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain records and personal identifying information submitted to the Department of Health for inclusion in the uterine fibroid research database; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Lisa Dunkley (D)*, Robin Bartleman (D), Johanna López (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 44
• Last Amended: 03/13/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Officers and presented to Governor
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB131 • Last Action 06/09/2026
In law enforcement background investigations and employment information, further providing for maintenance of records and for hiring report; and imposing penalties.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania law concerning law enforcement background investigations and employment information by introducing penalties for noncompliance and expanding reporting requirements. Specifically, law enforcement agencies that fail to promptly enter all relevant separation records into a database will be ineligible for state funding for equipment, hiring, or overtime, and will require approval from a commission for funding related to violence intervention, victim services, or community engagement. Additionally, when a law enforcement agency hires an applicant with a history of disciplinary actions, such as excessive force, harassment, theft, discrimination, sexual misconduct, domestic violence, coercion of a false confession, filing a false report, or any finding of dishonesty (including judicial, civil, or administrative findings), the agency must now file a detailed hiring report with the commission. This report must explain the rationale for hiring the applicant and specifically address how the hiring decision responds to each documented disciplinary action, with a standardized format requiring selection of appropriate disciplinary categories. The bill also mandates public notice 14 business days before hiring an officer with such a record, and noncompliance with these reporting and notice requirements will make agencies and their governing entities ineligible for state grants, incentives, or money.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 44 (Law and Justice) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in law enforcement background investigations and employment information, further providing for maintenance of records and for hiring report; and imposing penalties.
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• Introduced: 06/08/2026
• Added: 06/11/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Chris Rabb (D)*, Ben Waxman (D), Dan Williams (D), Jenn O'Mara (D), Gregory Scott (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Tim Briggs (D), Napoleon Nelson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1087 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Pub. Rec./Office of Financial Regulation
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands public records exemptions for information gathered by the Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) during investigations and examinations, particularly concerning virtual currency businesses, qualified payment stablecoin issuers (entities that issue stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to a stable asset like the US dollar), and money transmitters that hold gold or silver coins. These exemptions are intended to protect sensitive financial information, trade secrets, and investigative techniques, and are subject to future legislative review and repeal. The bill also clarifies that these exemptions apply to various types of financial institutions and transactions, including payment instrument transactions and deferred presentment transactions (short-term loans often referred to as payday loans), to ensure consistent protection across regulated entities and to prevent harm to individuals and businesses through the disclosure of private financial details or investigative methods.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; reenacting and amending s. 560.129, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for certain information obtained by the Office of Financial Regulation concerning or during the course of an investigation or examination conducted by the office, including customer and consumer complaints, to incorporate the inclusion of documents relating to virtual currency businesses, qualified payment stablecoin issuers, and money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing statements of public necessity; amending s. 560.312, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for payment instrument transactions to incorporate the inclusion of money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; amending s. 560.4041, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for deferred presentment transactions to incorporate the inclusion of money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; reenacting hb1087 -03-er2026 Legislature and amending s. 655.057, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for certain information obtained by the office concerning an investigation or examination conducted by the office, including reports or papers of examinations, operations, or condition, and trade secrets to incorporate the inclusion of trust companies that are qualified payment stablecoin issuers and money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing statements of public necessity; reenacting and amending s. 655.50, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for reports and records filed with the office to incorporate the inclusion of financial institutions that are trust companies that are qualified payment stablecoin issuers and money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin; providing statements of public necessity; providing contingent effective dates.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Government Operations Subcommittee, State Affairs Committee, J.J. Grow (R)*, Omar Blanco (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 46
• Last Amended: 03/13/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Officers and presented to Governor
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1237 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Civil Rights Department.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill would require the Civil Rights Department to annually publish a report detailing the aggregate budgetary and enforcement information for the Civil Rights Enforcement and Litigation Fund, which is used to offset the department's costs. This fund is replenished by attorney's fees and costs awarded to the department when it prevails in civil actions under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, as well as civil penalties collected from employers. Additionally, the bill significantly increases the penalty for employers who subsequently fail to submit their required annual pay data report to the department, raising it from a maximum of $200 per employee to a maximum of $1,000 per employee, with these penalties also going to the aforementioned fund. The pay data report requires private employers with 100 or more employees to submit information on their workforce by race, ethnicity, and sex, including median and mean hourly pay within each job category.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 12907 and 12999 of the Government Code, relating to civil rights.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 02/20/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Catherine Blakespear (D)*, Ash Kalra (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 9. Noes 3.) (June 9). Re-referred to Com. on APPR.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7012 • Last Action 06/09/2026
OGSR/Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes changes related to public records exemptions for information gathered by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) during investigations. Specifically, it removes the scheduled repeal dates for several existing exemptions, meaning these exemptions will no longer automatically expire on a specific date unless the Legislature acts to save them. These exemptions protect information received by the DHSMV from public disclosure when it's part of an investigation or examination concerning private rebuilt inspection providers, or when investigating potential violations of laws, rules, or orders related to vehicle certificates, dealer licenses, and driver licenses. The Open Government Sunset Review Act (s. 119.15, F.S.) is a law that requires certain exemptions to be reviewed periodically and potentially repealed if not reenacted, and this bill effectively removes these specific exemptions from that sunset review process.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 319.1414, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for information received by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles as a result of an investigation or examination of a department authorized private rebuilt inspection provider; removing the scheduled repeal of the exemption; amending ss. 319.25, 320.861, and 322.71, F.S., which provide exemptions from public records requirements for information received by the department as a result of an investigation or examination of a person suspected of having violated certain laws, rules, or orders; removing the scheduled repeal of such exemptions; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/24/2025
• Added: 11/25/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability, Transportation
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 35
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Officers and presented to Governor
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S3334 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Amends the compositions of the Rhode Island life science hub board of directors and amends the I-195 redevelopment district commission and provides additional amendments to the powers and duties of the commission.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes changes to the leadership of two Rhode Island organizations involved in economic development and life sciences. First, it amends the Rhode Island Life Science Hub Board of Directors by increasing its size by one member to include the chairperson of the I-195 Redevelopment District Commission, who will serve in a non-voting capacity. Second, it modifies the I-195 Redevelopment District Commission by adding the chair of the Rhode Island Life Science Hub as a non-voting ex officio member, bringing the total number of non-voting members to three. The bill also makes other adjustments to the powers and duties of the I-195 Redevelopment District Commission, including clarifying its ability to establish a nonprofit corporation for managing district parks and extending the commission's sunset date to December 31, 2039, or when all properties are developed and sold, whichever comes first. These changes are intended to foster collaboration and streamline operations between these two entities.
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Bill Summary: This act would amend the composition of the Rhode Island life science hub board of directors by adding the chairperson of the I-195 redevelopment district commission to the board and would amend the I-195 redevelopment district commission by adding the chair of the Rhode Island life science hub to the commission and would provide additional amendments to the powers and duties of the commission. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 05/29/2026
• Added: 05/30/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Lou DiPalma (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: Placed on Senate Calendar (06/11/2026)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7002 • Last Action 06/09/2026
OGSR/Department of Military Affairs/United States Department of Defense
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends a public records exemption for certain information held by Florida's Department of Military Affairs that is related to the United States Department of Defense (DoD), meaning information stored in DoD systems, transmitted on DoD networks, or otherwise pertaining to the DoD. This exemption, which prevents such information from being publicly disclosed under Florida's open government laws, was originally set to expire on October 2, 2026, but this bill pushes that repeal date back to October 2, 2031, effectively keeping this information private for an additional five years unless the Legislature intervenes. The bill also states that it will become law immediately upon being enacted.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 119.0712, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for certain information held by the Department of Military Affairs stored in a United States Department of Defense system of records, transmitted using a United States Department of Defense network or communications device, or pertaining to the United States Department of Defense; extending the scheduled repeal date of the exemption; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/27/2025
• Added: 10/28/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability, Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 35
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Officers and presented to Governor
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0655 • Last Action 06/09/2026
Pub. Rec. and Pub. Meetings/Attorney Meetings to Discuss Private Property Rights Claims
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section in Florida Statutes to exempt certain meetings between government agencies and their attorneys from public meeting requirements when discussing claims related to private property rights under the Bert J. Harris, Jr., Private Property Rights Protection Act. Specifically, during the 90-day notice period for such claims, meetings or parts of meetings can be closed to the public if the agency's attorney publicly states the need for advice on a claim, the discussion is limited to settlement negotiations or strategy, the entire session is recorded by a court reporter and transcribed, and public notice of the meeting time, date, and attendees is given, with the meeting commencing and concluding in an open session. The transcripts of these exempt meetings will become public records once the claim is settled or the statute of limitations expires without litigation. Furthermore, the transcripts, recordings, minutes, and other records generated during these exempt meetings are also exempt from public records requirements. This exemption is subject to a future legislative review and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted. The bill's stated purpose is to encourage pre-litigation settlement by allowing agencies to develop negotiation strategies confidentially, similar to how ongoing litigation is handled, thereby potentially limiting legal costs for all parties.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and public meetings; creating s. 70.90, F.S.; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for meetings or portions of meetings between agencies and their attorneys to discuss certain claims concerning private property rights; specifying what may be discussed during such meetings; requiring that such meetings be transcribed; providing that such transcripts become public records at specified times; providing an exemption from public records requirements for transcripts, recordings, minutes, and records generated during the exempt meetings or portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/04/2025
• Added: 12/05/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee, Government Operations Subcommittee, Wyman Duggan (R)*, Dan Daley (D)*, Jose Alvarez (D), Dotie Joseph (D), Susan L. Valdés (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 49
• Last Amended: 03/04/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Officers and presented to Governor
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DE bill #HB468 • Last Action 06/09/2026
An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Emergency Services.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates Delaware's emergency services laws, primarily focusing on the 911 system, to modernize its technology and funding. It renames the "911-Enhanced Emergency Reporting System" to simply the "911 system" and expands the definition of a "911 call" to include text, images, and video, not just voice, and clarifies that a "911 system" can be accessed through various devices like phones and computers. The bill also introduces terms like "Next Generation 911" (NG911) and "Emergency Services Internal Network" (ESInet) to reflect advancements in emergency communication technology, and defines "Computer Aided Dispatch System" (CAD) as a platform for managing emergency responses. It shifts the responsibility for developing and maintaining the statewide 911 system to the 911 System Service Board, which will now coordinate technical standards for NG911 and manage the 911 Fund, including administering contracts for statewide 911 projects. The bill also revises the funding structure for the 911 Fund, increasing the monthly surcharge on telecommunications services and prepaid wireless services, and establishes a new formula for distributing funds to Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs), which are the facilities that receive and answer 911 calls. Additionally, it clarifies that PSAPs must migrate to Board-managed vendors by a certain date and outlines procedures for handling cybersecurity incidents affecting the 911 system. The bill also updates definitions and provisions related to the 911 Fund and prepaid wireless 911 surcharges, and repeals outdated sections of the law.
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Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Emergency Services.
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• Introduced: 06/09/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 153rd General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Bill Bush (D)*, Danny Short (R)*, Nicole Poore (D), Alonna Berry (D), Frank Cooke (D), Dave Wilson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Introduced and Assigned to Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee in House
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7024 • Last Action 06/09/2026
OGSR/Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Operational Technology Information
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts changes to Florida's public records and open meetings laws to protect sensitive cybersecurity information held by government agencies. It creates exemptions from public disclosure for various types of information, including network schematics, hardware and software configurations, encryption details, information about how cybersecurity incidents are detected and responded to, processes and practices designed to protect data and technology, risk assessments and audits of cybersecurity programs, login credentials (which are passwords or other information used to access systems), internet protocol addresses and geolocation data related to accessing public portals, and sensitive agency-produced data processing software. The bill also exempts insurance and self-insurance coverage limits for cybersecurity from public view. Importantly, any portion of a public meeting that would reveal this protected cybersecurity information will also be exempt from public access, though these portions must still be recorded and transcribed, with those recordings and transcripts also being kept confidential. These exemptions are retroactive and will be subject to future legislative review, with a sunset date of October 2, 2031. The bill also makes conforming changes to various other statutes and repeals existing provisions related to data security in the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation and state postsecondary education institutions.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 119.0725, F.S.; revising definitions and defining terms; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the cybersecurity, information technology, and operational technology information held by an agency; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for any portion of a meeting that would reveal such information; providing for retroactive application of the exemptions; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; amending ss. 15.16, 24.1051, 101.5607, 106.0706, 112.31446, 119.07, 119.071, 119.0712, 119.0713, 119.0714, and 282.318, F.S.; conforming cross-references and provisions to changes made by the act; repealing s. 627.352, F.S., relating to security of data and information technology in the Citizens Property Insurance Corporation; repealing s. 1004.055, F.S., relating to security of data and information technology in state postsecondary education institutions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Officers and presented to Governor
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A5229 • Last Action 06/08/2026
Establishes statutory requirements regarding application process for cottage food operators.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new requirements for cottage food operators, who are individuals holding a permit to sell food products made in their homes. The Department of Health must now approve or deny applications for a Cottage Food Operator Permit within 21 business days, send license renewal notices 60 days before expiration, and cannot impose renewal requirements not already in state law. The department will also create a simplified application process, allow for updates to applications within 60 days of submission, and distribute the application in the five most common languages spoken in the state within 60 days of the bill's enactment. To ensure consistent safety standards, the department will publish readily available reference materials on its website, including guidance on which foods require time and temperature control for safety (TCS food), thereby eliminating the need for costly testing. Furthermore, the department will provide detailed explanations of cottage food laws and regulations to all municipal and county health departments and conduct annual workshops to ensure uniform application of these laws. An annual education module will also be developed for local zoning officers. Cottage food operators are limited to earning no more than $100,000 annually from their sales, and their recipes will be exempt from disclosure under the open public records act. Cottage food products are defined as non-TCS foods, such as baked goods, candies, jams, honey, and vinegar, among others.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill establishes statutory requirements regarding the application process for cottage food operators. Under the bill, the Department of Health is to: 1) approve or disapprove an application in writing for a Cottage Food Operator Permit no later than 21 business days following the submission of the application for a Cottage Food Operator Permit, transmit license renewal notices within 60 days prior to the expiration of a license, and not add any additional prohibitions or requirements for license renewal that are not specifically contained in statutory law; 2) establish the submission of supplemental applications by licensed individuals seeking to obtain a Cottage Food Operator Permit and allow for updates and additions to the applications within 60 days of submission; 3) design and distribute the application for a Cottage Food Operator Permit in the five most commonly spoken languages and dialects in this State within 60 days following the effective date of this act; 4) simplify the application for a Cottage Food Operator Permit so that licensed operators are not required to make redundant submissions upon renewal; 5) establish, develop, and publish on its Internet website accepted standardized reference materials, which reference materials are readily available and from recognized sources, for consistent oversight regarding safety protocols for cottage food products, including which foods are subject to time and temperature control for safety to eliminate the cost of testing; and 6) establish, develop, and distribute to each municipal and county health department in this State a copy containing a detailed explanation of State laws and regulations pertaining to cottage food products, as regulated, and hold annual educational workshops for municipal and county health departments in order to create consistent application of laws on cottage food operators at the local, county, and State levels. The bill provides that the Department of Health is to develop an annual education module for local zoning officers on the laws pertaining to cottage food products and operations. A cottage food operator is not to be permitted to receive an annual income from the sale of cottage food products that is greater than $100,000. All recipes for cottage food products are to be exempt from disclosure under the provisions of P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.), commonly known as the open public records act. The term "cottage food products" includes foods such as: baked goods, including bread, rolls, biscuits, cakes, cupcakes, pastries, and cookies; candy, including brittle and toffee; chocolate-covered nuts and dried fruit; dried fruit; dried herbs and seasonings, and mixtures thereof; dried pasta; dry baking mix; fruit jams, fruit jellies, and fruit preserves; fruit pies, fruit empanadas, and fruit tamales (excluding pumpkin); fudge; granola, cereal, and trail mix; honey and sweet sorghum syrup; nuts and nut mixtures; nut butters; popcorn and caramel corn; roasted coffee and dried tea; vinegar and mustard; waffle cones and pizzelles.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 06/04/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Alex Sauickie (R)*, Dawn Fantasia (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A5241 • Last Action 06/08/2026
Allows online news publication to use municipal, county, or State-wide circulation requirements to meet eligibility standards; extends grace period for qualifying newspapers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the requirements for online news publications to be eligible to publish legal notices, expanding their reach and extending a grace period for traditional newspapers. Specifically, it allows online news publications to meet municipal-wide circulation requirements by demonstrating sufficient readership within the entire county where the municipality is located, or by meeting statewide circulation requirements, in addition to the existing option of meeting a 10-mile radius around the municipality. Similarly, county-wide circulation eligibility can now be met by satisfying statewide circulation requirements. The bill also introduces a provision that deems a legal notice compliant if the publisher made a good-faith effort to use an eligible online news publication, and it extends the grace period for newspapers to be utilized for legal notice compliance from March 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, to qualify as an online news publication eligible to publish legal notices for municipal-wide circulation, the online news publication is required to receive 4,000 unique monthly visits on average as calculated annually, no less than 50 percent of which are to be from IP addresses within the applicable municipality or within a 10-mile radius of the municipality. This bill amends the law to:· also include the county in which the applicable municipality is located. Under the bill, if an online news publication meets the county-wide circulation requirements for the county in which the applicable municipality is located, or which meets the State-wide circulation requirements, is deemed to also meet the municipal-wide circulation requirements to qualify as an online news publication;· specify that an online news publication that meets the State-wide circulation requirements is deemed to also meet the county-wide circulation requirements to qualify as an online news publication; and· extend the grace period for which a newspaper utilized or permitted to be utilized by a person for the purpose of complying with any legal requirement from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2026.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 06/04/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Clinton Calabrese (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2338 • Last Action 06/08/2026
"Polluters Pay to Make New Jersey More Affordable Act"; imposes cost recovery payments on certain fossil fuel companies for funds needed for climate change adaptation; establishes program in DEP to collect and oversee distribution of funds.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Polluters Pay to Make New Jersey More Affordable Act," aims to address the costs associated with climate change adaptation by requiring certain fossil fuel companies to contribute financially. Specifically, it establishes a program within the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to collect "cost recovery payments" from companies identified as "responsible parties" – those with significant historical contributions to greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel extraction between 1995 and 2024. These payments, totaling $50 billion, will fund a new "Climate Adaptation, Resiliency, and Affordability Program" overseen by a newly established "New Jersey Climate Adaptation, Resiliency, and Affordability Trust." The collected funds will be used for various "climate change adaptation projects" designed to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as flood protection, infrastructure upgrades, and public health initiatives, with a focus on benefiting overburdened communities. The bill also outlines the structure and responsibilities of the Trust, the allocation of funds into various specialized sub-funds for different sectors like transportation and energy grids, and mandates reporting and evaluation of the program's effectiveness. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not grant the DEP additional regulatory authority over emissions or allow responsible parties to pass these costs onto consumers or small businesses.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: "Polluters Pay to Make New Jersey More Affordable Act"; imposes cost recovery payments on certain fossil fuel companies for funds needed for climate change adaptation; establishes program in DEP to collect and oversee distribution of funds.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 19 : John McKeon (D)*, Bob Smith (D)*, Raj Mukherji (D)*, Britnee Timberlake (D), Angela Mcknight (D), Linda Greenstein (D), Joe Cryan (D), Renee Burgess (D), Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D), Gordon Johnson (D), Patrick Diegnan (D), Andrew Zwicker (D), Vin Gopal (D), Joe Vitale (D), Benjie Wimberly (D), Joe Lagana (D), Brian Stack (D), Teresa Ruiz (D), Shirley Turner (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S4433 • Last Action 06/08/2026
Exempts Purple Heart recipients from payment of motor vehicle registration, driver's license, and identification card fees.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill exempts recipients of the Purple Heart medal, or its successor military honor, from paying fees for motor vehicle registration, driver's licenses, and identification cards. Specifically, it amends existing laws to waive the registration fee for one passenger motor vehicle owned by a Purple Heart recipient, and also waives fees for obtaining or renewing a driver's license and identification card for these individuals. The Purple Heart is a military decoration awarded to those wounded or killed in action. This legislation aims to provide financial relief and recognition to those who have served in the Armed Forces and received this honor.
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Bill Summary: This bill exempts from motor vehicle registration fees one passenger motor vehicle owned by any resident who is a recipient of the Purple Heart, or its successor military honor. The bill also exempts Purple Heart recipients from driver's license and identification card fees.
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• Introduced: 06/04/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Carmen Amato (R)*, Angela Mcknight (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Transportation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S09603 • Last Action 06/05/2026
Requires members of a public body to complete a minimum of two hours of training, with one hour on the state's open meetings law and one hour on freedom of information law; requires certain local, city, county, town and village public body members to complete such training as well.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires local public officers, including village, town, and city clerks, attorneys, and designated records access and appeal officers, to complete at least two hours of training annually. This training must include a minimum of one hour dedicated to understanding the state's open meetings law, which governs how public bodies conduct their meetings to ensure transparency, and another hour focused on the freedom of information law (FOIL), which grants the public the right to access government records. The training content will be approved by the committee on open government and can be delivered through various methods like online courses or in-person classes, with proof of completion to be filed annually.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring members of a public body to complete a minimum level of training on the state's open meetings law and freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 03/27/2026
• Added: 03/28/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Shelley Mayer (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 03/27/2026
• Last Action: COMMITTED TO RULES
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S09777 • Last Action 06/05/2026
Requires entities that submit records to state agencies that are excepted from disclosure under FOIL to periodically re-apply for the exception.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires entities that submit records to state agencies, which are currently exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), to periodically re-apply for these exemptions. FOIL is a New York law that gives the public the right to access government records. Under the current law, once an exemption is granted, it can last indefinitely. This bill amends the Public Officers Law to mandate that these exemptions have a defined period, not exceeding three years, and that the submitter must apply for a three-year extension before the current exemption expires, otherwise the exemption will lapse. The bill also clarifies that the submitter bears the burden of proving their entitlement to an exemption, and it updates the term "committee on public access to records" to "committee on open government."
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring entities that submit records to state agencies that are excepted from disclosure under the freedom of information law to periodically re-apply for the exception
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• Introduced: 04/06/2026
• Added: 04/07/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : Luis Sepúlveda (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Cordell Cleare (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), Robert Jackson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 04/06/2026
• Last Action: COMMITTED TO RULES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A11143 • Last Action 06/05/2026
Requires agencies subject to FOIL requirements to promulgate rules and regulations regarding to whom a requestor may appeal a denial and how to request records from or appeal a denial; makes certain provisions relating to publication of contact information for FOIL requests and appeals.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires agencies subject to the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) to establish clear procedures for how individuals can appeal a denial of access to records and how to request records, including specifying who to appeal to and providing contact information like mailing and email addresses. It also mandates that agencies with websites must post information about FOIL requests and appeals, including contact details for their records access officer and the individual or body responsible for handling appeals. Furthermore, agencies must accept and respond to record requests and appeals submitted via email, and those with websites that allow online record requests must also permit online appeals. The bill aims to make the FOIL process more accessible and transparent by standardizing how agencies communicate this information to the public.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to certain reforms for agencies subject to the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 04/24/2026
• Added: 04/25/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Rebecca Kassay (D)*, Carrie Woerner (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 04/24/2026
• Last Action: reported referred to rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S06599 • Last Action 06/05/2026
Permits assessment of certain fees and costs upon wrongful denial of access to records under the freedom of information law when either the person has substantially prevailed, or if the agency failed to respond within the statutory time.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to modify the provisions for awarding attorney's fees and litigation costs in Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) cases. Under the proposed changes, courts may assess reasonable attorney's fees and litigation costs against a government agency in two scenarios: first, when the person requesting records has substantially prevailed in their case, and second, when the agency failed to respond to a records request within the legally mandated timeframe. The bill also clarifies that these provisions do not limit any existing legal remedies available under the Civil Practice Law and Rules. This modification aims to provide stronger legal protections and incentives for government agencies to promptly and accurately respond to public records requests, while ensuring that individuals who are wrongly denied access to public records can recover their legal expenses. The bill would take effect on the first of September following its enactment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to permitting assessment of certain fees and costs upon wrongful denial of access to records under the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 03/18/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Robert Jackson (D)*, Brad Hoylman (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 03/18/2025
• Last Action: COMMITTED TO RULES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00647 • Last Action 06/05/2026
Expands use of videoconferencing to purely advisory bodies.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the use of videoconferencing for purely advisory committees and subcommittees under public bodies. Specifically, the legislation allows members of advisory committees and subcommittees to attend meetings remotely via videoconference and be counted toward meeting quorum requirements. However, the bill mandates that there must still be at least one physical location where the public can attend, listen, and observe the meeting, and this location must meet all existing physical access requirements outlined in the public officers law. This change provides more flexibility for advisory bodies by enabling virtual participation while maintaining transparency through a required in-person access point. The amendment is part of the public officers law and will take effect immediately, with the provision that it will be considered repealed when the underlying section of law is repealed.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to expanding use of videoconferencing to purely advisory bodies
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• Introduced: 01/03/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : James Skoufis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: COMMITTED TO RULES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5479 • Last Action 06/05/2026
Site Information & Links
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Consumer Data Privacy Act, creating new rights for consumers regarding their personal data and imposing obligations on businesses that collect and process this data. Key provisions include granting consumers the right to access, correct, delete, and obtain a copy of their personal data, as well as the right to opt out of targeted advertising, the sale of their personal data, and profiling for automated decisions that have significant legal or similar effects. The bill defines terms like "personal data," "sensitive data" (which includes health, genetic, and biometric information), and "dark patterns" (deceptive user interface designs). It outlines specific requirements for businesses, such as limiting data collection to what is necessary, obtaining affirmative consent for processing sensitive data, implementing data security practices, and providing clear privacy notices. The act also includes exemptions for certain entities like government agencies, financial institutions, and healthcare providers covered by HIPAA, and sets a deadline for the Attorney General to promulgate regulations and for businesses to comply with certain provisions. Additionally, the bill mandates a study on regulating data brokers in the Commonwealth.
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Bill Summary: Site Information & Links
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• Introduced: 06/05/2026
• Added: 06/06/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 06/04/2026
• Last Action: See S2619
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7676 • Last Action 06/05/2026
Allows advisory bodies to participate in a public meeting using videoconferencing, subject to certain requirements.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows advisory bodies, which are defined as government entities that provide advice or recommendations but do not have decision-making authority, to participate in public meetings via videoconferencing, provided specific requirements are met, including ensuring public access to the virtual meeting without charge, maintaining effective communication for public input if offered, providing clear meeting notices with videoconferencing details, ensuring participants are visually present for quorum and voting, and making recordings available online for five years. Additionally, starting January 1, 2027, all city and town councils and school committees must livestream their meetings, also without charge to the public, and make recordings available online for five years, with further requirements for public input via videoconferencing by January 1, 2028. The bill also mandates that all documents discussed at public meetings be posted or linked with the agenda and made available to the public upon request.
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Bill Summary: This act would allow advisory bodies to participate in a public meeting using videoconferencing, subject to certain requirements. This act would also require all city and town councils and school committees to provide livestreaming of their meetings by January 1, 2027. This would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 02/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : June Speakman (D)*, Teresa Tanzi (D), Edith Ajello (D), Mary Ann Shallcross-Smith (D), Terri Cortvriend (D), Lauren Carson (D), Tina Spears (D), Megan Cotter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Senate Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2619 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Establishing the Massachusetts data privacy act
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act, which creates comprehensive privacy protections for consumers' personal data. The bill applies to businesses that collect data from at least 60,000 consumers or derive 20% of their revenue from selling personal data, and it provides consumers with several key rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being collected, access their data, correct inaccuracies, delete their data, obtain a copy of their data in a portable format, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain automated profiling. Controllers (businesses collecting data) must limit data collection to what is necessary, obtain affirmative consent for processing sensitive data, and are prohibited from selling sensitive data or collecting data from minors for targeted advertising. The bill requires businesses to provide clear, accessible privacy notices, establish secure means for consumers to exercise their rights, and implement reasonable data security practices. Importantly, the attorney general has exclusive enforcement authority, with the ability to issue violations, seek damages up to $5,000 per violation, and require businesses to cure potential violations within 60 days before formal action. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and aims to provide Massachusetts residents with greater control and transparency over their personal data.
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Bill Summary: Establishing the Massachusetts data privacy act
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• Introduced: 09/26/2025
• Added: 09/26/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 09/25/2025
• Last Action: Passed to be engrossed - 146 YEAS to 0 NAYS (See YEA and NAY No. 208 )
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4940 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Environmental protection: underground storage tanks; underground storage tank corrective action fund; modify. Amends secs. 21502, 21503, 21506a, 21506b, 21510, 21510a, 21510d, 21515, 21516, 21518, 21519, 21519a, 21521, 21524 & 21548 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.21502 et seq.) & repeals sec. 21510c of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.21510c).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies various sections of Michigan's Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act related to underground storage tanks, with a focus on updating the refined petroleum underground storage tank cleanup program. The bill makes several key changes, including: redefining numerous technical terms; adjusting the deductible amounts for claims (increasing to $2,000 for the first claim, $10,000 for the second, and $20,000 for subsequent claims at a facility); expanding eligibility requirements for claims; creating more detailed restrictions on what costs can be reimbursed; and adding provisions for a legacy release program to help address historic petroleum tank releases. The bill also updates the composition of the authority's board of directors, with one notable change being that the representative from a statewide business association is now replaced with a qualified underground storage tank consultant. Additionally, the bill introduces more stringent penalties for fraudulent claims, including potential felony charges and significant financial penalties for submitting false or misleading information. The overall aim appears to be improving the administration, transparency, and fiscal responsibility of the underground storage tank cleanup program while providing clearer guidelines for tank owners and operators seeking reimbursement for environmental remediation costs.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled"Natural resources and environmental protection act,"by amending sections 21502, 21503, 21506a, 21506b, 21510, 21510a, 21510d, 21515, 21516, 21518, 21519, 21519a, 21521, 21524, and 21548 (MCL 324.21502, 324.21503, 324.21506a, 324.21506b, 324.21510, 324.21510a, 324.21510d, 324.21515, 324.21516, 324.21518, 324.21519, 324.21519a, 324.21521, 324.21524, and 324.21548), sections 21502, 21503, 21510, 21510a, 21515, 21516, and 21521 as amended by 2016 PA 380, sections 21506a and 21510d as amended and section 21519a as added by 2017 PA 134, and section 21506b as added and sections 21518, 21519, 21524, and 21548 as amended by 2014 PA 416; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
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• Introduced: 09/11/2025
• Added: 09/12/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 10 : Laurie Pohutsky (D)*, Kelly Breen (D), Natalie Price (D), Dylan Wegela (D), Noah Arbit (D), Carol Glanville (D), Phil Skaggs (D), Denise Mentzer (D), Julie Rogers (D), Carrie Rheingans (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 09/11/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Second Reading
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5100 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Economic development: other; regional convention facility authority board requirements; modify. Amends sec. 11 of 2008 PA 554 (MCL 141.1361).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Regional Convention Facility Authority Act by making several changes to board governance and operational requirements. The bill adjusts voting procedures, requiring that board actions now need consent from at least 4 of 5 serving members instead of the previous unanimous consent requirement. It mandates that board meetings must be public and comply with the Open Meetings Act, with proper notice and record-keeping. The bill also updates language around procurement, requiring boards to give preference to local and state businesses when purchasing goods and services, and establishes more detailed policies for contract management, including restrictions on contracting with individuals with certain criminal backgrounds. Additionally, the bill requires the authority to establish a citizens advisory council within 60 days after the transfer date, consisting of 8 members from the qualified city and metropolitan area counties, who will provide public input on facility redevelopment and management. The advisory council members will serve 4-year terms, conduct public meetings, and cannot be compensated for their service. Throughout the bill, language is updated from "shall" to "must" to clarify mandatory requirements.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 2008 PA 554, entitled"Regional convention facility authority act,"by amending section 11 (MCL 141.1361), as amended by 2009 PA 63.
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• Introduced: 10/21/2025
• Added: 10/22/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 2 : Joe Aragona (R)*, Tyrone Carter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 10/21/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Second Reading
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5115 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Environmental protection: underground storage tanks; underground storage tank corrective action fund; modify. Amends secs. 21502, 21503, 21506a, 21506b, 21510, 21510a, 21510d, 21515, 21516, 21518, 21519, 21519a, 21521, 21524 & 21548 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.21502 et seq.) & repeals sec. 21510c of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.21510c).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Michigan's environmental protection laws regarding underground storage tanks, making several key changes to how releases of refined petroleum are handled and reimbursed. The bill modifies definitions, eligibility requirements, and procedures for claiming reimbursement from the underground storage tank cleanup fund. Specifically, it updates requirements for claimants seeking money for corrective actions or indemnification, expands the definition of who can submit claims, and adds more detailed restrictions on what costs can be reimbursed. The bill introduces new provisions such as a legacy release program for historic releases, changes to the board of directors governing the underground storage tank authority, and more stringent penalties for fraudulent claims. Notable changes include expanding eligibility for federally recognized tribes, clarifying claim submission timelines, adding more specific criteria for what constitutes fraud, and increasing administrative flexibility for the authority in evaluating claims. The bill aims to improve the management and oversight of underground storage tank releases while providing a more comprehensive framework for cleanup and reimbursement.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled"Natural resources and environmental protection act,"by amending sections 21502, 21503, 21506a, 21506b, 21510, 21510a, 21510d, 21515, 21516, 21518, 21519, 21519a, 21521, 21524, and 21548 (MCL 324.21502, 324.21503, 324.21506a, 324.21506b, 324.21510, 324.21510a, 324.21510d, 324.21515, 324.21516, 324.21518, 324.21519, 324.21519a, 324.21521, 324.21524, and 324.21548), sections 21502, 21503, 21510, 21510a, 21515, 21516, and 21521 as amended by 2016 PA 380, sections 21506a and 21510d as amended and section 21519a as added by 2017 PA 134, and section 21506b as added and sections 21518, 21519, 21524, and 21548 as amended by 2014 PA 416; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
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• Introduced: 10/23/2025
• Added: 10/24/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 3 : David Martin (R)*, David Prestin (R), Laurie Pohutsky (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 10/23/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Second Reading
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4096 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Requires data center owners and operators to submit semi-annual water and energy usage reports to BPU.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires owners and operators of data centers, which are facilities primarily used for storing, managing, and processing digital data and housing computer systems, to submit semi-annual reports on their water and energy usage to the Board of Public Utilities (BPU). These reports must include basic information about the data center, details on total energy consumption (including for cooling), information about the electricity provider and on-site power supplies, the energy consumption of information technology equipment, total and peak daily water input, and the sources of that water. If a data center receives financial incentives from the state, it must also report performance indicators like energy reuse factor and power usage effectiveness, as well as sustainability indicators such as average equipment intake air temperature and waste heat reuse. The BPU will publish the submitted information on its website, with the exception of specific performance and sustainability data which will be kept confidential unless aggregated from at least five facilities. The reporting requirement will initially last for three years, after which the BPU will decide whether to make it permanent.
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Bill Summary: Requires data center owners and operators to submit semi-annual water and energy usage reports to BPU.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 06/06/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Michael Venezia (D)*, Shama Haider (D)*, Rosaura Bagolie (D)*, Katie Brennan (D), William Sampson (D), Jerry Walker (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 06/05/2026
• Last Action: Reported out of Assembly Comm. with Amendments, 2nd Reading
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3069 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Requires food manufacturers to disclose new food additives not reported to FDA.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires food and non-alcoholic beverage manufacturers selling in the state to report to the Department of Health any new uses of food additives they have determined to be "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS), meaning experts agree they are safe for their intended use. This GRAS determination is an exception to the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act's requirement for premarket approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for substances intentionally added to food. Manufacturers must submit an annual report detailing the additive's identity, how it's made, its intended use, estimated dietary exposure, and the basis for their GRAS conclusion, ensuring the information is publicly available unless it's a protected trade secret. The Department of Health will review and publish these reports online within six months, with penalties of up to $1,000 for a first offense and $5,000 for subsequent offenses for non-compliance, and the Attorney General can seek injunctions to enforce the law. The bill aims to allow consumers to make informed choices by providing transparency about food additives.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires manufacturers of food and nonalcoholic beverages for sale in this State to disclose certain additive information to the Commissioner of the Department of Health to be made publicly available. Under the bill, every manufacturer of food and nonalcoholic beverages for sale in this State is required to disclose when a new additive has been deemed "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) by that entity, and is planned for use in food and non-alcoholic beverages. Under sections 201(s) and 409 of the federal "Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act," any substance that is intentionally added to food is a food additive, subject to premarket review and approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), unless the substance is generally recognized among qualified experts as having been adequately shown to be safe under the conditions of its intended use, or unless the use of the substance is otherwise excepted from the definition of a food additive. This bill requires industry to provide the Commissioner of Health with the premarket review rendering an additive GRAS, in the form of an annual report with certain requirements, for publication on the Department of Health Internet website. The department is to review and publish the report within six months of receipt. The commissioner may refuse to publish an incomplete report, after the submitting entity has been given an opportunity to correct any insufficiency within a reasonable time, to be determined by the commissioner. The bill requires the commissioner to promulgate rules and regulations for the collection of these reports and the publication of the data on the department's Internet website. It is the sponsor's view that the publication of a manufacturer's food additive assessment will enable the public to make an informed decision regarding their consumption choices. Finally, the bill provides for the use of the "Penalty Enforcement Law of 1999", P.L.1999 ,c.274 (C.2A:58-10 et seq.), in carrying out the bill's provisions and makes available to the Commissioner of Health the assistance of the Attorney General in recovering penalties, including enforcing an injunction to protect the public interest. The penalties are up to $1,000 for a first offense and up to $5,000 for each subsequent offense. For a violation of a continuing nature, each day constitutes an additional, separate and distinct offense. The bill becomes effective one year after enactment, but permits the Commissioner of Health to take anticipatory action.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 02/01/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Chris Tully (D)*, Clinton Calabrese (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Assembly Consumer Affairs Hearing (10:00:00 6/4/2026 Committee Room 13, 4th Floor, State House Annex, Trenton, NJ)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S09088 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Requires the registration of data brokers; imposes regulations upon data brokers; establishes a data deletion mechanism for consumers; imposes penalties upon data brokers for violations of the law.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new regulations for "data brokers," which are businesses that knowingly collect and sell personal information of consumers, especially when they don't have a direct relationship with that consumer or collect information outside of the consumer's expected interaction. Key provisions include requiring data brokers to register with the Attorney General, pay a registration fee, and disclose specific details about their data collection and sharing practices, including whether they collect data from minors or sensitive information like precise geolocation or reproductive health data. The bill also mandates the creation of a centralized "data deletion mechanism" that allows consumers to request the deletion of their personal information from all registered data brokers through a single request, with data brokers required to comply within 45 days. Furthermore, data brokers must implement comprehensive information security programs to protect consumer data and are subject to audits by independent third parties. The bill outlines penalties for violations, including daily civil fines for failing to register, delete data, or comply with disclosure requirements, and also provides exemptions for certain entities like healthcare providers and financial institutions covered by other federal laws.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to requiring the registration of data brokers and establishing a data deletion mechanism for consumers
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• Introduced: 01/30/2026
• Added: 01/31/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Kristen Gonzalez (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/30/2026
• Last Action: referred to consumer affairs and protection
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5472 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Site Information & Links
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Massachusetts Consumer Data Privacy Act," establishes new regulations for how businesses, referred to as "controllers," collect, process, and sell personal data of Massachusetts residents, who are defined as "consumers." Key provisions include granting consumers rights such as confirming data collection, accessing and deleting their personal data, correcting inaccuracies, and opting out of targeted advertising, the sale of their data, or profiling for automated decisions that have significant legal or similar effects. The bill defines important terms like "personal data," "sensitive data" (which includes health, genetic, and biometric information), "affirmative consent" (requiring a clear, deliberate action from the consumer), and "dark patterns" (deceptive user interface designs). It sets thresholds for which businesses are subject to these rules, generally based on the volume of data processed or revenue from data sales. The bill also outlines specific requirements for data security, privacy notices, and how consumers can exercise their rights, including through authorized agents and opt-out preference signals. It exempts certain entities and types of data, such as protected health information under HIPAA and data collected for research or in employment contexts. Violations are considered unfair or deceptive trade practices, with the Attorney General having enforcement authority, including imposing civil penalties. The bill also includes provisions for data protection assessments for processing activities that pose a heightened risk of harm to consumers, with a delayed enforcement date for these assessments.
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Bill Summary: Site Information & Links
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• Introduced: 06/03/2026
• Added: 06/04/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : House Committee on Ways and Means
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 06/03/2026
• Last Action: Published as amended, see H5479
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A02321 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Requires all agencies to submit to the committee on open government a log of all freedom of information law requests for each year in which they received or have pending a request for records; requires the committee on open government to publish, on one webpage, all freedom of information law request logs it receives.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all state agencies that handle government or proprietary functions to submit a detailed log of all Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests they received or had pending during a given year to the Committee on Open Government. FOIL is a law that allows the public to request access to government records. The logs must be submitted in a machine-readable, tabular format, and include comprehensive data about each request, such as the requestor's identity and affiliation, the subject of the request, dates of receipt and response, whether the request was granted or denied, any exemptions cited, appeal information, fees collected, and details about any legal proceedings related to the request. Agencies must also publish these logs on their own websites. Furthermore, by January 1st of each year, the Committee on Open Government will compile all submitted logs onto a single webpage, making them publicly accessible in a machine-readable format, and will also publish this data on a state data website. The Committee will also analyze this data and include findings in its annual report.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring agencies to report information about FOIL inquiries to the committee on open government
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 14 : John McDonald (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D), Anna Kelles (D), Karen McMahon (D), Harvey Epstein (D), Tony Simone (D), Noah Burroughs (D), Catalina Cruz (D), Karines Reyes (D), Nader Sayegh (D), William Colton (D), Steve Otis (D), Phil Steck (D), Grace Lee (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: COMMITTED TO RULES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2837 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Public hearing definition; hearing officer
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona Revised Statutes related to municipal planning and zoning, primarily focusing on public hearings and the duties of zoning boards and hearing officers. Key changes include requiring individuals who testify or submit written comments at a public hearing on zoning matters to disclose if they have received any form of compensation for their input. Additionally, members of a board of adjustment (a body that hears appeals on zoning decisions) and hearing officers will be required to disclose if they have served as a board member or officer of any entity that appears before them, and they will be disqualified from participating in matters involving such entities for five years prior to the hearing. The bill also makes minor technical corrections to language within these statutes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Amending sections 9-462.04, 9-462.06 and 9-462.08, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to municipal planning and zoning.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Jeff Weninger (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Governor Signed
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3379 • Last Action 06/04/2026
Requires data center owners and operators to submit semi-annual water and energy usage reports to BPU.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires owners and operators of data centers, defined as facilities primarily for storing, managing, and processing digital data and housing computer systems, to submit semi-annual reports on their water and energy usage to the Board of Public Utilities (BPU). These reports must include basic data center information, total energy consumption in kilowatt hours, details about electricity providers and on-site power supplies, information on information technology equipment energy use, total and peak daily water input in cubic meters, and the source of that water, specifying whether it comes from a public water system, groundwater, or surface water, and if it's potable or reclaimed. If a data center receives financial incentives from the state, it must also report performance indicators like energy reuse factor, power usage effectiveness, renewable energy factor, and water usage effectiveness, along with sustainability indicators such as IT equipment intake air temperature and waste heat temperature. The BPU will publish the submitted information on its website, with performance and sustainability data being confidential unless anonymized and aggregated. Data centers must also notify the BPU of any significant operational changes that would affect their reports at least 60 days in advance. The reporting requirement will initially last for three years, after which the BPU will decide whether to make it permanent.
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Bill Summary: Requires data center owners and operators to submit semi-annual water and energy usage reports to BPU.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 06/06/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Teresa Ruiz (D)*, Raj Mukherji (D)*, Patrick Diegnan (D), Jim Beach (D), Angela Mcknight (D), Linda Greenstein (D), Shirley Turner (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 06/05/2026
• Last Action: Reported out of Assembly Comm. with Amendments, 2nd Reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5469 • Last Action 06/03/2026
Promoting transparency and public access in state government
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled "Promoting transparency and public access in state government," aims to increase transparency by allowing the State Auditor to audit the "administrative functions" of the Massachusetts Senate, House of Representatives, and joint legislative operations, which include things like official budgets, audits, expenditures, and monetary settlement agreements, but specifically exclude "constitutional functions" such as legislative power, speech, and deliberation. The bill also defines "legislative records" that will be made accessible to the public, encompassing a wide range of documents from legislation and hearing testimony to financial records and committee assignments, while excluding sensitive security information. To facilitate this access, each branch of the legislature will appoint a "legislative records access officer" responsible for responding to public requests for these records within specific timeframes, with provisions for fees, denials, and appeals to the Supreme Judicial Court. The bill also makes technical amendments to existing laws to align with these new transparency measures, including clarifying the definition of an "agency" for public records purposes and extending certain record-keeping requirements to the office of the governor starting in 2027.
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Bill Summary: Promoting transparency and public access in state government
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• Introduced: 06/02/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : House Committee on Ways and Means
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 06/02/2026
• Last Action: Passed to be engrossed - 125 YEAS to 28 NAYS (See YEA and NAY No. 201 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1796 • Last Action 06/02/2026
BODY CAMERAS-FOIA REQUESTS
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to establish new rules for fees charged for requests of recordings made by law enforcement body cameras, while also removing previous changes made to laws concerning body cameras and the criminal code. Specifically, public bodies can now charge up to $40 per hour for the time spent searching for, retrieving, or redacting these recordings, unless the request is made by a court, the subject of the encounter or their representative, a witness to a flagged encounter or their representative, news media, or a nonprofit, scientific, or academic organization for specific public interest purposes like research or disseminating news. Public bodies must respond to these requests within 5 business days with an estimated cost and time, and have an additional 5 business days after payment of the estimated fee to provide the recordings, with the possibility of further extensions. If the requester fails to pay the estimated fee within 30 days, the request can be denied. Public bodies imposing these fees must provide an accounting of costs and reconcile any differences between the estimated and actual costs, offering refunds or requiring additional payment as needed. Fee waivers are also available if the requester can show the purpose is to disseminate information that benefits the community's health, safety, welfare, or legal rights.
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Bill Summary: Deletes changes to the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act and the Criminal Code of 2012. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a public body may charge fees reflecting its actual costs up to $40 for each hour spent by personnel in searching for and retrieving a requested recording or examining the record for or applying necessary redactions on requests for recordings that are made pursuant to the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act, unless the request is made by: (1) a court order; (2) the subject of the encounter or the subject's legal representative; (3) a witness to the encounter or the witness's representative, if the encounter resulted in the recording being flagged; (4) a representative of the news media, as defined in the Act; or (5) a nonprofit, scientific, or academic organization when the principal purpose of the request is (i) to access and disseminate information concerning news and current or passing events, (ii) for articles of opinion or features of interest to the public, or (iii) for the purpose of academic, scientific, or public research or education. Provides that a public body shall respond to requests for recordings within 5 business days after the receipt of the request with an estimated time that will be required for the public body to provide the recordings requested and an estimate of the fees to be charged. Further provides that the public body shall have an additional 5 business days to respond to a request once payment of the estimated fee is made, as well as any extensions allowed under any other applicable provisions of the Act. Specifies that if the requester fails to pay the required estimated fees within 30 days after the public body requests payment of the estimated fee, then the public body may deny the request. Requires a public body that imposes a fee under the provisions of the amendatory Act must provide the requester with an accounting of all fees, costs, and personnel hours in connection with the request for public records and must apply a new balance or refund based on the actual cost versus the paid estimate. Authorizes a waiver of fees under the amendatory Act if the requester can demonstrate that the purpose of the request is to access and disseminate information in order to further the interest of the health, safety, and welfare or the legal rights of the community.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 13 : Julie Morrison (D)*, Justin Slaughter (D)*, Patrick Sheehan (R)*, Dave Koehler (D), Linda Holmes (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Mike Halpin (D), Jason Plummer (R), Laura Ellman (D), Mattie Hunter (D), Dan Didech (D), Sharon Chung (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 64
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0208 • Last Action 06/02/2026
Open Meetings Clarification Amendment Act of 2025
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to clarify and expand regulations around public meetings in the District of Columbia. The bill redefines "meeting" to include a broader range of gatherings where public business is discussed, while specifically excluding certain types of interactions like social gatherings, press conferences, and field trips. It provides new provisions allowing public bodies to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats without taking official action, and creates an exemption for meetings between the City Council and the Mayor, provided no official action is taken. The bill also introduces more flexible public access requirements, stating that a meeting can be considered open to the public if reasonable steps are taken to allow public viewing or hearing of the meeting, either in real-time or as soon as technologically feasible afterward. Additionally, the bill modifies notice and recording requirements for meetings, giving public bodies more latitude in how they accommodate public attendance and document proceedings. The changes aim to balance transparency in government operations with practical considerations of security and logistical constraints.
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Bill Summary: A BILL IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of “meeting”; to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken; to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings; and to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 03/28/2025
• Added: 03/29/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 12 : Phil Mendelson (D)*, Christina Henderson (I)*, Brianne Nadeau (D)*, Matt Frumin (D)*, Zachary Parker (D)*, Wendell Felder (D)*, Kenyan McDuffie (I)*, Anita Bonds (D)*, Robert White (D)*, Brooke Pinto (D)*, Janeese George (D)*, Charles Allen (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 03/27/2025
• Last Action: Amendment (Allen)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB6011 • Last Action 06/02/2026
Businesses: other; cybersecurity requirements for large-scale solar energy facilities; provide for. Amends 2008 PA 295 (MCL 460.1001 - 460.1232) by adding sec. 112a.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Clean and Renewable Energy and Energy Waste Reduction Act to establish cybersecurity and resilience requirements specifically for operators of large-scale solar energy facilities, defined as those with a generating capacity of 50 megawatts or more, including associated equipment and any colocated energy storage systems that support operations. The bill emphasizes that these requirements are solely to address public health, safety, and emergency-response risks related to the safe operation of these facilities and do not regulate cybersecurity generally, data centers, or other energy sectors. Operators must implement a risk-based cybersecurity and resilience program aligned with nationally recognized frameworks like those from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), ensuring the program is appropriate to the facility's size, complexity, and foreseeable safety risks. This includes measures for identifying cyber risks, controlling access, segmenting systems, managing supply chain risks, and conducting periodic reviews and testing. Facilities may use safeguards like redundant systems and manual overrides, and compliance does not necessitate changes to workforce levels or collective bargaining agreements. Operators must also maintain an incident response plan that coordinates with emergency responders and provide notification of material cybersecurity incidents—defined as events likely to result in a "cyber compromise" (loss of confidentiality, integrity, or availability of safety-critical systems that impairs safe operations)—to the Michigan State Police and local emergency management coordinators within 24 hours, followed by a high-level written summary within 72 hours. Records detailing specific security measures or incident response are exempt from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Violations of the bill can result in civil fines of up to $25,000 per day, with the Attorney General having the authority to request documentation related to material cybersecurity incidents or enforcement actions, but not for routine audits.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 2008 PA 295, entitled"Clean and renewable energy and energy waste reduction act,"(MCL 460.1001 to 460.1232) by adding section 112a.
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• Introduced: 05/21/2026
• Added: 05/22/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 5 : Reggie Miller (D)*, Peter Herzberg (D), Morgan Foreman (D), Jimmie Wilson (D), Tullio Liberati (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 05/21/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB608 • Last Action 06/01/2026
Provides relative to the confidentiality of documents related to an intercollegiate athletics revenue sharing program
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Louisiana law to establish specific confidentiality rules for documents related to intercollegiate athletics revenue sharing programs at postsecondary education institutions. While the total amount of revenue spent on these programs must be publicly disclosed, individual athlete compensation amounts, whether a specific dollar figure or a percentage, and funds allocated to particular sports or athletic programs will be considered confidential and exempt from public records requests. Additionally, any documents involved in negotiating or executing agreements with individual athletes under these revenue sharing programs will also be kept confidential. The bill clarifies that these confidentiality provisions apply to existing and future records.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 17:3703(M), relative to compensation for intercollegiate athletics; to provide relative to an intercollegiate athletics revenue sharing program; to provide relative to public records; to create a public records exception; to provide for applicability; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2026
• Added: 04/02/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Tehmi Chassion (D)*, Delisha Boyd (D), Rodney Lyons (D), Shane Mack (R), Candace Newell (D), Rodney Schamerhorn (R), Mark Wright (R), John Wyble (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 05/31/2026
• Last Action: Sent to the Governor for executive approval.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S10098 • Last Action 06/01/2026
Relates to the maximum allowable timeframes to respond to requests for records under the freedom of information act.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public Officers Law, which governs the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in New York, to establish new maximum timeframes for government agencies to respond to requests for records. Currently, agencies must respond within five business days, either by providing the record, denying the request, or acknowledging receipt and stating an approximate date for a decision. This bill introduces a new subdivision that sets specific deadlines for when agencies must make records available if they have decided to grant a request: 180 days for requests made before the end of 2027, 90 days for requests made in 2028, and 60 days for requests made from 2029 onwards. If an agency cannot meet these deadlines, it can extend the timeframe if federal law prevents review, if employees cannot safely access records, or if the records are too voluminous to review reasonably. In such cases, the agency must notify the requester in writing with detailed reasons and provide monthly progress updates, and also notify the Committee on Open Government, with both notifications signed by the agency's commissioner. These changes are intended to ensure more timely access to public records.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to timeframes for responding to requests for records under the freedom of information act
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• Introduced: 04/28/2026
• Added: 04/29/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : James Skoufis (D)*, Leroy Comrie (D), Robert Jackson (D), Steve Rhoads (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S06165 • Last Action 06/01/2026
Relates to the applicability of open meetings and freedom of information laws to certain not-for-profit corporations.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends New York's not-for-profit corporation law and public authorities law to expand the applicability of open meetings and freedom of information laws to certain not-for-profit corporations, particularly those affiliated with or acting on behalf of government entities. Key provisions include requiring not-for-profit corporations to disclose if they are incorporated on behalf of a municipal corporation, state, or local authority, and mandating that such corporations, or those where government officials select a majority of their board or chief executive, obtain consent from the director of the authorities budget office before incorporation. The bill also clarifies that "local authority" now includes not-for-profit corporations that issue tax-exempt debt or provide tax exemptions, and that all state and local authorities, along with their subsidiaries and affiliates, must comply with open meetings and freedom of information laws, including streaming meetings online and posting recordings. Additionally, it modifies rules regarding the sale or lease of property by local development corporations, reducing the maximum lease term to twenty-five years and requiring more detailed public notice for such transactions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the not-for-profit corporation law and the public authorities law, in relation to the applicability of open meetings and freedom of information laws to certain not-for-profit corporations
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• Introduced: 03/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : James Skoufis (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 03/06/2025
• Last Action: SUBSTITUTED BY A173A
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB1049 • Last Action 06/01/2026
Provides relative to public meetings (EN NO IMPACT See Note)
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Louisiana law regarding public meetings to enhance transparency and public participation. Specifically, it mandates that school boards must allow public comment on each agenda item before any vote is taken, subject to reasonable rules set by the board. It also clarifies that public meeting notices must be posted in a manner that allows the public to read them, and if a public body has a website, notices must also be posted online for at least twenty-four hours before the meeting, with technological failures not constituting a violation. Furthermore, the bill requires that draft minutes of meetings be provided to board members at least five business days before the meeting where they will be approved, and that adopted minutes be made available to the public and posted on the public body's website for at least three months.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 42:15(A), 19(A)(2)(a), and 20(B)(1)(a) and (b), relative to public meetings; to provide for public comment; to provide for the posting of a meeting notice; to provide for the contents of meeting minutes; to provide relative to draft minutes; to require the presence of legal counsel or a mem
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• Introduced: 03/30/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Chuck Owen (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 05/31/2026
• Last Action: Sent to the Governor for executive approval.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5090 • Last Action 06/01/2026
PROCUREMENT-CONSTRUCTION
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act, establishes a framework for collective bargaining for individuals who drive for transportation network companies (TNCs), such as Uber or Lyft. It defines a "transportation network driver" (TND) as someone operating a personal vehicle for TNC services, excluding traditional taxis. The Act grants TNDs the right to organize, join unions, and bargain collectively with TNCs through a statewide bargaining unit. The Illinois Labor Relations Board (ILRB) will certify a TND organization as the exclusive representative for these drivers and oversee the process. Covered TNCs, defined as those accounting for 95% of rides in the state, are required to bargain with the certified representative on "mandatory subjects of bargaining," which include compensation, benefits, deactivation processes, and earnings transparency. Beginning 90 days after the law takes effect, covered TNCs must pay a fee per trip originating in Illinois into a "Rideshare Workers Support Fund," which will be used for administrative costs and grants to the exclusive bargaining representative to educate drivers and enforce their rights. The bill also outlines procedures for determining active drivers and covered TNCs, addresses unfair labor practices, and includes provisions for impasse resolution and the approval of "sectoral agreements" by the Department of Labor, which will set industry standards for TNDs. It also makes conforming changes to other laws, such as the Freedom of Information Act, to protect TND data and exempts certain procurement processes related to this Act from standard bidding requirements.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act. Defines "transportation network driver" as an individual who operates a motor vehicle that: (i) is owned, leased, or otherwise authorized for use by the individual; (ii) is not a taxicab or for-hire public passenger vehicle; (iii) is used to provide transportation network company services; and (iv) operates under the license of a transportation network company. Provides that transportation network drivers have the right of self-organization, to form, join, or assist transportation network driver organizations, and to bargain collectively. Requires the Illinois Labor Relations Board to certify a transportation network driver organization as the exclusive bargaining representative for the bargaining unit of transportation network drivers and notify all covered transportation network companies. Requires covered transportation network companies to bargain with the exclusive bargaining representative concerning mandatory subjects of bargaining. Provides that, beginning 90 days after the effective date of the Act, each covered transportation network company shall be required to pay a fee for each trip originating within the State to the Secretary of State to be deposited into the Rideshare Workers Support Fund. Provides that nothing in the Act shall be construed to affect the determination under State law, whether in statute or common law, of whether and under what circumstances a transportation network company may be considered a common carrier. Sets forth provisions concerning unfair work practices; the determination of active transportation network drivers and covered transportation network companies; the prevention of unfair work practices; the designation of bargaining representatives; administrative fees; bargaining, impasse resolution procedures, and final determinations by the Department of Labor; applicability of other labor standards; rulemaking; and public records. Amends the Freedom of Information Act and the Labor Dispute Act to make conforming changes. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2026
• Added: 06/09/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 44 : Yolonda Morris (D)*, Rick Ryan (D)*, Ram Villivalam (D)*, Michael Crawford (D), Lisa Davis (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Margaret DeLaRosa (D), Amy Briel (D), Tracy Katz Muhl (D), Barbara Hernandez (D), Norma Hernandez (D), Sharon Chung (D), Carol Ammons (D), Anna Moeller (D), Rita Mayfield (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), La Shawn Ford (D), Dee Avelar (D), Justin Slaughter (D), Kimberly du Buclet (D), Camille Lilly (D), Jehan Gordon-Booth (D), Omar Williams (D), William Davis (D), Mary Beth Canty (D), Laura Faver Dias (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Justin Cochran (D), Dave Vella (D), Marcus Evans (D), Kam Buckner (D), Christopher Belt (D), Mike Halpin (D), Celina Villanueva (D), Mike Porfirio (D), Rob Martwick (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D), Laura Ellman (D), Laura Fine (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Karina Villa (D), Lakesia Collins (D), Doris Turner (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 110
• Last Amended: 06/08/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Kam Buckner
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S4116 • Last Action 06/01/2026
Requires public participation be allowed as component of certain public meetings.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing New Jersey law, specifically the Open Public Meetings Act (often referred to as the "Sunshine Law"), to require that certain public bodies must allow for public participation during their meetings. Previously, public bodies had broad discretion to permit, prohibit, or regulate public involvement. Now, municipal governing bodies, boards of county commissioners (and entities created by them), and boards of education are mandated to set aside a specific portion of every meeting for public comment on any issue that residents may find concerning. The length of this public comment period will be determined by the respective entity itself. The bill clarifies that this requirement applies to "public bodies," which are governmental entities that conduct public business, and the "respective entity" refers to the specific type of public body being addressed in the amendment. The bill takes effect immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: Requires public participation be allowed as component of certain public meetings.
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• Introduced: 05/04/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Douglas Steinhardt (R)*, Parker Space (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 06/02/2026
• Last Action: Reported from Senate Committee as a Substitute, 2nd Reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #SB289 • Last Action 06/01/2026
Provides for confidentiality of certain information in public records requests for universities. (8/1/26)
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts a new law to create exemptions to Louisiana's public records law for certain information held by public universities. Specifically, it will shield from public disclosure the applications and personally identifiable information of candidates for high-level university positions like president or chancellor, unless the applicant agrees to disclosure; this information will become public once a candidate is approved by the governing board, with the top three finalists' records also becoming public at that point. The bill also protects the identities of university donors who request their information remain confidential, as well as proprietary, unpublished, or incomplete academic research and unsubmitted grant applications until such information is publicly disclosed, announced, or intellectual property rights are granted or denied. Additionally, it allows for the temporary confidentiality of records related to negotiations for industry partnerships if disclosure would harm the talks, with a limit of twelve months, extendable by six more if negotiations remain active. Finally, the bill clarifies that this new confidentiality does not apply to information related to reports of student or employee safety violations, including the identities of those reporting, witnesses, and potential victims of violence or abuse, unless otherwise required by law or court order.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact R.S. 44:3.7 and to repeal R.S. 44:4(56), relative to public records; to provide for exemptions to the public records law for certain university records; to provide for confidentiality of applicants for certain executive-level university positions; to provide for the privacy of university donors; to provide for the confidentiality of research and proprietary information at universities; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark Abraham (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 06/04/2026
• Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB711 • Last Action 05/31/2026
Data Privacy - Consumer Data, Public Records, and Message Switching System (Data Privacy Act)
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Data Privacy Act, introduces several key provisions aimed at protecting consumer data and public records. It prohibits a controller, which is an entity that determines the purposes and means of processing personal data, from knowingly selling a consumer's personal data to a governmental unit that has recently engaged in or supported civil immigration enforcement, meaning within the six months prior to the sale. Additionally, custodians of public records, those responsible for maintaining and providing access to government documents, must take reasonable steps to ascertain if a request for a public record is for the purpose of enforcing immigration law. The bill also requires entities operating a message switching system, a platform that automatically routes and delivers electronic communications between law enforcement agencies and databases, to implement specific measures to prevent unauthorized access for immigration enforcement purposes, unless a valid warrant is presented. These changes aim to enhance privacy protections for Maryland residents and limit the use of their data in immigration enforcement activities.
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Bill Summary: Prohibiting a certain controller from knowingly selling the personal data of a consumer to a certain governmental unit that has engaged in or supported civil immigration enforcement under certain circumstances; requiring a custodian of a public record to take reasonable steps to determine whether a public record is accessed for enforcing immigration law; requiring an entity that operates a certain message switching system to take certain actions regarding system access; etc.
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• Introduced: 01/31/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Lorig Charkoudian (D)*, Jared Solomon (D), Sarah Wolek (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 06/03/2026
• Last Action: Enacted under Article II, Section 17(c) of the Maryland Constitution - Chapter 874
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2715 • Last Action 05/31/2026
OPEN MTGS-STATEWIDE ASSOC
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow public bodies to hold closed meetings for specific purposes when meeting with a representative of a statewide association they are a member of, specifically for discussions related to self-evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics. Previously, this exception applied to meetings with representatives of statewide or regional associations, but this bill narrows it to only statewide associations. The bill's effective date is contingent on another piece of legislation, Senate Bill 243 of the 104th General Assembly, becoming law.
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Bill Summary: If and only if Senate Bill 243 of the 104th General Assembly, as amended by House Amendment No. 1, becomes law, then the Open Meetings Act is amended to allow a public body to hold closed meetings to consider self evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics, when meeting with a representative of a statewide association (rather than a statewide or regional association) of which the public body is a member. Effective upon becoming law or on the date Senate Bill 243 of the 104th General Assembly takes effect, whichever is later.
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• Introduced: 10/15/2025
• Added: 10/16/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : Mike Porfirio (D)*, Dan Didech (D)*, Tracy Katz Muhl (D), Chris Welch (D), Anthony DeLuca (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 87
• Last Amended: 04/16/2026
• Last Action: Placed on Calendar Order of Concurrence House Amendment(s) 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 - May 31, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0633 • Last Action 05/30/2026
Open Meetings Clarification Temporary Amendment Act of 2026
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill temporarily amends the Open Meetings Act to clarify what constitutes a "meeting" for public bodies, excluding chance social gatherings and press conferences, and specifically defining Council meetings where votes are taken. It allows public bodies to receive briefings on potential terrorist or public health threats without violating the act, provided disclosure could endanger the public, and exempts meetings between the Council and the Mayor from open meeting requirements if no official action is taken. The bill also establishes that a meeting is considered open to the public if reasonable steps are taken to allow public viewing or listening, either live or as soon as practically possible if live access is not feasible, and clarifies that certain financial reporting requirements for boards and commissions will not apply before October 17, 2026.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on a temporary basis, the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of meeting, to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken, to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings, and to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable; and to amend section 5710 of Title 3 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations to further clarify the applicability date for expanded financial reporting requirements for certain boards and commissions.
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• Introduced: 03/30/2026
• Added: 03/31/2026
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 05/05/2026
• Last Action: Enacted without Mayor's Signature with Act Number A26-0331
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0340 • Last Action 05/30/2026
CIVIL LAW-TECH
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act, establishes new rules for how businesses handle the personal data of Illinois residents, taking effect on January 1, 2027. It applies to companies that do business in Illinois or target Illinois residents and meet certain thresholds, such as collecting personal data from 100,000 or more consumers annually or deriving a significant portion of revenue from selling personal data and collecting data from 25,000 or more consumers. The Act grants consumers several rights, including the right to know if their data is being processed, to access and correct their data, to delete their data, and to opt out of the sale of their personal data or its use for targeted advertising or profiling. It also outlines responsibilities for "data controllers" (those who determine the purposes and means of data processing) and "data processors" (those who process data on behalf of controllers), requiring them to implement security measures and adhere to contractual agreements. The bill exempts certain entities and types of data, such as protected health information and data handled by financial institutions under federal law, and amends the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act to make violations of this Act unlawful. Additionally, it makes data privacy and protection assessments made available to the Attorney General exempt from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act. Specifies that the Act applies to legal entities that conduct business in Illinois or produce products or services that are targeted to Illinois residents and that either (i) collect or process, during a calendar year, personal data of 100,000 or more consumers, excluding personal data controlled or processed solely for the purpose of completing a payment transaction, or (ii) derive more than 25% of their gross revenues from the sale of personal data and process or collect personal data of 25,000 or more consumers. Describes classes of persons that are exempt from the Act. Outlines the responsibilities of data controllers and data processors. Sets forth various consumer personal data rights, including, but not limited to (i) the right to confirm whether or not a controller is processing personal data concerning the consumer and to access the personal data the controller is processing, (ii) the right to correct inaccurate personal data concerning the consumer, (iii) the right to delete personal data concerning the consumer, (iv) the right to opt out of the processing of personal data concerning the consumer for specified purposes, or (v) the right, under certain circumstances, to question the result of profiling. Requires a controller to allow a consumer to opt out of any processing of the consumer's personal data for enumerated purposes. Contains provisions concerning the processing of deidentified data or pseudonymous data, responsibilities of controllers, requirements for small businesses, data privacy policies, data privacy and protection assessments, enforcement of the Act by the Attorney General and State's attorneys, and other matters. Limits the concurrent exercise of home rule powers. Amends the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Specifies that a violation of the Act constitutes an unlawful practice under the Act. Amends the Freedom of Information Act to exempt from disclosure data privacy and protection assessments made available to the Attorney General and State's Attorneys under the Act. Makes other changes. Effective January 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 01/24/2025
• Added: 05/22/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 14 : Laura Murphy (D)*, Abdelnasser Rashid (D)*, Sue Rezin (R), Rachel Ventura (D), Mike Porfirio (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Laura Fine (D), Mattie Hunter (D), Mike Simmons (D), Meg Loughran Cappel (D), Mark Walker (D), Don DeWitte (R), Sally Turner (R), Mary Edly-Allen (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 69
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Mary Edly-Allen
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0315 • Last Action 05/30/2026
BUSINESS-TECH
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Artificial Intelligence Safety Measures Act," establishes new regulations for companies developing advanced AI, referred to as "frontier developers," particularly those with substantial revenue (large frontier developers). It mandates that these companies create and publish a "frontier AI framework" outlining how they assess and mitigate "catastrophic risks," which are defined as risks that could lead to mass casualties or significant property damage. This framework must address cybersecurity, internal governance, and third-party evaluations. Before deploying new or significantly updated AI models, developers must issue transparency reports and summaries of their risk assessments. The bill also requires annual independent audits of compliance with these safety measures, with results to be published and shared with the state. Large frontier developers must report critical safety incidents within 72 hours and submit periodic summaries of their internal use risk assessments to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (the "Agency"). The bill allows for interoperability with certain federal regulations and requires large frontier developers to file disclosure statements and pay fees. It also includes protections for employees who report violations in good faith, preventing retaliation, and establishes civil penalties for non-compliance, though it explicitly states that individuals cannot sue directly under this Act. Finally, certain information related to this Act will be exempt from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, and the bill takes effect on January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Artificial Intelligence Safety Measures Act. Defines terms. Requires large frontier developers to create, implement, publish, and annually update a frontier AI framework addressing catastrophic-risk assessment, mitigations, cybersecurity, internal governance, third-party evaluations, and risks from internal use of frontier models. Requires transparency reports before deploying new or substantially modified frontier models and requires summaries of catastrophic-risk assessments. Mandates annual independent third-party audits and establishes access, reporting, retention, and publication requirements for audit results. Requires frontier developers to report critical safety incidents and requires large frontier developers to submit periodic summaries of internal-use risk assessments. Directs the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Attorney General, to administer reporting mechanisms, issue guidance, and prepare annual reports. Establishes interoperability with certain regulatory regimes. Requires large frontier developers to file disclosure statements and pay fees. Provides whistleblower protections and internal reporting processes for covered employees. Establishes civil penalties for violations and clarifies that no private right of action is created. Amends the Freedom of Information Act to exempt specified information related to the Act from disclosure. Amends the Whistleblower Act to prohibit retaliation for good-faith disclosures of violations of the Artificial Intelligence Safety Measures Act. Contains home rule limitations and severability provisions. Effective January 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 01/24/2025
• Added: 05/22/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 91 : Mary Edly-Allen (D)*, Dan Didech (D)*, Sue Rezin (R), Rachel Ventura (D), Darby Hills (R), Karina Villa (D), Bill Cunningham (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Ram Villivalam (D), Mike Simmons (D), Steve Stadelman (D), Mike Porfirio (D), Laura Fine (D), Lakesia Collins (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Meg Loughran Cappel (D), Mattie Hunter (D), Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D), Mark Walker (D), Dave Koehler (D), Elgie Sims (D), Chris Balkema (R), Graciela Guzmán (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D), Celina Villanueva (D), Laura Ellman (D), Paul Faraci (D), Don DeWitte (R), Li Arellano (R), Sally Turner (R), John Curran (R), Erica Harriss (R), Cristina Castro (D), Chris Welch (D), Tony McCombie (R), Norine Hammond (R), Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D), Dave Vella (D), La Shawn Ford (D), Carol Ammons (D), Robyn Gabel (D), Jeff Keicher (R), Maurice West (D), Bob Morgan (D), Edgar González (D), Abdelnasser Rashid (D), Mary Beth Canty (D), Nabeela Syed (D), Justin Cochran (D), Kimberly du Buclet (D), Joyce Mason (D), Mary Gill (D), Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar (D), Hoan Huynh (D), Rita Mayfield (D), Yolonda Morris (D), Laura Faver Dias (D), Norma Hernandez (D), Anne Stava-Murray (D), Ann Williams (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Omar Williams (D), Tracy Katz Muhl (D), Jay Hoffman (D), Theresa Mah (D), Natalie Manley (D), Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Lisa Davis (D), Margaret DeLaRosa (D), Marcus Evans (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Katie Stuart (D), Michelle Mussman (D), Janet Yang Rohr (D), Matt Hanson (D), Kevin Olickal (D), Sharon Chung (D), Maura Hirschauer (D), Suzanne Ness (D), Debbie Meyers-Martin (D), Margaret Croke (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Barbara Hernandez (D), Dee Avelar (D), Anna Moeller (D), Martha Deuter (D), Rick Ryan (D), Gregg Johnson (D), Camille Lilly (D), Michael Crawford (D), Jehan Gordon-Booth (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 158
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Cristina Castro
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3494 • Last Action 05/30/2026
HEALTH DATA PRIVACY ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive protections for individual health data privacy in Illinois, requiring regulated entities to be transparent about their data collection, use, and sharing practices. The bill mandates that companies must obtain explicit, informed consent from individuals before collecting, processing, or selling their health data, and provides individuals with rights to confirm what data is being collected, request deletion of their data, and withdraw consent at any time. Companies are prohibited from using discriminatory practices against individuals who choose not to provide consent, and they must create clear, plain-language privacy policies that detail exactly how health data will be used. The bill also restricts geofencing around health service providers, limits government access to health data, and provides individuals with a private right of action to sue for violations, with potential damages ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per violation, depending on whether the breach was negligent or intentional. The Attorney General is empowered to enforce the law, and the bill includes numerous exceptions and protections to ensure it does not conflict with existing healthcare privacy laws like HIPAA.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Protect Health Data Privacy Act. Provides that a regulated entity shall disclose and maintain a health data privacy policy that clearly and conspicuously discloses specified information. Sets forth provisions concerning health data privacy policies. Provides that a regulated entity shall not collect, share, or store health data, except in specified circumstances. Provides that it is unlawful for any person to sell or offer to sell health data concerning an individual without first obtaining valid authorization from the individual. Provides that a valid authorization to sell individual health data must contain specified information; a copy of the signed valid authorization must be provided to the individual; and the seller and purchaser of health data must retain a copy of all valid authorizations for sale of health data for 6 years after the date of its signature or the date when it was last in effect, whichever is later. Sets forth provisions concerning the consent required for collection, sharing, and storage of health data. Provides that an individual has the right to withdraw consent from the processing of the individual's health data. Provides that it is unlawful for a regulated entity to engage in discriminatory practices against individuals solely because they have not provided consent to the processing of their health data or have exercised any other rights provided by the provisions or guaranteed by law. Sets forth provisions concerning an individual's right to confirm whether a regulated entity is collecting, selling, sharing, or storing any of the individual's health data; an individual's right to have the individual's health data that is collected by a regulated entity deleted; prohibitions regarding geofencing; and individual health data security. Provides that any person aggrieved by a violation of the provisions shall have a right of action in a State circuit court or as a supplemental claim in federal district court against an offending party. Provides that the Attorney General may enforce a violation of the provisions as an unlawful practice under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Defines terms. Makes a conforming change in the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 36 : Mary Beth Canty (D)*, Ann Williams (D), Anne Stava-Murray (D), Kelly Cassidy (D), Barbara Hernandez (D), Camille Lilly (D), Kam Buckner (D), Tracy Katz Muhl (D), Maura Hirschauer (D), Will Guzzardi (D), Theresa Mah (D), Janet Yang Rohr (D), Margaret Croke (D), Nabeela Syed (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Dee Avelar (D), Kevin Olickal (D), Anna Moeller (D), Laura Faver Dias (D), Katie Stuart (D), Marcus Evans (D), Rita Mayfield (D), Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D), Robyn Gabel (D), Aarón Ortíz (D), Lisa Davis (D), Michael Crawford (D), Justin Cochran (D), Justin Slaughter (D), Norma Hernandez (D), Jay Hoffman (D), Lisa Hernandez (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Dan Didech (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 54
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Daniel Didech
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0211 • Last Action 05/29/2026
An act relating to data brokers and personal information
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, relating to data brokers and personal information in Vermont, introduces several new provisions to protect residents' data. It requires data brokers, which are businesses that collect and sell or license personal information of consumers they don't have a direct relationship with, to notify consumers of security breaches involving their data. Additionally, data brokers must certify that any personal information they disclose will be used for a legitimate purpose and implement an accessible mechanism for consumers to request the deletion of their personal information. The bill also updates definitions related to personal information, clarifies what constitutes a "direct relationship" for data brokers, and modifies registration requirements and fees for data brokers, including a new bond requirement. It also makes changes to the Cybersecurity Advisory Council's membership and extends the repeal date for a cybersecurity chapter. Finally, it establishes new requirements for educational technology products used in Vermont schools, mandating registration and reporting of student data practices.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to add various provisions to Vermont’s laws that protect the personal information of its residents, including requiring data brokers to provide notice of security breaches, to certify that the personal information it discloses will be used for a legitimate purpose, and to delete the personal information of consumers who make such a request through the use of an accessible deletion mechanism.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 53 : Monique Priestley (D)*, Michael Marcotte (R), Angela Arsenault (D), Sarita Austin (D), Daisy Berbeco (D), Michelle Bos-Lun (D), David Bosch (R), Michael Boutin (R), Lucy Boyden (D), Jana Brown (D), Mollie Burke (D), Elizabeth Burrows (D), Scott Campbell (D), Emily Carris-Duncan (D), Conor Casey (D), Ela Chapin (D), Brian Cina (D), Esme Cole (D), Mari Cordes (D), Anne Donahue (I), Abbey Duke (D), Zon Eastes (D), Leslie Goldman (D), Edye Graning (D), William Greer (D), Leanne Harple (D), Troy Headrick (D), Rebecca Holcombe (D), Emilie Krasnow (D), Kate Lalley (D), Jed Lipsky (I), Jim Masland (D), Kate McCann (D), Jubilee McGill (D), Anthony Micklus (R), Marc Mihaly (D), Brian Minier (D), Mike Mrowicki (D), Kate Nugent (D), John O'Brien (D), Carol Ode (D), Herb Olson (D), Gayle Pezzo (D), Phil Pouech (D), Barbara Rachelson (D), Larry Satcowitz (D), Laura Sibilia (I), Tom Stevens (D), Heather Surprenant (D), Chloe Tomlinson (D), Dara Torre (D), Edward Waszazak (D), Kirk White (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 84
• Last Amended: 06/08/2026
• Last Action: House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development Hearing (14:20:00 5/29/2026 Room 35)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01418 • Last Action 05/29/2026
Provides for the award of reasonable attorneys' fees in FOIL proceedings if the person is successful and in open meeting proceedings to the successful petitioner and against the public body.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends two sections of New York's Public Officers Law to modify how attorneys' fees are awarded in Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) and open meeting proceedings. Under the new provisions, courts will be required (rather than having discretion) to award reasonable attorneys' fees to a successful petitioner in FOIL cases when an agency either fails to respond to a request within the statutory time or has no reasonable basis for denying access to records. The bill defines "reasonable basis" for denying access as either reasonably relying on a published appellate court opinion with substantially similar facts or a published opinion from the Committee on Open Government. Similarly, in open meeting proceedings, courts must now award costs and reasonable attorneys' fees to the successful petitioner against the public body, removing previous language that allowed judicial discretion in such awards. These changes aim to incentivize government transparency and provide clearer pathways for individuals seeking access to public records or challenging potential violations of open meeting laws by making it easier to recover legal expenses when they prevail in court.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the award of reasonable attorneys' fees in certain proceedings
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 01/10/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 10 : John Liu (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Cordell Cleare (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), Kristen Gonzalez (D), Andrew Gounardes (D), Robert Jackson (D), Liz Krueger (D), James Skoufis (D), Lea Webb (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1224 • Last Action 05/29/2026
Pardons and paroles; authorizing electronic notification to victims and victim representatives. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates Oklahoma law regarding pardons and paroles to allow the Pardon and Parole Board to notify victims or their representatives electronically, such as via email, in addition to traditional mail, about pardon and parole proceedings, provided the victim has supplied an email address. This change aims to improve communication and ensure victims are informed about decisions concerning inmates, with the understanding that failure to notify a victim who has requested it and provided contact information could make the Board's final decision voidable if the victim seeks reconsideration within a specific timeframe. The bill also makes minor adjustments to existing language concerning the notification process for commutations and other pardon and parole procedures, and it specifies an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1224 By: Jech of the Senate and Duel of the House An Act relating to pardons and paroles; amending 57 O.S. 2021, Section 332.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 198, O.S.L. 2022 (57 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 332.2), which relates to pardon and parole procedures; authorizing electronic notification to victims and victim representatives; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Pardon and parole procedures
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• Introduced: 12/09/2025
• Added: 12/10/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Darcy Jech (R)*, Collin Duel (R)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 05/14/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/20/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2553 • Last Action 05/29/2026
In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in duties of manufacturers and retailers, further providing for sales prohibition, for registration and for manufacturer plan and reporting; and, in administration, further providing for duties of department, for annual report and for enforcement.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Covered Device Recycling Act to expand the types of electronic devices covered, including smartphones, tablets, and networking equipment like routers and modems, and clarifies definitions for terms such as "consumer" to include political subdivision business use and "small business" to include those with up to 100 employees. It introduces a "sales prohibition list" maintained by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), which will prevent the sale of covered devices from manufacturers who haven't met registration requirements or resolved violations, and outlines a process for manufacturers to be removed from this list. The bill also revises manufacturer registration fees, making them tiered based on the weight of devices sold, and updates the calculation of a manufacturer's "market share" and "market share obligation" to ensure they are responsible for recycling a proportional amount of electronic waste. Furthermore, it requires the DEP to ensure recycling infrastructure is accessible to 100% of the population, establishes an annual collection weight goal, and clarifies that the DEP, not the Attorney General, will be responsible for initiating enforcement actions and seeking injunctive relief for violations.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of November 23, 2010 (P.L.1083, No.108), entitled "An act establishing a recycling program for certain covered devices; imposing duties on manufacturers and retailers of certain covered devices; providing for the powers and duties of the Department of Environmental Protection and for enforcement; establishing the Electronic Materials Recycling Account in the General Fund; and prescribing penalties," in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in duties of manufacturers and retailers, further providing for sales prohibition, for registration and for manufacturer plan and reporting; and, in administration, further providing for duties of department, for annual report and for enforcement.
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• Introduced: 05/28/2026
• Added: 05/30/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 24 : Lisa Borowski (D)*, Christina Sappey (D), Ben Waxman (D), Kristine Howard (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Joe Ciresi (D), Kyle Donahue (D), John Inglis (D), Emily Kinkead (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Maureen Madden (D), Gina Curry (D), Greg Vitali (D), Liz Hanbidge (D), Bob Freeman (D), James Prokopiak (D), Tarah Probst (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Jeanne McNeill (D), Mandy Steele (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Environmental & Natural Resource Protection
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB339 • Last Action 05/29/2026
Provides relative to access to personal information of protected individuals (EN SEE FISC NOTE LF EX)
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections for personal information by adding current law enforcement officers and current or retired administrative law judges to the definition of "protected individuals" who can request their information not be published. The bill also clarifies that "publish" means to publicly post or display personal information online without a legitimate interest or with the intent to intimidate or harass. It removes the ability for third parties to be sued for damages related to violations of these protections, focusing enforcement actions against public bodies.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 44:11.2(C), (E)(1)(introductory paragraph), (H)(introductory paragraph) and (3), to enact R.S. 44:11.2(A)(10) and (11), and to repeal R.S. 44:11.2(G) and (I), relative to the personal information of protected individuals; to provide for the protection of the personal information of law enforcement officers and administrative law judges; to provide relative to publishing of certain information; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/24/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Tehmi Chassion (D)*, Delisha Boyd (D), Marcus Bryant (D), Robby Carter (D), Kyle Green (D), Alonzo Knox (D), Terry Landry (D), Ed Larvadain (D), Rodney Lyons (D), Shaun Mena (D), Candace Newell (D), Sylvia Taylor (D), Polly Thomas (R), Joy Walters (D), John Wyble (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 06/05/2026
• Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00974 • Last Action 05/29/2026
Enacts the New York privacy act to require companies to disclose their methods of de-identifying personal information, to place special safeguards around data sharing and to allow consumers to obtain the names of all entities with whom their information is shared.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the New York Data Protection Act, aims to enhance consumer privacy by granting New York residents greater control over their personal data and imposing new responsibilities on businesses that collect and process this information. Key provisions include requiring companies to clearly disclose how they use, process, and share personal data, and giving consumers the right to access, correct, and delete their data, as well as transfer it to other services. The bill also mandates that businesses implement robust data security measures, obtain explicit consent for certain data uses, and conduct regular assessments to ensure data is not being misused. Furthermore, it empowers the New York State Attorney General to enforce these provisions and impose penalties for violations, with specific rules around sensitive data, de-identified data (data that cannot reasonably be linked back to an individual), and the sale of personal information. The act will take effect immediately, but most of its provisions will be implemented two years after becoming law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to the management and oversight of personal data
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Nily Rozic (D)*, Andrew Hevesi (D), Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn (D), Anil Beephan Jr. (R), Carrie Woerner (D), Grace Lee (D), Emerita Torres (D), Tony Simone (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: print number 974a
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0071 • Last Action 05/29/2026
An act relating to consumer data privacy and online surveillance
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Vermont Data Privacy and Online Surveillance Act, establishes comprehensive data privacy rights for Vermont residents, defining terms like "personal data" (information linked to an identifiable individual or device) and "sensitive data" (which includes health information, genetic data, and precise location data). It grants consumers rights to access, correct, delete, and opt-out of the sale of their personal data, as well as targeted advertising and profiling that produces significant legal effects. The bill outlines duties for "controllers" (entities that determine the purpose and means of processing personal data) and "processors" (entities that process data on behalf of controllers), requiring them to implement reasonable data security practices, limit data collection, and provide clear privacy notices. Notably, the Act exempts certain entities and data types, such as information handled by government entities, healthcare providers under HIPAA, and financial institutions. Enforcement will be handled by the Attorney General, with a specific provision for a cure period for violations between January 1, 2028, and June 30, 2029, and it explicitly prohibits a private right of action for consumers, emphasizing the Attorney General's role in enforcement and the need for future legislative appropriations to support this. The Act also includes specific protections for "consumer health data," preventing its sale without consent and restricting the use of geofencing technology near healthcare facilities.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to provide data privacy and online surveillance protections to Vermonters.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Alison Clarkson (D)*, Wendy Harrison (D), Nader Hashim (D), Joseph Major (D), Tanya Vyhovsky (D), Becca White (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 144
• Last Amended: 06/05/2026
• Last Action: Delivered to Governor on June 10, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1877 • Last Action 05/29/2026
State government; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; directing the Office of the Secretary of State to create and maintain certain centralized filing system. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that numerous state agencies and entities submit their reports electronically to a new centralized filing system maintained by the Office of the Secretary of State. This system aims to streamline the submission and accessibility of various state government reports, including those related to agriculture, aerospace, amusement and sports, banking, children and juvenile codes, municipal firefighter and police pension systems, consumer credit, the Corporation Commission, district attorneys, courts, crimes and punishments, criminal procedure, environment and natural resources, game and fish, insurance, labor, mental health, motor vehicles, oil and gas, historical societies, poor persons, prisons and reformatories, professions and occupations, property, public buildings and works, public finance, public health and safety, investment of permanent school funds, railroads, delivery of records, revenue and taxation, roads, bridges, and ferries, schools, securities, the state capital, state government, statutes and reports, medical malpractice, water and water rights, volunteer fire departments, workers’ compensation, and various other programs. The bill also repeals several obsolete reports and task forces, and updates statutory references to reflect this new centralized filing system. The effective date of this act is January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1877 By: Hall of the Senate and Caldwell (Trey) of the House An Act relating to state government; amending 2 O.S. 2021, Sections 5-10, 5-85, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 174, O.S.L. 2025, 5-507, 3, Chapter 391, O.S.L. 2022, 6, Chapter 297, O.S.L. 2023, 14, Chapter 297, O.S.L. 2023, and 19, Chapter 297, O.S.L. 2023 (2 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 5-85, 11-13, 4006, 4014, and 4019), which relate to agriculture; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete report; amending Section 1, Chapter 126, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 415), which relates to the Long-Term Aerospace and Aeronautics Infrastructure Sustainability Revolving Fund; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 3A O.S. 2021, Sections 204, 619, 733, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 332, O.S.L. 2023, and 734 (3A O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 733), which relate to amusement and sports; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 6 O.S. 2021, Section 212, which relates to the Banking Department; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 10 O.S. 2021, Sections 22.1, 405.1, 601.5, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 347, O.S.L. 2024, 601.6, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 178, O.S.L. 2025, 601.6a, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 347, O.S.L. 2024, 601.6b, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 347, O.S.L. 2024, 601.6c, 601.81, 2, Chapter 35, 1st Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2023, 1150.2, as last amended by Section 10, Chapter 347, O.S.L. 2024, and 1411.1 (10 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 601.5, 601.6, 601.6a, 601.6b, 802, and 1150.2), which relate to children; removing certain obsolete report; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 10A O.S. 2021, Sections 1-2-111, 1-6-105, 1-8-111, 1-9-105, 1-9-120, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 28, O.S.L. 2023, 2- 7-311, 2-7-606, 2-7-705, 2-7-905, and 2-10-103 (10A O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1-9-120), which relate to the children and juvenile codes; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete report; amending 11 O.S. 2021, Sections 49-100.8, 49-100.9, 50-105.3, and 50-105.4, which relate to municipal firefighter and police pension and retirement systems; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 14A O.S. 2021, Sections 6-104 and 6-504, which relate to the Department of Consumer Credit; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 17 O.S. 2021, Sections 40.1, 253, 325, 1, Chapter 403, O.S.L. 2022, and 802.3, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 31, O.S.L. 2024 (17 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 801.9 and 802.3), which relate to the Corporation Commission; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 215.28, which relates to the creation of the District Attorneys Council; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 20 O.S. 2021, Sections 3.3, 1103.1, 1108, 1225, and 1656, which relate to courts; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 21 O.S. 2021, Sections 142.15 and 1290.16, which relate to crimes and punishments; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 22 O.S. 2021, Sections 34.5, 116, 988.15, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 14, O.S.L. 2023, 991a, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 306, O.S.L. 2025, 991f-1.1, 1355.4, 1601, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 51, O.S.L. 2024, and 2002, as amended by Section 2, ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 Chapter 327, O.S.L. 2025 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 988.15, 991a, 1601, and 2002), which relate to criminal procedure; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 27A O.S. 2021, Sections 1-1-202, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 164, O.S.L. 2023, 1-2-101, 2-3-101, 2-3-109, 2-6-501.4, 2-7-307, 2-10- 802, 2-11-401.6, as amended by Section 22, Chapter 282, O.S.L. 2022, 2-11-607, 3-2-106, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 326, O.S.L. 2025, 3-2-107, and 3- 2-108 (27A O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 1-1-202, 2-11- 401.6, and 3-2-106), which relate to environment and natural resources; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete report; amending 29 O.S. 2021, Sections 3-103, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 6, O.S.L. 2024, and 3-306 (29 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 3-103), which relate to game and fish; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 36 O.S. 2021, Sections 312.1 and 924.2, which relate to insurance; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 40 O.S. 2021, Sections 6-204, as amended by Section 6, Chapter 346, O.S.L. 2023, and 5, Chapter 361, O.S.L. 2023, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 408, O.S.L. 2025 (40 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 6-204 and 904), which relate to labor; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 43 O.S. 2021, Section 107.2, which relates to actions where a minor child is involved; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 43A O.S. 2021, Sections 2-205, 4, Chapter 201, O.S.L. 2023, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 230, O.S.L. 2025, 1, Chapter 202, O.S.L. 2024, 10-112, and 12-105, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 317, O.S.L. 2025 (43A O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 2-312.4, 3-335, and 12- 105), which relate to mental health; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 47 O.S. 2021, Sections 2-107, 2-146, as amended by Section 1, ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 Chapter 370, O.S.L. 2022, 2-303.1, 3, Chapter 282, O.S.L. 2022, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 47, 1st Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2023, 1, Chapter 265, O.S.L. 2024, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 104, O.S.L. 2025, 7-606.1, 7-606.2, 156.1, as last amended by Section 55, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024, 1104.1, as last amended by Section 8, Chapter 171, O.S.L. 2025, and 1140.3 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 2-146, 3- 103, 6-212.7, 156.1, and 1104.1), which relate to motor vehicles; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 52 O.S. 2021, Section 87.2, which relates to application protests; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 53 O.S. 2021, Sections 1.9 and 166, which relate to Oklahoma Historical Society and associations; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 56 O.S. 2021, Sections 71, 162, 198.11b, 198.16, 229, 230.50, 230.65, 239, 241.4, 1008, 1011.5, 1017.4, 3002, and 17, Chapter 395, O.S.L. 2022, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 386, O.S.L. 2025 (56 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 4002.12b), which relate to poor persons; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete task force; removing certain obsolete reports; amending 57 O.S. 2021, Sections 95, 115, 521, 530.3, and 541, which relate to prisons and reformatories; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Sections 858-705.1, 1000.4, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 321, O.S.L. 2025, 1000.25, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 225, O.S.L. 2025, 3024, and 4000.1, as last amended by Section 9, Chapter 227, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 1000.4, 1000.25, and 4000.1), which relate to professions and occupations; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete report; amending 60 O.S. 2021, Sections 177.2, 178, and 1, Chapter 220, O.S.L. 2024 (60 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1403), which ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 relate to property; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 61 O.S. 2021, Sections 65, as amended by Section 11, Chapter 238, O.S.L. 2022, 130, as amended by Section 27, Chapter 238, O.S.L. 2022, and 328 (61 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 65 and 130), which relate to public buildings and public works; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 62 O.S. 2021, Sections 34.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 86, O.S.L. 2025, 34.6, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 14, 2nd Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2022, 34.11.1, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 193, O.S.L. 2024, 34.32, as amended by Section 25, Chapter 228, O.S.L. 2022, 34.36, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 199, O.S.L. 2025, 34.37, 34.42, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 199, O.S.L. 2025, 34.52, 34.88, 34.94, 34.95, 34.200-1, 34.301, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 319, O.S.L. 2025, 35.9, 36, 45.3, 45.11, 48.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 313, O.S.L. 2019, 49, 71.1, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 308, O.S.L. 2025, 88.4, 89.2, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 308, O.S.L. 2025, 89.7, 91.5, 166d, 1, Chapter 14, 2nd Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2022, 690.19, 695.7, 847, 901, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 439, O.S.L. 2025, 901.1, 2309, 7004, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 125, O.S.L. 2023, 7005, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 125, O.S.L. 2023, and 9010.4 (62 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 34.2, 34.6, 34.11.1, 34.32, 34.36, 34.42, 34.301, 71.1, 89.2, 255.1, 901, 7004, and 7005), which relate to public finance; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete report; updating statutory reference; amending 63 O.S. 2021, Sections 1-110.1, 2, Chapter 439, O.S.L. 2024, 1-227.2, 1-227.3, 1- 229.8, 1-237, 1-238, 1-270.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 111, O.S.L. 2024, 1-534.1, 1-550.3, 1-552, 1-556, 1-740.11, 1-753, 1-756.8, 1-2530.9, 1-2712, 1- 2721, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 184, O.S.L. 2024, 1-2731, 2-805, 2-904, 2-1001, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 198, O.S.L. 2025, 10, ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 Chapter 322, O.S.L. 2023, 1, Chapter 321, O.S.L. 2024, 683.4, 2565, 3208, 3220, 3224, 3229, 3240.6, 3240.7, 3250.6, 3250.7, 3276, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 334, O.S.L. 2023, 1, Chapter 112, O.S.L. 2023, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 295, O.S.L. 2024, 3285, 3290, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 334, O.S.L. 2023, 5007, 5010, 5013, 1, Chapter 162, O.S.L. 2022, 5061.2, and 7301, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 328, O.S.L. 2023 (63 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 1-114.22, 1-270.2, 1-2721, 2-1001, 427.17a, 427.29, 3276, 3278.1, 3290, 5026.1, and 7301), which relate to public health and safety; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete reports; amending 64 O.S. 2021, Section 1013, as amended by Section 40, Chapter 228, O.S.L. 2022 (64 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1013), which relates to investment of permanent school funds and other educational funds and property; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 65 O.S. 2021, Section 3-114, which relates to deposit of publications with publishing clearinghouse; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 66 O.S. 2021, Sections 190 and 304, as amended by Section 556, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025 (66 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 304), which relate to railroads; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 67 O.S. 2021, Section 315, which relates to the delivery of records for disposition; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 68 O.S. 2021, Sections 102.3, 120, 205, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 204, O.S.L. 2025, 270, 291, 400.1, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 285, O.S.L. 2023, 1357.21, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 353, O.S.L. 2025, 2357.1A-2, 2357.7A, 2357.22, as last amended by Section 153, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024, 2357.32A, 2357.65, 2357.76, 2370.1, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 223, O.S.L. 2024, 3507, 3610, 3633, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 341, O.S.L. ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 2025, 4, Chapter 66, O.S.L. 2022, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 1, O.S.L. 2023, 3808, 3910, 3920, 4206, 4210, 4310, 4510, and 50016 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 205, 400.1, 1357.21, 2357.22, 2370.1, 3633, and 3645.4), which relate to revenue and taxation; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 69 O.S. 2021, Sections 322, 1705.6, 1728, and 1912, which relate to roads, bridges, and ferries; removing certain obsolete reports; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Sections 3-104, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 445, O.S.L. 2025, 3-104.10, 3-117.3, 3-118, 3-127, 3-129.10, 5-141, 5- 146, 6-186, 6-211, 11-103.6, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 384, O.S.L. 2024, 11-103.6a, 1, Chapter 280, O.S.L. 2022, as last amended by Section 45, Chapter 59, O.S.L. 2024, 1, Chapter 336, O.S.L. 2022, 17-106.1, 17-116.7, 18-162, 24-158, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 281, O.S.L. 2022, 625.14, as amended by Section 15, Chapter 407, O.S.L. 2022, 695.20, 697.2, as amended by Section 17, Chapter 407, O.S.L. 2022, 697.25, 698.1, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 249, O.S.L. 2023, 1, Chapter 155, O.S.L. 2023, 1210.228, 1210.258, 1210.307, 1210.405, 1210.407, 1210.508C, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 297, O.S.L. 2025, 2, Chapter 288, O.S.L. 2023, as amended by Section 9, Chapter 411, O.S.L. 2024, 1210.509, 1210.516, 1210.544, 1210.591, 2120, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2022, 2607, 2632, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 129, O.S.L. 2025, 3206, 3206.6a, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 84, O.S.L. 2025, 3218.2, 3219.1, 3224, 3903, 3909, as amended by Section 575, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025, 3954, 3970.11, 3980.4, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 186, O.S.L. 2023, and 4705 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 3-104, 11-103.6, 11-202, 14-201, 24- 158, 625.14, 697.2, 698.1, 1210.210, 1210.508C, 1210.508H, 2120, 2632, 3206.6a, 3909, and 3980.4), which relate to schools; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete report; amending 71 ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 O.S. 2021, Section 1-601, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 225, O.S.L. 2023 (71 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1-601), which relates to the Oklahoma Securities Commission; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 73 O.S. 2021, Sections 179, 2, Chapter 1, 1st Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2023, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 393, O.S.L. 2024, 3, Chapter 441, O.S.L. 2024, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 439, O.S.L. 2025, and 2, Chapter 441, O.S.L. 2024, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 439, O.S.L. 2025 (73 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 187B, 188A, and 188B), which relate to the state capital and State Capitol Building; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Sections 18b, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 335, O.S.L. 2025, 20i, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 212, O.S.L. 2024, 51.1a, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 257, O.S.L. 2024, 51.2b, as last amended by Section 5, Chapter 257, O.S.L. 2024, 61.8, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 194, O.S.L. 2025, 63.3, 63.5, 78, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 351, O.S.L. 2023, 78d, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 351, O.S.L. 2023, 85.5, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 102, O.S.L. 2024, 85.7, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 339, O.S.L. 2023, 85.43, 85.44D.1, 85.45f, 85.45j.11, 150.5, 150.38, 212, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 93, O.S.L. 2022, 213.2, 214, 324.2, 325.1, 450, 452.8, 452.10, 452.13, 452.14, 464, 471, 484, 500.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 63, O.S.L. 2022, 500.18, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 325, O.S.L. 2022, 3, Chapter 414, O.S.L. 2024, 589, 669, 2, Chapter 201, O.S.L. 2024, 840-1.6A, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 243, O.S.L. 2022, 840-2.17, as amended by Section 13, Chapter 243, O.S.L. 2022, 840- 2.27C, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 341, O.S.L. 2024, 909.1, 942, 1207, 1332.1, as amended by Section 8, Chapter 245, O.S.L. 2024, 2109, 2205, 2220, 2236, 2276.2, 2901.4, 2, Chapter 22, 1st Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2023, 4, Chapter 22, 1st Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2023, 3117, 3122, ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 3601.2, 3602, 3917, 5003.7, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 133, O.S.L. 2025, 5003.9, 5003.10, as amended by Section 6, Chapter 377, O.S.L. 2024, 5003.10a, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 377, O.S.L. 2024, 5010.3, 5040.4, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 375, O.S.L. 2024, 5060.22, 5062.19, 5066.7, 5079, 5156, 5402, 6112, 8303, 9053, 9076, 5, Chapter 229, O.S.L. 2022, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 336, O.S.L. 2023, 6, Chapter 229, O.S.L. 2022, 3, Chapter 231, O.S.L. 2022, and 4, Chapter 231, O.S.L. 2022 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 18b, 20i, 51.1a, 51.2b, 61.8, 78, 78d, 85.5, 85.7, 212, 500.2, 500.18, 583.1, 692, 840-1.6A, 840-2.17, 840-2.27C, 1332.1, 2903.1, 2903.3, 5003.7, 5003.10, 5003.10a, 5040.4, 9204, 9205, 12003, and 12004), which relate to state government; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; removing certain obsolete reports; removing certain requirement to follow certain procedure; amending 75 O.S. 2021, Sections 250.6, 252, 253, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 258, O.S.L. 2025, 303.1, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 38, O.S.L. 2023, and 308, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 420, O.S.L. 2025 (75 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 253, 303.1, and 308), which relate to statutes and reports; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; updating statutory language; directing the Office of the Secretary of State to create and maintain certain centralized filing system; requiring the Secretary of State to provide certain notification in certain circumstance; requiring the Secretary of State to submit certain report; amending 76 O.S. 2021, Section 17, which relates to medical malpractice; directing submission of certain report to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 82 O.S. 2021, Sections 863.3, 1085.14, 1085.62, 1085.82, 1, Chapter 268, O.S.L. 2023, and 1623 (82 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1086.7), which relate to water and water rights; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 85 O.S. 2021, Section 380, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 256, ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 O.S.L. 2024, and as renumbered by Section 3, Chapter 256, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 85.70), which relates to volunteer fire departments; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; amending 85A O.S. 2021, Sections 17, as amended by Section 10, Chapter 199, O.S.L. 2025, 50, 60, 101, 121, and 400, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 279, O.S.L. 2024 (85A O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 17 and 400), which relate to workers’ compensation; directing submission of certain reports to utilize certain centralized filing system; updating statutory language; making language gender neutral; repealing Section 6, Chapter 222, O.S.L. 2024 (2 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 5-606), which relates to reports; repealing 2 O.S. 2021, Sections 18-34 and 18-192, which relate to reports; repealing 10 O.S. 2021, Section 630.2, which relates to coordinated database system; repealing Section 1, Chapter 288, O.S.L. 2024 (17 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 294), which relates to Southwest Power Pool report; repealing 19 O.S. 2021, Section 547.2, which relates to the Sheriffs’ Personnel Task Force; repealing 20 O.S. 2021, Sections 127 and 1103H, which relate to reports; repealing Section 1, Chapter 333, O.S.L. 2023, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 329, O.S.L. 2025 (21 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2200), which relates to the Oklahoma Organized Retail Crime Task Force; repealing 36 O.S. 2021, Sections 6057.5, 6060.9c, 6060.13, and Section 5, Chapter 151, O.S.L. 2022 (36 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6060.44), which relate to reports; repealing 40 O.S. 2021, Section 800.1, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 401, O.S.L. 2022 (40 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 800.1), which relates to the Occupational Licensing Advisory Commission; repealing Section 1, Chapter 232, O.S.L. 2023 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 173.1), which relates to the State Task Force on Motor Carrier Regulation and Enforcement; repealing 56 O.S. 2021, Sections 162.1b, 245, 245.1, and 3121, which relate to reports; repealing 57 O.S. 2021, Section 521.1, which relates to the Reentry Policy Council; repealing 62 O.S. 2021, Section 46.5, which relates ENR. S. B. NO. 1877 to the State Revenue Apportionment Evaluation Commission; repealing 63 O.S. 2021, Sections 2-112, 2175.1, 5009.6, and 5030.4A, which relate to reports; repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Sections 3-116.5, 3-123.1, 628.19, and 7001, which relate to reports; repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Sections 20l, 30c, 30.2, 2900.3, and 9100, which relate to reports; repealing 82 O.S. 2021, Section 1088.14, which relates to the Water for 2060 Advisory Council; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Centralized report system
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Chuck Hall (R)*, Trey Caldwell (R)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/22/2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0727 • Last Action 05/29/2026
An act relating to sustainable data center deployment
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a regulatory framework for data centers in Vermont, aiming to ensure electric service reliability and affordability for all residents while protecting the environment, natural resources, local communities, economy, and public health and welfare. Key provisions include requiring data centers that use or can use 20 megawatts or more of power to enter into a "large load service equity contract" with an electric company, which must be approved by the Public Utility Commission (Commission) and ensure that other ratepayers are not burdened by the costs associated with data center development. These contracts must cover at least 10 years and include provisions for cost allocation, demand charges, collateral, demand-side management, and load curtailment during emergencies. The bill also mandates that data centers implement energy efficiency measures, maximize on-site renewable energy generation, and use combustion-based backup generation only during power failures. Furthermore, data centers will be required to make an annual payment to finance energy transformation projects and participate in a virtual power plant to optimize energy use. The bill also addresses water usage for cooling, requiring data centers to use closed-loop systems or approved alternatives and obtain necessary water withdrawal and quality permits, with specific monitoring requirements for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Data centers will also need to submit quarterly reports on their energy and water usage, and the state will conduct periodic reviews of contracts and issue reports on the impacts of data centers. Finally, the bill calls for recommendations on data center decommissioning and includes provisions for reporting on regional renewable energy market conditions.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to regulate the deployment of data centers in Vermont for the purpose of ensuring electric service reliability and affordability for all Vermonters and preventing any adverse effects on the State’s environment, natural resources, local communities, economy, and public health and welfare.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 05/23/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Laura Sibilia (I)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 142
• Last Amended: 05/22/2026
• Last Action: Veto of the Governor sustained by a vote of Yeas = 83, Nays = 52
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0293 • Last Action 05/29/2026
An act relating to miscellaneous amendments to the Department of Health’s reporting and programming requirements
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to reporting and disclosure requirements for the Department of Health, including extending the reporting frequency for health equity data analysis from annually to every three years, and modifying the conditions under which confidential information from the cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) registries can be shared with researchers, requiring written assurances of confidentiality and approval from an institutional review board or privacy board, rather than an academic committee. Additionally, the bill repeals certain reporting requirements related to the Community Violence Prevention Program, emergency service provider wellness, and food service licensing for service members and veterans, while establishing a new requirement for a report on recovery service organizations' finances and performance by February 15, 2027.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to reduce from annually to every three years the submission of a report by the Department of Health analyzing health equity data. It further proposes to amend the disclosure provisions pertaining to the cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis registries.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Eric Maguire (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 40
• Last Amended: 05/26/2026
• Last Action: House message: Governor approved bill on June 8, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0639 • Last Action 05/29/2026
An act relating to genetic data privacy
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Genetic Information Privacy Act," establishes new protections for the genetic data of Vermont residents collected by direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies. It mandates that these companies provide clear and plain language summaries of their privacy practices, obtain explicit consent from consumers for the collection, use, and sharing of their genetic data, and allow consumers to easily access, delete, or request the destruction of their genetic data and biological samples. The bill also prohibits companies from sharing genetic data with entities involved in health or life insurance decisions or employment, and requires a warrant or explicit consumer consent for disclosure to government entities. Furthermore, it places restrictions on where genetic data can be stored, preventing storage in countries sanctioned by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control or designated as foreign adversaries, and requires service providers to adhere to strict data handling and destruction protocols. The legislation also includes provisions against discrimination based on a consumer's exercise of their privacy rights and establishes a cure period for alleged violations before a consumer can file a civil action, with this cure period provision set to be repealed on June 30, 2028.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies and related providers to protect the genetic data information of Vermonters. The bill requires companies to limit data sharing, allows consumers to access their own data, and otherwise provides other genetic data privacy protections to consumers. H.639
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 28 : Robin Scheu (D)*, Angela Arsenault (D), Matt Birong (D), Doug Bishop (D), Tiff Bluemle (D), Brian Cina (D), Leonora Dodge (D), William Greer (D), James Gregoire (R), Rebecca Holcombe (D), Mary Howard (D), Kathleen James (D), Bram Kleppner (D), Jim Masland (D), Kate McCann (D), Jubilee McGill (D), Christopher Morrow (D), Mike Mrowicki (D), Dan Noyes (D), Carol Ode (D), Woody Page (R), Phil Pouech (D), Monique Priestley (D), Barbara Rachelson (D), Larry Satcowitz (D), Tom Stevens (D), Shawn Sweeney (D), Chloe Tomlinson (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 79
• Last Amended: 06/03/2026
• Last Action: Delivered to the Governor on June 9, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2496 • Last Action 05/28/2026
Allows a pregnant member or member that has given birth in the past six (6) months to appear remotely and permits any member that participates in a meeting remotely to vote at that meeting, provided that the meeting is held in person.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Rhode Island's Open Meetings law to allow any member of a public body who is pregnant or has given birth within the past six months to participate in meetings remotely using electronic or telephone communication, and importantly, permits any member participating remotely to also cast their vote remotely, provided the meeting itself is being held in person. This change aims to increase accessibility and participation for new mothers and pregnant individuals in public governance, ensuring their voices can still be heard and counted even if they cannot physically attend a meeting. The bill will become effective immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would allow a pregnant member or a member that has given birth in the past six (6) months to appear remotely to participate in a public body meeting. This act would further permit any member that participates in a meeting remotely to also vote remotely at that meeting, provided that the meeting is held in person. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Bob Britto (D)*, Mark McKenney (D), Dawn Euer (D), Alana DiMario (D), Pam Lauria (D), Melissa Murray (D), Peter Appollonio (D), Brian Thompson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S04945 • Last Action 05/28/2026
Requires certain reports of public authorities are published via the public authorities reporting information system and shall not require login credentials.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Authorities Law to require that annual reports and budget reports from public authorities be published through the public authorities reporting information system (PARIS) and made accessible without login credentials. Specifically, the bill adds new provisions to sections 2800 and 2801 of the public authorities law, mandating that these reports be publicly available online in a way that does not require users to create an account or log in to view them. This change aims to increase transparency by making important financial and operational information from public authorities more easily accessible to the general public. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, giving public authorities time to implement the new reporting requirements. By removing login barriers, the legislation seeks to make government information more open and readily available to citizens, researchers, and other interested parties.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public authorities law, in relation to requiring certain reports of public authorities are published via the public authorities reporting information system
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• Introduced: 02/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Leroy Comrie (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 02/14/2025
• Last Action: referred to corporations, authorities and commissions
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A07552 • Last Action 05/28/2026
Requires members of a public body to complete a minimum of two hours of training, with one hour on the state's open meetings law and one hour on freedom of information law; requires certain local, city, county, town and village public body members to complete such training as well.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires local public officers, including village, town, city, and county clerks, attorneys, and records access officers, to complete two hours of annual training specifically focused on open meetings law and freedom of information law (FOIL). The training must include one hour dedicated to the open meetings law (Article 7) and one hour to the freedom of information law (Article 6). The training must be approved by the committee on open government and can be delivered through various formats such as electronic media, distance learning, or traditional classroom settings. These officials must file proof of their training attendance with their designated records access officer by December 31st each year. The training aims to ensure that local public officials are well-informed about transparency laws governing public meetings and access to government records, with the goal of promoting government accountability and public access to information.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring members of a public body to complete a minimum level of training on the state's open meetings law and freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 04/01/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 13 : Karen McMahon (D)*, Phil Steck (D), Jo Anne Simon (D), William Conrad (D), Tony Simone (D), Thomas Schiavoni (D), Deborah Glick (D), Dana Levenberg (D), Jen Lunsford (D), Noah Burroughs (D), Maryjane Shimsky (D), Sarah Clark (D), Larinda Hooks (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 04/01/2025
• Last Action: ordered to third reading rules cal.227
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A5135 • Last Action 05/28/2026
Establishes certain protections for drivers and holders of non-driver identification cards diagnosed with certain disabilities.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Chief Administrator of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to allow individuals diagnosed with an acquired brain injury, autism spectrum disorder, or a communication disorder to voluntarily indicate this on their driver's license or non-driver identification card, and also mandates the creation of a secure, statewide registry accessible by law enforcement officers to store relevant information such as vehicle details and emergency contacts for individuals with these diagnoses, aiming to improve communication during interactions, while also establishing training requirements for emergency responders, including firefighters and police officers, to better understand and interact with individuals with these and other disabilities, such as deafness, hearing loss, blindness, or vision loss.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires the Chief Administrator (chief administrator) of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (commission) to allow the holder of a driver's license or non-identification card to voluntarily indicate on the license or identification card that the holder has been diagnosed with an acquired brain injury. In addition, the bill requires the chief administrator to establish and maintain an automated Statewide registry accessible by law enforcement officers to identify and effectively communicate with a person diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, a communication disorder, or an acquired brain injury. The registry is to be capable of storing information, including, but not limited to: (1) the license plate and registration information of any motor vehicle that the person intends to regularly operate; (2) the emergency contact information of a person authorized to communicate on behalf of the person diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, a communication disorder, or an acquired brain injury; and (3) any other information that may assist a law enforcement officer when communicating with the person. Under the bill, a person may submit information to be included in the registry through the commission's Internet website, by mail, or when completing an application for a driver's license, motor vehicle registration, or non-driver identification card issued by the commission. The person is permitted to revise the information, update the information, or be removed from the registry at any time. The bill further provides that the information in the registry is only to be made available to: (1) certain designated commission employees; and (2) law enforcement officers when accessing the person's motor vehicle records. The information may only be used during a motor vehicle stop or other law enforcement action to assist law enforcement officers in identifying and effectively communicating with a person who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, a communication disorder, or an acquired brain injury. Information submitted for the registry is not to be subject to public disclosure or discoverable as a government record. The bill also establishes certain liability limitations for the chief administrator and designated commission employees relating to the entry and use of information in the registry, as outlined in the bill. However, the bill provides that the limitations are inapplicable in situations involving a malicious or wanton and willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. Finally, the bill requires the training curriculum developed by the Commissioner of Health and the Commissioner of Human Services, in consultation with the New Jersey Fire and Emergency Medical Services Institute and the New Jersey State First Aid Council, and adopted by the Division of Fire Safety in the Department of Community Affairs and the Police Training Commission in the Department of Law and Public Safety, to include information on safety considerations and the proper recognition and response techniques to employ when interacting with persons diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, deafness or hearing loss, blindness or vision loss, communication disorders, and acquired brain injuries.
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• Introduced: 05/18/2026
• Added: 05/30/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tennille McCoy (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Transportation and Independent Authorities Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #SB225 • Last Action 05/27/2026
Expand the Address Confidentiality Program
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) to protect victims of certain crimes, including those threatened with a deadly weapon, by allowing them to use a designated state address instead of their actual residence, school, or workplace address. It also exempts the addresses of judges and prosecutors from public disclosure, even if they are not part of the ACP, and makes related changes to election laws. The bill clarifies that certain information related to program participants and designated public service workers, such as their addresses, will be kept confidential and not considered public records under the state's public records law, which governs what information government entities must make available to the public. Additionally, it ensures that hearings related to election challenges or protests involving individuals with confidential voter registration records or those who are designated public service workers with redaction requests will not be open to the public, and their residence addresses will be redacted from public records.
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Bill Summary: To amend sections 111.41, 111.42, 111.99, 149.43, 3503.13, and 3503.24 and to enact section 3513.053 of the Revised Code to expand the Address Confidentiality Program, to exempt judges' and prosecutors' addresses from disclosure, and to make related changes to the Election Law.
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• Introduced: 06/19/2025
• Added: 05/21/2026
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 9 : Susan Manchester (R)*, Jerry Cirino (R), Terry Johnson (R), Al Landis (R), Nathan Manning (R), Thomas Patton (R), Michele Reynolds (R), Tim Schaffer (R), Shane Wilkin (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Referred to committee: General Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1826 • Last Action 05/27/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7, Chapter 86, Part 3 and Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1, relative to emergency communications district boards of directors.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, by amending Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1, specifically Section 8-44-108(a)(2), clarifies that "governing body" includes emergency communications district boards of directors, which are established under TCA Title 7, Chapter 86, Part 3. This amendment is intended to allow these emergency communications district boards of directors to participate in their board meetings electronically, aligning them with the requirements of the open meetings law, which generally mandates that public bodies conduct their business in public and that members be physically present to participate.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes emergency communications district boards of directors to participate in board meetings electronically under the open meetings law. - Amends TCA Title 7, Chapter 86, Part 3 and Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Brent Taylor (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 05/26/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/22/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB67 • Last Action 05/27/2026
Provides for protected information of certain individuals
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Louisiana law, specifically R.S. 44:11.2(J), to clarify that individuals recognized as "protected individuals" are not exempt from having their personal information published or removed from public records maintained by the office of the secretary of state, a district clerk of court, or the board of ethics. This means that even if someone is considered a protected individual, their personal details can still be made public or removed from these specific public records under certain circumstances, which provides context for how such information is handled by these government entities.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 44:11.2(J), relative to the personal information of protected individuals; to provide for the publication of information of a protected individual in certain instances; to provide for the records of a district clerk of court; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tony Bacala (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 06/01/2026
• Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1773 • Last Action 05/27/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7, Chapter 86, Part 3 and Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1, relative to emergency communications district boards of directors.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, by amending Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1, specifically Section 8-44-108(a)(2), clarifies that "governing body" now explicitly includes emergency communications district boards of directors, which are established under TCA Title 7, Chapter 86, Part 3. This amendment, in conjunction with the government-provided summary, indicates that the primary purpose of this legislation is to allow these emergency communications district boards of directors to participate in their board meetings electronically, in accordance with the state's open meetings law, which generally requires public bodies to conduct business in public.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes emergency communications district boards of directors to participate in board meetings electronically under the open meetings law. - Amends TCA Title 7, Chapter 86, Part 3 and Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Tom Leatherwood (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 05/26/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 1099
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB648 • Last Action 05/27/2026
Provides relative to attendance at meetings of public bodies
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands participation in public meetings for certain individuals and public bodies. Specifically, it allows public bodies that primarily focus on issues related to families with children under the age of five to conduct meetings electronically without limitation, similar to those already addressing disabilities or assisting military families, and requires them to publish their meeting schedules indicating electronic or in-person formats. Furthermore, it amends existing law to permit members of public bodies who are parents or legal guardians of children under five years old, or providers of early childhood supports or services, to participate and vote in meetings electronically, in addition to those with disabilities recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring their presence for quorum and voting purposes even if they cannot be physically present.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 42:17.2(F)(2) and 17.2.1(A), relative to public bodies; to provide for the participation of certain people during public meetings; to provide for participation by a parent or legal guardian of a child under the age of five and a provider of early childhood supports or services; to provide for exceptions for certain meetings of certain public bodies; to provide for the participation of certain mem
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ken Brass (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 04/02/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs (00:00:00 5/27/2026 Room F)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2535 • Last Action 05/27/2026
Providing for the public safety regulation of large load users; requiring the submission of emergency operations plans and generalized infrastructure inventories as a condition of occupancy; protecting confidential security information; and providing for enforcement and penalties.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Commercial Data Center Public Safety Act, requires facilities that use a significant amount of electricity (25 megawatts or greater) for data processing, storage, or transmission, referred to as "large load users," to submit specific safety information to local fire officials as a condition of occupancy. Before a certificate of occupancy is issued, these large load users must provide an "emergency operations floor plan," which details the layout of the facility and the location of critical safety features like emergency power shutoffs and fire suppression systems, and a "generalized infrastructure inventory," a non-proprietary summary of potentially hazardous physical assets such as batteries and cooling agents. These submissions must be updated annually, or within 30 days of any significant changes to the facility, such as a substantial increase in power load or changes to battery chemistry. The information submitted is considered confidential security information and is exempt from public disclosure under the Right-to-Know Law to protect facility safety, with access limited to building code officials, fire officials, emergency responders, and law enforcement. Failure to comply can result in compliance orders, civil penalties of up to $10,000 for the first offense and daily penalties thereafter, and potentially the suspension or revocation of the certificate of occupancy.
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Bill Summary: Providing for the public safety regulation of large load users; requiring the submission of emergency operations plans and generalized infrastructure inventories as a condition of occupancy; protecting confidential security information; and providing for enforcement and penalties.
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• Introduced: 05/26/2026
• Added: 05/28/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 16 : Christina Sappey (D)*, Ben Waxman (D), James Prokopiak (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Tarah Probst (D), Joseph Webster (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Lisa Borowski (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Kyle Donahue (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Heather Boyd (D), Mandy Steele (D), Gregory Scott (D), Dave Madsen (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/27/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB615 • Last Action 05/27/2026
Requires certain public meetings to be broadcast live (RE INCREASE SG EX See Note)
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires certain public bodies to broadcast their meetings live, meaning they must make audio and video of the meeting available to the public in real or near real-time via the internet or television. The bill amends existing law to expand which public bodies are subject to this requirement, including specific types of nonelected boards and commissions that can levy taxes, promulgate rules, or impose fines or fees, with some exceptions for smaller districts. It also mandates that parish governing authorities and school boards in parishes with populations of 25,000 or more, and municipal governing authorities in municipalities with populations of 10,000 or more, must broadcast all their proceedings live, including committee meetings, though volunteer committee meetings are exempt. Additionally, public notices for these meetings must include information on how the public can access the broadcast, and all meetings must be video recorded and archived online for at least two years. The bill clarifies that a technological failure beyond the public body's control is not considered a violation, and these live broadcast requirements do not apply to executive sessions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 42:19(A)(1)(c) and 23(B), relative to public meetings; to require certain public bodies to broadcast meetings live; to require the notice of the meeting to include certain information; to provide relative to definitions; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Johnson (R)*, Alonzo Knox (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 04/23/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee on Senate and Governmental Affairs (00:00:00 5/27/2026 Room F)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2612 • Last Action 05/26/2026
Allows advisory bodies to participate in a public meeting using videoconferencing, subject to certain requirements.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Rhode Island's Open Meetings law to allow advisory bodies, which are defined as government entities that provide advice or recommendations but do not make decisions, to participate in public meetings via videoconferencing, provided certain conditions are met to ensure public access and participation, including the opportunity for the public to attend virtually without charge, effective communication, and clear notice about who is participating remotely. Additionally, starting January 1, 2027, all city and town councils and school committees will be required to livestream their public meetings, making recordings available online for five years, and by January 1, 2028, these bodies must also provide a way for the public to participate in meetings via videoconferencing if they already allow public input. The bill also updates requirements for meeting notices and minutes to include information about videoconferencing participation and the availability of recordings.
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Bill Summary: This act would allow advisory bodies to participate in a public meeting using videoconferencing, subject to certain requirements. This act would also require all city and town councils and school committees to provide livestreaming of their meetings by January 1, 2027. This would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2026
• Added: 02/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Sam Zurier (D)*, Mark McKenney (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/13/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0907 • Last Action 05/26/2026
An act relating to legislative review of reporting requirements
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to streamline legislative reporting requirements by repealing certain reports deemed no longer necessary, extending others for a period of four years until a future review, and exempting specific reports from a general expiration rule, meaning they will continue indefinitely without needing periodic re-evaluation. The bill modifies various statutes to achieve these changes, either by removing reporting obligations entirely, delaying their scheduled repeal, or exempting them from the standard review process outlined in 2 V.S.A. § 20(d), which typically mandates that required reports expire unless reauthorized.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to amend statutes relating to legislatively enacted reporting requirements by repealing certain reports that the General Assembly no longer deems useful or necessary, extending certain reports for four years until a future reports repeal review, or exempting certain reports from 2 V.S.A. § 20(d) so that the ongoing reporting requirement will no longer be reviewed for repeal.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 06/10/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Government Operations and Military Affairs
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 57
• Last Amended: 06/09/2026
• Last Action: Senate Message: House proposal of amendment to Senate proposal of amendment concurred in
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB2405 • Last Action 05/26/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 38 and Title 39, relative to law enforcement.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a Tennessee Safe Initiative Task Force, administratively attached to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), to identify areas with prevalent criminal activity that endanger public safety and require additional law enforcement operations. The task force will consist of eight voting members, including the TBI director, the commissioner of safety, and representatives from district attorneys general, sheriffs, and chiefs of police, with staggered terms and provisions for filling vacancies. The task force is mandated to meet at least quarterly and can hold additional meetings upon request, with members able to attend electronically, and a quorum required for meetings. The task force can request the TBI to conduct additional law enforcement operations in specific jurisdictions, particularly concerning offenses like violent crimes or criminal gang activities, and can enter into executive sessions for confidential law enforcement matters without public notice, though no final actions can be taken in these sessions. Additionally, the bill authorizes TBI Safe Initiative investigators to conduct investigations independently in judicial districts where the Memphis Safe Task Force operates, focusing on violent crimes and criminal gang activities, with this authority continuing until the task force votes to rescind it. The bill also includes provisions for the exchange of agents with other law enforcement agencies and states, and clarifies that agents hired for the initiative will continue their employment with the TBI even after certain provisions of the bill terminate.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, establishes a Tennessee safe initiative task force, which is administratively attached to the Tennessee bureau of investigation. - Amends TCA Title 8; Title 38 and Title 39.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 05/28/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Brent Taylor (R)*, Todd Gardenhire (R), Janice Bowling (R), Paul Rose (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 05/20/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 1010
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB2157 • Last Action 05/26/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 38 and Title 39, relative to law enforcement.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a Tennessee Safe Initiative Task Force, administratively attached to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), to identify and address prevalent criminal activity that endangers public safety. The task force, composed of eight voting members including the TBI director, commissioner of safety, a district attorney general, a sheriff, and a chief of police, will determine when additional law enforcement operations are needed. The bill outlines appointment procedures, term lengths, meeting requirements, and allows for executive sessions to discuss sensitive law enforcement matters without public notice, though final actions must occur in open meetings. The task force can request the TBI to conduct investigations into offenses like violent crimes and criminal gang activities, and its authority, along with related provisions, is set to terminate on July 1, 2029. Additionally, TBI investigators are authorized to conduct investigations in judicial districts where the Memphis Safe Task Force operates, focusing on violent crimes and gang activity, with this authority continuing until the task force votes to rescind it. The bill also expresses the intent that agents hired for the Tennessee Safe Initiative will continue their employment with the TBI after the initiative's specific provisions terminate.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: As enacted, establishes a Tennessee safe initiative task force, which is administratively attached to the Tennessee bureau of investigation. - Amends TCA Title 8; Title 38 and Title 39.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 05/27/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : William Lamberth (R)*, Debra Moody (R), Rush Bricken (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 46
• Last Amended: 05/20/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/19/2026, 07/01/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1719 • Last Action 05/22/2026
LOC GOV-ELECTRONIC RECORDS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Local Records Act by adding a new section that provides flexibility for local government units in how they store public records. Specifically, the bill allows local government entities to satisfy existing record storage requirements by maintaining public records in electronic format. This change modernizes record-keeping practices by explicitly permitting digital storage methods, which can potentially reduce physical storage costs, improve document accessibility, and streamline records management for local government agencies. While the provided XML does not show the exact language of the new section, the bill's purpose is to update the existing law to accommodate electronic record-keeping practices that are increasingly common in government operations.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Local Records Act. Provides that a unit of local government required to store public records under the Act may satisfy the requirements of the Act by storing the public records in an electronic form.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 31 : Li Arellano (R)*, Chris Balkema (R), Dave Koehler (D), Sue Rezin (R), Graciela Guzmán (D), Neil Anderson (R), Celina Villanueva (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Rob Martwick (D), Seth Lewis (R), Chapin Rose (R), Mike Porfirio (D), John Curran (R), Craig Wilcox (R), Jil Tracy (R), Dave Syverson (R), Patrick Joyce (D), Erica Harriss (R), Don DeWitte (R), Mike Simmons (D), Ram Villivalam (D), Steve Stadelman (D), Terri Bryant (R), Darby Hills (R), Andrew Chesney (R), Steve McClure (R), Mark Walker (D), Paul Faraci (D), Jason Plummer (R), Dale Fowler (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 53
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3316 • Last Action 05/22/2026
CRIMINAL JUSTICE TASK FORCE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Emerging Adult Criminal Justice Task Force Act, creating a task force within the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority to review and recommend improvements to Illinois laws and practices affecting "emerging adults," defined as individuals aged 18 to 25. The task force, composed of legislative members, state agency designees, judges, attorneys, public defenders, and representatives from various community organizations and individuals with lived experience, will hold public meetings across different regions of Illinois and must convene its first meeting within 60 days of member appointments. Its duties include examining how the criminal justice system, from pretrial to reentry, impacts this age group, considering developmental science that shows emerging adults have different decision-making capacities than older adults, and exploring successful models from other jurisdictions. The task force is required to submit an interim report with preliminary findings by January 31, 2027, and a final report with comprehensive recommendations, including draft legislation and fiscal impacts, by December 1, 2027, after which the Act will be repealed on June 30, 2028.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Emerging Adult Criminal Justice Task Force Act. Establishes the Emerging Adult Criminal Justice Task Force within the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. Provides that the Task Force shall hold public meetings. Requires at least 3 meetings of the Task Force to be held in different regions of Illinois. Provides that the first meeting of the Task Force shall be held within 60 days after the appointment of its members. Provides that the Task Force shall review Illinois law and practices affecting emerging adults across pretrial, sentencing, corrections, supervision, and reentry. Provides that the Task Force shall develop recommendations for statutory, policy, and programmatic improvements to the Illinois criminal justice system. Allows any Task Force member to prepare a written dissent or statement of concern regarding any finding or recommendation. Provides that the Task Force shall submit an interim report summarizing preliminary findings, analyses, and recommendations, to the Governor and the General Assembly, no later than January 31, 2027. Provides that the Task Force shall submit a final report, including all final findings and recommendations, draft statutory language, and estimated fiscal impacts, no later than December 1, 2027. Repeals the Act on June 30, 2028. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 02/10/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Lakesia Collins (D)*, Mike Simmons (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/03/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2171 • Last Action 05/22/2026
FOIA-COMMERCIAL PURPOSES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand the definition of "commercial purpose" in the context of public record requests. Specifically, it clarifies that a commercial purpose includes not only selling or reselling public records, but also any use that advances the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester or the person on whose behalf the request is made. The bill maintains an important exception for news media, non-profit, scientific, and academic organizations, which will not have their requests considered commercial if the principal purpose is to disseminate news, create opinion pieces, or conduct research and education. This modification aims to provide more precise guidance on what constitutes a commercial purpose when requesting public records, potentially helping public bodies better understand and respond to information requests while protecting the interests of organizations seeking information for public benefit.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, as used in the Act, the term "commercial purpose" means, among other things, the use of any part of a public record or records, or information derived from public records, in any form for any use or purpose that furthers the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester or the person on whose behalf the request is made.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*, Linda Holmes (D), Seth Lewis (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2170 • Last Action 05/22/2026
FOIA-RECURRENT REQUESTERS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify the definition and treatment of "recurrent requesters" by reducing the number of record requests that qualify a person as a recurrent requester. Specifically, the bill lowers the thresholds from 50 to 40 total requests in 12 months, from 15 to 10 requests within a 30-day period, and from 7 to 5 requests within a 7-day period. The bill also extends the response time for public bodies from 21 to 30 business days when handling requests from recurrent requesters. Additionally, the bill specifies that notice of recurrent requester status must be provided only once every 30 days, and it introduces a new provision making it a violation of the Act for designated recurrent requesters to knowingly obtain public records without disclosing their status. The changes aim to balance the public's right to access information with the administrative burden on public bodies, while maintaining exceptions for news media, non-profit, scientific, and academic organizations whose requests are made for informational, educational, or research purposes.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Reduces the number of record requests that must be made for a person to be considered a recurrent requester under the Act. Provides that public bodies must respond to requests from recurrent requesters with 30 (rather than 21) days after receipt of a request. Specifies that notice that requests are being treated as recurrent requests must be provided only once every 30 days. Provides that it is a violation of the Act for persons designated as recurrent requesters to knowingly obtain a public record without disclosing their status as recurrent requesters.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*, Linda Holmes (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3220 • Last Action 05/22/2026
CONSUMER DATA PRIVACY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act, establishes consumer rights regarding their personal data, including the right to confirm data processing, correct inaccuracies, delete data, obtain a copy of previously provided data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, or profiling. It applies to businesses operating in Illinois or targeting Illinois residents that process personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or 25,000 consumers who also derive over 50% of their gross revenue from selling personal data, and it outlines responsibilities for entities controlling and processing this data. The Attorney General will have exclusive authority to enforce these provisions, with collected penalties funding a Consumer Privacy Fund administered by their office. Additionally, the bill amends the Freedom of Information Act to exempt data protection impact assessments, which are required for certain high-risk data processing activities, from public disclosure.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act. Establishes certain consumer rights relating to personal data, including the rights to confirm whether data is being processed, to correct any inaccuracies in the consumer's personal data, to delete personal data provided by the consumer, to obtain a copy of the consumer's personal data that was previously provided, and to opt out of targeted advertising, the sale of data, or profiling of the consumer. Defines terms. Applies to persons who conduct business in Illinois or produce products or services that are targeted to Illinois residents and that during a calendar year control or process personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or 25,0000 consumers and derive over 50% of gross revenue from the sale of personal data. Creates requirements for persons or entities that control and process consumer data. Exempts certain persons or entities from the provisions of the Act. Provides that the Attorney General has exclusive authority to enforce the consumer data privacy rights. Creates the Consumer Privacy Fund to be administered by the Office of the Attorney General. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from disclosure data protection impact assessments created under the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act. Makes a conforming change in the State Finance Act.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/10/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Sue Rezin (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2897 • Last Action 05/22/2026
INFO PROTECTION-IMMIGRATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Personal Information Protection Act to prohibit data collectors, which are entities that handle personal information, from owning, maintaining, licensing, storing, or disclosing records containing "immigration or citizenship status information" about Illinois residents. This new category of protected information is defined to include details about an individual's U.S. citizenship or the citizenship of any other country, as well as their legal right to reside in or be present in the United States, and also encompasses their nationality and country of origin. Importantly, this prohibition does not apply to government agencies, public and private universities, or financial institutions, which are common collectors of such sensitive data. The bill also clarifies that "personal information" now explicitly includes this immigration or citizenship status information, strengthening its protection under the Act.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Personal Information Protection Act. Provides that a data collector shall not own, maintain, license, store, or disclose records that contain immigration or citizenship status information concerning an Illinois resident. Provides that the provision shall not apply to government agencies, public and private universities, or financial institutions. Provides that the definition of "personal information" includes immigration or citizenship status information. Defines "immigration or citizenship status information".
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• Introduced: 01/27/2026
• Added: 01/27/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Celina Villanueva (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/27/2026
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2875 • Last Action 05/22/2026
CONSUMER DATA PRIVACY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act, establishes new rules for how businesses handle the personal data of Illinois residents. It applies to companies that do business in Illinois or offer products/services to Illinois residents and meet certain thresholds, such as processing the personal data of 100,000 or more consumers annually or deriving over 25% of their gross revenue from selling personal data while processing data for 25,000 or more consumers. "Personal data" is defined as any information linked to an identifiable person, excluding de-identified or publicly available information. The Act requires companies (called "controllers") to protect consumer data security and notify individuals of any data breaches. Consumers are granted rights to access, correct, and delete their personal data, obtain a list of third parties their data has been shared with, and to opt out of targeted advertising, the sale of their data, or profiling that leads to significant decisions about them. An appeal process is created for consumers to challenge a company's decisions regarding their data rights. The bill exempts government entities, federally recognized tribes, certain non-profits, and data already covered by federal laws, and it will be enforced by the Attorney General.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act. Applies to legal entities that conduct business in Illinois or produce products or services that are targeted to Illinois residents and that satisfy one or more of the following thresholds: during a calendar year, controls or processes personal data of 100,000 consumers or more, excluding personal data controlled or processed solely for the purpose of completing a payment transaction; or derives over 25% of gross revenue from the sale of personal data and processes or controls personal data of 25,000 consumers or more. "Personal data" means any information that is linked or reasonably linkable to an identified or identifiable natural person but does not include deidentified data or publicly available information. Requires a controller who, alone or jointly with others, to consider the purposes and means of the processing of personal data in protecting the security of consumers while processing personal data and in notifying consumers of a breach of the security of the system. Authorizes rights to consumers under the Act to include, but not be limited to, the right to access their personal data, obtain a list of third parties to whom their data has been disclosed, request corrections to inaccurate data, and question the profiling of their information. Creates an appeal process for a consumer to gather more information on the actions of a covered entity. Exempts the State, a political subdivision of the State, and units of local government, a federally recognized Indian tribe, nonprofits established to prevent insurance fraud, and data already covered by federal law. Authorizes the Attorney General to enforce the Act. Makes definitions. Makes other changes. Limits the concurrent exercise of home rule powers. Contains a severability provision.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 01/17/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Laura Murphy (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3548 • Last Action 05/22/2026
CONSUMER DATA PRIVACY ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Consumer Data Privacy Act, establishes new rights for Illinois residents regarding their personal data, allowing them to confirm if their data is being processed, correct inaccuracies, delete their data, obtain a copy of previously provided data, and opt out of targeted advertising, the sale of their data, or profiling that leads to significant decisions about them. The Act applies to businesses that operate in Illinois or offer products/services to Illinois residents and process personal data of at least 100,000 consumers annually, or 25,000 consumers if over 50% of their gross revenue comes from selling personal data. It outlines responsibilities for businesses that control and process consumer data, with certain exemptions for entities like government bodies, financial institutions, healthcare providers, non-profits, and educational institutions. The Attorney General will have exclusive authority to enforce these rights, and any civil penalties collected will go into a new Consumer Privacy Fund administered by their office. Additionally, the bill amends the Freedom of Information Act to exempt "data protection impact assessments" conducted under this new Act from public disclosure.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Consumer Data Privacy Act. Establishes certain consumer rights relating to personal data, including the rights to confirm whether data is being processed, to correct any inaccuracies in the consumer's personal data, to delete personal data provided by the consumer, to obtain a copy of the consumer's personal data that was previously provided, and to opt out of targeted advertising, the sale of data, or profiling of the consumer. Defines terms. Applies to persons who conduct business in Illinois or produce products or services that are targeted to Illinois residents and that during the a calendar year control or process person data of at least 100,000 consumers or 25,0000 consumers and derives over 50% of gross revenue from the sale of personal data. Makes requirements for persons or entities that control and process consumer data and also exempts certain persons or entities from the statutory provisions of the Act. Provides that the Attorney General has exclusive authority to enforce the consumer data privacy rights. Creates the Consumer Privacy Fund to be administered by the Office of the Attorney General. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from disclosure data protection impact assessments done under the Illinois Consumer Data Privacy Act. Makes a conforming change in the State Finance Act.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Sue Rezin (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #SB41 • Last Action 05/22/2026
Expands the number of days required for public bodies to publish minutes for open meetings from twenty days to forty-five days. (8/1/26)
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective August 1, 2026, amends existing Louisiana law (R.S. 43:144) concerning the timely publication of minutes for open meetings held by public bodies such as municipal corporations, police juries (local government bodies), and school boards. Currently, officials responsible for preparing and recording these minutes have twenty days to submit them to the official journal for publication after a meeting. This bill proposes to extend that deadline to thirty-one days, meaning public bodies will have more time to prepare and publish the official records of their meetings before facing penalties, which include fines and potential imprisonment for willful neglect.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 43:144, relative to penalties for failure to timely publish minutes; to expand the num
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Robert Allain (R)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB4038 • Last Action 05/22/2026
UNAUTHORIZE VIDEO-PHOTO-COURT
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Criminal Code of 2012 to make it illegal for anyone to knowingly record video, transmit live video, or set up a device to do so, of a victim or witness inside a State courthouse without their consent, the consent of the presiding judge, or the consent of courthouse security personnel, as long as such consent aligns with any judicial orders. Importantly, an individual's consent to be recorded does not override a judge's order prohibiting recording, and this new rule does not apply to recordings made by courthouse security cameras or law enforcement body cameras, nor does it affect the Open Meetings Act, which ensures public access to government proceedings. The bill also defines "courthouse" to include any state or local facility where court proceedings take place and establishes penalties for violations.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Criminal Code of 2012. Provides that it is unlawful for any person to knowingly make a video record, transmit live video of, or place or cause to be placed a device that makes a video record or transmits live video of another person whom the person knows to be a victim or witness in any location inside of a State courthouse without that person's consent or consent of the presiding judge, or consent of an entity responsible for providing law enforcement or security for a courthouse, provided that consent is consistent with any order issued by the Supreme Court or the presiding judge. Provides that an individual's consent to be recorded does not supersede a judicial order prohibiting video recording. Provides that the provision does not apply to video captured by the courthouse security cameras or body cameras worn by law enforcement officers. Provides that nothing in the provision shall be construed to circumvent the provisions of the Open Meetings Act. Establishes penalties for violations. Defines "courthouse".
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 05/07/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 26 : Laura Murphy (D)*, Mary Gill (D)*, Napoleon Harris (D), Jason Plummer (R), Joyce Mason (D), Kam Buckner (D), Michael Kelly (D), Rick Ryan (D), Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar (D), Matt Hanson (D), Michael Crawford (D), Yolonda Morris (D), Sharon Chung (D), Natalie Manley (D), Martha Deuter (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Dave Vella (D), Kelly Cassidy (D), Michelle Mussman (D), Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Ann Williams (D), Mary Beth Canty (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Abdelnasser Rashid (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Camille Lilly (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 68
• Last Amended: 05/22/2026
• Last Action: Added Alternate Co-Sponsor Rep. Camille Y. Lilly
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1665 • Last Action 05/22/2026
FOIA-PRELIMINARY DRAFT-STUDY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify exemptions related to draft documents and studies. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that allows for the exemption of studies, drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records containing opinions or policy formulations. However, this exemption is not absolute: if a draft record has remained in draft form for more than 12 months and was funded by public dollars from a local government unit, it can no longer be kept confidential. This change aims to increase transparency by preventing government entities from indefinitely keeping draft documents secret, while still protecting preliminary work products during the active development stage. The modification is part of Illinois' ongoing efforts to balance government transparency with the need for agencies to develop and refine policy recommendations without premature public scrutiny.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from disclosure any studies, drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records in which opinions are expressed, or policies or actions are formulated, except that a specific record or relevant portion of a record is not exempt if the record has remained in draft form for more than a 12-month period and public dollars were spent by a unit of local government to conduct such a study.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rob Martwick (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3761 • Last Action 05/22/2026
DATA CENTERS-VARIOUS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a "data center self-direct program" allowing large electricity customers, specifically those under a data center tariff, to receive a reduction in charges for renewable energy procurement. This reduction increases based on the value of new clean energy generation they help facilitate. The bill also mandates that, starting January 1, 2027, data center operators must submit disclosures to the Illinois Commerce Commission about their proposed construction plans at least 180 days in advance, with public publication and open meeting requirements. Furthermore, all data centers operating in Illinois will be required to track and annually disclose their water consumption to the Department of Natural Resources, which will make this data publicly available in an aggregated and anonymized format. Non-compliance with these disclosure requirements could result in fines of up to $10,000 per violation. The bill also requires a specified electric utility to propose revenue-neutral tariff changes within 90 days of the bill's enactment to address rate design related to these new provisions.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Illinois Power Agency Act. Establishes the data center self-direct program to allow for customers taking service under the data center tariff to receive a reduction in the charges collected for the procurement of renewable energy resources. Provides that the reduction in charges available to the customer shall increase based on the energy or capacity value of the new additive clean energy generation's contribution pursuant to the specified requirements. Provides that the Illinois Power Agency may require that participating customers provide annual reports related to facility operation and performance, customer electricity consumption and load profiles, and other information as necessary. Amends the Public Utilities Act. Provides that, on or after January 1, 2027, at least 180 days prior to commencing any construction activities, the data center operator of a proposed data center shall submit a data center disclosure to the Illinois Commerce Commission. Establishes publication and open meeting requirements concerning the data center disclosures. On and after January 1, 2027, requires all data centers operating within the State to maintain water consumption data to submit annual disclosures of the data center's water usage to the Department of Natural Resources. Requires the Department of Natural Resources to make an aggregated and anonymized form of data disclosed to it available on a publicly accessible website. Provides that data centers that fail to comply with any disclosure requirements under the Act may be subject to fines of up to $10,000 per violation. Requires the Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Commerce Commission to adopt implementing rules. Requires a specified electric utility to, no later than 90 days after the effective date of the amendatory Act, make a filing with the Commission that proposes revenue-neutral tariff changes, which shall present the Commission with an opportunity to suspend the tariffs and consider revenue-neutral tariff changes related to rate design. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Simmons (D)*, Mary Gill (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7154 • Last Action 05/22/2026
Amends the definition of public record to exempt from public disclosure the city or town of residence of the justices, judges, and magistrates of the unified judicial system.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the definition of "public record" under Rhode Island's Access to Public Records Act to exempt the city or town of residence of justices, judges, and magistrates of the unified judicial system from public disclosure, meaning this personal information will no longer be accessible to the public. The unified judicial system refers to the state's court system, and the bill specifically targets the residential location of its highest-ranking legal officials. This change is intended to take effect immediately upon its passage into law.
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Bill Summary: This act would amend the definition of public record to exempt from public disclosure the city or town of residence of the justices, judges, and magistrates of the unified judicial system. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Jay Edwards (D)*, David Bennett (D), Rebecca Kislak (D), Doc Corvese (D), Evan Shanley (D), Brandon Potter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Senate Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3890 • Last Action 05/22/2026
CONSUMER DATA PRIVACY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Illinois Data Privacy Protection Act, establishes new rules for how businesses handle the personal data of Illinois residents, aiming to give consumers more control over their information. It applies to companies that do business in Illinois or target Illinois residents and meet certain thresholds, such as processing the personal data of 100,000 or more consumers annually or deriving a significant portion of their revenue from selling personal data. The Act grants consumers rights including the ability to access, correct, and delete their personal data, as well as to opt out of its sale or use for targeted advertising and profiling. It also requires companies to be transparent about their data collection practices and to implement reasonable security measures. The bill further mandates that data brokers, defined as businesses that collect and sell personal information without a direct relationship with the consumer, must register annually with the Attorney General, who will maintain a public website with this information and a mechanism for consumers to request the deletion of their data across all registered brokers. The Attorney General is empowered to enforce the Act, with violations potentially leading to civil penalties, and a new Data Privacy Protection Fund is created to support these enforcement efforts. The bill also includes provisions for data privacy and protection assessments for certain processing activities and limits the ability of local governments to regulate consumer data privacy.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Illinois Data Privacy Protection Act. Applies to legal entities that conduct business in Illinois or produce products or services that are targeted to Illinois residents and that satisfy one or more of the following thresholds: during a calendar year, controls or processes personal data of 100,000 consumers or more, excluding personal data controlled or processed solely for the purpose of completing a payment transaction; or derives over 25% of gross revenue from the sale of personal data and processes or controls personal data of 25,000 consumers or more. Requires a controller, alone or jointly with others, to consider the purposes and means of the processing of personal data in protecting the security of consumers while processing personal data and in notifying consumers of a breach of the security of the system. Authorizes rights to consumers under the Act to include, but not be limited to, the right to access their personal data, obtain a list of third parties to whom their data has been disclosed, request corrections to inaccurate data, and question the profiling of their information. Authorizes the Attorney General to enforce the Act. Amends the Personal Information Protection Act. Provides that, annually, on or before January 31, a data broker operating in the State must register with the Attorney General. Provides that the Attorney General shall create a page on its Internet website in which the registration information is accessible to the public that allows consumers to delete their personal information across all registered data brokers. Provides for civil penalties. Amends the State Finance Act to create the Data Privacy Protection Fund. Makes definitions. Makes other changes. Limits the concurrent exercise of home rule powers. Contains a severability provision.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/10/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rachel Ventura (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB1177 • Last Action 05/22/2026
Establishes a public records exemption for personal information related to hunting and fishing licenses
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new exemption to public records laws in Louisiana, specifically concerning personally identifying information collected by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries when individuals apply for a lottery related to hunting and fishing licenses. This means that details like names, addresses, or other personal data of people who enter these lotteries will no longer be considered public information and will be protected from disclosure. The context for this change is to enhance privacy for individuals participating in these wildlife-related lotteries.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact R.S. 44:4(65), relative to public records; to provide an exemption for private information collected by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries for the issuance of hunting and fishing licenses; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 03/31/2026
• Added: 04/01/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jerome Zeringue (R)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 06/01/2026
• Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2526 • Last Action 05/21/2026
In general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, providing for automated litter enforcement systems in public rights-of-way and highways; and imposing penalties.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled "In general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, providing for automated litter enforcement systems in public rights-of-way and highways; and imposing penalties," amends Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to allow for the use of automated litter enforcement systems, which are camera systems designed to capture images of vehicles littering in designated "litter enforcement zones" along public roads and highways. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, or municipalities can establish and use these systems, with specific authorization requirements for each entity. Municipalities must enact local ordinances, provide policy statements to PennDOT, and receive approval before deploying these systems, though an exception exists if the state or Turnpike Commission authorizes a system in a zone that includes both state and local roads. The bill mandates clear signage to warn drivers about the presence of these systems. Violations captured by these systems will result in a $200 fine for the vehicle owner, which is not considered a criminal conviction and will not affect driving records or insurance rates. The bill outlines detailed procedures for issuing notices of violation, including requirements for system calibration, operator training, and the content of the notice itself, which must include photographic evidence and verification of system operation. It also establishes defenses against violations, such as the vehicle being reported stolen. Revenue generated from fines will be distributed to primary police departments that review violations, with remaining funds used by municipalities for litter cleanup and abatement, or deposited into restricted accounts for the department and commission to cover administrative costs and system administrator invoices. The bill defines key terms like "automated litter enforcement system," "commission" (referring to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission), and "municipality."
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 75 (Vehicles) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in general provisions relating to operation of vehicles, providing for automated litter enforcement systems in public rights-of-way and highways; and imposing penalties.
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• Introduced: 05/20/2026
• Added: 05/22/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Gary Day (R)*, Joe Ciresi (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Environmental & Natural Resource Protection
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB164 • Last Action 05/21/2026
Relative to local records retention.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates the creation and maintenance of a publicly accessible website for local government electronic records, allowing citizens to view these records online. The director of state archives, with approval from the municipal records board, will designate this website, and the local government records manager, or the state archivist if the role is vacant, will oversee the hiring of specialists to develop and manage it. This initiative aims to streamline access to local government information, and if electronic records are stored on this website, municipalities may no longer need to keep additional physical copies, provided the public has free online access. The bill also appropriates $50,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, to the secretary of state's division of archives and records management to fund the creation and upkeep of this website and related implementation costs, with these funds being non-lapsing.
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Bill Summary: This bill funds and equips the local government record manager with online storage of records that are available for public access.
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• Introduced: 01/04/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Joe Alexander (R)*, Bob Lynn (R), Katelyn Kuttab (R), Paul Berch (D), Dan Innis (R), Keith Murphy (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: House Concurs with Senate Amendment 2026-1627s (Reps. Lynn, Weyler): Motion Adopted Voice Vote 05/21/2026 House Journal 14
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2484 • Last Action 05/21/2026
Provides that fees for costs charged for search, retrieval or copying of public records shall be waived for members of the general assembly who certify that they are acting in their official capacity.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Rhode Island's Access to Public Records law to waive fees for members of the general assembly when they request copies of public records, such as documents or electronic files, for official legislative duties. This means that if a state representative or senator certifies they are acting in their official capacity and need these records for their work, they will not have to pay for the costs associated with searching for, retrieving, or copying those records. The bill also specifies that this change will take effect immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would provide that fees for costs charged for search, retrieval or copying of public records shall be waived for members of the general assembly who certify that they are acting in their official capacity. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Elaine Morgan (R)*, Gordon Rogers (R), Frank Ciccone (D), Jessica de la Cruz (R), Thomas Paolino (R), Lou Raptakis (D), Peter Appollonio (D), Lou DiPalma (D), Matt LaMountain (D), David Tikoian (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2393 • Last Action 05/21/2026
Requires those with a public records request to provide identifying information.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Rhode Island's Access to Public Records law to require that all requests to inspect or copy public records must include enough identifying information to verify the requester's identity and allow the public body to communicate with them, meaning anonymous requests will no longer be accepted. Specifically, requesters must provide their name and a valid mailing or email address, and public bodies will be permitted to communicate with requesters about their requests. This change aims to ensure accountability and facilitate the process of fulfilling public records requests, and the bill will become effective immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would require all requests for public records to sufficiently identify information to permit verification of the requester’s identity and would allow the public body to communicate regarding the request. This act would not allow for anonymous public records requests. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/30/2026
• Added: 01/31/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Todd Patalano (D)*, Frank Ciccone (D), David Tikoian (D), Stefano Famiglietti (D), Peter Appollonio (D), Brian Thompson (D), Lou Raptakis (D), John Burke (D), Andrew Dimitri (D), Matt LaMountain (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/30/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DE bill #HB339 • Last Action 05/21/2026
An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Virtual Meetings.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Title 29 of the Delaware Code concerning virtual meetings for public bodies, which are governmental entities subject to open meeting laws. Specifically, it redefines "anchor location" to mean the physical place within the public body's jurisdiction where the public can access a virtual meeting, rather than a place where members of the public body must be present. Additionally, it adds a provision to the rules for holding virtual meetings, requiring that at least one member of the public body or a staff member be physically present at the anchor location during the meeting.
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Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Virtual Meetings.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 153rd General Assembly
• Sponsors: 10 : Cyndie Romer (D)*, Kim Williams (D)*, Dave Sokola (D), Stephanie Bolden (D), Kendra Johnson (D), Eric Morrison (D), Kyra Hoffner (D), Tizzy Lockman (D), Russ Huxtable (D), Marie Pinkney (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Reported Out of Committee (Executive) in Senate with 3 Favorable, 3 On Its Merits
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5434 • Last Action 05/21/2026
CRIMINAL JUSTICE TASK FORCE
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Emerging Adult Criminal Justice Task Force, recognizing that individuals aged 18 to 25, referred to as "emerging adults," may have different developmental stages in judgment, impulse control, and psychosocial maturity compared to older adults, leading to distinct challenges like higher rates of mental health issues, trauma, and unemployment, and that traditional adult correctional facilities can be detrimental to this population. The Task Force, which will include increased representation from municipal police departments, sheriff's offices, and community-based legal services organizations serving emerging adults, is charged with reviewing Illinois law and practices affecting this age group, examining successful models in other states, analyzing disparities, and recommending improvements for more developmentally appropriate, cost-effective, and equitable approaches to divert emerging adults from the criminal justice system, with a mandate to evaluate existing juvenile intervention programs to ensure their effectiveness in reducing criminal behavior and ensuring public safety. The Task Force will submit interim and final reports with findings, recommendations, and fiscal analyses, and the Act will be repealed on June 30, 2028, with its provisions taking effect immediately.
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Bill Summary: Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill as amended by House Amendment 1 with the following changes. In provisions relating to legislative findings, provides that developmental psychology and neuroscience studies have shown (rather than Developmental psychology and neuroscience conclude) that judgment, impulse control, and psychosocial maturity may continue (rather than continue) developing into the mid-20s. Further provides that emerging adults may differ (rather than differ) significantly from older adults in risk assessment, susceptibility to peer influence, emotional regulation, and decision making under stress. Further provides that emerging adults may also (rather than also) face elevated rates of mental health disorders, trauma exposure, substance use disorders, unemployment, and housing instability. Further provides that adult jails and prisons can be (rather than are) associated with higher rates of victimization, self harm, long-term disability, and recidivism among the emerging adult population. Further provides that after decades of program based intervention alternatives for juveniles, it is appropriate for the task force to evaluate the efficacy of each of these programs to ensure only those that are reducing criminal behavior and providing for public safety are continued while those that are not providing the expected benefits are phased out. In provisions concerning the composition of the Task Force, provides that the Task Force shall include two representatives (rather than one representative) of a municipal police department. Further provides that the Task Force shall include two representatives (rather than one representative) of a sheriff's office. Further provides that the Task Force shall include two representatives (rather than one representative) of a community based legal services or holistic defense organization serving emerging adults. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 16 : Lisa Davis (D)*, Lakesia Collins (D)*, Michael Crawford (D), Kelly Cassidy (D), Yolonda Morris (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Maurice West (D), Carol Ammons (D), William Davis (D), Kimberly du Buclet (D), Nick Smith (D), Rita Mayfield (D), Marcus Evans (D), Sonya Harper (D), Curtis Tarver (D), Mary Beth Canty (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 41
• Last Amended: 04/20/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Mary Beth Canty
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2389 • Last Action 05/21/2026
Makes changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to the Access to Public Records Act, aiming to increase transparency and accountability. It clarifies what constitutes a public record, including making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information publicly accessible, and specifies that police reports of incidents that do not result in an arrest, as well as final internal affairs investigation reports, are now public records. Body camera footage from police will also be accessible within 30 days of a request. The bill significantly increases the penalties for public officials who knowingly or recklessly violate the Act, raising the maximum fines for knowing violations from $2,000 to $4,000 and for reckless violations from $1,000 to $2,000. Additionally, it introduces provisions to address individuals who file frivolous requests with the intent to disrupt government operations, allowing public bodies to seek court orders to be relieved of fulfilling such requests and potentially barring repeat offenders from making future requests for a period. The bill also adjusts the timeframe for making arrest logs public from five days to thirty days after an arrest and reduces the cost per copied page of written documents from $0.15 to $0.05, while also waiving the first two hours of search and retrieval costs. Finally, it clarifies that settlement agreements for legal claims involving governmental entities are public records.
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Bill Summary: This act would make numerous changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public. Additionally, this act would include a police report of an incident that does not lead to an arrest as accessible to public records request. Any final reports of investigations conducted by internal affairs would be accessible to public records request. All police worn body camera footage would be accessible to public records request and would be made available within thirty (30) days. Arrest logs made within thirty (30) days of arrest, changed from five (5) days previously, would be accessible to public records request. A civil fine for public officials who knowingly violate this chapter would increase from two thousand dollars ($2,000) to four thousand dollars ($4,000), and if a public official recklessly violates this chapter a fine of two thousand dollars ($2,000) is a change from one thousand dollars ($1,000) previously. There would also be relief in the case of a person filing frivolous request with the intent to disrupt government operations. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/30/2026
• Added: 01/31/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Lou DiPalma (D)*, John Burke (D), Bob Britto (D), Melissa Murray (D), Walter Felag (D), Mark McKenney (D), Victoria Gu (D), Hanna Gallo (D), Sam Zurier (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/30/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H8562 • Last Action 05/21/2026
Establishes the office of inspector general to investigate the management and operation of agencies in an effort to prevent and deter fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new independent and nonpartisan administrative agency called the Office of Inspector General, tasked with investigating the management and operations of state government agencies to prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds, which is defined as state, federal, or local funds. The Inspector General, appointed by the governor with the senate's consent, will oversee the office, which will have the power to hire staff with relevant expertise and may contract for technical experts, including legal counsel. Investigative staff will need to be certified in areas like investigation, auditing, or evaluation within three years of hiring. The bill outlines qualifications for the Inspector General, including a bachelor's degree and at least ten years of professional experience in relevant fields, along with specific certifications. It also details the appointment process, involving an independent advisory commission, and sets term limits for the Inspector General. The Inspector General's jurisdiction covers the executive branch of state government, and their duties include investigating whistleblower retaliation claims, reporting suspected wrongdoing, conducting special investigations, and educating agencies on prevention. The office will maintain a public hotline and website for complaints and will collaborate with other state and federal entities. The bill grants the Inspector General access to agency records and the authority to issue subpoenas, with non-compliance potentially leading to court action. Investigations will conclude with a report and decision, which will be made public unless it compromises a criminal investigation, and findings of fraud or criminal activity will be referred to the Attorney General or other law enforcement agencies. The bill also includes whistleblower protections, ensuring no retaliation against individuals who report waste, fraud, or abuse, and mandates annual public reports summarizing the office's activities.
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Bill Summary: This act would establish the office of inspector general to investigate the management and operation of agencies in an effort to prevent and deter fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement in the expenditure of public funds. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 05/19/2026
• Added: 05/20/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Chris Blazejewski (D)*, Katie Kazarian (D), Raymond Hull (D), Justine Caldwell (D), Evan Shanley (D), Charlene Lima (D), Megan Cotter (D), Tina Spears (D), Samuel Azzinaro (D), George Nardone (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 05/19/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #HB935 • Last Action 05/20/2026
Let criminal court make certain mental capacity determinations
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows criminal courts to determine if a defendant is a "mentally ill person subject to court order" or a "person with an intellectual disability subject to institutionalization by court order" when deciding if the defendant is competent to stand trial. This means that instead of these specific mental capacity determinations being exclusively handled by probate courts, criminal courts can now make these judgments within the context of a criminal case. The bill amends numerous sections of existing law related to mental health and developmental disabilities, and enacts a new section to facilitate this change, ensuring that both probate and criminal courts can handle these matters.
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Bill Summary: To amend sections 149.43, 2101.24, 2108.90, 2945.38, 2945.39, 2945.401, 5122.01, 5122.02, 5122.03, 5122.05, 5122.09, 5122.10, 5122.11, 5122.111, 5122.112, 5122.12, 5122.13, 5122.14, 5122.141, 5122.15, 5122.20, 5122.23, 5122.25, 5122.26, 5122.27, 5122.271, 5122.29, 5122.31, 5122.311, 5122.35, 5122.36, 5122.38, 5122.41, 5122.43, 5123.01, 5123.21, 5123.39, 5123.57, 5123.58, 5123.61, 5123.70, 5123.71, 5123.73, 5123.74, 5123.75, 5123.76, 5123.79, 5123.81, 5123.811, 5123.86, 5123.89, 5123.92, 5123.95, 5123.96, and 5123.97 and to enact section 5122.051 of the Revised Code to allow a criminal court to determine whether a defendant is a mentally ill person subject to a court order or a person with an intellectual disability subject to institutionalization if the criminal court is determining whether the defendant is competent to stand trial.
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• Introduced: 05/20/2026
• Added: 05/21/2026
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Josh Williams (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 05/20/2026
• Last Action: Referred to committee: Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01590 • Last Action 05/19/2026
Allows members of a public body who cannot physically attend a meeting due to a disability to be counted as present for quorum purposes at meetings attended remotely; makes provisions of law relating to permitting videoconferencing and remote participation in public meetings under certain circumstances permanent.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes permanent the ability for public bodies to conduct meetings via videoconferencing and remote participation, which was previously a temporary measure. Specifically, it allows members with a disability, as defined by law, who cannot physically attend a meeting to be counted as present for quorum purposes if they participate remotely, provided other requirements for remote meetings are met. This change aims to ensure continued accessibility and participation for all members of public bodies.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to quorum requirements for meetings conducted remotely; and to amend part WW of chapter of the laws of 2022 amending the public officers law relating to permitting videoconferencing and remote participation in public meetings under certain circumstances, in relation to making such provisions permanent
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• Introduced: 01/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Jo Anne Simon (D)*, Jessica González-Rojas (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/10/2025
• Last Action: print number 1590a
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5778 • Last Action 05/19/2026
FOIA-STUDENT COMMS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to exempt certain written communications and their attachments from public disclosure. Specifically, it exempts communications pertaining to a current or former student that were exchanged between an educational institution and the student, or between an educational institution and the student's parent or guardian. This exemption does not apply if the requester has a right to access the records under the Illinois School Student Records Act or the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which are laws designed to protect student privacy and educational records.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from inspection and copying under the Act written communication and attachments that pertain to a current or former student and that were sent between an educational institution and the student or between an educational institution and the student's parent or guardian, except if the Illinois School Student Records Act or the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act applies.
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• Introduced: 05/15/2026
• Added: 05/16/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Justin Cochran (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 05/15/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S02392 • Last Action 05/19/2026
Allows members of a public body who cannot physically attend a meeting due to a disability to be counted as present for quorum purposes at meetings attended remotely; makes provisions of law relating to permitting videoconferencing and remote participation in public meetings under certain circumstances permanent.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill permanently allows members of a public body, such as a government committee or board, who have a disability that prevents them from attending meetings in person to be counted as present for quorum purposes if they participate remotely via videoconferencing, as long as other requirements for remote participation are met. Additionally, the bill makes permanent the existing provisions of law that permit videoconferencing and remote participation in public meetings under certain circumstances, which were previously set to expire.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to quorum requirements for meetings conducted remotely; and to amend part WW of chapter of the laws of 2022 amending the public officers law relating to permitting videoconferencing and remote participation in public meetings under certain circumstances, in relation to making such provisions permanent
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Roxanne Persaud (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: PRINT NUMBER 2392A
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DE bill #SB290 • Last Action 05/19/2026
An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Public Bodies.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Delaware's law regarding public bodies to clarify what constitutes an official meeting that must be open to the public. Specifically, it adds a provision stating that a public body is not considered to have held a meeting under this chapter simply because a quorum of its members attends a meeting of another public body or serves as members of another public body that is holding a meeting. This aims to prevent situations where attendance at other public meetings could inadvertently trigger open meeting requirements for a separate body.
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Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Public Bodies.
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• Introduced: 04/22/2026
• Added: 04/22/2026
• Session: 153rd General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Bryan Townsend (D)*, Raymond Seigfried (D)*, Kerri Harris (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 04/22/2026
• Last Action: Assigned to Administration Committee in House
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1858 • Last Action 05/18/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to community meetings conducted with electronic participation.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows local governmental bodies in Tennessee to conduct community meetings, which are defined as gatherings of community members to discuss public business, using electronic means of communication, such as video or audio conferencing. A "local governing body" refers to a group of two or more individuals authorized to make decisions or recommendations for a public entity. If a local governing body chooses to hold a meeting with some members participating electronically, they must ensure the public can view or listen to the meeting in real-time and participate electronically if they normally would. They also need to provide clear notice about the electronic participation, including how to access the meeting, and specify the physical location if there's an in-person option. Furthermore, the bill requires these bodies to record the meetings, post the recordings online within four business days for at least a year, and retain them for at least three years. Members participating electronically must be able to hear and speak to each other, identify who is present with them, and be identifiable by name to the public throughout the meeting. However, a crucial limitation is that no votes can be taken during meetings where members are participating electronically.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes local governmental bodies to conduct certain community meetings via electronic means of communication. - Amends TCA Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Dave Wright (R)*, John Crawford (R), Elaine Davis (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 05/11/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 895
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1944 • Last Action 05/18/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to community meetings conducted with electronic participation.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows local governmental bodies in Tennessee, which are groups with two or more members authorized to make decisions or recommendations for public bodies, to conduct community meetings, defined as gatherings to discuss public business, using electronic communication. This means that members of these local governing bodies can participate remotely. If electronic participation occurs, the public must be able to view and listen to the meeting in real-time through electronic means, and participate electronically if they normally would be allowed to. Local governments must provide public notice stating that electronic participation will occur, include the physical location for in-person attendance if applicable, and provide clear instructions on how to access the meeting electronically. They are also required to record the meeting, post the recording online within four business days, and keep it for at least a year, with the recording itself retained for three years. Additionally, all participating local government members must be able to hear and speak to each other simultaneously, identify individuals present at their remote location, and be identifiable by name to the public throughout the meeting, though they are prohibited from voting on any matters during such electronically-participated meetings.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes local governmental bodies to conduct certain community meetings via electronic means of communication. - Amends TCA Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Richard Briggs (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 05/11/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/05/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1187 • Last Action 05/18/2026
Open meetings: majority.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, by adding Section 54952.65 to the Government Code, clarifies the definition of "majority" for the purposes of the Ralph M. Brown Act, which governs open meetings for local government agencies in California. The Ralph M. Brown Act generally requires that meetings of legislative bodies, such as city councils or county boards of supervisors, be open to the public. A "meeting" under this act is defined as a gathering of a majority of the members of a legislative body to discuss or act on official business. This bill explicitly defines "majority" as the number of members that is more than half of the total number of seats on the legislative body, and importantly, it specifies that even if a seat is vacant, it still counts towards the total number of seats when determining a majority. This clarification aims to ensure that actions taken by legislative bodies always have the support of a substantial portion of their members, thereby promoting public scrutiny of government decisions. The bill also includes legislative findings to satisfy constitutional requirements for statutes that may limit public access to government meetings.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Section 54952.65 to the Government Code, relating to local government.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 02/20/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : María Elena Durazo (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Com. on L. GOV.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1290 • Last Action 05/18/2026
Open meetings; planned communities
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law regarding planned communities to clarify that closed portions of board of directors meetings can only be used for consideration of specific matters, such as legal advice or litigation, without taking any action. Planned communities are associations of homeowners in developments that often have shared amenities and rules. The bill specifies that while discussions in closed sessions are permitted for certain sensitive topics, no formal decisions or votes can occur during these private meetings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending section 33-1804, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to planned communities.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 04/23/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Janae Shamp (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 34
• Last Amended: 04/21/2026
• Last Action: Senate minority caucus: Conference
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #S4559 • Last Action 05/18/2026
Energy Cost Fairness and Reliability Act of 2026
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Energy Cost Fairness and Reliability Act of 2026, aims to address the growing strain on the electricity grid caused by increased demand from large facilities like data centers, as well as other factors like electrification and manufacturing growth. It mandates that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), or the "Commission," establish standardized procedures for how these "large load facilities" (defined as those with a peak demand exceeding 50 megawatts) connect to the interstate transmission system. Key provisions include requiring these large load customers to pay for all interconnection studies and network upgrades needed to accommodate their connection, ensuring they have the capability for "demand flexibility" (the ability to reduce or shift their electricity use) and are "curtailable" (can reduce demand when requested by the utility), and requiring them to secure new generation resources to meet their power needs. The bill also introduces prioritization for interconnection requests that include battery backup, use of registered apprenticeships and labor peace agreements during construction, and encourages the use of advanced computing like artificial intelligence to improve the efficiency of managing interconnection requests. Furthermore, it directs the Department of Energy to collect data on data center energy use and establish an AI testbed to research energy efficiency and grid integration, with a report to Congress and FERC on findings and recommendations. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not grant FERC authority to regulate retail electricity rates, which remain under state jurisdiction.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend the Federal Power Act to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to issue a final rule relating to the interconnection of large load facilities with the transmission system, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 05/19/2026
• Added: 05/30/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 1 : Adam Schiff (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1291 • Last Action 05/18/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal identifying information of victim support advocates and victim support care providers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," which currently protects the personal identifying information of judicial officers, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators, and prosecutors, as well as their immediate family members, to now include "victim support advocates" and "victim support care providers." A victim support advocate is defined as a victim witness coordinator or advocate within the State Office of Victim-Witness Advocacy or a county prosecutor's office, and a victim support care provider includes program coordinators or forensic sexual assault nurse examiners involved in the Statewide Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program or members of a Sexual Assault Response Team. The purpose of this expansion is to prevent the disclosure of personal identifying information, such as home addresses and phone numbers, of these individuals who provide critical assistance to victims of sexual assault, thereby protecting them from potential harassment or retaliation by perpetrators.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit the disclosure of personal identifying information of a victim support advocate and victim support care provider. Under current law, Daniel's Law protects the personal identifying information of active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators in the Division of Child Protection and Permanency and prosecutors, as well as the personal information of immediate family members who reside in the same household as those individuals. Public and private parties are forbidden from publishing the home address and telephone number of a person covered by Daniel's Law. This bill expands Daniel's Law to prohibit the disclosure of personal identifying information of victim support advocates and victim support care providers. A "victim support advocate" is defined as a victim witness coordinator or a victim witness advocate in the State Office of Victim-Witness Advocacy in the Division of Criminal Justice in the Department of Law and Public Safety or in a county prosecutor's office. A "victim support care provider" is defined as a program coordinator or forensic sexual assault nurse examiner appointed or designated to serve in the Statewide Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program, or a member of the Sexual Assault Response Team. Victim support advocates and victim support care providers are sources of critical care and assistance to victims of sexual assault. Because victim support advocates and victim support care providers work directly with victims of sexual assault, they are vulnerable to harassment and retaliation by perpetrators of sexual assault. Extending the protection of Daniel's Law to victim support advocates and victim support care providers is intended to protect and provide a measure of comfort to those in this vital profession.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Linda Greenstein (D)*, Nick Scutari (D)*, Patrick Diegnan (D), Angela Mcknight (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/30/2025
• Last Action: Reported from Senate Committee, 2nd Reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2316 • Last Action 05/18/2026
Regulates data brokers and collection and dissemination of certain sensitive information.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to prohibit data brokers, defined as entities that collect or buy personal data from individuals they don't have a direct relationship with and then sell or share it, from selling "sensitive data," which includes information like racial or ethnic origin, religious beliefs, health conditions, financial account details, sexual orientation, citizenship or immigration status, genetic or biometric data, and precise geolocation data, regardless of the volume of data they handle. Additionally, the bill requires data brokers to register annually with the Division of Consumer Affairs, pay a registration fee, and provide detailed information about their data collection, sales, and opt-out practices, with specific provisions for data concerning individuals under 18 years old. Failure to comply with these registration and data handling requirements can result in significant civil penalties, and the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs is empowered to adopt necessary regulations to implement these provisions.
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Bill Summary: Regulates data brokers and collection and dissemination of certain sensitive information.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 05/20/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : John McKeon (D)*, Raj Mukherji (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 05/19/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4267 • Last Action 05/15/2026
TWP CD QUORUM
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows a supervisor or trustee of a small township (under 2,500 inhabitants) to also serve on a school board, and requires townships with a website maintained by full-time staff to post meeting notices and agendas online until the meeting concludes. Additionally, it permits park districts to collaborate with townships on joint recreational programs for individuals with disabilities.
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Bill Summary: Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Further amends the Township Code. Provides that, notwithstanding any other law, a supervisor or trustee of a township with fewer than 2,500 inhabitants may simultaneously serve as a member of a school board if otherwise qualified. Provides that a township that has a website that the full-time staff of the township maintains shall also post on its website the notice and agenda of the annual and any special township meetings. Provides that a notice and agenda of the annual or a special township meeting that is posted on a township's website shall remain posted on the website at least until the annual or special township meeting is concluded. Amends the Park District Code. Allows park districts to enter into contracts with townships for the purpose of providing for the establishment, maintenance, and management of joint recreational programs for persons with disabilities.
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Dan Didech (D)*, Mike Halpin (D)*, Gregg Johnson (D), Marty McLaughlin (R), Amy Briel (D), Nabeela Syed (D), Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Laura Fine (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 37
• Last Amended: 04/20/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB1720 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Establishes general requirements for meetings of governing bodies of political subdivisions
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for public meetings of local government bodies (such as county, city, town, or village governing bodies) in Missouri, mandating that before July 1, 2027, each governing body must adopt a meeting speaker policy that ensures a designated public comment period at the beginning of every regular public meeting. During this period, residents, businesses, and taxpayers can speak without content restrictions, with each speaker guaranteed at least three minutes, and the entire public comment period limited to one hour or twenty speakers. The bill requires that governing bodies allow public attendance, permit speakers to provide only their name and address, and prohibit banning individuals from meetings except in specific circumstances involving peace disturbance. Additionally, the bill mandates that governing bodies provide an alternate method for individuals unable to attend meetings to submit written statements, and requires that any meetings held with less than 24 hours' notice or conducted electronically must clearly state the justification in the meeting minutes. The policy aims to ensure transparency, accessibility, and fair public participation in local government meetings while maintaining reasonable decorum and civility.
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Bill Summary: Establishes general requirements for meetings of governing bodies of political subdivisions
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• Introduced: 12/01/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Richard West (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/01/2025
• Last Action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB141 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Provides relative to certain information on court filings
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective January 1, 2026, aims to protect private information in court filings by prohibiting the inclusion of the first five digits of social security numbers, tax identification numbers, state identification numbers, driver's license numbers, and financial account numbers in all court documents filed by attorneys, with the exception of expungement proceedings in criminal cases. It also removes the prohibition on filing full dates of birth from these documents, while still requiring filers to ensure no other information protected by state or federal law is disclosed. The bill also clarifies that for electronic filings, the electronic record will be considered the official record, and public access to these filings will follow the same rules as paper filings, with a note that prosecuting agencies may still be required to provide certain information in criminal cases.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact Code of Civil Procedure Article 253(B)(2) and Code of Criminal Procedure Article 14.1(B), relative to private information in court filings; to revise the types of information prohibited in court filings; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Nicholas Muscarello (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2490 • Last Action 05/15/2026
A bill for an act relating to public meetings and records, including public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body, supervision and fees associated with examining and copying public records, employment separation information for certain government employees, contractors, or appointees, and injunctions to restrain vexatious requesters. (Formerly HSB 578.) Effective date: 07/01/2026.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective July 1, 2026, aims to update Iowa's laws concerning public meetings and records by modifying several key provisions. Firstly, it enhances public notice requirements for governmental body meetings by mandating that notices be posted in a prominent and conspicuous place, visible at all times, and also on the governmental body's primary internet site or other primary online presence, in addition to advising news media who have requested notice. Secondly, it clarifies rules around the examination and copying of public records, stipulating that custodians cannot require a requester's physical presence and must fulfill requests received in writing, by telephone, or electronically, while also establishing that records taking less than thirty minutes to produce should generally be provided at no cost beyond copying fees, and that actual costs for services should be clearly communicated and reasonable, excluding ordinary operational expenses. Thirdly, the bill expands the information that must be disclosed regarding the separation of certain government employees, contractors, or appointees, requiring the disclosure of their last day of work or active function and any payments or benefits received beyond compensation for work performed. Finally, it introduces a new provision allowing governmental bodies to seek court injunctions to restrain individuals found to be "vexatious requesters"—those whose requests, in totality, are not in the public interest, constitute a pattern of harassment, and substantially injure the government body's ability to perform its duties—while also outlining criteria for determining vexatious conduct and providing for the award of costs and attorney fees to requesters if an injunction is not granted.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC MEETINGS AND RECORDS, INCLUDING PUBLIC NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR MEETINGS OF A GOVERNMENTAL BODY, SUPERVISION AND FEES ASSOCIATED WITH EXAMINING AND COPYING PUBLIC RECORDS, EMPLOYMENT SEPARATION INFORMATION FOR CERTAIN GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, CONTRACTORS, OR APPOINTEES, AND INJUNCTIONS TO RESTRAIN VEXATIOUS REQUESTERS.
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• Introduced: 02/16/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 04/24/2026
• Last Action: Signed by Governor. H.J. 05/15.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #SB1 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Provides for electronic voting requirements under the Open Meetings Law. (8/1/26)
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Law in Louisiana to allow for electronic voting by members of public bodies, clarifying that votes cast and recorded using electronic machines will satisfy the existing requirement for "viva voce" (spoken aloud) voting. The Open Meetings Law, which ensures transparency by requiring government bodies to conduct their business in public, previously mandated that all votes be spoken aloud and recorded in official minutes. This change, which will be applied retroactively, means that when a public body votes electronically, the recorded electronic vote will be considered a valid public record, maintaining the spirit of open and accountable governance.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 42:14(C), relative to the Open Meetings Law; to provide for viva voce voting; to provide for electronic voting; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Samuel Jenkins (D)*, Tony Bacala (R), Dewith Carrier (R), Adrian Fisher (D), Steven Jackson (D), Vanessa LaFleur (D), Ed Larvadain (D), Rodney Lyons (D), Denise Marcelle (D), Candace Newell (D), Joy Walters (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB1633 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Establishes provisions relating to public access to arrest warrant records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new rules for public access to arrest warrant records in Missouri, focusing on warrants related to serious criminal offenses. Specifically, the bill prevents arrest warrants, probable cause affidavits, and associated court records for certain serious felonies (such as class A or B felonies, dangerous felonies, and sexual offenses involving minors) from being publicly available through online court systems until either the warrant is executed and the accused is in custody, or a prosecutor successfully argues to a court that public disclosure is necessary for public safety or justice. The bill provides exceptions to these restrictions for law enforcement, attorneys, court personnel, the accused, victims, and those with court authorization. Additionally, the bill protects court clerks and officials from civil or criminal liability when restricting access in good faith, and requires the state courts administrator to develop rules and technical controls to implement these restrictions. The bill also preserves the court's authority to issue protective orders, seal records to prevent victim harm, and release limited information to locate fugitives, while ensuring that these new provisions take precedence over existing court operating rules regarding case record access.
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Bill Summary: Establishes provisions relating to public access to arrest warrant records
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• Introduced: 12/01/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Matthew Overcast (R)*, Marty Murray (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/02/2025
• Last Action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB2851 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Enacts provisions relating to confidentiality of residential addresses of law enforcement officers and judges
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Missouri Shield Act," allows current or former law enforcement officers and judges to request that their residential addresses and telephone numbers be kept confidential in public records maintained by county recorders, clerks, collectors, assessors, treasurers, and auditors. To do this, an eligible person must file an affidavit with the presiding judge in their county, detailing their personal information, property details, and the specific documents they wish to shield. The judge will review the affidavit to ensure it meets the bill's requirements and that shielding the information would reduce danger to the applicant or another person. If approved, a court order will be issued, instructing the relevant county officials to "shield" these documents, meaning their electronic access will be prohibited to the general public. This shielding is temporary, lasting five years, after which it can be renewed. The bill outlines specific exceptions to this confidentiality, allowing access for parties to an instrument, law enforcement with proper legal documentation, licensed attorneys, title insurers, and government offices. It also includes provisions for vacating or staying court orders if circumstances change and protects county officials from liability if they make a good faith effort to comply.
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Bill Summary: Enacts provisions relating to confidentiality of residential addresses of law enforcement officers and judges
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Schulte (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB2466 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Makes the addresses of state elected officials confidential and not public records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Missouri Revised Statutes to make the home addresses of statewide elected officials and members of the state legislature confidential and not subject to public disclosure. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision to the existing law governing public records (Section 610.021) that prevents the addresses of these government officials from being publicly accessible. The bill allows for redaction of addresses from records, meaning that if an official's address appears in a document, it can be blacked out or removed before the document is released. However, the bill does not change any residency requirements for these officials, ensuring that they still must meet existing legal standards for where they live. The change is intended to protect the privacy and potentially the personal safety of elected state officials by preventing their home addresses from being easily obtainable by the general public. This modification is part of a broader set of exceptions to public records disclosure, which includes other sensitive information like personal medical records, security details, and certain confidential communications.
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Bill Summary: Makes the addresses of state elected officials confidential and not public records
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• Introduced: 12/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Jones (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/16/2025
• Last Action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB2363 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Modifies provisions relating to the disclosure of information contained in vital records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Missouri state law regarding the disclosure of vital records (official documents like birth and death certificates) by changing the existing regulations about who can access such information. Specifically, the bill eliminates the previous provision that allowed people to request a listing of individuals born or who died on a specific date, removing the ability to obtain names and dates without further restrictions. Instead, the bill maintains three key ways information can be disclosed: first, the department of vital records may authorize disclosures for legitimate research purposes; second, copies can be provided to qualified applicants following specific application procedures outlined in another section of law; and third, death records that are over fifty years old can be disclosed upon request. The overall intent appears to be limiting casual access to vital records while still preserving pathways for research, official processes, and historical documentation.
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Bill Summary: Modifies provisions relating to the disclosure of information contained in vital records
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• Introduced: 12/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Schulte (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/10/2025
• Last Action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB1012 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Provides relative to access to personal information of a victim of a sex offense
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment and Privacy Protection Act, aims to protect the personal information of sex offense victims by limiting public access to it. It defines a victim of a sex offense as a "protected individual" and requires that any request to access their information must be accompanied by official documentation, such as a police report, proving their status as a victim. The bill prohibits individuals from knowingly publishing a victim's personal information if it poses an imminent and serious threat, leading to actions like assault, harassment, trespass, or property damage. Public bodies are mandated to acknowledge requests to protect a victim's information within five days and remove any previously published personal information within seventy-two hours, or provide a written explanation for delays. Violators who knowingly publish a victim's personal information in a way that causes harm face misdemeanor charges, punishable by up to eighteen months in jail or a $5,000 fine, though this penalty does not apply to public bodies.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact R.S. 44:11.2(A)(10) and (K), relative to public records; to limit access to the personal information of a victim of a sex offense; to provide for definitions; to create the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment and Privacy Protection Act; to provide relative to time delays related to the removal of published personal information; to provide for criminal penalties; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 03/26/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 29 : Delisha Boyd (D)*, Michael Bayham (R), Beth Billings (R), Dewith Carrier (R), Wilford Carter (D), Tehmi Chassion (D), Adrian Fisher (D), Dana Henry (D), Edmond Jordan (D), Alonzo Knox (D), Vanessa LaFleur (D), Terry Landry (D), Ed Larvadain (D), Rodney Lyons (D), Denise Marcelle (D), Chasity Martinez (D), Pat Moore (D), Ed Murray (D), Candace Newell (D), Sylvia Taylor (D), Jeffrey Wiley (R), Regina Barrow (D), Gerald Boudreaux (D), Heather Cloud (R), Katrina Jackson-Andrews (D), Samuel Jenkins (D), Jay Luneau (D), Beth Mizell (R), Ed Price (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB858 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Establishes a public records exemption for Global Positioning System data collected on wildlife and aquatic life
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new exemption to public records laws in Louisiana, specifically concerning data collected by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. The key provision is that any Global Positioning System (GPS) data that identifies the precise location of individual wild animals or aquatic life will now be considered confidential and not subject to public disclosure. This means that information detailing where specific animals are, gathered through tracking devices, will be protected from being accessed by the general public, aiming to safeguard these animals from potential harm or interference.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact R.S. 44:4(65), relative to global positioning data for individual animals; to establish a public records exemption for Department of Wildlife and Fisheries data that identifies the location of individual animals; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 02/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Neil Riser (R)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 05/20/2026
• Last Action: Effective date: 08/01/2026.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB2942 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Adds requirements for providing public school financial information to the public
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires public school districts and charter schools to make detailed financial information publicly available on their websites, starting with the 2027-28 school year, and mandates that this data be in an open-structured, machine-readable format that can be downloaded and sorted. The information must include specific details about income, expenditures, disbursements, administrative positions and their total compensation, active contracts with vendors and organizations (including specific requirements for contracts related to social services, diversity, equity, and inclusion, or other non-instructional programs), a range of teacher salaries, and the source and purpose of all expenditures. Additionally, schools must annually publish a one-page budget summary on their website homepage and distribute it at public meetings, detailing per-pupil expenditures for instruction, student support, administration, and other categories, and also report all unencumbered cash balances for each fund. If a school district or charter school fails to comply, it will face mandatory notification to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, required corrective action, and potential withholding of administrative funds if noncompliance persists for over 180 days. The bill also requires financial data to be updated at least monthly and archived for a minimum of ten years, and provides a template for voluntary use by schools needing assistance with online posting, with a provision for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to host the information if a school lacks a website.
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Bill Summary: Adds requirements for providing public school financial information to the public
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Jones (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #SB106 • Last Action 05/15/2026
Provides that certain photographs, audio or video recordings, digital images regarding a crime scene or used in a criminal prosecution are not public records available for release or to be copied except by clerk of court or a court order. (8/1/26)
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective August 1, 2026, amends Louisiana law to protect certain crime scene and criminal prosecution evidence from public disclosure. Specifically, it states that copies of audio recordings, images, videos, or photographs held by a clerk of court, which are introduced as evidence in a criminal case and depict sensitive content such as autopsies, dead bodies, sexual assault, gruesome injuries, obscene acts, juvenile victims, or specific body parts, will not be considered public records. This means they cannot be released or copied by the public unless the clerk voluntarily releases them, they are already publicly available, or a court order mandates their release. The intent is to prevent the widespread dissemination of potentially disturbing or private images related to criminal proceedings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact R.S. 44:4(65), relative to public records; to provide relative to the confidentiality of crime scene photographs, audio or video recordings, digital images, which may
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• Introduced: 02/22/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Caleb Kleinpeter (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 05/21/2026
• Last Action: Effective date 8/1/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1090 • Last Action 05/14/2026
Contracts; creating the Oklahoma Homeowner Repair Contract Protection Act. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Oklahoma Homeowner Repair Contract Protection Act," establishes new protections for homeowners entering into home repair contracts. It defines a "home solicitation contract" as one where a contractor personally solicits the sale at a buyer's residence, and the buyer agrees to the terms. Importantly, this definition excludes sales made through pre-existing contracts or prior negotiations at a business establishment, and it does not prohibit advertising or responding to homeowner-initiated contact. The core provision grants homeowners the right to cancel a home solicitation contract within five calendar days of signing, requiring written notice sent via certified mail to the contractor. The bill also makes significant changes to the "Invest In Oklahoma" program, transferring oversight and management from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) to the State Treasurer, who will now be responsible for selecting investment advisors, managing investments in private equity, venture capital, growth funds, and direct investments in Oklahoma companies, and promulgating rules for the program. Additionally, the bill modifies the composition and responsibilities of the Cash Management and Investment Oversight Commission, shifting its focus to advising the State Treasurer on investment strategies and reporting, and adjusts reporting requirements for the State Treasurer from monthly to quarterly. The effective date for the homeowner protection provisions is November 1, 2025, while the changes to the "Invest In Oklahoma" program and related oversight provisions become effective November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: public finance - Invest In Oklahoma program - State Treasurer - personnel - promulgation of rules - Cash Management and Investment Oversight Commission - investments - reports - effective date
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 03/05/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Kristen Thompson (R)*, Stacy Jo Adams (R)*
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: HAs read
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1319 • Last Action 05/14/2026
California Public Records Act: public investment funds.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the California Public Records Act to require greater transparency regarding public investment funds' investments in "alternative investments," which are defined as investments in private equity funds, venture funds, hedge funds, or absolute return funds. While the existing law already exempts certain records related to these investments from public disclosure, this bill expands the list of information that must be disclosed. Specifically, it mandates the disclosure of the names of general partners or managers of alternative investment vehicles and individuals with direct or indirect interests in them, along with details about the total commitments and contributions made to these vehicles by all investors, not just the public fund. It also requires disclosure of the basis for extending the term of an alternative investment vehicle, the financial terms of any continuation funds or similar transactions, and, for certain investments, the identity and location of enterprises and employee classifications, as well as information on debt investments and the rating agencies hired by the investment vehicles. The bill asserts that these changes are necessary to ensure public access to information about public investment funds while balancing the protection of trade secrets, and it clarifies that no reimbursement is required for local agencies due to these changes.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 7928.710 of the Government Code, relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2026
• Added: 03/26/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Dave Cortese (D)*, María Elena Durazo (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 04/15/2026
• Last Action: May 14 hearing: Held in committee and under submission.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB514 • Last Action 05/14/2026
Schools; student eligibility; virtual charter school students; Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) activities; policies. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective November 1, 2026, allows students enrolled full-time in virtual charter schools, which are schools offering instruction primarily online, to participate in extracurricular activities administered by the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA), a statewide organization that governs interscholastic activities for public schools. It also permits school districts to adopt policies allowing students in charter schools, virtual charter schools, and those educated through other means (like homeschooling) to participate in the district's extracurricular activities, provided certain eligibility requirements are met, including adherence to academic standards and participation fees. Furthermore, the bill mandates that public schools cannot join any school athletic association that does not permit these students to participate in activities offered by public school districts, ensuring broader access to extracurricular opportunities for a wider range of students.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to alternative education; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 1210.568, which relates to a statewide system of alternative education programs; removing outdated language; directing certain statewide system to include certain designated schools; allowing a school district to implement certain program using full-time virtual or blended instruction; subjecting certain charter schools and virtual charter schools to certain provisions; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. AUTHOR: Remove Representative Moore as principal House author and substitute with Representative Kane. Add as coauthor Representative Moore. AMENDMENT NO. 1. Strike the title, enacting clause, and entire bill and insert: "An Act relating to schools; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 3-140, as amended by Section 10, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 3-140), which relates to student eligibility; authorizing certain virtual charter school students to participate in Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) activities; allowing school districts to adopt a policy for charter school students, virtual charter school students, and students educated by other means to participate in extracurricular activities the district offers; establishing eligibility requirements; providing options for students to participate in other districts under certain circumstances; prescribing participation requirements for students that align with public school district requirements; defining terms; requiring student participants who are educated by other means to adhere to certain academic standards; providing methods of evaluation of academic standards; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 27-103, which relates to school athletic association written policy; prohibiting public schools from joining a school athletic association that does not allow certain students to participate in activities offered by public school districts; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 05/08/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Micheal Bergstrom (R)*, John Kane (R)*, Anthony Moore (R)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: HAs read
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5710 • Last Action 05/14/2026
Energy: electricity; integrated resource planning process; require consideration of all energy sources. Amends secs. 6a, 6l, 6m & 6t of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.6a et seq.) & repeals sec. 6aa of 1939 PA 3 (MCL 460.6aa). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5711'26
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Michigan law concerning public utilities to require that integrated resource planning processes, which are long-term plans electric utilities must file to outline how they will meet future energy needs, consider all energy sources. Specifically, it mandates that these plans assess the potential for energy waste reduction, demand response programs, and the impact of environmental regulations, and it establishes a more frequent review cycle for these plans, moving from every four years to every five years. The bill also makes changes to how costs for new generation facilities are reviewed and approved, emphasizing reliability and affordability for ratepayers while minimizing net costs, and it adjusts the funding mechanisms for the Utility Consumer Representation Fund, which supports consumer advocacy in utility proceedings. Additionally, it repeals a section of the existing law related to energy waste reduction programs.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1939 PA 3, entitled"An act to provide for the regulation and control of public and certain private utilities and other services affected with a public interest within this state; to provide for alternative energy suppliers and certain providers of electric vehicle charging services; to provide for licensing; to include municipally owned utilities and other providers of energy under certain provisions of this act; to create a public service commission and to prescribe and define its powers and duties; to abolish the Michigan public utilities commission and to confer the powers and duties vested by law on the public service commission; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities; to provide for the continuance, transfer, and completion of certain matters and proceedings; to abolish automatic adjustment clauses; to prohibit certain rate increases without notice and hearing; to qualify residential energy conservation programs permitted under state law for certain federal exemption; to create a fund; to encourage the utilization of resource recovery facilities; to prohibit certain acts and practices of providers of energy; to allow for the securitization of stranded costs; to reduce rates; to provide for appeals; to provide appropriations; to declare the effect and purpose of this act; to prescribe remedies and penalties; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,"by amending sections 6a, 6l, 6m, and 6t (MCL 460.6a, 460.6l, 460.6m, and 460.6t), sections 6a, 6m, and 6t as amended by 2023 PA 231 and section 6l as amended by 2016 PA 341; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2026
• Added: 03/12/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 40 : Pauline Wendzel (R)*, Ron Robinson (R), Brian BeGole (R), Angela Rigas (R), Matthew Bierlein (R), Joe Aragona (R), Ken Borton (R), Mike Hoadley (R), Brad Paquette (R), J.R. Roth (R), Jennifer Wortz (R), Steve Frisbie (R), Jaime Greene (R), Tom Kuhn (R), Joseph Pavlov (R), Doug Wozniak (R), David Martin (R), Tim Kelly (R), Jerry Neyer (R), Greg Alexander (R), Greg Markkanen (R), Jamie Thompson (R), Brad Slagh (R), David Prestin (R), Gina Johnsen (R), Bill Schuette (R), Parker Fairbairn (R), Tom Kunse (R), Timmy Beson (R), Mike Harris (R), Jay DeBoyer (R), Greg VanWoerkom (R), Karl Bohnak (R), Alicia St. Germaine (R), Kathy Schmaltz (R), Phil Green (R), Rachelle Smit (R), Mike Mueller (R), Rylee Linting (R), Pat Outman (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 05/12/2026
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Government Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1593 • Last Action 05/13/2026
Higher education; removing language regarding the promulgation of rules and the presidential search process for the Board of Trustees for Oklahoma State University/Tulsa. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the existing law concerning the Board of Trustees for Oklahoma State University/Tulsa by removing language that required the Board to create its own rules and policies for its operations and procedures, as well as removing specific details about how the president of the university should be selected through a search process involving both the Board of Trustees and the Board of Regents for the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical Colleges (A&M Board). The bill also removes outdated language related to the transition period of the university. The changes are intended to streamline operations and are declared an emergency, meaning the bill will take effect immediately upon passage and approval, rather than on a specific future date.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1593 By: Gollihare of the Senate and Moore of the House An Act relating to higher education; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 4663, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 230, O.S.L. 2024 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 4663), which relates to the Board of Trustees for Oklahoma State University/Tulsa; removing requirement for the Board to promulgate certain rules and enact certain policies; removing outdated language; removing language regarding presidential search process; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Board of Trustees for Oklahoma State University/Tulsa
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Todd Gollihare (R)*, Anthony Moore (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/12/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2508 • Last Action 05/13/2026
In miscellaneous provisions relating to emergency management services, providing for exemption of records from access.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania law to exempt records of volunteer emergency medical services (EMS), fire, and rescue companies from public access under the Right-to-Know Law, which is the state's law governing public access to government records. However, this exemption does not apply to records directly related to funding or resources provided by a local municipality, as specified in various sections of Pennsylvania's codes concerning townships, municipalities, and emergency services. The bill defines "volunteer EMS company," "volunteer fire company," and "volunteer rescue company" by referencing existing definitions in section 7802 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 35 (Health and Safety) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in miscellaneous provisions relating to emergency management services, providing for exemption of records from access.
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• Introduced: 05/12/2026
• Added: 05/14/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Lee James (R)*, Perry Stambaugh (R), Andrew Kuzma (R), Tina Pickett (R), Jake Banta (R), Dave Zimmerman (R), Joe Ciresi (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/13/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2319 • Last Action 05/13/2026
Provides that public meetings involving collective bargaining agreements of school teachers shall be open to the public.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to ensure that public meetings involving collective bargaining agreements for public school teachers are open to the public, meaning these discussions, which were previously allowed to be held privately, will now be conducted in view of the public. Collective bargaining refers to the negotiation process between employers and employee unions, in this case, concerning the terms and conditions of employment for teachers. This change is intended to increase transparency in the decision-making process for teacher contracts and will take effect immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would provide that public meetings involving collective bargaining agreements of school teachers shall be open to the public. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 01/23/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Jessica de la Cruz (R)*, Ryan Pearson (D), Sam Zurier (D), Brian Thompson (D), Ana Quezada (D), Thomas Paolino (R), Gordon Rogers (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/23/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #HB801 • Last Action 05/13/2026
Enact the Ohio Privacy Act
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Ohio Privacy Act, establishes rules for how state agencies in Ohio handle "private information," which is defined as any data about an individual that is not a public record. The act prohibits state agencies from collecting more private information than is necessary for their duties, and from collecting information about citizenship or immigration status unless legally required. It also restricts state agencies from disclosing private information for purposes unrelated to their programs, and any entity receiving private information must agree not to share it further, to use it only for the stated purpose, and to be liable for penalties if they misuse it; these information-sharing agreements must be publicly posted on the agency's website. State agencies can share private information as "deidentified data," meaning it's anonymized and cannot be linked back to an individual, if it benefits public services, or under specific circumstances like obtaining individual consent, a court warrant, a lawful court order, or a subpoena. If a state agency receives a request that might violate these rules, it must refer it to the Attorney General for assessment. Individuals harmed by a violation of this act can sue for damages, with specific amounts set for different types of violations, and may also recover actual damages and additional penalties for intentional violations, all to protect residents' privacy from government overreach.
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Bill Summary: To enact section 149.61 of the Revised Code regarding the provision of personal data to out- of-state entities and to name this act the Ohio Privacy Act.
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• Introduced: 03/31/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 34 : Allison Russo (D)*, Munira Abdullahi (D), Rachel Baker (D), Sean Brennan (D), Juanita Brent (D), Darnell Brewer (D), Karen Brownlee (D), Ashley Bryant Bailey (D), Christine Cockley (D), Chris Glassburn (D), Michele Grim (D), Derrick Hall (D), Latyna Humphrey (D), Dani Isaacsohn (D), Dontavius Jarrells (D), Meredith Lawson-Rowe (D), Crystal Lett (D), Lauren McNally (D), Joe Miller (D), Ismail Mohamed (D), Beryl Brown Piccolantonio (D), Tristan Rader (D), Phil Robinson (D), Elgin Rogers (D), Mark Sigrist (D), Veronica Sims (D), Anita Somani (D), Bride Sweeney (D), Eric Synenberg (D), Cecil Thomas (D), Desiree Tims (D), Dan Troy (D), Terrence Upchurch (D), Erika White (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/31/2026
• Last Action: Referred to committee: Technology and Innovation
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #SB351 • Last Action 05/12/2026
Allow deployed service member to attend public meetings virtually
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows an active duty service member, defined as a member of the U.S. armed forces performing active duty under Title 10 of the United States Code, who is part of a public body in Ohio to attend meetings or hearings virtually via video conference or similar technology, provided they are deployed outside the public body's jurisdiction. This provision is intended to enable service members to continue their public service responsibilities even when deployed, by allowing them to participate remotely in meetings of public bodies, which are defined as governmental entities that conduct public business. The bill amends existing law to create this specific exception, ensuring that deployed service members can still be present and vote in meetings, subject to the public body adopting a policy outlining the specific conditions for such virtual attendance.
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Bill Summary: an active duty service member on deployment, and who is a member of a public body in the state, to attend meetings of the public body virtually.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2026
• Added: 02/05/2026
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Nathan Manning (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Senate General Government 1st Hearing, Sponsor (15:00:00 5/12/2026 North Hearing Room)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB264 • Last Action 05/12/2026
Maryland Data Privacy and Protection Act of 2026
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Maryland Data Privacy and Protection Act of 2026, aims to strengthen privacy protections for Maryland residents by imposing new requirements on state government units regarding the collection, use, and retention of personal information. Key provisions include defining "sensitive data" to encompass a broad range of personal details like health, genetic, biometric, and precise geolocation information, as well as data pertaining to children. State government units will be required to limit the collection of personal information to only what is necessary for a "legitimate government purpose" (a clearly established need for official government functions), ensure it is accurate and current, and retain it only as long as reasonably needed, after which it must be securely deleted or de-identified. Furthermore, each state government unit must designate a Privacy Officer to oversee compliance and post a clear privacy notice on its website detailing what information is collected, why, and how it is used, along with their privacy policies. The bill also mandates that state government entities develop and publish procedures to prevent the sale and redisclosure of personal records and geolocation data, particularly addressing concerns about data brokers and the potential misuse of sensitive information, with these procedures to be submitted to the General Assembly by July 1, 2026, and the act taking effect on October 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Limiting the personal information that may be collected, maintained, processed, and retained by units of State government under certain circumstances; requiring certain personal information to be deleted or de-identified under certain circumstances; requiring each unit to post a certain privacy notice on its Internet website and establishing certain requirements for privacy notices and privacy policies; requiring each unit of State government to designate a Privacy Officer; etc.
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• Introduced: 01/11/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Government, Labor, and Elections
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 05/18/2026
• Last Action: Approved by the Governor - Chapter 435
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7022 • Last Action 05/12/2026
Public Records/Examination and Assessment Instruments
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Florida law regarding the confidentiality of examination and assessment instruments, which are tests and related materials used to measure student learning and program effectiveness. It expands the exemption from public records requirements, meaning these materials will be kept private, to include instruments held by a wider range of educational entities, such as public schools, Florida College System institutions, state universities, and their governing boards, in addition to the Department of Education and the State Board of Education. The bill also requires the State Board of Education and the Board of Governors to establish rules for how these records are kept and eventually disposed of, and it clarifies that these entities can share confidential information with each other. Furthermore, it extends the date when this exemption is scheduled to expire from 2026 to 2031, and includes a statement of public necessity explaining that keeping these assessment materials confidential is crucial to prevent cheating, maintain the accuracy of tests, and avoid costly replacements.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 1008.23, F.S.; deleting a duplicative exemption from public records requirements for certain examination and assessment instruments; expanding an exemption from public records requirements for examination and assessment instruments to include such instruments when held by certain entities; requiring the State Board of Education and the Board of Governors to adopt rules and regulations, respectively, governing the retention and disposal process for specified records; deleting a provision requiring the State Board of Education and the Board of Governors to adopt certain rules and regulations, respectively, governing access to records; authorizing specified entities to disclose exempt information to certain entities; requiring specified entities to disclose confidential and exempt information in certain circumstances; providing construction; extending the scheduled repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education Pre-K - 12
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-69
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AK bill #HB367 • Last Action 05/12/2026
Consumer Data Privacy Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Consumer Data Privacy Act, establishes new regulations for how businesses handle consumer personal information in Alaska, aiming to enhance privacy protections. It mandates that businesses meeting certain thresholds for collecting or processing personal data, specifically those that collect or process data from at least 35,000 consumers or 10,000 consumers and derive over 20% of their revenue from selling that data, must comply with these new rules, with exemptions for government entities and certain other organizations. The Act grants consumers rights to access, correct, delete, and obtain a copy of their personal data, as well as to opt out of the sale of their data, targeted advertising, and profiling that produces significant legal or similar effects. It also requires businesses, referred to as "controllers," to implement data minimization practices, obtain affirmative consent for processing sensitive data, and provide clear privacy notices detailing data collection, purpose, and third-party sharing. Furthermore, the bill introduces a data broker registry, requiring entities that knowingly collect and sell personal data of consumers with whom they have no direct relationship to register with the state and pay a fee, with these fees contributing to a consumer privacy account used for enforcement. Violations of these provisions are considered unfair or deceptive trade practices, and the Act includes specific requirements for data security, data protection assessments for high-risk processing activities, and prohibits discrimination or retaliation against consumers for exercising their privacy rights. The bill also clarifies that certain existing laws, such as those related to health information, financial data, and credit reporting, are exempt from these new privacy requirements, and it sets an effective date of January 1, 2027, with some provisions, like data protection assessments, having a delayed implementation until January 1, 2028.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the privacy of consumer personal information; establishing the Consumer Personal Information Privacy Act; establishing data broker registration requirements; relating to social security numbers; making certain violations unfair or deceptive trade practices; and providing for an effective date.
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• Introduced: 02/23/2026
• Added: 02/24/2026
• Session: 34th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Andi Story (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 05/12/2026
• Last Action: REFERRED TO FINANCE
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #SB472 • Last Action 05/12/2026
Local Boards of Education; audit findings or findings by the state auditor of financial mismanagement or misconduct; provide for the suspension of members
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces several changes to Georgia's education laws, primarily focusing on accountability and oversight of local school systems. Key provisions include allowing for the suspension of local school board members with pay if the state auditor finds financial mismanagement or misconduct, or if a school system is designated for the highest level of monitoring, supports, and interventions by the Department of Audits and Accounts. It also modifies employment contract terms for local school superintendents, particularly in high-risk school systems, making financial mismanagement or misconduct grounds for termination. The bill also establishes a cap on advance distributions of state funds to local school systems, requiring a plan for monitoring, supports, and intervention developed by the state auditor if these limits are exceeded. Additionally, it lowers the threshold for voters to petition for an election to dissolve an independent school system and integrate it into the surrounding county school system, and revises provisions for financial audits of local school systems and state charter schools by the Department of Audits and Accounts, including a mandate for the department to develop a program of progressive monitoring, supports, and interventions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Chapter 2 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to elementary and secondary education, so as to provide for the suspension of members of local boards of education following certain audit findings or findings by the state auditor of financial mismanagement or misconduct; to provide for employment contract terms, conditions, and limitations for local school superintendents under certain conditions; to provide for a cap on the total amount of advance distributions of state allotted funds that may be made by the State Board of Education to local units of administration; to provide for plans for monitoring, supports, and intervention; to provide for the authority of the state auditor relative to such plans; to provide that a petition signed by 10 percent of the qualified voters in an independent school system shall be required in order to hold an election to determine whether to annul the special law of the independent school system so that it becomes a part of the respective county school system or systems in which the territory of the independent school system is located; to repeal outdated terms and provisions; to make conforming changes; to amend Chapter 6 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to the Department of Audits and Accounts, so as to revise provisions for financial audits of local school systems and state charter schools by and on behalf of the Department of Audits and Accounts; to require the Department of Audits and Accounts to develop and implement a program of progressive monitoring, supports, and interventions to local school systems and state charter schools; to provide for investigations of local school systems by the state auditor; to provide for an effective date; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Billy Hickman (R)*, Larry Walker (R)*, Blake Tillery (R)*, Chuck Hufstetler (R)*, Freddie Sims (D)*, Carden Summers (R)*, Max Burns (R)*, Will Wade (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 03/30/2026
• Last Action: Effective Date 2026-05-12
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB294 • Last Action 05/12/2026
Criminal Procedure – Protection of Identity of Victim of Sexual Assault or Stalking
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective October 1, 2026, strengthens protections for victims of sexual assault and stalking by requiring courts and parties in criminal or juvenile delinquency cases to redact identifying information from court filings and records before they can be disclosed or inspected by nonparties, unless the court finds clear and convincing evidence of good cause to allow disclosure without redaction. "Identifying information" is defined to include names and any other details that could reasonably identify a minor victim, a victim of sexual assault (as defined by specific laws concerning sexually assaultive behavior or related crimes), or a victim of stalking (as defined by law). The bill also allows victims of sexual assault or stalking to request that their identifying information be redacted from existing filings and records, and establishes a process for Health Occupations Boards to petition for unredacted records for the purpose of investigating or disciplining a licensed professional for sexual misconduct, with notice to the victim and an opportunity to object.
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Bill Summary: Prohibiting a court or a party in a criminal or juvenile delinquency case from disclosing or allowing inspection of a certain court filing or record to a nonparty unless the court or the party redacts certain identifying information relating to a certain victim of sexual assault or victim of stalking that appears in the filing or record, unless the court finds clear and convincing evidence that there is good cause to order otherwise; etc.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sara Love (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 05/19/2026
• Last Action: Approved by the Governor - Chapter 542
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S4177 • Last Action 05/11/2026
Requires certain record keeping related to municipal rent control compliance; appropriates $2 million.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires landlords in municipalities with rent control ordinances to file a rent control compliance form with their local municipal clerk, detailing information such as unit address, owner name, rent registration, and any claimed exemptions or enforcement actions. Municipalities can charge a fee to cover their administrative costs for this process. The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) will create a standardized form and an online system for municipalities to digitize and publicly display these records, and will provide grants to assist with this digitization effort, appropriating $2 million for this purpose. Missing or incomplete records will create a presumption that a property is not exempt from rent control, and landlords knowingly providing false information will face a $150 penalty per offense. The DCA will also audit the system and publish an annual report on municipalities with poor record-keeping.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires certain record keeping related to municipal rent control compliance. The bill directs the Department of Community Affairs (department) to publish a rent control compliance form for landlords of units located in municipalities that have adopted rent control ordinances to submit required information to the clerk of the municipality in which the unit is located. The bill requires the municipal clerk, or other municipal official as is designated by the clerk, to index and file the rent control compliance forms. The department would be required to develop and make available an Internet system for each municipality to digitize its rent control compliance records and make them available to the public on the department's Internet website. The bill appropriates $2 million to the department and directs the department to provide grants to municipalities to assist in the digitization of the municipality's rent control compliance records. The bill further authorizes the establishment of a municipal fee to pay for the municipality's actual costs of compliance with the bill. The bill establishes that missing or incomplete records for a residential rental property constitutes presumption that no valid exemption to the municipal rent control ordinance exists. The bill also establishes a penalty for a landlord who knowingly provides false information on a rent control compliance form. The bill further directs the department to conduct an audit of the Internet system and publish an annual report identifying municipalities with deficient record-keeping practices. The bill provides a timeline for when certain information and resources are to be made available and when certain forms and recordkeeping standards are to be completed. The bill would take effect immediately, except that the provision that a missing or incomplete record will establish a presumption that no valid exemption exist shall not take effect until the first day of the twelfth month next following enactment, which is the deadline for municipal clerks to digitize the rent control compliance records.
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• Introduced: 05/04/2026
• Added: 05/13/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brian Stack (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/12/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3295 • Last Action 05/11/2026
Open Meeting Law; meeting broadcasting through social media authorized.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meeting Law to allow public bodies, with some exceptions, to broadcast their meetings live through social media platforms, provided that these platforms do not require users to have an account to view the broadcast and that no comment feature is offered during the live stream. Public bodies using social media for broadcasting must include this information in their meeting notices, detailing how the broadcast can be accessed and, if public comments are allowed, the process for submitting them remotely. The bill clarifies that this does not permit meetings to be conducted entirely through social media if the technology doesn't meet existing requirements for interactive participation, and it defines "public body" for the purposes of this provision.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to Open Meeting Law; authorizing meeting broadcasting through social media; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13D.065.
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• Introduced: 05/05/2025
• Added: 05/05/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 3 : James Gordon (R)*, Steven Jacob (R), Mark Koran (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Referred to State and Local Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1613 • Last Action 05/11/2026
Liquefied petroleum gas; modifying provisions related to the State Liquefied Petroleum Gas Administrator and the Oklahoma Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies provisions related to the State Liquefied Petroleum Gas Administrator and the Oklahoma Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board, requiring immediate notification of certain accidents or fires involving liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems to the Administration within one business day for investigation, and removes the position of chief deputy administrator while making other language gender-neutral. It also updates statutory references, allows for more flexible meeting designations for the Board while ensuring compliance with the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, and introduces a new "Food Truck Permit" class. The bill clarifies that fees for refillable cylinders must be used for inspection costs, expands the entities required to pay these fees, and removes language regarding refunds of credit fees, while also authorizing the Board to create administrative rules for fees and defining a "cylinder exchange cabinet" for flat-fee purposes. Additionally, it mandates that certain law enforcement certification, specifically from the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET), is required for safety code enforcement officers to have peace officer powers, and requires registered permit holders to conspicuously mark their LPG containers for easy identification, with authorization needed from the container owner before another permit holder can fill it. Finally, the bill updates specifications for commercial propane, butane, and mixtures, removing some previous requirements for filling and identifying containers while mandating specific identifying marks and authorizations.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1613 By: Green of the Senate and Cornwell of the House An Act relating to liquefied petroleum gas; authorizing certain investigations; requiring notifications of certain accidents or fires; requiring notification be sent within certain time frame; amending 52 O.S. 2021, Section 420.2, which relates to the State Liquefied Petroleum Gas Administrator; removing certain appointed position; amending 52 O.S. 2021, Section 420.3, which relates to the Oklahoma Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board; modifying statutory references; modifying types of meetings that can be designated; requiring meetings adhere to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; making language gender neutral; amending 52 O.S. 2021, Section 420.4, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 330, O.S.L. 2022 (52 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 420.4), which relates to registration permits; modifying statutory references; modifying list of permit classes; amending 52 O.S. 2021, Section 420.5, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 330, O.S.L. 2022 (52 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 420.5), which relates to fees for refillable cylinders; requiring fees be used for certain purpose; modifying list of entities required to pay fee; removing language regarding refunds of credit fees; authorizing the Board to promulgate certain administrative rules; requiring flat fee for certain containers; defining term; authorizing Administrator to adopt certain system; authorizing assessment of certain penalty; amending 52 O.S. 2021, Section 420.7, which relates to inspections; modifying reference to certain appointed position; requiring certain law enforcement certification for certain position; amending 52 O.S. 2021, Section 420.9, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 330, O.S.L. 2022 (52 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 420.9), which relates to specifications for commercial propane, butane, and mixtures; removing certain requirements for filling, using, and identifying containers; requiring certain identifying marks on containers; requiring certain authorizations; updating statutory language and references; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Liquefied petroleum gas
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Grant Green (R)*, Rusty Cornwell (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 05/05/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/11/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1653 • Last Action 05/11/2026
Professions and occupations; enacting the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact, allowing occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants licensed in one member state to practice in other member states without needing to obtain a separate license in each state, thereby improving access to services, especially through telehealth, and supporting military families. The Compact establishes a commission to oversee its implementation, defines terms like "Compact Privilege" (the authorization to practice in another member state), "Home State" (where a licensee primarily resides), and "Remote State" (any member state other than the Home State), and outlines procedures for licensure verification, disciplinary actions, and data sharing among member states to ensure public safety and professional accountability. The bill also specifies that the Compact will become effective on November 1, 2026, and allows the Governor to enter into this agreement with other jurisdictions that adopt it.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1653 By: Haste of the Senate and Miller and Dollens of the House An Act relating to professions and occupations; enacting the Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact and authorizing the Governor to enter into the Compact with certain jurisdictions; setting forth form of the Compact; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Occupational Therapy Licensure Compact
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : John Haste (R)*, Nicole Miller (R)*, Mickey Dollens (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 05/05/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/07/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1409 • Last Action 05/11/2026
Open meetings; Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; email distribution systems; effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, which governs how public bodies conduct their meetings to ensure transparency. Specifically, it modifies the requirements for public bodies regarding their email distribution systems for meeting notices. The key change allows public bodies to require individuals on these email lists to confirm their subscription every two years; if a person fails to confirm, the public body can remove them from the list, though individuals can re-subscribe later. This aims to keep email lists current and ensure that notices are sent to those who actively wish to receive them.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 311, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 60, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 311), which relates to notices by public bodies; and prescribing procedures related to email distribution systems. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Open Meeting Act
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Denise Crosswhite Hader (R)*, Kendal Sacchieri (R)*
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 05/05/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/07/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HCR179 • Last Action 05/08/2026
Urging The aha Moku Advisory Committee To Follow Its Adopted Rules Of Practice, Fulfill Its Statutory Duties, Establish Policies To Assure Consistent Standards Of Administrative And Managerial Accountability; And Convening A Working Group To Make Recommendations.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This Concurrent Resolution urges the ?Aha Moku Advisory Committee, an entity established to advise the state on Native Hawaiian traditional and customary resource management practices, to adhere to its adopted Rules of Practice and Procedure, fulfill its legal obligations including the Sunshine Law (which requires public meetings for deliberations and decisions), and establish clear policies for administrative and managerial accountability. It also calls for the creation of a working group, composed of representatives from the Senate, House of Representatives, the Committee itself, the Department of Land and Natural Resources, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, to review the Committee's operations and provide recommendations for improved governance and accountability to the Legislature by early 2027.
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Bill Summary: RESOLUTION URGING THE ?AHA MOKU ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO FOLLOW ITS ADOPTED RULES OF PRACTICE, FULFILL ITS STATUTORY DUTIES, ESTABLISH POLICIES TO ASSURE CONSISTENT STANDARDS OF ADMINISTRATIVE AND MANAGERIAL ACCOUNTABILITY; AND CONVENING A WORKING GROUP TO MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS.
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• Introduced: 03/17/2026
• Added: 03/18/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 04/24/2026
• Last Action: Received notice of Adoption in House (Hse. Com. No. 891).
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DE bill #HB375 • Last Action 05/07/2026
An Act To Amend Title 13, Title 16, And Title 21 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Government Records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to Delaware law regarding government records, primarily focusing on the confidentiality and amendment of vital records and driver's licenses. Key provisions include allowing individuals to change their sex or gender designation on birth certificates and marriage certificates without a court order, provided they submit an affidavit attesting to the change being for gender identity purposes and not for fraudulent reasons; these original records will be kept in a special, permanently confidential file. The bill also clarifies that amended certificates become the basis for all future copies and disclosures, and it outlines specific procedures for amending marriage certificates, including requiring consent from a spouse if they are not requesting the amendment. Additionally, it allows for the issuance of new driver's licenses and identification cards with updated gender markers without requiring a court order or additional documentation, and it restricts the disclosure of gender change information by the Division of Motor Vehicles, requiring a court order or specific consent for release, with exceptions for law enforcement and the individual themselves. The bill also updates definitions and procedures related to vital records, including the confidentiality and public access timelines for birth, death, and marriage records, and modifies fees for vital record copies, with a portion of marriage certificate fees directed to the Domestic Violence Fund.
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Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Title 13, Title 16, And Title 21 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Government Records.
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• Introduced: 04/15/2026
• Added: 04/16/2026
• Session: 153rd General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : Eric Morrison (D)*, DeShanna Neal (D)*, Rebecca Snyder-Hall (D)*, Daniel Cruce (D), Marie Pinkney (D), Mara Gorman (D), Tizzy Lockman (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 04/15/2026
• Last Action: Assigned to Appropriations Committee in House
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5414 • Last Action 05/07/2026
MINORITY REPORT ON THE INITIATIVE PETITION OF DANIELLE SUSAN ALLEN AND OTHERS FOR THE PASSAGE OF AN ACT TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS (SEE HOUSE, NO. 5004)
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary:
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Bill Summary: MINORITY REPORT ON THE INITIATIVE PETITION OF DANIELLE SUSAN ALLEN AND OTHERS FOR THE PASSAGE OF AN ACT TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS (SEE HOUSE, NO. 5004)
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• Introduced: 05/07/2026
• Added: 05/08/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0
• Versions: 0 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: See H5004
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2135 • Last Action 05/07/2026
Counties; authorizing counties to utilize purchasing cards through depositories. Emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes counties to obtain and use county purchase cards, which are similar to credit cards for official county business, through their designated financial institutions, known as depositories. These cards can be used for various purchases with specific limits: there are no transaction limits for purchases made under existing county or multi-county contracts, for utilities, intergovernmental payments to other public entities, emergency acquisitions, or for professional services. For all other transactions, the limit is the greater of $5,000 or a limit set by the county purchasing agent, which cannot exceed what is considered a fair and reasonable acquisition threshold. Cardholders must sign an agreement and undergo training, and all purchases made with these cards must be published in the same way as other county warrants, with the exception that these acquisitions remain subject to competitive bidding and other standard purchasing procedures unless specifically exempted. The bill also allows counties to solicit bids from financial institutions to provide these purchase card programs, with contracts awarded based on the overall benefit to the county, and declares an emergency to allow the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 2135 By: Reinhardt of the Senate and Strom of the House An Act relating to counties; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1505, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 85, O.S.L. 2025 (19 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1505), which relates to purchasing procedures for counties; authorizing counties to obtain and utilize county purchase cards through depositories; providing transaction parameters; providing internal controls and publication requirements; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: County purchasing procedures
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Aaron Reinhardt (R)*, Judd Strom (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 04/30/2026
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/07/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5405 • Last Action 05/07/2026
REPORT of the SPECIAL JOINT COMMITTEE on INITIATIVE PETITIONS on the INITIATIVE PETITION of DANIELLE SUSAN ALLEN AND OTHERS FOR THE PASSAGE OF AN ACT TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS (see House, No. 5004).
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary:
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: REPORT of the SPECIAL JOINT COMMITTEE on INITIATIVE PETITIONS on the INITIATIVE PETITION of DANIELLE SUSAN ALLEN AND OTHERS FOR THE PASSAGE OF AN ACT TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS (see House, No. 5004).
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• Introduced: 05/07/2026
• Added: 05/08/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0
• Versions: 0 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: See H5004
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5004 • Last Action 05/07/2026
To improve access to public records
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to improve access to public records by expanding the definition of what constitutes a "public record" to include most documents held by the General Court (the Massachusetts Legislature) and the Office of the Governor, although it carves out exceptions for communications between legislators and their constituents that are related to constituent requests for assistance with government benefits or services, and for documents related to the development of policy positions by legislators or the governor. The bill also clarifies that the term "agency" for the purposes of public records law includes the General Court and the Office of the Governor, and it specifically exempts declarations, affidavits, and other papers filed by claimants with the secretary of veterans' services from being considered public records.
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Bill Summary: To improve access to public records
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Placed on file
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2184 • Last Action 05/06/2026
Multiple versions of statutes; amending, merging, consolidating and repealing multiple versions of statutes. Emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill consolidates and updates various statutes by amending, merging, and repealing multiple existing laws. It aims to streamline and clarify legal provisions across a wide range of topics, including definitions related to airports and vertiports, the structure and duties of review boards for children and youth, county purchasing procedures, protective orders, driver licensing, new motor vehicle dealer regulations, pharmacy audit procedures, medical marijuana testing, railroad revitalization, sales tax exemptions, income tax adjustments, and public employee retirement systems. The bill also addresses specific provisions related to the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, the Oklahoma Children’s Code, the Oklahoma Pharmacy Act, the State Architectural and Licensed Interior Designers Act, the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act, the Oklahoma Vehicle License and Registration Act, the Administrative Workers’ Compensation Act, and the Administrative Procedures Act. The bill includes an emergency clause, indicating its immediate necessity for the preservation of public peace, health, or safety.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 2184 By: Howard of the Senate and Duel of the House An Act relating to multiple versions of statutes; amending, merging, consolidating, and repealing multiple versions of statutes; amending 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.1, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 135, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.1); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.1, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.1); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.2, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.2); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.4, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.4); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.5, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.5); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.7, as amended by Section 6, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.7); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.8, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.8); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.10, as amended by Section 8, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.10); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.12, as amended by Section 9, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.12); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.15, as amended by Section 10, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.15); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.16, as amended by Section 11, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.16); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 65.17, as amended by Section 12, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 65.17); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 82, as last amended by Section 13, Chapter 135, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 82); amending 3 O.S. 2021, Section 85, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 164, O.S.L. 2025 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 85); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 85, as last amended by Section 14, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 85); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 85, as last amended by Section 14, Chapter 135, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 85); repealing 3 O.S. 2021, Section 421, as last amended by Section 15, Chapter 18, O.S.L. 2024 (3 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 421); amending 10 O.S. 2021, Section 1116.2, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 347, O.S.L. 2024 (10 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1116.2); repealing 10 O.S. 2021, Section 1116.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024 (10 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1116.2); amending 10 O.S. 2021, Section 1116.6, as amended by Section 9, Chapter 347, O.S.L. 2024 (10 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1116.6); repealing 10 O.S. 2021, Section 1116.6, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024 (10 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1116.6); amending 10A O.S. 2021, Section 1-1-105, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 375, O.S.L. 2025 (10A O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1-1-105); repealing 10A O.S. 2021, Section 1-1-105, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 149, O.S.L. 2025 (10A O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1-1-105); amending 15 O.S. 2021, Section 141.13, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 225, O.S.L. 2024 (15 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 141.13); repealing 15 O.S. 2021, Section 141.13, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 72, O.S.L. 2016; amending 18 O.S. 2021, Section 1006, as amended by Section 10, Chapter 120, O.S.L. 2024 (18 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1006); repealing 18 O.S. 2021, Section 1006, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 121, O.S.L. 2024 (18 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1006); amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1505, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 85, O.S.L. 2025 (19 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1505); repealing 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1505, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 66, O.S.L. 2025 (19 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1505); amending 22 O.S. 2021, Section ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 60.4, as last amended by Section 704, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 60.4); repealing 22 O.S. 2021, Section 60.4, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 40, O.S.L. 2025 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 60.4); amending 22 O.S. 2021, Section 60.6, as amended by Section 474, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 60.6); repealing 22 O.S. 2021, Section 60.6, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 145, O.S.L. 2025 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 60.6); amending 22 O.S. 2021, Section 152, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 115, O.S.L. 2025 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 152); repealing 22 O.S. 2021, Section 152, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 310, O.S.L. 2024 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 152); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-101, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 330, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-101); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-101, as last amended by Section 13, Chapter 310, O.S.L. 2023 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-101); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-101, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 11, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-101); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-101, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 171, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-101); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-102, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 450, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-102); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-102, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 123, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-102); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-105, as last amended by Section 38, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-105); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-105, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 450, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-105); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-105, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 11, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-105); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-105.3, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 330, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-105.3); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-105.3, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 11, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 2025, Section 6-105.3); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-105.3, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 101, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-105.3); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-105.3, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 315, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-105.3); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-110, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 450, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-110); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6- 110, as last amended by Section 44, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-110); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-110, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 11, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-110); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-111, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 310, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-111); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-111, as last amended by Section 5, Chapter 330, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-111); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-301, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 38, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-301); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 6-301, as last amended by Section 516, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-301); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 563, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 448, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 563); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 563, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 236, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 563); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 564, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 448, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 564); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 564, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 119, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 564); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 565, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 448, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 565); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 565, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 119, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 565); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 752, as last amended by Section 13, Chapter 330, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 752); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 752, as last amended ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 by Section 4, Chapter 172, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 752); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 1102, as last amended by Section 60, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1102); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 1110, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 403, O.S.L. 2025 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1110); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 1110, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1110); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 1113, as last amended by Section 72, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1113); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 1113, as last amended by Section 8, Chapter 236, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1113); amending 47 O.S. 2021, Section 1132, as last amended by Section 10, Chapter 236, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1132); repealing 47 O.S. 2021, Section 1132, as last amended by Section 75, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (47 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1132); repealing 51 O.S. 2021, Section 6, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 303, O.S.L. 2025 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6); amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 404, O.S.L. 2025 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 24A.5); repealing 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.5, as last amended by Section 14, Chapter 11, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 24A.5); amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 154, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 314, O.S.L. 2025 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 154); repealing 51 O.S. 2021, Section 154, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 292, O.S.L. 2025 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 154); amending 57 O.S. 2021, Section 37, as amended by Section 9, Chapter 187, O.S.L. 2025 (57 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 37); repealing 57 O.S. 2021, Section 37, as amended by Section 11, Chapter 11, O.S.L. 2025 (57 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 37); repealing 57 O.S. 2021, Section 138, as amended by Section 38, Chapter 59, O.S.L. 2024 (57 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 138); repealing 57 O.S. 2021, Section 571, as last amended by Section 40, Chapter 59, O.S.L. 2024 (57 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 571); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.4, as last amended ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 by Section 2, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.4); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.4, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 138, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.4); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.7, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 138, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.7); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.7, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.7); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.9, as amended by Section 6, Chapter 138, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.9); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.9, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.9); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.10, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.10); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.10, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 138, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.10); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.21, as amended by Section 15, Chapter 138, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.21); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.21, as amended by Section 6, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.21); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.21b, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 208, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.21b); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.21b, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.21b); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.38, as amended by Section 22, Chapter 138, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.38); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 46.38, as amended by Section 8, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 46.38); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 328.49, as amended by Section 530, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 328.49); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 353.1, as last amended by Section 5, Chapter 340, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 353.1); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 353.1, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 343, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 353.1); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 356.2, as last amended by Section 2, ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 Chapter 300, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 356.2); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 356.2, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 414, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 356.2); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 357, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 414, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 357); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 357, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 300, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 357); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 360, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 414, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 360); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 360, as last amended by Section 8, Chapter 300, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 360); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 481, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 227, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 481); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 481, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 14, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 481); amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 493.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 61, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 493.2); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 493.2, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 350, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 493.2); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 1000.2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 292, O.S.L. 2013; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 1873, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 235, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1873); repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 1873, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 266, O.S.L. 2025 (59 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1873); amending 63 O.S. 2021, Section 1-106, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 377, O.S.L. 2025 (63 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1-106); repealing 63 O.S. 2021, Section 1-106, as last amended by Section 13, Chapter 215, O.S.L. 2025 (63 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1-106); amending 63 O.S. 2021, Section 2-312, as last amended by Section 10, Chapter 340, O.S.L. 2025 (63 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2-312); repealing 63 O.S. 2021, Section 2-312, as last amended by Section 9, Chapter 343, O.S.L. 2025 (63 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2-312); amending 63 O.S. 2021, Section 427.17, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 447, O.S.L. 2024 (63 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 427.17); repealing 63 O.S. 2021, Section 427.17, as last amended by Section 142, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (63 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 427.17); amending 66 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 31, O.S.L. 2025 (66 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 304); repealing 66 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as amended by Section 556, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025 (66 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 304); amending 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1353, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 441, O.S.L. 2024 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1353); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1353, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 240, O.S.L. 2022 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1353); amending 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1356, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 392, O.S.L. 2025 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1356); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1356, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 444, O.S.L. 2024 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1356); amending 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1357, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 391, O.S.L. 2025 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1357); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1357, as amended by Section 10, Chapter 229, O.S.L. 2017; repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1357, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 68, O.S.L. 2021; repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1357, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 193, O.S.L. 2023 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1357); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1357, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 44, 1st Extraordinary Session, O.S.L. 2023 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1357); amending 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2357.22, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 143, O.S.L. 2024 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2357.22); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2357.22, as last amended by Section 153, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2357.22); amending 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2358, as last amended by Section 155, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2358); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2358, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 166, O.S.L. 2024 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2358); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2358, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 277, O.S.L. 2024 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2358); ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 amending 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2902, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 411, O.S.L. 2025 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2902); repealing 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2902, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 204, O.S.L. 2025 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2902); amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 6-194, as last amended by Section 5, Chapter 101, O.S.L. 2025 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-194); repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 6-194, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 277, O.S.L. 2025 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 6-194); amendatory 70 O.S. 2021, Section 1210.163, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 260, O.S.L. 2025 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1210.163); repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 1210.163, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 101, O.S.L. 2025 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1210.163); amendatory 70 O.S. 2021, Section 2403, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 482, O.S.L. 2025 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2403); repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 2403, as amended by Section 6, Chapter 277, O.S.L. 2025 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2403); amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 62.3, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 384, O.S.L. 2025 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 62.3); repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 62.3, as amended by Section 6, Chapter 199, O.S.L. 2025 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 62.3); repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 85.58A, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 245, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 85.58A); amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 902, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 139, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 902); repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 902, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 280, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 902); amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 915, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 280, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 915); repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 915, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 139, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 915); amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 916.3, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 280, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 916.3); repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 916.3, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 139, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 916.3); amending 74 O.S. ENR. S. B. NO. 2184 2021, Section 919.1, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 139, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 919.1); repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 919.1, as amended by Section 4, Chapter 280, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 919.1); amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 1321, as last amended by Section 29, Chapter 379, O.S.L. 2025 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1321); repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 1321, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 123, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1321); amending 75 O.S. 2021, Section 250.3, as last amended by Section 5, Chapter 258, O.S.L. 2025 (75 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 250.3); repealing 75 O.S. 2021, Section 250.3, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 420, O.S.L. 2025 (75 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 250.3); amending 75 O.S. 2021, Section 303, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 258, O.S.L. 2025 (75 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 303); repealing 75 O.S. 2021, Section 303, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 267, O.S.L. 2025 (75 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 303); amending 75 O.S. 2021, Section 308, as last amended by Section 8, Chapter 258, O.S.L. 2025 (75 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 308); repealing 75 O.S. 2021, Section 308, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 420, O.S.L. 2025 (75 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 308); amending 85A O.S. 2021, Section 2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 135, O.S.L. 2025 (85A O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2); repealing 85A O.S. 2021, Section 2, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 67, O.S.L. 2025 (85A O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2); and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Duplicate sections
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 03/04/2026
• Added: 03/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Brent Howard (R)*, Collin Duel (R)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 04/29/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/06/2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1466 • Last Action 05/06/2026
Advisory Committee on Midwifery; extending sunset date. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends the sunset date for the Advisory Committee on Midwifery, which advises the State Commissioner of Health on matters related to midwifery practice, from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2031, ensuring the committee's continued operation and its role in overseeing midwifery licensure, standards of practice, and disciplinary actions. The bill also makes minor technical updates to statutory language, such as changing "vice-chair" to "vice chair," and declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval, rather than on the specified July 1, 2026 date.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1466 By: Bergstrom of the Senate and Kendrix of the House An Act relating to professions and occupations; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 3040.5, which relates to the Advisory Committee on Midwifery; extending sunset date; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Advisory Committee on Midwifery
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• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Micheal Bergstrom (R)*, Gerrid Kendrix (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 04/29/2026
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/06/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1496 • Last Action 05/05/2026
Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation; modifying provisions related to certain evidentiary property, disclosures, and other duties. Effective date.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies provisions related to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), primarily concerning its investigative records, evidentiary property, and operational duties. Key changes include clarifying that OSBI investigative records are confidential and privileged, with exceptions for disclosures to other law enforcement and prosecutorial entities for criminal investigations, child abuse investigations, and accreditation purposes; these records are generally not subject to subpoena in private civil cases unless a court finds the need substantially outweighs confidentiality and disclosure won't jeopardize investigations. The bill also allows the OSBI Director to disclose statistical data that doesn't include personal information and to enter into agreements with other law enforcement agencies for information sharing to further criminal investigations and crime prevention. Regarding evidentiary property, the bill streamlines procedures for the disposal of unclaimed or unneeded property, allowing for sale, donation, destruction, or other disposition after court authorization, and clarifies that the Director may refuse to sell property if no bid meets a certain threshold of its fair-market value. Additionally, the Director is authorized to accept monetary gifts and grants for the OSBI Revolving Fund, digitally store and dispose of original records after scanning, and enter into agreements for affiliate task force agents to assist in major crime investigations. The bill also updates statutory language and references, and sets an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1496 By: Gollihare of the Senate and Bashore of the House An Act relating to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Sections 150.5, 150.7, and 150.11, which relate to investigations, powers and duties of the Director of the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and evidentiary property; clarifying confidentiality provisions; stating certain records not subject to subpoena or subpoena duces tecum; authorizing disclosure of certain statistical data; authorizing Director to enter into certain agreements; authorizing Director to digitally store and dispose of certain records; authorizing Director to accept certain monies to be deposited in certain fund; authorizing certain evidence disposal; requiring certain affidavit; clarifying property sale provisions; permitting refusal to sell property under certain circumstance; updating statutory language and references; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Todd Gollihare (R)*, Steve Bashore (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: Vetoed 05/05/2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1327 • Last Action 05/05/2026
Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission; transferring certain duties to the Commission; authorizing the Commission to appoint Executive Director. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill transfers certain duties and powers from the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission, which will now be responsible for these functions. The Commission's appointed members will be required to have experience in fields related to economic growth and tourism development, such as hospitality management, venue management, tourism promotion, real estate development, outdoor recreation, marketing and branding, and financial operations. The bill also modifies the powers and duties of the Executive Director, who will now be appointed by the Commission, not the Governor, and whose salary will be determined by the Commission. Additionally, the bill outlines organizational and meeting requirements for the Commission, including quorum, oath-taking for members, and adherence to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1327 By: Jech of the Senate and Newton of the House An Act relating to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Sections 2203, 2204, and 2206, which relate to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission; transferring certain duties to the Commission; requiring appointed members to possess experience in certain fields; modifying powers and duties of the Executive Director; requiring certain oath; establishing organizational and meeting requirements for the Commission; authorizing the Commission to appoint Executive Director; providing for determination of salary; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/29/2025
• Added: 12/30/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Darcy Jech (R)*, Carl Newton (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/01/2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB2139 • Last Action 05/05/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to education.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to allow for greater flexibility in how school boards and public charter school governing bodies conduct meetings. Specifically, it permits board meetings to be held with members participating electronically, even if a quorum (the minimum number of members required to conduct official business) is not physically present at the meeting location, under certain conditions such as inclement weather or natural disasters, with a limit of three such meetings per year. Additionally, it clarifies that all members participating electronically must be visually identifiable and requires public charter schools to post meeting notices on their websites. The bill also allows out-of-state members of a public charter school's governing body to participate in all scheduled meetings electronically.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, revises the requirements for electronic participation in school board meetings under certain circumstances. - Amends TCA Title 49.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Dawn White (R)*, Paul Bailey (R), Janice Bowling (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 05/01/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 04/27/2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1006 • Last Action 05/05/2026
Campaign finance; aggregate report; amount
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law regarding campaign finance reporting and contribution limits, primarily by increasing the threshold for itemizing individual contributions from in-state donors to $200 per election cycle, up from $100. It also adjusts the biennial adjustment process for certain reporting thresholds, specifically those related to in-state individual contributions, to be calculated based on the consumer price index, ensuring these amounts are adjusted annually to the nearest dollar. Additionally, the bill makes a minor technical change to the biennial adjustment of committee registration thresholds and other contribution limits, increasing them by $100.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 16-926 and 16-931, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to campaign contributions and expenses.
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• Introduced: 12/01/2025
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : John Kavanagh (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 9 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 04/20/2026
• Last Action: House motion to reconsider third reading
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5755 • Last Action 05/05/2026
MUNI CD-DATA CENTER REFERENDUM
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois Municipal Code to require that before a municipality can approve the location of a data center, which is defined as a facility for digital data storage, management, and processing with a significant electrical load, or a qualifying Illinois data center, the municipality must hold at least one public hearing. Notice of this hearing must be published in a local newspaper. Furthermore, the siting of a data center will be subject to a "back-door referendum," meaning that if a sufficient number of registered voters (15% of those who voted in the last general election) sign a petition within 60 days of the municipality publishing notice of the application, the decision to approve the data center will be put to a public vote at the next scheduled election. The referendum question will ask whether the proposed data center should be authorized, and the outcome will be binding on the municipality's decision. If no petition is filed, the municipality can proceed with approving or denying the application.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Illinois Municipal Code. Provides that, before a municipality grants an application for siting approval of a data center the corporate authorities of a municipality in which the facility will be located or the zoning board of appeals for the municipality shall hold at least one public hearing. Provides that notice of a public hearing shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation. Provides that the siting of a data center shall be subject to back-door referendum. Provides that a back-door referendum shall be held within 60 days after the municipality publishes notice of the application for sitting approval of the data center, a petition is filed with the municipal clerk and signed by the necessary number of electors, asking that the application for siting approval of the data center be submitted to referendum. Sets forth the requirements of notice. Provides that the municipal clerk must certify the question for submission at a regularly scheduled election held in accordance with general election law. Sets forth the requirements of a back-door referendum. Defines "data center" and "application for siting approval of a data center".
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• Introduced: 04/27/2026
• Added: 04/28/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jed Davis (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 04/27/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5760 • Last Action 05/05/2026
AI WORK TRANSITION COMMISSION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Commission on Artificial Intelligence and Workforce Transition to address the impact of advanced AI technologies, specifically "generative artificial intelligence systems" (AI that creates new content like text or images) and "frontier artificial intelligence systems" (very powerful AI models), on Illinois's industries, jobs, and workers. The Commission will direct state agencies to study these impacts and then recommend improvements to existing state and federal programs related to workforce development, education, job training, unemployment benefits, and income support. State agencies must assign a senior staff member to assist the Commission and conduct the required assessments and data collection. The Commission will produce an initial comprehensive report and then update it every two years, detailing its findings and recommendations, and will cease to exist on January 1, 2034.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Commission on Artificial Intelligence and Workforce Transition Act. Establishes the Commission on Artificial Intelligence and Workforce Transition. Provides that the Commission shall direct specified State agencies to conduct assessments of the actual and projected impact of generative artificial intelligence systems and frontier artificial intelligence systems on Illinois industries, occupations, regions, and workers. Provides that the Commission shall identify, review, and make recommendations regarding State and federal workforce development, education, apprenticeship, unemployment insurance, and income support programs with consideration of the assessments. Requires specified State agencies to designate a senior staff liaison to the Commission and to conduct assessments, analyses, and data collection activities directed by the Commission. Provides that the Commission shall prepare and file an initial comprehensive report and biennial update reports concerning findings and recommendations. Sets forth provisions concerning membership; administrative support; meetings; and confidentiality. Repeals the Act on January 1, 2034. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 04/30/2026
• Added: 05/01/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Kimberly du Buclet (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 04/30/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB2096 • Last Action 05/05/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to education.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law regarding public meetings for educational bodies. Specifically, it modifies the rules for when board meetings can be conducted with electronic participation, allowing for such participation even if a quorum of members is not physically present, provided it's due to inclement weather or a natural disaster, and limits this exception to three times per year. It also clarifies that members of a public charter school's governing body who do not live in Tennessee can participate in all scheduled board meetings electronically. The bill also requires public charter schools to keep their websites updated with information about public meetings.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, revises the requirements for electronic participation in school board meetings under certain circumstances. - Amends TCA Title 49.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark White (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 05/01/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 852
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB668 • Last Action 05/05/2026
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to improve public access to professional counseling services by allowing licensed professional counselors to practice in other member states under a "Privilege to Practice." This means that a counselor licensed in their home state (Home State) can practice in another member state (Remote State) without needing a separate license in that Remote State, provided they meet certain uniform requirements. The Compact aims to enhance public safety, support military families, facilitate the use of telehealth, and streamline the process for counselors to practice across state lines, thereby reducing the need for multiple licenses. It establishes a Counseling Compact Commission to oversee the agreement, set rules, and manage a data system for sharing information between member states. The bill also outlines the conditions under which the Compact becomes operative, the responsibilities of the State Board of Social Workers, Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselors in implementing it, and the compensation for Pennsylvania's delegate to the Commission.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 02/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 35 : Jenn O'Mara (D)*, Tim Brennan (D), Chris Pielli (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Liz Hanbidge (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Joe Ciresi (D), Nancy Guenst (D), Kristine Howard (D), Kyle Donahue (D), Mike Schlossberg (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Tarik Khan (D), Elizabeth Fiedler (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Bob Freeman (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Danielle Otten (D), Izzy Smith-Wade-El (D), Roni Green (D), Mandy Steele (D), Gina Curry (D), Maureen Madden (D), Lisa Borowski (D), Christina Sappey (D), Rob Matzie (D), Gregory Scott (D), Rick Krajewski (D), Jeanne McNeill (D), Eric Nelson (R), Joseph Webster (D), Tina Davis (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Paul Friel (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Laid on the table (Pursuant to Senate Rule 9)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1721 • Last Action 05/05/2026
Schools; extending the sunset date for the Oklahoma Advisory Council on Indian Education; requiring certain members to meet certain requirements. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends the sunset date for the Oklahoma Advisory Council on Indian Education, which advises the State Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction on educational matters affecting Native American students, from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2029. It also requires that members appointed to represent an Indian tribe, tribal education department, or other tribal entity must be duly authorized representatives of that tribe or entity, with their authorization granted by the elected executive leaders or governing body, and their service will automatically cease if they are no longer authorized, with the appointing authority being notified and the vacancy filled accordingly. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Council's annual report on the effectiveness of the public education system in meeting the needs of Native American students must be submitted electronically.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 1721 By: Seifried of the Senate and Lowe of the House An Act relating to schools; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 3-173, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 306, O.S.L. 2023 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 3-173), which relates to the Oklahoma Advisory Council on Indian Education; extending sunset date; requiring certain appointed members to be duly authorized representatives of certain tribe, department, or entity; providing method of authorization; requiring certain member’s service to cease if he or she does not have certain authorization; requiring notification; providing for filling of vacancy; providing certain construction; requiring electronic submission of certain report; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Advisory Council on Indian Education
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Ally Seifried (R)*, Dick Lowe (R)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: Vetoed 05/01/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3390 • Last Action 05/04/2026
Requires Division of Consumer Affairs to create open data portal and provide certain datasets online.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Division of Consumer Affairs, which is part of the Department of Law and Public Safety, to create and maintain an online "open data portal" on its website, updating it at least annually. This portal will provide public access to non-confidential statistical information collected by the division, such as the number of applications for licenses, registrations, or certifications and their renewal, average processing times for these applications, the total number of active licenses, and how these licenses are distributed by county. It will also include pass and fail rates for exams administered by professional boards within the division and a count of consumer complaints filed. The portal will allow users to sort this data by professional board and license type, and to compare data year by year. All information shared will comply with existing laws, including the open public records act, and will not include any data that is not already subject to public disclosure or that would violate privacy or security laws. The bill will take effect eighteen months after it is enacted, though the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs can take preparatory steps sooner.
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Bill Summary: Requires Division of Consumer Affairs to create open data portal and provide certain datasets online.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 02/01/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Sterley Stanley (D)*, Clinton Calabrese (D)*, Carmen Morales (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 05/05/2026
• Last Action: Reported out of Assembly Comm. with Amendments, 2nd Reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1720 • Last Action 05/04/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to public records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes specific information confidential under Tennessee law, which governs public records. Specifically, it amends Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) Section 2-5-102 to declare that the addresses provided on nominating petitions for certain elected officials, including judges, chancellors, district attorneys general, and public defenders, are confidential and cannot be accessed by the public. The only exceptions are if a candidate themselves requests their own information or if a law enforcement authority needs it for an election-related legal challenge. The bill also amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7, which deals with public records, to make application materials submitted by individuals seeking employment with government entities confidential.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, generally makes the addresses on a nominating petition for the office of judge, chancellor, district attorney general, and public defender confidential; clarifies that such addresses may be made open to public inspection upon the request of a candidate or law enforcement authority in anticipation of, or as part of, a contest of candidacy or contest of election. - Amends TCA Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Ferrell Haile (R)*, Paul Rose (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 05/01/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 04/27/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A06487 • Last Action 05/04/2026
Expands the training time for local municipalities in relation to the open meetings law; requires at least one hour of such training be provided by the committee on open government or an appropriate entity in relation to compliance with the open meetings law and if not provided, a justification shall be given.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the annual training requirements for members of various local municipal boards, including planning boards and boards of appeals, from four to five hours, with any excess hours able to be carried over to the following year. Crucially, at least one hour of this training must be provided by the committee on open government or a similar entity, specifically focusing on compliance with the open meetings law, which governs how public bodies conduct their business and ensures transparency. If this specific open meetings law training is not provided, the municipality must publicly justify the decision. Furthermore, if a municipality chooses to waive or modify these training requirements, they must also provide a public justification for doing so, ensuring accountability and transparency in local government operations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general municipal law, the general city law, the town law and the village law, in relation to expanding training requirements for municipalities in relation to compliance with the open meetings law
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• Introduced: 03/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Steve Otis (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/05/2025
• Last Action: print number 6487a
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1659 • Last Action 05/04/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to public records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to make certain information confidential, specifically the addresses of individuals listed on nominating petitions for judges, chancellors, district attorneys general, and public defenders, meaning these addresses will no longer be publicly accessible unless requested by a candidate or law enforcement for specific legal reasons, and requires those requesting this information to certify their reason under oath.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, generally makes the addresses on a nominating petition for the office of judge, chancellor, district attorney general, and public defender confidential; clarifies that such addresses may be made open to public inspection upon the request of a candidate or law enforcement authority in anticipation of, or as part of, a contest of candidacy or contest of election. - Amends TCA Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : Jerome Moon (R)*, Tom Stinnett (R), Becky Jo Alexander (R), Torrey Harris (D), Lowell Russell (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 05/01/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 829
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3278 • Last Action 05/04/2026
Open Meeting Act; violations; allowing the Attorney General to enter into a consent order or issue a finding of violation to a public body, agency, or officer; effective date.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meeting Act to grant the Attorney General new powers to address violations by public bodies, agencies, or officers, in addition to existing criminal and civil penalties. Specifically, the Attorney General can now investigate alleged violations and, if the evidence supports it, either enter into a "consent order" with the offending entity or issue a "finding of violation." A consent order, which requires the signature of the responsible party, can include requirements like mandatory training on the Open Meeting Act for first-time offenders or civil penalties of up to $150 for subsequent violations, and must state that the entity will comply with the Act. A finding of violation can similarly require the entity to stop violating the Act, comply with its provisions, complete training, and pay civil penalties of up to $300 per violation. The Attorney General can also demand proof of compliance with these orders or findings and, if necessary, seek enforcement in district court, which can then issue its own order for compliance, impose civil penalties, and award court costs and attorney fees to the Attorney General, especially in cases of bad-faith violations. The bill also outlines procedures for serving findings of violation and specifies which district court has jurisdiction for enforcement actions, with a general effective date of January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 314, which relates to violations of the Open Meeting Act; allowing the Attorney General to enter into a consent order or issue a finding of violation to a public body, agency, or officer; providing consent order content; providing findings content; allowing the Attorney General to require proof of compliance; permitting application to the district court for enforcement; providing jurisdiction; requiring court order for compliance, civil penalties, costs, and other remedies under certain circumstances; requiring payment of attorney fees for bad-faith violations; providing service procedures; defining term; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Open Meeting Act
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : John Pfeiffer (R)*, Brent Howard (R)*, Michelle McCane (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: Vetoed 05/01/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3416 • Last Action 05/04/2026
Counties and county officers; county purchasing; soliciting quotes; operations; effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies county purchasing procedures in Oklahoma by allowing county purchasing agents to solicit quotes for certain purchases, specifically removing the word "telephone" from a provision that allows for soliciting quotes when a vendor is unable to perform, and also removes language related to "other services" and "information technology and telecommunication goods" from procedures for the operation of county government, and repeals a section of law concerning reverse auction bidding, with the changes taking effect on November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to counties and county officers; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1501, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 85, O.S.L. 2025 (19 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1501), which relates to county purchasing; permitting county purchasing agent to solicit quotes; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1505, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 85, O.S.L. 2025 (19 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1505), which relates to procedures for the operation of county government; removing language for clarity; repealing 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1801, which relates to reverse auction bidding; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Counties and county officers
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Judd Strom (R)*, Jerry Alvord (R)*, Josh West (R), Denise Crosswhite Hader (R), Andy Fugate (D), Brian Hill (R), Mike Dobrinski (R), Gerrid Kendrix (R), Preston Stinson (R), Max Wolfley (R), Nick Archer (R), Annie Menz (D), Mark Chapman (R), Mike Kelley (R), Michelle McCane (D)
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/01/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #HB05250 • Last Action 05/02/2026
An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Freedom Of Information Commission For Revisions To The Freedom Of Information Act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective October 1, 2026, implements recommendations from the Freedom of Information Commission to revise the Freedom of Information Act, a law that governs public access to government records and meetings. Key changes include updating the training requirements for public agency members to cover a broader range of statutes, clarifying that a "hand-held scanner" can include devices like mobile phones or cameras used to capture images of public records, and modifying the process for appealing denials of access to certain records, specifically naming the chief executive officer of the agency and the commissioner who issued the directive to withhold the record as respondents in such appeals. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "governmental function" to determine when entities performing services for the government are subject to public record disclosure requirements, and it updates the notice procedures for special meetings, requiring electronic transmission or mail delivery to members and allowing for electronic waivers of notice.
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Bill Summary: To make revisions to the Freedom of Information Act recommended by the Freedom of Information Commission, including concerning the application of the definition of "governmental function", which statutory provisions require training by the commission, redefining "hand-held scanner", electronic notice of special meetings and appeals for denial of access to certain public records.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2026
• Added: 02/19/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Government Oversight Committee, Rob Sampson (R), Tom Delnicki (R), Gale Mastrofrancesco (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 04/01/2026
• Last Action: Senate Calendar Number 533
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB41 • Last Action 05/01/2026
In interscholastic athletics accountability, providing for playoffs and championships.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to allow the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), referred to as "the association," to establish separate playoffs and championships for athletics based on whether a school is a "boundary school" (a public school, excluding charter schools) or a "nonboundary school" (a charter school, parochial school, or private school). Before making this decision, the PIAA's Executive Board ("the board") and the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee ("the oversight committee") must hold public meetings in each district to gather testimony and comments from individuals regarding the separation of playoffs. These meetings must comply with open meeting laws, including public notice and the keeping of minutes. Following these district meetings, the board will hold another open meeting to discuss the potential fiscal impact and relevant testimony, and will allow for public comment before deliberating and voting on whether to alter playoffs for all sports, certain sports, or no sports. Once a decision is made and implemented, no legal action can be taken against the association regarding this decision. The association must then provide its written decision and reasoning to the oversight committee.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), entitled "An act relating to the public school system, including certain provisions applicable as well to private and parochial schools; amending, revising, consolidating and changing the laws relating thereto," in interscholastic athletics accountability, providing for playoffs and championships.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/11/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 22 : Scott Conklin (D)*, Ben Sanchez (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Ryan Warner (R), Pat Harkins (D), Roni Green (D), Kyle Mullins (D), Dane Watro (R), Brad Roae (R), Steve Malagari (D), Brian Munroe (D), Lisa Borowski (D), Jenn O'Mara (D), Mark Gillen (R), Marc Anderson (R), Kyle Donahue (D), James Walsh (R), Natalie Mihalek (R), Craig Williams (R), Tim Briggs (D), Eric Nelson (R), Paul Takac (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Education
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0617 • Last Action 05/01/2026
Body-Worn Camera Transparency for Use of Force Temporary Amendment Act of 2026
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Body-Worn Camera Transparency for Use of Force Temporary Amendment Act of 2026, temporarily amends existing laws to require the public release of body-worn camera recordings in cases of officer-involved deaths or serious use of force, even when the officer involved is not from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) but an MPD officer was present. Specifically, it mandates the release of names and body-worn camera footage of all directly involved MPD officers and, where available, other law enforcement officers, along with a description of the incident, within 10 business days of the bill's effective date for incidents occurring between August 1, 2025, and the bill's enactment. The bill also clarifies that MPD officers are generally prohibited from reviewing body-worn camera footage to assist in writing initial reports for incidents involving MPD officers, but they may do so for incidents involving other law enforcement officers prior to the bill's effective date. A "law enforcement officer" is defined broadly to include any authorized officer, agent, or employee of federal, state, or local governments involved in preventing, detecting, or investigating violations of law. The bill applies retroactively to August 1, 2025, and is temporary, expiring after 225 days.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on a temporary basis, section 3004 of the Body-Worn Camera Regulation and Reporting Requirements Act of 2015 and Chapter 39 of Title 24 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations to require the release of body-worn camera recordings of Metropolitan Police Department Officers present in the event of an officer-involved death or serious use of force by a law enforcement officer other than a Metropolitan Police Department officer.
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• Introduced: 03/02/2026
• Added: 03/03/2026
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 2 : Brooke Pinto (D)*, Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 03/31/2026
• Last Action: Act A26-0305 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 006812
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5919 • Last Action 04/30/2026
Education: other; learner-first district; create. Amends secs. 4 & 5 of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.4 & 380.5) & adds (See bill).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new statewide "learner-first district" designed to offer flexible, innovative, and parent-directed public education options across Michigan, aiming to increase educational choices and empower parents to guide their children's learning. The learner-first district will be governed by an eight-member board appointed by the governor, with nominations from legislative leaders, and will contract with various "educational providers" – individuals or organizations that meet specific criteria for improving student achievement and adhering to state standards – to deliver programs and services. Parents can choose from these pre-approved providers or directly hire certified teachers or college faculty for one-on-one or small-group instruction through a parent-directed direct-instruction agreement, with the learner-first district facilitating payment and oversight. The bill also defines "mastery-based learning" as an educational approach where students make learning decisions, receive timely support, and progress based on demonstrated understanding rather than just time spent in class. The learner-first district will be subject to transparency and fiscal control laws applicable to other state educational agencies and will be responsible for providing special education services, though it cannot levy property taxes and will rely on state funding transfers for these services.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled"The revised school code,"by amending sections 4 and 5 (MCL 380.4 and 380.5), section 4 as amended by 2011 PA 232 and section 5 as amended by 2019 PA 38, and by adding sections 562, 564, 565, 566, 567, 568, 569, and 1701b.
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• Introduced: 04/29/2026
• Added: 04/30/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 9 : Brad Paquette (R)*, Greg Markkanen (R), Jennifer Wortz (R), Pat Outman (R), Tim Kelly (R), Jason Woolford (R), Tom Kunse (R), Cam Cavitt (R), Greg Alexander (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 04/29/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 04/29/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5485 • Last Action 04/29/2026
Natural resources: inland lakes; dam safety regulations; provide for. Amends secs. 31502, 31503, 31504, 31505, 31506, 31507, 31508, 31509, 31510, 31511, 31513, 31515, 31516, 31517, 31518, 31520, 31521 & 31523 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.31502 et seq.) & adds secs. 31506a, 31509a, 31509b, 31517a, 31518a, 31518b, 31518c, 31518d, 31528a & 31528b.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to strengthen regulations for inland lake dams, introducing new definitions for terms like "additional spillway capacity" and "inflow design flood," and clarifying existing ones such as "dam" and "high hazard potential dam" to better categorize risks. It mandates more frequent inspections for high and significant hazard potential dams, requiring owners to submit detailed inspection reports, comprehensive evaluation reports, surveillance and monitoring plans, operation and maintenance plans, and safety and security plans, all prepared or reviewed by licensed professional engineers. The bill also establishes a staggered dam registration process, revises permit fees for various dam activities with phased increases, and introduces a dam safety emergency fund to cover necessary actions when owners are unable or unwilling to address risks. Furthermore, it outlines requirements for emergency action plans, including annual review and submission, and creates a dam risk reduction grant program to assist owners with repair, alteration, or removal projects, requiring a 10% matching contribution.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled"Natural resources and environmental protection act,"by amending sections 31502, 31503, 31504, 31505, 31506, 31507, 31508, 31509, 31510, 31511, 31513, 31515, 31516, 31517, 31518, 31520, 31521, and 31523 (MCL 324.31502, 324.31503, 324.31504, 324.31505, 324.31506, 324.31507, 324.31508, 324.31509, 324.31510, 324.31511, 324.31513, 324.31515, 324.31516, 324.31517, 324.31518, 324.31520, 324.31521, and 324.31523), sections 31502, 31503, 31504, 31505, 31507, 31508, 31510, 31511, 31513, 31515, 31516, 31517, 31518, 31520, 31521, and 31523 as added by 1995 PA 59, section 31506 as amended by 1995 PA 100, and section 31509 as amended by 2004 PA 325, and by adding sections 31506a, 31509a, 31509b, 31517a, 31518a, 31518b, 31518c, 31518d, 31528a, and 31528b.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 10 : Bill Schuette (R)*, Timmy Beson (R), Mike Hoadley (R), David Martin (R), Jerry Neyer (R), Tim Kelly (R), Amos O'Neal (D), Jason Woolford (R), Matthew Bierlein (R), Tom Kunse (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: House Natural Resources and Tourism (12:00:00 4/29/2026 Room 519, House Office Building)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H8486 • Last Action 04/29/2026
Authorizes the committees of the general assembly to allow members of the public to provide testimony remotely.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to allow committees of the Rhode Island General Assembly to accept testimony from members of the public remotely, meaning individuals can provide their input through electronic means such as phone calls or video conferencing, rather than having to be physically present at the meeting location. This change is intended to make public participation more accessible, with specific conditions requiring that remote and in-person attendees can clearly hear and see each other, a quorum of the committee is present, and if video conferencing is used, the public must be notified and provided with instructions on how to access the virtual meeting. The bill also states that it will become effective immediately upon being passed into law.
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Bill Summary: This act would authorize the committees of the general assembly to allow members of the public to provide testimony remotely, via electronic communication, including telephonic communication and telephone conferencing. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 04/29/2026
• Added: 04/30/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Arthur Handy (D)*, Samuel Azzinaro (D), David Bennett (D), Kathleen Fogarty (D), Michael Chippendale (R), Pat Serpa (D), Mia Ackerman (D), Scott Slater (D), Joseph McNamara (D), Susan Donovan (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/29/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, referred to House State Government & Elections
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0004 • Last Action 04/29/2026
Public Records/Investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes information held by the Department of Legal Affairs related to notifications or investigations of certain violations concerning companion chatbots, bots, and deidentified data confidential and exempt from public records requirements until an investigation is completed or becomes inactive. During an active investigation, this information can be shared by the department for official duties, to notify the public or locate victims, or with other government entities, but certain sensitive information, including personal identifying details, computer forensic reports, and proprietary information (defined as private business information that would harm the company if disclosed and has not been publicly released), will remain confidential even after an investigation concludes. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and is set to expire in 2031, with the legislature finding it necessary to protect ongoing investigations, sensitive personal data, and business interests from premature disclosure.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 501.9984, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information held by the Department of Legal Affairs relating to notifications or investigations of certain companion chatbot violations; providing construction; authorizing the department to disclose such information during an active investigation for specified purposes; requiring that certain information remain confidential and exempt upon the completion or cessation of an investigation; defining the term “proprietary information”; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 501.9985, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information held by the department relating to notifications or investigations of certain bot-related consumer protection violations; providing construction; authorizing the department to disclose such information during an active investigation for specified purposes; requiring that certain information remain confidential and exempt upon the completion or cessation of an investigation; defining the term “proprietary information”; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 501.9986, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information held by the department relating to notifications or investigations of certain deidentified data-related consumer protection violations; providing construction; authorizing the department to disclose such information during an active investigation for specified purposes; requiring that certain information remain confidential and exempt upon the completion or cessation of an investigation; defining the term “proprietary information”; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 04/27/2026
• Added: 04/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Fourth Special Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jason Brodeur (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 04/24/2026
• Last Action: Died in Information Technology Budget & Policy Subcommittee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD419 • Last Action 04/29/2026
An Act to Increase the Transparency and Accountability of the Maine Information and Analysis Center
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new position of Auditor within the Office of the Attorney General to provide oversight of the Maine Information and Analysis Center (MIAC), a state intelligence-gathering organization. The Auditor, appointed by the Attorney General, will be responsible for ensuring the center's transparency and accountability while protecting individuals' privacy and civil rights. The Auditor must maintain a public website with de-identified informational reports, provide annual and interim reports to the legislative committee overseeing criminal justice and public safety, and allow people to submit questions or complaints about the center. The Auditor can review center activities but cannot require corrective actions or disclose personally identifying information. The bill also stipulates that any non-confidential information shared by the center with private entities is considered a public record under the Freedom of Access Act. Additionally, the Auditor's first report must review the center's record-keeping, information-sharing practices, and compliance with federal regulations on criminal intelligence collection, with the potential for follow-up legislation based on the findings. Key protections include maintaining complainant confidentiality and ensuring that published reports do not contain sensitive or legally restricted information.
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Bill Summary: This bill does the following. 1. It creates the position of auditor of the Maine Information and Analysis Center within the Office of the Attorney General. 2. It adds a definition for "de-identified" and requires that reports submitted to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over criminal justice and public safety matters and posted on the publicly accessible website of the auditor of the Maine Information and Analysis Center be de-identified. 3. It provides that the powers and duties of the auditor include ensuring that the center operates within the law and in a manner that preserves the privacy, civil liberties and civil rights of all people in the State. 4. It requires that reports of the auditor to the committee that are posted on the auditor's publicly accessible website may not contain any records that are confidential or otherwise not authorized by law to be disseminated to the public. 5. It specifies that the identity of any person who submits a good faith complaint to the auditor against the center using the auditor's publicly accessible website or by other means is confidential and that the auditor must maintain the identity of such persons as confidential. 6. It specifies that classified or confidential information that is shared by the center with a private entity is not considered a public record under the Freedom of Access Act.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 10 : Grayson Lookner (D)*, Dan Ankeles (D), David Boyer (R), Quentin Chapman (R), Tavis Hasenfus (D), Adam Lee (D), Laurel Libby (R), Nina Milliken (D), Bill Pluecker (I), Rachel Talbot Ross (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 02/03/2025
• Last Action: Died On Adjournment, Apr 29, 2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB1312 • Last Action 04/29/2026
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Athletic Trainer Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor and the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Athletic Trainer Interstate Compact, which is an agreement between states to allow licensed athletic trainers to practice in multiple member states without needing a separate license in each one. The compact aims to improve public access to athletic training services, support military members and their spouses by easing relocation, and streamline the licensing process for athletic trainers. It establishes a commission to oversee the compact, sets definitions for terms like "Licensee" (a licensed athletic trainer) and "Compact Privilege" (the legal authorization to practice in another member state), and outlines requirements for states to join and for athletic trainers to obtain a Compact Privilege, including background checks and adherence to the scope of practice in the state where the patient is located. The Governor is empowered to execute the compact, and the Secretary of the Commonwealth will publish notice once it becomes effective.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Athletic Trainer Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor and the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
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• Introduced: 04/29/2026
• Added: 04/30/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 13 : Lisa Baker (R)*, Rosemary Brown (R), Judy Ward (R), Steve Santarsiero (D), Tracy Pennycuick (R), Carolyn Comitta (D), Maria Collett (D), Marty Flynn (D), Elder Vogel (R), Amanda Cappelletti (D), Dave Argall (R), Gene Yaw (R), Judy Schwank (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/29/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD2121 • Last Action 04/29/2026
Resolve, to Convene a Working Group to Study Methods for Enhancing the Safety of Judicial and Elected Officials
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Office of Information Privacy within the Department of the Secretary of State to allow certain public officials, including judges, legislators, and constitutional officers, along with their immediate family members, to request that their home addresses be removed from public records and online resources maintained by state, county, and municipal governments. This protection is intended to enhance the safety of these individuals. The bill outlines who qualifies as an "authorized person" to make these requests, such as designees of federal agencies or legal representatives for incapacitated individuals, and defines "covered person" and "immediate family member." It also details the process for submitting and revoking these redaction requests, including an affirmation that the individual understands certain rights, like signing petitions or receiving official notices, may be affected. While the bill generally mandates redaction, it includes specific exceptions, such as for voter registration files provided to election officials or candidates, and for certain real estate documents shared with specific industry professionals. However, Uniform Commercial Code filings, petitions for office, records of liens or judgments, and abandoned property records are explicitly excluded from redaction. The bill also clarifies that this provision does not prevent information sharing between government entities or returning unredacted documents to their original submitters, and that court orders can override redaction requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill allows specified public officials, and their immediate family members, to request that certain personal information, including residential addresses, be removed from public records and publicly available online resources maintained by state, county and municipal government agencies. The bill establishes the Office of Information Privacy in the Department of the Secretary of State to administer the provisions of the bill.
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 7 : Sean Faircloth (D)*, Mana Abdi (D), Donna Bailey (D), Mattie Daughtry (D), Deqa Dhalac (D), Ryan Fecteau (D), Matthew Moonen (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 48
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Died On Adjournment, Apr 29, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5882 • Last Action 04/28/2026
Local government: other; requirements for a moratorium imposed by a local unit of government on large-scale data centers or cryptocurrency mining facilities; provide for. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5881'26
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Data Center Planning and Responsibility Act," establishes regulations for local governments in Michigan when they consider imposing a moratorium, which is a temporary pause on approving applications for large-scale data centers or cryptocurrency mining facilities. Before enacting a moratorium, a local government can form a task force, hold public hearings, or require developers to provide studies on the project's local impacts, such as on energy, water, noise, traffic, and property values. To impose a moratorium, the local government must adopt it through a public vote, clearly define its scope and any exemptions, include a process for appealing its application due to hardship, prohibit elected officials from signing non-disclosure agreements about the projects, and explain how it serves the public good; the initial moratorium cannot exceed six months and cannot be imposed if a similar moratorium was previously enacted. During a moratorium, local governments can continue to gather information, conduct studies, hold public meetings, and propose amendments to their zoning ordinances to better manage the impacts of these facilities, such as requiring special land use approval or limiting them to specific zones. Extensions to the moratorium are possible for up to 90 days if compelling circumstances exist, such as needing more time to review public input or finalize zoning changes, and require another public vote. The bill also clarifies that a "large-scale data center" will be defined by thresholds set by the Michigan Public Service Commission, considering factors like the project's impact on the electrical grid and potential cost shifts to other ratepayers, and mandates the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget to create a public website with planning resources for these facilities.
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Bill Summary: A bill to provide for and regulate moratoriums imposed by a local unit of government on large-scale data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities; to provide for the adoption of certain zoning ordinance amendments; to regulate certain activities related to large-scale data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local governmental officers and entities.
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• Introduced: 04/23/2026
• Added: 04/24/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 3 : Reggie Miller (D)*, Emily Dievendorf (D), Veronica Paiz (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 04/23/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 04/23/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5619 • Last Action 04/28/2026
Appropriations: omnibus; appropriations for multiple departments and branches for fiscal year 2026-2027; provide for. Creates appropriation act.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes appropriations for multiple departments and branches for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2027, totaling over $7 billion. * **Department of Agriculture and Rural Development:** * Departmental Administration and Support: $10,688,500, funded by various state restricted revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Food Safety and Animal Health: $37,596,100, funded by federal revenues, various state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Environment and Sustainability: $26,295,700, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Agriculture Development: $26,902,100, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Laboratory and Consumer Protection: $17,205,800, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Fairs and Expositions: $9,332,200, funded entirely by the Agriculture Equine Industry Development Fund. * One-Time Appropriations: $3,000,000 for the Michigan Animal Agriculture Alliance, funded by the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **Department of Corrections:** * Departmental Administration and Support: $77,194,800, funded by federal revenues, correctional industries revolving fund, jail reimbursement program fund, resident stores, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Offender Success Administration: $107,248,200, funded by federal revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Field Operations Administration: $233,550,700, funded by special revenue funds and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Correctional Facilities Administration: $140,145,300, funded by federal revenues, correctional industries revolving fund, resident stores, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Health Care: $378,875,700, funded by federal revenues, prisoner health care co-payments, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Correctional Facilities: $1,167,635,700, funded by federal revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Information Technology: $17,758,000, funded by correctional industries revolving fund, supervision fees set-aside, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **Department of Education:** * State Board of Education/Office of the Superintendent: $3,793,800, funded by federal revenues, private foundations, certification fees, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Departmental Administration and Support: $14,461,800, funded by federal revenues, local cost sharing, private foundations, certification fees, training and orientation workshop fees, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Information Technology: $2,466,600, funded by federal revenues and certification fees. * Special Education Services: $7,640,100, funded by federal revenues, private foundations, and certification fees. * Michigan Schools for the Deaf and Blind: $12,856,600, funded by federal revenues, local cost sharing, gifts, bequests, and donations, low incidence outreach fund, student insurance revenue, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Educator Excellence: $8,459,400, funded by federal revenues, certification fees, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Systems, Evaluation, and Technology: $3,275,200, funded by federal revenues, certification fees, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Strategic Planning and Implementation: $1,190,800, funded by federal revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Administrative Law Services: $1,154,200, funded by federal revenues and certification fees. * Accountability Services: $11,867,900, funded entirely by federal revenues. * School Support Services: $16,456,300, funded by federal revenues, commodity distribution fees, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Educational Supports: $17,017,200, funded by federal revenues, certification fees, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Career and Technical Education: $5,052,400, funded by federal revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Library of Michigan: $30,617,500, funded by federal revenues, library fees, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Partnership District Support: $3,666,600, funded by federal revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy:** * Departmental Administration and Support: $44,618,800, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, private funds, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Water Resources Division: $73,235,400, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, and various special revenue funds. * Air Quality Division: $34,729,100, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Remediation and Redevelopment Division: $76,814,400, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds. * Underground Storage Tank Authority: $22,129,000, funded by the Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund. * Renewing Michigan's Environment: $30,917,400, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Information Technology: $5,219,900, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **General Government:** * Department of Attorney General: $118,609,400 (operations) + $852,900 (IT) = $119,462,300, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, private revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Department of Civil Rights: $23,263,500 (operations) + $774,500 (IT) = $24,038,000, funded by federal revenues, private revenues, state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Legislature: $147,958,500 (legislature) + $23,853,200 (legislative council) + $6,565,600 (legislative retirement system) + $17,448,600 (property management) + $10,893,400 (state capitol historic site) + $2,700,000 (digital oversight office) = $209,419,700, funded by private revenues, other state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Office of the Auditor General: $32,657,500, funded by interdepartmental grants and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Department of Technology, Management, and Budget: $603,163,300 (adjusted gross) + $26,408,100 (IT) = $629,571,400, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, local revenues, private revenues, other state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Department of State: $249,314,200 (summary) + $48,222,600 (admin) + $17,758,000 (IT) = $315,294,800, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Department of Treasury: $2,546,074,400 (adjusted gross) + $14,461,800 (admin) + $2,466,600 (IT) + $107,248,200 (offender success) + $233,550,700 (field ops) + $140,145,300 (correctional facilities admin) + $378,875,700 (health care) + $1,167,635,700 (correctional facilities) = $4,592,458,200, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, local revenues, private revenues, other state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * One-Time Appropriations: $6,000,000 for EMS health strategies fund, funded by the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **Department of Health and Human Services:** * Child Support Enforcement: $190,183,200, funded by federal revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Community Services and Outreach: $131,349,800, funded by federal revenues, TANF, local cost sharing, donated funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Children's Services Agency - Child Welfare: $1,529,736,100, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, local revenues, private revenues, other state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Children's Services Agency - Juvenile Justice: $36,976,700, funded by federal revenues, local cost sharing, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Public Assistance: $3,899,324,800, funded by federal revenues, TANF, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Local Office Operations and Support Services: $753,916,900, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, private revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Disability Determination Services: $103,266,500, funded by federal revenues and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Behavioral Health Program Administration and Special Projects: $286,589,600, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, private revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Behavioral Health Services: $5,521,265,800, funded by federal revenues, local revenues, private revenues, other state restricted revenues, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **Department of Natural Resources:** * Departmental Administration and Support: $41,254,100, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, private funds, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Water Resources Division: $73,235,400, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, and various special revenue funds. * Air Quality Division: $34,729,100, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Remediation and Redevelopment Division: $76,814,400, funded by federal revenues and various special revenue funds. * Underground Storage Tank Authority: $22,129,000, funded by the Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund. * Renewing Michigan's Environment: $30,917,400, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Information Technology: $5,219,900, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Forest Resources Division: $60,804,900, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Grants: $28,357,100, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Capital Outlay: $32,500,000, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Waterways Boating Program: $106,433,100, funded by federal revenues, revolving loan revenue bonds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **Department of State Police:** * Departmental Administration and Support: $78,275,800, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, private revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Legal Services: $24,483,100, funded by various special revenue funds. * Information Technology: $17,758,000, funded by correctional industries revolving fund, supervision fees set-aside, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Field Services: $512,254,400, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Specialized Services: $171,598,400, funded by federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * One-Time Appropriations: $11,500,000, funded by the State General Fund/General Purpose. * **Judiciary:** * Supreme Court: $76,548,200, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Judicial Agencies: $2,995,100, funded by the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Indigent Defense - Criminal: $23,527,900, funded by interdepartmental grants, federal revenues, various special revenue funds, and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * Indigent Civil Legal Assistance: $7,937,000, funded by the Court Fee Fund. * Trial Court Operations: $87,898,100, funded by various special revenue funds and the State General Fund/General Purpose. * One-Time Appropriations: $2,000,000 for juvenile life resentencing. The bill also includes numerous general sections that outline provisions concerning appropriations, definitions, reporting requirements, and conditions on spending for various departments and programs.
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Bill Summary: A bill to make, supplement, adjust, and consolidate appropriations for various state departments and agencies, the judicial branch, and the legislative branch for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2027; to provide for certain conditions on appropriations; and to provide for the expenditure of the appropriations.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2026
• Added: 04/27/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Ann Bollin (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 04/23/2026
• Last Action: Referred To Committee Of The Whole
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF2940 • Last Action 04/28/2026
Minnesota Data Privacy Act modification to make consumer health data a form of sensitive data provision and sensitive data additional protections addition provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Minnesota Data Privacy Act to expand protections for consumer health data by making it a form of sensitive data with additional safeguards. Specifically, the bill adds comprehensive definitions for health data and geofencing, and introduces new requirements for processing and selling sensitive data. The legislation defines health data broadly, including information about medical conditions, treatments, health-related purchases, bodily functions, diagnostic testing, and even derived or inferred data about a consumer's health status. The bill prohibits implementing geofences around healthcare facilities to track or collect health data without consent and requires explicit, separate authorizations for processing or selling sensitive health information. Controllers must obtain specific, written consent that clearly explains what data will be processed, how it will be used, and provide consumers the ability to withdraw consent. The bill also expands enforcement powers for the Attorney General, allowing penalties of up to $7,500 per violation and extending enforcement to entities that are not traditional controllers or processors. The new provisions will become effective on July 31, 2025, with a delayed compliance date for postsecondary institutions until July 31, 2029.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to consumer protection; modifying the Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act to make consumer health data a form of sensitive data; adding additional protections for sensitive data; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 325M.11; 325M.12; 325M.16, subdivision 2; 325M.18; 325M.20; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 325M; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 325M.17.
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 4 : Bonnie Westlin (D)*, Melissa Wiklund (D), Clare Oumou Verbeten (D), Ron Latz (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 03/21/2025
• Last Action: Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection (12:30:00 4/28/2026 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AK bill #HB377 • Last Action 04/28/2026
Public Records: Audio & Video; Muni Costs
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Alaska's public records laws to explicitly include audio and video recordings, as well as electronic mail, within the definition of "record" and "public records," ensuring these formats are subject to public access. It also modifies provisions related to fees for accessing public records, allowing municipalities and the Department of Public Safety to charge requesters for the actual personnel costs involved in searching, reviewing, redacting, and copying requested documents, with payment potentially required in advance. This aims to manage the costs associated with fulfilling requests for public information, particularly for formats that may require specialized handling or significant staff time.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to public records; relating to managing and preserving audio and video recordings; and relating to fees for the inspection and copying of public records under the Alaska Public Records Act.
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• Introduced: 03/09/2026
• Added: 03/10/2026
• Session: 34th Legislature
• Sponsors: 0 : State Affairs
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 04/01/2026
• Last Action: House State Affairs Hearing (15:15:00 4/28/2026 Gruenberg 120)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A11159 • Last Action 04/28/2026
Requires district leadership teams to operate under open meetings law requirements.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all district leadership teams in New York City to follow the Open Meetings Law, which is found in Article 7 of the Public Officers Law. This means that meetings of these teams must be open to the public, with advance notice given, and minutes must be kept, ensuring transparency in their decision-making processes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to establishing certain requirements for district leadership teams
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• Introduced: 04/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jordan Wright (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/28/2026
• Last Action: referred to cities
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5898 • Last Action 04/28/2026
Environmental protection: hazardous products; citizen's advisory working group; establish. Creates new act. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5897'26
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a "citizen's advisory working group" within the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to advise and assist the Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART) on matters related to PFAS contamination. MPART is a state team created to address PFAS, which are a class of chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances. The advisory group will be composed of individuals who are current or former residents of "impacted communities" – meaning cities, townships, or villages with at least one official MPART PFAS site where contamination has been identified by the state – or who have been otherwise exposed to PFAS. The group's duties will include conducting community outreach, providing input on PFAS contamination, reviewing and recommending new strategies to MPART, and advising on how to improve public awareness of health risks and responses to PFAS contamination, all while operating under open meeting and freedom of information laws, though members will not be compensated but can be reimbursed for expenses.
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Bill Summary: A bill to create the citizen's advisory working group; to prescribe the powers and duties of the citizen's advisory working group; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local governmental officers and entities.
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• Introduced: 04/23/2026
• Added: 04/24/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 38 : Julie Brixie (D)*, Dylan Wegela (D), Penelope Tsernoglou (D), Matt Longjohn (D), Morgan Foreman (D), Reggie Miller (D), Phil Skaggs (D), Tonya Myers Phillips (D), Sharon MacDonell (D), Jaz Martus (D), Jennifer Conlin (D), Stephen Wooden (D), Veronica Paiz (D), Julie Rogers (D), Denise Mentzer (D), Emily Dievendorf (D), Jason Morgan (D), Peter Herzberg (D), Erin Byrnes (D), Mai Xiong (D), Stephanie Young (D), Matt Koleszar (D), Kelly Breen (D), Regina Weiss (D), Carol Glanville (D), Helena Scott (D), Laurie Pohutsky (D), Natalie Price (D), Carrie Rheingans (D), Kara Hope (D), Donavan McKinney (D), Cynthia Neeley (D), Brenda Carter (D), Kimberly Edwards (D), Jason Hoskins (D), Tyrone Carter (D), Noah Arbit (D), Betsy Coffia (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 04/23/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 04/23/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF2479 • Last Action 04/28/2026
A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for state government administration and regulation, including the department of administrative services, auditor of state, ethics and campaign disclosure board, offices of governor and lieutenant governor, department of inspections, appeals, and licensing, department of insurance and financial services, department of management, Iowa public employees' retirement system, public information board, department of revenue, secretary of state, tr
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill appropriates funds for state government administration and regulation for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027. * **Department of Administrative Services:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous: $3,602,306 from the General Fund. * Utility costs: $4,487,598 from the General Fund, with unspent funds remaining available for the next fiscal year. * Terrace Hill operations: $460,884 from the General Fund. * State library services (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $2,626,613 from the General Fund. * Enrich Iowa program: $2,464,823 from the General Fund. * State historical resources support: $3,804,774 from the General Fund. * Administration and support of state historic sites: $425,751 from the General Fund. * Workers' compensation fund: All collected premiums and moneys for state employees' workers' compensation claims and administrative costs, with unspent funds remaining available for the next fiscal year. * Revolving and internal service funds: Such amounts as deemed necessary for operations. * State employee health insurance administration charge: $2.00 per contract. * **Auditor of State:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous: $1,002,686 from the General Fund. The Auditor may retain additional full-time equivalent positions for specific audits. * **Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous: $1,045,432 from the General Fund. * **Offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor:** * General office (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $2,864,932 from the General Fund. * Terrace Hill quarters (including salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $144,222 from the General Fund. * **Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing:** * Administration Division (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $808,285 from the General Fund. * Administrative Hearings Division (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $654,983 from the General Fund. * Investigations (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $2,769,231 from the General Fund. * Health Facilities (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $6,206,128 from the General Fund. * Employment Appeal Board (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $510,782 from the General Fund, with provisions for reimbursement and potential negative cash balance for specific hearings. * Iowa Office of Civil Rights (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $1,338,921 from the General Fund. * Labor Services (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $2,965,719 from the General Fund, with unspent funds remaining available for the next fiscal year. * Division of Workers' Compensation (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $3,381,044 from the General Fund, with unspent funds remaining available for the next fiscal year. * Professional Licensing (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $1,627,969 from the General Fund. * License or registration fees: Remaining fees after specified deposits and remittances are retained for enforcing specific chapters, with unspent funds remaining available for the next fiscal year. * Racing and Gaming Commission (regulation, administration, enforcement): $8,049,999 from the Gaming Regulatory Revolving Fund. * Administrative Hearings Division (from Road Use Tax Fund): $1,623,897. * **Department of Insurance and Financial Services:** * Banking Division (from Commerce Revolving Fund): $14,881,690. * Credit Union Division (from Commerce Revolving Fund): $3,018,710. * Insurance Division (from Commerce Revolving Fund): $11,010,719, with provisions for exceeding projected receipts for examination purposes if fully reimbursable and justified. * Captive Insurance Regulatory and Supervision Fund: $450,000 from the General Fund. * All nonexamination revenues from insurance companies and other regulated entities are deposited into the Commerce Revolving Fund. * **Department of Management:** * Enterprise resource planning, performance audits, LEAN process, and justice planning: $3,666,154 from the General Fund. * Information Technology Division (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $4,421,887 from the General Fund, with $325,000 allocated for cybersecurity services to local governments. * Revolving and internal funds: Such amounts as deemed necessary for operations. * IowAccess revolving fund: Up to $750,000 from fees for vehicle operating record abstracts, for developing, implementing, maintaining, and expanding electronic access to government records. * Road Use Tax Fund: $56,000 for salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes. * **Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS):** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and other operational purposes: $26,330,702 from the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement Fund. * **Iowa Public Information Board:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous: $467,227 from the General Fund. * **Department of Revenue:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous: $15,378,678 from the General Fund, with $400,000 for direct costs related to local sales and services taxes. * Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax Fund (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous, administration and enforcement of fuel tax program): $1,305,775. * **Secretary of State:** * Administration and Elections (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $2,566,697 from the General Fund. * Business Services (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $1,568,795 from the General Fund. * Address Confidentiality Program Revolving Fund (salaries, support, maintenance, miscellaneous): $195,400. * The Secretary of State may refund certain filing fees for the fiscal year. * **Treasurer of State:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous: $1,046,415 from the General Fund. * Iowa ABLE savings plan trust administrative fund: $200,000 from the General Fund. * Road Use Tax Fund (enterprise resource management costs for road use tax fund distribution): $316,788. * **Iowa Utilities Commission:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous: $12,080,831 from the Commerce Revolving Fund, with provisions for expending additional moneys if fully reimbursable and justified. * **Limitations:** * Standing appropriation for enforcement of tobacco product manufacturers (Code chapter 453D) is limited to $17,525 from the General Fund. * **Deposit of Certain Fees:** * The Consumer Fireworks Fee Fund and the Electrical or Mechanical Amusement Devices Special Fund are eliminated, and moneys previously deposited in these funds will now be deposited in the Licensing and Regulation Fund. * Fees collected from professional boxing events will be deposited in the Licensing and Regulation Fund. * All nonexamination revenues paid to the Insurance Division or the Department of Revenue will be deposited in the Commerce Revolving Fund.
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Bill Summary: FY 2026-2027 APPROPRIATIONS. This bill relates to and appropriates moneys to various state departments, agencies, and funds for FY 2026-2027, including the department of administrative services, auditor of state, Iowa ethics and campaign disclosure board, offices of governor and lieutenant governor, department of inspections, appeals, and licensing, department of insurance and financial services, department of management, Iowa public employees’ retirement system, Iowa public information board, department of revenue, secretary of state, treasurer of state, and Iowa utilities commission. The bill limits a standing appropriation for FY 2026-2027 for enforcement of Code chapter 453D relating to tobacco product manufacturers under Code section 453D.8. DEPOSIT OF CERTAIN FEES. The bill eliminates the consumer fireworks fee fund and the electrical or mechanical amusement devices special fund and requires the moneys that were deposited in those funds to be deposited in the licensing and regulation fund. The bill also eliminates the provision requiring moneys collected from a professional boxing event to be used to award grants to organizations that promote amateur boxing matches and requires the moneys to be deposited in the licensing and regulation fund. Under current law, 40 percent of nonexamination revenues paid to the insurance division or the department of revenue are deposited in the commerce revolving fund, while the rest of the nonexamination revenues are deposited in the general fund of the state. The bill requires all such nonexamination revenues to be deposited in the commerce revolving fund.
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• Introduced: 04/02/2026
• Added: 04/27/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Appropriations
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 04/02/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn. S.J. 906.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1775 • Last Action 04/28/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 8-44-110, relative to public meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the requirement for public bodies to make their meeting agendas available in advance to include the governing body of a local education agency (LEA), which is a local entity responsible for public schools, and any other local governing body that can make legally binding decisions or control the allocation of funds, with the exception of certain private nonprofit organizations that receive federal community services block grant funds. This amendment aims to increase transparency in local government by ensuring that the public has prior notice of what will be discussed at meetings of these important decision-making bodies.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, adds the governing body of a local education agency and certain other local governing bodies of a public body with the authority to make binding decisions or the ability to appropriate funds to the list of governing bodies that are required to make meeting agendas available to the public in advance of such meetings. - Amends TCA Section 8-44-110.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Todd Gardenhire (R)*, Janice Bowling (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 04/17/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 04/14/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1797 • Last Action 04/28/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 8-44-110, relative to public meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 8-44-110, which requires public bodies to make meeting agendas available to the public in advance. Specifically, it adds the governing body of a local education agency (LEA), which is a public entity responsible for operating public schools, and any other local governing body that can make binding decisions or allocate funds, to the list of entities that must provide these advance agendas. This change aims to increase transparency in local government by ensuring more public bodies, particularly those involved in education and financial decisions, are subject to this public notice requirement.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, adds the governing body of a local education agency and certain other local governing bodies of a public body with the authority to make binding decisions or the ability to appropriate funds to the list of governing bodies that are required to make meeting agendas available to the public in advance of such meetings. - Amends TCA Section 8-44-110.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Susan Lynn (R)*, Chris Todd (R), G.A. Hardaway (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 04/17/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 699
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB91 • Last Action 04/27/2026
Provides relative to disclosure of criminal records during trial
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts new provisions, specifically Article 717(E) and (F) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, to govern the disclosure of criminal records in criminal cases. It clarifies that certain information is excluded from disclosure, particularly criminal history data directly derived from federal databases maintained by the Criminal Justice Information Services Division of the FBI, and also from the Louisiana Computerized Criminal History System if the witness is a criminal justice agency employee whose identity is otherwise protected. Furthermore, the bill prohibits the dissemination of any such criminal history information obtained for trial use concerning a witness outside of the presiding court, and prevents it from being included in any public court record. This aims to protect sensitive criminal history information from being disclosed beyond the immediate needs of a trial and to prevent its public accessibility.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact Code of Criminal Procedure Article 717(E) and (F), relative to discovery in criminal cases; to provide for information that is excluded from disclosure; to prohibit disclosure of certain information outside of trial; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jeffrey Wiley (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Becomes HB 1245.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1911 • Last Action 04/24/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to public records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, which governs public records, to grant individuals who are not citizens of Tennessee the right to inspect or receive copies of law enforcement records or reports that solely pertain to them, such as arrest or incident reports, provided they submit a written request identifying the specific record, a copy of their government-issued photo identification, and a signed affidavit confirming the record is about them. However, this right does not extend to records that are legally confidential, protected by Rule 16 of the Tennessee Rules of Criminal Procedure, or covered by investigative privilege, and the state can still charge reasonable costs for producing these records.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, entitles an individual who is not a citizen of this state to inspect or receive a copy of any law enforcement record or report pertaining solely to that individual. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Johnny Shaw (D)*, Yusuf Hakeem (D), Harold Love (D), Karen Camper (D), Jesse Chism (D), G.A. Hardaway (D), Jake McCalmon (R), John Clemmons (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 04/17/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 711
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0632 • Last Action 04/24/2026
Open Meetings Clarification Emergency Amendment Act of 2026
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Open Meetings Clarification Emergency Amendment Act of 2026, amends the District of Columbia's Open Meetings Act to clarify what constitutes a "meeting" and to provide exceptions and new rules for public access. Specifically, it clarifies that a "meeting" involves a quorum of a public body discussing or advising on public business, but excludes chance social gatherings and press conferences, and for the Council, it specifically includes legislative and committee meetings where votes are taken. The bill also allows public bodies to receive briefings on potential terrorist or public health threats without it being considered a meeting if disclosure could endanger the public, and exempts meetings between the Council and the Mayor from the act's requirements as long as no official action is taken. Furthermore, it establishes that a meeting is considered open to the public if reasonable steps are taken to allow viewing or hearing it as it happens, or as soon as possible afterward if technology prevents real-time access. Finally, it adjusts the applicability date for expanded financial reporting requirements for certain boards and commissions to October 17, 2026, and the entire act is effective for a limited 90-day period as an emergency measure.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on an emergency basis, the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of meeting; to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken, to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings, to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable; and to amend section 5710 of Title 3 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations to further clarify the applicability date for expanded financial reporting requirements for certain boards and commissions.
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• Introduced: 03/30/2026
• Added: 03/31/2026
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 03/31/2026
• Last Action: Act A26-0297 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 006260, Expires on Jul 17, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7000 • Last Action 04/24/2026
OGSR/Persons Provided Public Emergency Shelter
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes a permanent change to a law that protects the privacy of individuals who have received public emergency shelter, such as during a hurricane or other disaster. Specifically, it removes a provision that would have automatically ended this privacy protection on October 2, 2026, meaning the addresses and phone numbers of people who received emergency shelter will no longer be considered public records and will remain confidential indefinitely. The law being amended, section 252.385 of the Florida Statutes, defines "agency" as any entity that provides emergency shelter, and the exemption from public records requirements is intended to protect the safety and privacy of these individuals.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 252.385, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for the addresses and telephone numbers of persons provided public emergency shelter and held by the agency that provided the emergency shelter; deleting the scheduled repeal of the exemption; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/27/2025
• Added: 10/28/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability, Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 37
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-51
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A11118 • Last Action 04/24/2026
Prohibits the disclosure of the home address, personal telephone numbers, personal email addresses or personal social media handles of any active or former New York state, New York city or local municipal emergency first responder, a judge of any court of law of this state, or a New York state, county or municipal prosecutor or the spouse or child thereof; relates to criminal penalties; permits civil action.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits the disclosure, publication, or dissemination of personal contact information, including home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and social media handles, of active or former New York state, New York City, or local municipal emergency first responders (defined as police officers, peace officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, or other emergency medical services providers), judges, or prosecutors, and their spouses or children. The bill establishes criminal penalties for violations, with a Class A misdemeanor for disclosure that recklessly disregards the probability of harassment or harm, and a more serious Class E felony for disclosure with the intent to expose someone to harassment or harm. It also allows for civil action, where individuals or entities found to have violated the law can be liable for damages, including liquidated damages of at least $1,000 per violation, punitive damages, and attorney's fees, if they disclose this information under circumstances where a reasonable person would believe it would lead to harassment or harm.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, the penal law and the civil rights law, in relation to prohibiting the disclosure and publication of the home address, personal telephone numbers, personal email addresses, or social media handles of any active or former New York state, New York city or local municipal emergency first responder, a judge of any court of law of this state, or a New York state, county or municipal prosecutor
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• Introduced: 04/24/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Kwani O'Pharrow (D)*, Sam Berger (D), Nily Rozic (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/24/2026
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1970 • Last Action 04/24/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to public records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law concerning public records to grant individuals who are not citizens of Tennessee the right to inspect or receive copies of law enforcement records or reports that solely pertain to them, such as arrest or incident reports, provided they submit a written request, a copy of their government-issued photo ID, and an affidavit confirming the record is about them. However, this right does not extend to records that are legally confidential, privileged under Tennessee Rules of Criminal Procedure Rule 16, or protected by investigative privilege, and the state can still charge reasonable costs for producing these records.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, entitles an individual who is not a citizen of this state to inspect or receive a copy of any law enforcement record or report pertaining solely to that individual. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Raumesh Akbari (D)*, Heidi Campbell (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 04/17/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 07/01/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7026 • Last Action 04/24/2026
OGSR/Trade Secret Held by an Agency
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to Florida law, primarily focused on trade secrets and public records exemptions. The most significant provision is the removal of a scheduled repeal date for the exemption that protects trade secrets held by government agencies from public disclosure, meaning this exemption will no longer automatically expire. The bill also amends various other statutes to conform to this change and to adjust how trade secrets and other proprietary information are treated under public records laws across different state agencies and programs, including those related to antitrust violations, economic development, healthcare rebates, workers' compensation investigations, funeral services, consumer protection, and insurance. In essence, the bill aims to make certain confidential business information, particularly trade secrets, permanently exempt from public view when held by government entities, rather than subject to periodic review and potential expiration.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 119.0715, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for a trade secret held by an agency; deleting the scheduled repeal of the exemption; amending ss. 287.137, 288.075, 334.049, 408.185, 409.91196, 440.108, 497.172, 501.171, 501.1735, 501.2041, 501.722, 520.9965, 548.062, 559.5558, 569.215, 627.0628, and 1004.4472, F.S.; conforming provisions to changes made by the act; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-52
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0506 • Last Action 04/24/2026
Public Records/Body Camera Recordings Recorded by a Code Inspector
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for body camera recordings made by code inspectors, which are officials responsible for enforcing building and property codes, under specific circumstances. The exemption applies to recordings taken inside private residences, healthcare or social service facilities, or any place where a reasonable person would expect privacy. However, these recordings can still be disclosed by a local government for its official duties or to other government agencies, and must be provided to the person recorded, their personal representative (such as a parent, guardian, or attorney), or someone who lawfully resided at the recorded location, with only relevant portions disclosed. Additionally, recordings can be released pursuant to a court order, which will consider factors like necessity, sensitivity of information, and potential harm. Local governments are required to retain these recordings for at least 90 days, and this exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless extended. The bill also directs the Division of Library and Information Services to establish a 90-day retention rule for these recordings by October 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.0713, F.S.; defining terms; providing an exemption from public records requirements for body camera recordings recorded by a code inspector under certain circumstances; providing exceptions; requiring a local government to retain body camera recordings for a specified timeframe; providing for retroactive application; providing construction; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; directing the Division of Library and Information Services of the Department of State to adopt a specified retention requirement for certain body camera recordings by a specified date; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/14/2025
• Added: 11/15/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Danny Burgess (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-49
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A05008 • Last Action 04/23/2026
Waives the ability of government agencies in New York to claim copyright protection except where the record reflects artistic, creative or scholarly works of authorship, academic course materials, or scientific or academic research, or if the copyright owner intends to distribute the record of derivative work based on it to the public by sale or other transfer of ownership.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to generally waive copyright protections for government agency records that are required to be disclosed, with specific exceptions. The exceptions include records that contain artistic, creative, or scholarly works of authorship, academic course materials, scientific or academic research, or records where the copyright owner intends to distribute the work through sale, transfer of ownership, rental, lease, or licensing. In such exceptional cases, the copyright owner retains the discretion to voluntarily waive copyright protection if they choose. The purpose of this legislation appears to be increasing transparency and public access to government-created documents, while still protecting certain types of specialized works that may have significant intellectual or commercial value. The bill will take effect 60 days after it becomes law, giving government agencies and potential copyright holders time to understand and prepare for the new regulations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the ability of government agencies in New York to claim copyright protection
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Steven Raga (D)*, Rebecca Seawright (D), Jo Anne Simon (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/10/2025
• Last Action: advanced to third reading cal.354
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB4144 • Last Action 04/23/2026
Oklahoma Open Records Act; law enforcement records; arrest and incident reports; public inspection; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act to modify what information law enforcement agencies must disclose to the public, specifically concerning incidents that do not result in an arrest, by requiring the disclosure of the offense or reason for response, date, time, general location, officer involved, and a summary of what occurred, while also detailing extensive provisions for redacting or obscuring portions of audio and video recordings from body cameras and vehicle cameras, such as those depicting death, nudity, minors, severe violence, personal medical information, or information that could compromise ongoing investigations, with specific timelines and court review processes for withholding such recordings, and also clarifies confidentiality rules for certain records held by the Department of Corrections and the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET), and the Department of Public Safety, with an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.8, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 12, O.S.L. 2022 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 24A.8), which relates to law enforcement records; modifying information required to be disclosed by law enforcement; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Robert Manger (R)*, Warren Hamilton (R)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 04/22/2026
• Last Action: Placed on General Order
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD2106 • Last Action 04/23/2026
An Act to Limit Consent for Entry into Nonpublic Areas of and to Limit Access to Protected Records Maintained by Certain Public Entities
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Attorney General to create model policies and guidance to limit voluntary consent for law enforcement officers to enter nonpublic areas or access protected records for immigration enforcement purposes, with mandatory adoption by public schools, postsecondary educational institutions, state institutions (like those providing services to vulnerable populations), and state libraries, while allowing other facilities like private schools, healthcare facilities, and places of worship to voluntarily adopt these policies. The bill defines "nonpublic area" as any space not open to the public, and "protected records" vary by institution, including education records, protected health care information, and protected patron records, with exceptions for disclosures required by court orders or federal law, and provisions for good faith actions before policies are adopted.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Limit Consent for Entry into Nonpublic Areas of and to Limit Access to Protected Records Maintained by Certain Public Entities
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 10 : Eleanor Sato (D)*, Mattie Daughtry (D), Deqa Dhalac (D), Ryan Fecteau (D), Adam Lee (D), Michele Meyer (D), Kelly Noonan Murphy (D), Ambureen Rana (D), Peggy Rotundo (D), Rachel Talbot Ross (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 37
• Last Amended: 04/23/2026
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Signed, Apr 23, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5846 • Last Action 04/23/2026
Land use: zoning and growth management; zoning overlay districts for data centers; provide for. Creates new act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "data center overlay districts act," allows local governments in Michigan to create special zoning areas called "data center overlay districts" to manage the development of data centers, which are facilities primarily used for storing, processing, or operating digital information. Before establishing or changing these districts, local governments must consider the potential "local impacts" of data centers, which include effects on energy, water, utilities, noise, traffic, and emergency services, among others. Ordinances for these districts can impose additional requirements for data center zoning, special land use approvals, and other conditions to address these local impacts, and large-scale data centers, defined by thresholds like electrical load or infrastructure investment, may be restricted to these overlay districts. The bill also mandates transparency by requiring public meetings and hearings to comply with the Open Meetings Act and making relevant documents available under the Freedom of Information Act, and it clarifies that this act supplements existing zoning laws.
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Bill Summary: A bill to provide for the establishment of data center overlay districts by local units of government; to provide for certain regulations in a data center overlay district; to provide for transparency and public process; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local governmental officers and entities.
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• Introduced: 04/22/2026
• Added: 04/23/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 2 : Reggie Miller (D)*, Peter Herzberg (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 04/22/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 04/22/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #SB00325 • Last Action 04/23/2026
An Act Prohibiting The Disclosure Of The Residential Address Of Public School Employees Under The Freedom Of Information Act And Establishing A Task Force Concerning Mass Requests Under The Act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits public agencies from disclosing the residential addresses of school employees, as defined by a specific statute, under the Freedom of Information Act, which is a law that generally allows the public to access government records. This provision expands existing protections that already shield the home addresses of judges, law enforcement officers, and other public servants. Additionally, the bill establishes a task force, composed of various stakeholders including representatives from municipalities, the legal field, journalism, artificial intelligence expertise, and teacher unions, to study the growing issue of individuals using artificial intelligence (AI) to generate numerous information requests under the Freedom of Information Act and to recommend any necessary legal changes to help public agencies manage these "mass requests."
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Bill Summary: To prohibit disclosure of the residential address of public school teachers under the Freedom of Information Act and to establish a task force to study how to respond to the issue of mass requests created by artificial intelligence.
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• Introduced: 02/25/2026
• Added: 02/26/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 14 : Government Oversight Committee, Geraldo Reyes (D), Anthony Nolan (D), Laurie Sweet (D), Nicholas Menapace (D), Sarah Keitt (D), Tom Delnicki (R), Jimmy Sánchez (D), Nicholas Gauthier (D), Pat Miller (D), Daniel Gaiewski (D), Steven Winter (D), Michael Shannon (D), Jane Garibay (D), Julie Kushner (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 04/01/2026
• Last Action: House Calendar Number 496
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0490 • Last Action 04/22/2026
Public Records/E-mail Addresses Collected by the Department of Highway Safety for Providing Renewal Notices
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands an existing exemption from public records requirements for email addresses collected by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) to include all email addresses collected for general notification purposes, not just for renewal notices, and also covers email addresses collected for vessel registration notifications. This means that the DHSMV can keep these email addresses private, preventing them from being accessed by the public, to protect individuals from potential identity theft, scams, or unwanted solicitations, as the Legislature has determined this privacy concern outweighs the public's right to access such information. The exemption will apply retroactively to past collections of these email addresses, will be reviewed by the Legislature in the future, and is set to automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature acts to extend it. The bill also specifies that it will only take effect if similar legislation, referred to as SB 488, is also passed and becomes law during the same legislative session.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.0712, F.S.; expanding an exemption from public records requirements for e-mail addresses collected by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles for providing renewal notices to include e-mail addresses collected for use as a method of notification generally and not only for the purpose of providing renewal notices; expanding the exemption to include e-mail addresses collected for use as a method of notification related to vessel registrations; providing retroactive applicability; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/13/2025
• Added: 11/14/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ralph Massullo (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-40
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB1290 • Last Action 04/22/2026
Cartwright Act: public procurement of goods and services: Department of Justice: examination of public entity records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes the Department of Justice to examine contract records held by a public entity, which includes the state, local agencies, and other public corporations, if the contract amount exceeds $100,000 and the request is related to an active investigation into bid rigging or other violations of California law concerning the public procurement of goods and services. Public entities must provide these records within 30 days, and the Department of Justice will pay a fee limited to the direct cost of duplication. Information obtained will only be used for the investigation and will be kept confidential, not subject to disclosure under the California Public Records Act, though it does not affect a public entity's obligation to produce records under that act. The bill also includes legislative findings to justify these provisions, particularly regarding limitations on public access to certain government information.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Section 16763 to the Business and Professions Code, relating to business regulation.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2026
• Added: 04/16/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Melissa Hurtado (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 04/15/2026
• Last Action: Senate Local Government Hearing (09:30:00 4/22/2026 State Capitol, Room 113)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01239 • Last Action 04/21/2026
Enacts the "food safety and chemical disclosure act"; prohibits certain food additives and food color additives; provides that in an action to enforce compliance, the recognition by the federal food and drug administration of any of these substances as safe may not be alleged as a defense; establishes requirements for the reporting of GRAS (generally recognized as safe) substances.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act," prohibits the use of certain food additives and color additives, specifically FD&C Red No. 3, potassium bromate, and propylparaben, in food intended for human consumption, with a grace period for existing stock in retail establishments. It also establishes new reporting requirements for substances that are "GRAS" (generally recognized as safe), meaning they are considered safe for use in food by qualified experts based on scientific evidence or historical use. Manufacturers and distributors will need to submit detailed reports about these GRAS substances, including their identity, intended use, and safety data, which will be made publicly available in a searchable online database. Importantly, in any legal action to enforce compliance with these provisions, the federal Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) recognition of a substance as safe cannot be used as a defense, and the bill clarifies that data supporting GRAS status must be publicly available, not trade secrets.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the agriculture and markets law, in relation to enacting the "food safety and chemical disclosure act"
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 17 : Brian Kavanagh (D)*, Luis Sepúlveda (D), Cordell Cleare (D), Patricia Fahy (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), Kristen Gonzalez (D), Brad Hoylman (D), Robert Jackson (D), Jack Martins (R), Rachel May (D), Zellnor Myrie (D), Peter Oberacker (R), Steve Rhoads (R), Christopher Ryan (D), Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D), Bill Weber (R), Alexis Weik (R)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 41
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: returned to senate
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB2929 • Last Action 04/21/2026
Relating To Public Notice.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows government agencies to fulfill public notice requirements by posting them electronically on official state or county websites or electronic calendars, while still keeping traditional newspaper publication as an option. The Office of Enterprise Technology Services, in collaboration with the Access Hawaii Committee, is tasked with creating rules for how these electronic notices will work, ensuring they are legally sound, technically accessible, and practical for everyone, before this new electronic notice method becomes legally effective. This change aims to modernize how government information is shared, making it more accessible and timely than relying solely on newspapers, and aligns with the "sunshine law" which promotes transparency in government. The bill also specifies that these electronic postings must comply with accessibility requirements, such as those mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act, and that agencies must keep physical copies of all public notices for inspection. The new electronic posting provisions will not take effect until these rules are finalized and filed, and the bill is set to become law on July 1, 3000.
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Bill Summary: Authorizes government agencies to satisfy public notice requirements by electronic posting on official state or county websites or electronic calendars, while preserving traditional publication as an option. Directs the Office of Enterprise Technology Services, in consultation with the Access Hawaii Committee, to adopt rules governing the implementation of electronic notice before the electronic notice authorization takes legal effect. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
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• Introduced: 01/24/2026
• Added: 03/22/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Angus McKelvey (D)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Joy San Buenaventura (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 40
• Last Amended: 04/10/2026
• Last Action: Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 800).
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0655 • Last Action 04/21/2026
Protecting Judicial Privacy Act of 2026
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Protecting Judicial Privacy Act of 2026, aims to shield judicial officers, including federal and D.C. judges, from the public display of their personal information. It defines "personal information" broadly to include home addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, and details about their immediate family, among other sensitive data. The core provision prohibits government agencies, individuals, businesses, and private organizations from publicly displaying this information if they receive a "written request" from the judicial officer or their employer asking them to refrain. Government agencies must remove such information within five business days, and it will then be exempt from the Freedom of Information Act unless the judicial officer consents to its release. Private entities have 48 hours to remove the information from the internet and are also forbidden from soliciting, selling, or trading it with the intent to cause harm. The bill clarifies that a written request is essential for these protections to apply and can specify which information needs to be kept private, including secondary residences and the personal details of immediate family members. These requests remain valid until the judicial officer revokes them or upon their death.
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Bill Summary: A BILL IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To prohibit government agencies, individuals, businesses, and private associations and organizations from, upon receipt of a written request, publicly displaying publicly available content that includes a judicial officer's personal information.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2026
• Added: 04/10/2026
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 04/06/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR8413 • Last Action 04/21/2026
SECURE Data Act Securing and Establishing Consumer Uniform Rights and Enforcement over Data Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Securing and Establishing Consumer Uniform Rights and Enforcement over Data Act" or "SECURE Data Act," establishes a national framework for consumer privacy rights and the protection of personal data. It grants consumers rights such as confirming if their personal data is being processed, accessing a copy of that data, correcting inaccuracies, deleting their data, and obtaining a portable copy of their data. Consumers can also opt out of targeted advertising, the sale of their personal data, and decisions based on profiling that have a significant impact on them. The bill requires explicit consent for processing sensitive data, with specific rules for children and teens, and mandates that companies (referred to as "controllers") respond to consumer requests within 45 days, with a possible extension. Controllers must also implement reasonable data security practices and provide clear privacy notices. Data brokers, defined as controllers who sell personal data and derive a significant portion of their revenue from it, must register with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and post a notice on their website explaining how consumers can exercise their rights. The bill also outlines obligations for "processors" who handle data on behalf of controllers, requires contracts between them, and addresses the handling of deidentified and pseudonymous data. It allows for approved codes of conduct to provide a rebuttable presumption of compliance and includes provisions for international data flows, a study on universal opt-out mechanisms, and enforcement by the FTC and State attorneys general, with a right to cure for alleged violations. The Act applies to businesses meeting certain revenue and data processing thresholds and provides specific exemptions for governmental entities, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and others, while generally preempting conflicting state laws.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To establish a national framework for consumer privacy rights and the protection of personal data, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 04/22/2026
• Added: 05/08/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 9 : John Joyce (R)*, Russell Fry (R), Tom Kean (R), Jay Obernolte (R), Nick Langworthy (R), Craig Goldman (R), Morgan Griffith (R), Troy Balderson (R), Julie Fedorchak (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 05/07/2026
• Last Action: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB906 • Last Action 04/21/2026
Parole: closed session.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes related to parole and probation processes. It mandates that all commissioners of the Board of Parole Hearings must participate in an "en banc review," which is a review conducted by all commissioners holding office, and that the decisions and individual votes from these reviews must be made public records, prohibiting them from being held in closed sessions. Additionally, the bill allows courts to extend probation terms for up to 18 months for defendants participating in collaborative justice court programs, which are specialized court programs designed to address specific issues like substance abuse or mental health.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 11126 of the Government Code, and to amend Sections 3041 and 3041.1 of the Penal Code, relating to parole.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 03/12/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brian Jones (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 03/11/2026
• Last Action: April 21 set for second hearing canceled at the request of author.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S09975 • Last Action 04/20/2026
Prohibits the disclosure of the home address, personal telephone numbers, personal email addresses or personal social media handles of any active or former New York state, New York city or local municipal emergency first responder, a judge of any court of law of this state, or a New York state, county or municipal prosecutor or the spouse or child thereof; relates to criminal penalties; permits civil action.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits the disclosure or publication of personal contact information, including home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and social media handles, for active or former New York state, New York City, or local municipal emergency first responders (defined as police officers, peace officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, or other emergency medical service providers), judges, or prosecutors, and their spouses or children. This prohibition is intended to protect these individuals from harassment or harm to life or property. The bill establishes criminal penalties for violations, categorizing them as a Class A misdemeanor for unlawful disclosure in the second degree (reckless disregard for exposure to harm) and a Class E felony for unlawful disclosure in the first degree (intent to expose to harm). Additionally, it allows for civil action by affected individuals, their families, or residents at their homes, with provisions for awarding actual or liquidated damages, punitive damages, attorney fees, and other equitable relief.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, the penal law and the civil rights law, in relation to prohibiting the disclosure and publication of the home address, personal telephone numbers, personal email addresses, or social media handles of any active or former New York state, New York city or local municipal emergency first responder, a judge of any court of law of this state, or a New York state, county or municipal prosecutor
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• Introduced: 04/20/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D)*, Monica Martinez (D), Dean Murray (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/20/2026
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AL bill #SB272 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Open Records; use of public records relating to schools for certain solicitation purposes prohibited; redaction of certain information relating to financial transactions required
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, concerning open records in Alabama, mandates that when public records related to school contracts for goods or services are requested, officials must redact sensitive financial information like account numbers, tax identification numbers, and routing numbers to prevent unauthorized financial transactions. Additionally, it prohibits the sale, gifting, or receipt of lists of names and addresses obtained from local school board public records for the purpose of soliciting sales of property or services to those individuals or entities, with violators facing civil penalties of up to $500 per violation. Public officials may require requesters to certify they will not use these lists for such solicitation purposes, and the State Board of Education will provide guidance on this process.
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Bill Summary: Open Records; use of public records relating to schools for certain solicitation purposes prohibited; redaction of certain information relating to financial transactions required
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Arthur Orr (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Enacted
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB596 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Change requirements for legal publications and notices required by law, provisions of the Open Meetings Act, county inventories, warrants, and discharge records, storage requirements for certain records, petitions to change names, marriage license and record fees, reports of abandoned property, and the Nebraska Hall of Fame and eliminate a penalty for certain public officials and provisions relating to the registration of farm, ranch, or home names
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to state laws concerning public notices, records, and government operations. It updates requirements for legal publications, allowing for digital newspapers and e-editions to be used for official notices, and modifies the criteria for what constitutes a legal newspaper. The bill also adjusts the frequency and methods for public bodies to provide notice of their meetings under the Open Meetings Act, and allows for virtual conferencing under certain conditions. Additionally, it changes how county inventories are maintained, allows for combined warrants for individual funds, and permits the transfer of discharge records to the State Archives for permanent preservation. The bill also updates storage requirements for certain records, permitting the use of accessible durable mediums beyond traditional microfilm, and modifies fees for marriage licenses and certified copies of marriage records. It also changes the publication requirements for abandoned property notices and alters the selection process for the Nebraska Hall of Fame, including allowing for the induction of a living person under specific criteria. Finally, the bill eliminates a penalty for certain public officials and removes provisions related to the registration of farm, ranch, or home names.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to government; to amend sections 23-346.01, 23-1303, 23-1309, 23-1517.01, 23-1527, 25-523, 33-110, 72-728, 84-1208, and 84-1412, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska, sections 25-21,271, 25-2228, 33-141, and 77-3903, Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, and sections 69-1311 and 84-1411, Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025; to change provisions relating to county inventories, warrants, and discharge records; to provide for storing records on an accessible durable medium; to define terms; to change provisions relating to the publication of legal newspapers, legal notices, petitions to change names, marriage license and record fees, reports of abandoned property, and virtual conferencing and notice requirements for meetings of public bodies under the Open Meetings Act; to change provisions relating to the Nebraska Hall of Fame; to eliminate a penalty for certain public officials; to eliminate provisions relating to the registration of farm, ranch, or home names; to harmonize provisions; to provide severability; to repeal the original sections; and to outright repeal sections 19-1104 and 23-1313, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 03/17/2026
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Rita Sanders (NP)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 50
• Last Amended: 04/17/2026
• Last Action: Provisions/portions of LB1159 amended into LB596 by AM2730
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB1145 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Change provisions relating to notice requirements for a meeting of a public body under the Open Meetings Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act, which governs how public bodies in Nebraska conduct their meetings to ensure transparency, by changing the requirements for public notice. Specifically, it mandates that public bodies must designate a method for providing advance public notice of their meetings, which must be recorded in their minutes, and for certain public bodies, it requires at least twice-yearly notice of their regular meeting schedules, locations, and the designated notice method, published in a legal newspaper of general circulation within their jurisdiction. The bill also clarifies procedures for when a newspaper cannot publish a notice, requiring the public body to post it on its website, request a statewide website post, and place it in a conspicuous public location, while maintaining records of these actions. Additionally, it outlines specific conditions and exceptions for public bodies to hold meetings via virtual conferencing, allowing for remote participation by members and the public, and specifies that electronic communication should not be used to bypass the act's transparency requirements.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to the Open Meetings Act; to amend section 84-1411, Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025; to change provisions relating to notice requirements for a meeting of a public body under the act; and to repeal the original section.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 01/21/2026
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Lonowski (NP)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/20/2026
• Last Action: Provisions/portions of LB1145 amended into LB596 by AM2282
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB763 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Exempt certain gatherings of members of the Board of Parole from the Open Meetings Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Nebraska law to create an exemption from the Open Meetings Act for certain gatherings of the Board of Parole, which is responsible for decisions regarding offenders' release from correctional facilities. Specifically, gatherings of three or more board members will not be considered public meetings subject to the Open Meetings Act if their purpose is limited to strategic planning, process improvement, internal education, or discussing administrative matters that do not involve making decisions about specific parole cases. However, the bill mandates that the Board of Parole must still maintain a brief public record of these gatherings, including the date, general topics discussed, and participants, to ensure continued transparency. All formal decisions about granting, denying, deferring, or revoking parole for individual offenders must still be made during properly announced public meetings.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to the Nebraska Treatment and Corrections Act; to amend section 83-196, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska; to provide an exemption from the Open Meetings Act for certain gatherings of members of the Board of Parole; to provide duties for the board; and to repeal the original section.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Rick Holdcroft (NP)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Indefinitely postponed
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB898 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Change which political subdivisions may use virtual conferencing for meetings under the Open Meetings Act and change related requirements
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Nebraska's Open Meetings Act to expand the types of political subdivisions, or "public bodies," that can hold meetings using virtual conferencing, which allows participants to join remotely via technology like video calls. Previously, only specific entities like state agencies, certain interlocal cooperation organizations, and natural resources districts could use virtual conferencing under certain conditions. This bill broadens that permission to most public bodies, provided they meet new requirements. These requirements include giving advance public notice that includes a dial-in number or link to the virtual meeting, ensuring at least one physical meeting site is available with a representative present, making meeting documents accessible both physically and electronically, and for statewide elected or appointed bodies (unless advisory), limiting virtual meetings to no more than half of their total meetings per year. The bill also clarifies that certain entities, like those involved in electricity or natural gas sales through interlocal cooperation, or those whose members are not elected or appointed statewide, can hold more than half of their meetings virtually, as long as they hold at least one in-person meeting annually. Additionally, the bill makes changes to public notice requirements for meetings and addresses specific regulations for privately developed renewable energy generation facilities, including public meeting requirements and security bonds for decommissioning.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to open meetings; to amend sections 70-1014, 70-1014.02, and 84-1411, Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025; to change provisions relating to virtual conferencing; and to repeal the original sections.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Lonowski (NP)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Provisions/portions of LB898 amended into LB596 by AM2282
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB905 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Change and eliminate provisions relating to boards, commissions, committees, task forces, and funds that terminate
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes numerous changes to Nebraska state government by eliminating or modifying various boards, commissions, committees, task forces, and funds that are set to terminate. Specifically, it repeals the Nebraska Potato Development Act and related entities, and it dissolves or transfers the duties of several other bodies, including those related to advanced practice registered nurses, alcohol and drug counseling, county highway and city street superintendents, foster care reimbursement rates, bridge to independence programs, vacant buildings and excess land, and emergency planning. The bill also harmonizes existing provisions and repeals obsolete sections of state law, with an operative date of July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency for immediate effect.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to state government; to amend sections 2-1814, 2-1816, 38-315, 38-317, 39-2108, 49-1499.02, 71-7010, 71-7013, 72-813, 72-814, 72-815, 72-816, 72-818, 81-1117, 81-1120.17, 81-15,212, 81-15,214, 81-15,215, 81-15,217, 81-15,218, 81-15,221, 81-15,224, 81-15,230, 81-15,231, 85-1002, 85-1005, 86-502, 86-515, 86-522, 86-523, 86-572, and 90-203, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska, sections 39-2310, 43-4215, 43-4217, and 66-4,100, Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, and sections 38-167, 38-204, 38-308, 38-605, 38-703, 38-904, 38-2120, 38-2213, 38-2214, 38-2216, 38-2306, 39-2106, 39-2301.01, 43-4203, 43-4513, 71-814, 71-5310, 71-7107, 71-7108, 71-7109, 71-7110, 72-811, 81-1108.41, 81-1430, 81-1431, 81-15,160, 81-15,210, 81-15,229, 85-1643, and 86-516, Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025; to eliminate the Nebraska Potato Development Act and provisions related to the Nebraska Potato Development Committee, the Nebraska Potato Development Fund, and the Division of Potato Development in the Department of Agriculture; to change and eliminate provisions related to the Climate Assessment Response Committee, the Nebraska Aquaculture Board, the Board of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, the Board of Alcohol and Drug Counseling, the Board of Examiners for County Highway and City Street Superintendents, the Children's Behavioral Health Task Force, the Foster Care Reimbursement Rate Committee, the Bridge to Independence Advisory Committee, the Natural Gas Fuel Board, the Women's Health Initiative Advisory Council, the Women's Health Initiative Fund, the State Advisory Committee on Substance Abuse Services, the Veterinary Prescription Monitoring Program Task Force, the Advisory Council on Public Water Supply, the Breast and Cervical Cancer Advisory Committee, the Critical Incident Stress Management Council, the Vacant Building and Excess Land Committee, the Governor's Residence Advisory Commission, the State Comprehensive Capital Facilities Planning Committee, the technical panel for the Nebraska Information Technology Commission, the Suggestion Award Board, the human trafficking task force within the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice, the State Emergency Response Commission, the Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Advisory Committee, the National Statuary Hall of the United States Capitol, the Willa Cather National Statuary Hall Cash Fund, the Chief Standing Bear National Statuary Hall Cash Fund, the Nebraska Safety Center Advisory Council, the technical panel for the Nebraska Information Technology Commission, the Rural Broadband Task Force, and the Rural Broadband Task Force Fund; to eliminate provisions regarding a solid waste management study and advisory committee and a private postsecondary career school advisory council; to eliminate penalties and obsolete provisions; to harmonize provisions; to provide an operative date; to repeal the original sections; to outright repeal sections 2-1802, 2-1804, 2-1805, 2-1806, 2-1807, 2-1808, 2-1809, 2-1810, 2-1811, 2-1812, 2-4902, 2-5002, 2-5005, 2-5006, 72-2102, 72-2104, 72-2105, 81-15,195, 81-15,211, 82-701, 82-702, 82-704, 82-705, and 82-707, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska, sections 39-2305 and 72-2103, Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, and sections 2-1801, 2-1803, 2-1826, 2-4901, 2-5001, 2-5003, 38-205, 38-310, 39-2304, 43-4001, 43-4216, 66-2001, 71-702, 71-705, 71-706, 71-815, 71-2454.01, 71-5311, 71-7012, 72-812, 72-2101, 81-1139.02, 81-1348, 81-15,159.01, 81-15,245, 81-15,246, 82-703, 82-706, 85-1008, 85-1607, 86-511, 86-521, 86-1101, 86-1102, and 86-1103, Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025; and to declare an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : John Arch (NP)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 04/17/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor on April 14, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB919 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Allow for the use of durable accessible mediums for public records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows for the use of "durable accessible mediums" as an alternative to traditional methods of recording and filing public records, such as microfilm. A durable accessible medium is defined as one that can be retrieved through intellectual, digital, or physical means within institutional or legal parameters. This change impacts how county registers of deeds handle instruments like property deeds and bankruptcy notices, as well as how state tax liens are managed. The bill amends existing laws to permit these new mediums, meaning original documents may no longer need to be retained if they are accurately recorded and preserved on an accessible durable medium, provided a secure off-site copy is maintained. The bill also repeals the original sections of law that are being amended.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to public records; to amend sections 23-1517.01, 23-1527, and 84-1208, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska, and section 77-3903, Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024; to allow for the use of durable accessible mediums as prescribed; and to repeal the original sections.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Rita Sanders (NP)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Provisions/portions of LB919 amended into LB596 by AM2282
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB1119 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Change provisions relating to the collection and use of personal data and provide additional duties and prohibitions for a covered online service under the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, amending the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act, aims to strengthen protections for minors online by redefining terms and imposing new duties and prohibitions on "covered online services," which are defined as businesses operating in the state that determine how consumer personal data is processed and meet certain revenue or data processing thresholds. Key changes include expanding the definition of "covered design feature" to include elements like infinite scroll, auto-playing videos, engagement metrics, gamification, and image-altering filters, and prohibiting covered online services from making all default privacy settings less protective for minors or prompting them to weaken their privacy settings unless absolutely necessary for a requested service. The bill also mandates that covered online services provide a clear and accessible tool for minors to request account deletion and honor such requests within fifteen days, while also restricting the collection and use of a minor's personal data to only what is essential for a knowingly engaged service, prohibiting its use for targeted advertising, and requiring clear signals when precise geolocation information is collected or when parental monitoring is active. Furthermore, the bill prohibits profiling minors unless it's necessary for a requested service and actively engaged with, and restricts notifications and push alerts to specific hours outside of school time, while also prohibiting the use of "dark patterns" – manipulative user interfaces – to undermine minors' autonomy and decision-making.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act; to amend sections 87-1301, 87-1302, 87-1305, and 87-1308, Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025; to redefine terms; to change provisions relating to the collection and use of personal data and prohibited acts; to provide additional duties and prohibitions for a covered online service; to harmonize provisions; and to repeal the original sections.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 01/17/2026
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Carolyn Bosn (NP)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Provisions/portions of LB1119 amended into LB838 by AM2463
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB238 • Last Action 04/17/2026
Exempt local foster care review boards from the Open Meetings Act and eliminate obsolete provisions regarding an advisory group
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies provisions of the Foster Care Review Act to exempt local foster care review boards from the Open Meetings Act and remove obsolete language. Specifically, the bill adds a new subsection to clarify that local foster care review boards are not considered public bodies subject to open meeting requirements, which means their meetings do not have to follow public notification and transparency rules. The bill also removes a previous provision that allowed portions of meetings discussing confidential child and family-specific information to be exempt from open meeting rules, essentially making the entire provision about meeting transparency unnecessary. Additionally, the bill eliminates an obsolete section (43-1306) and maintains the existing structure of local foster care review boards, which are composed of 4-10 members selected by the executive director, representing various social, economic, racial, and ethnic groups, and specifically prohibiting employees of certain agencies from serving on these boards. The local boards will continue to conduct semi-annual reviews of foster care cases, make recommendations to the court, and promote stability for children in foster care placements.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to the Foster Care Review Act; to amend sections 43-1304 and 43-1308, Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska; to exempt local foster care review boards from the Open Meetings Act; to harmonize provisions; to eliminate obsolete provisions; to repeal the original sections; and to outright repeal section 43-1306, Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Machaela Cavanaugh (NP)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Indefinitely postponed
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OR bill #HB4177 • Last Action 04/16/2026
Relating to public meetings; and prescribing an effective date.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, relating to public meetings, clarifies and strengthens existing laws governing how public bodies in Oregon conduct their business. Key provisions include redefining "convening" to encompass various forms of contemporaneous communication, expanding the definition of "deliberation" to include the examination and weighing of reasons for a decision, and prohibiting governing bodies from meeting in private or using a series of communications to circumvent public meeting requirements. The bill also updates rules regarding public notice for meetings, requiring a list of anticipated subjects, and mandates that public bodies provide sound, video, or digital recordings or written minutes of all meetings that accurately reflect discussions and participant views. It further clarifies that meetings can be held in person, electronically, or through a combination of methods, and ensures public access to these meetings via telephone, video, or other virtual means, including opportunities for public testimony. The bill also expands the scope of complaints regarding violations of public meeting laws to include actions by the public body itself, not just its governing body, and extends the timeframe for filing such grievances. Additionally, it clarifies the training requirements for public officials on these laws, adjusts the financial threshold for mandatory training, and outlines procedures for the Oregon Government Ethics Commission to investigate and address violations, including updated penalty provisions and clarification on who is liable for civil penalties. Finally, it appropriates funds for the implementation of these changes and sets an effective date for the act.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to public meetings; creating new provisions; amending ORS 192.610, 192.630, 192.640, 192.650, 192.670, 192.685, 192.690, 192.700, 192.705, 244.260 and 244.350; and prescribing an ef- fective date.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Legislative Measures
• Sponsors: 0 : Rules
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 03/07/2026
• Last Action: Governor vetoed.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1813 • Last Action 04/16/2026
Professions and occupations; enacting the Athletic Trainer Compact; authorizing certain jurisdiction. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the Athletic Trainer Compact, allowing athletic trainers licensed in one member state to practice in other member states through a "Compact Privilege," thereby increasing mobility and public access to services while preserving each state's authority to regulate the profession. The Compact establishes uniform requirements for athletic trainers to obtain this privilege, including holding a valid license, meeting specific educational and examination standards, and undergoing background checks, while also creating an "Athletic Trainer Compact Commission" to oversee the agreement and a data system to share relevant information among member states. The bill also specifies that the Governor is authorized to enter into this Compact with other jurisdictions that have also adopted it, and it sets an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to professions and occupations; enacting the Athletic Trainer Compact and authorizing the Governor to enter into the Compact with certain jurisdictions; setting forth form of the Compact; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Brenda Stanley (R)*, Ross Ford (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 03/26/2026
• Last Action: House Commerce & Economic Development Oversight Hearing (10:30:00 4/16/2026 Room 450)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1826 • Last Action 04/16/2026
FOIA-JUDICIAL EXEMPTIONS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to include significant provisions related to judicial records and public access. It expands the definition of "public body" to explicitly include the judicial body and its components, and provides a more detailed definition of "public records" specifically for judicial entities. The bill creates new exemptions for judicial records, protecting certain types of documents from public inspection, such as records pertaining to the preparation of judicial opinions, orders, or judicial work product, as well as records that are privileged or confidential under the Illinois Code of Judicial Conduct or the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct. Additionally, the bill restricts a person's ability to file a request for review with the Public Access Counselor when their request to inspect or copy a public record from a judicial body has been denied, effectively limiting the typical administrative review process for judicial records. These changes aim to provide greater protection for sensitive judicial documents while maintaining the overall transparency goals of the Freedom of Information Act.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Includes the judicial body and its components in the definition of "public body". Defines "public records" when that term is associated with the judicial body and its components. Exempts from inspection and copying (i) records of the judicial body and its components that pertain to the preparation of judicial opinions and orders or judicial work product and (ii) records that are privileged or confidential under the Illinois Code of Judicial Conduct or the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct. Provides that a person whose request to inspect or copy a public record was denied or treated as a voluminous request by the judicial body and its components may not file a request for review with the Public Access Counselor.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Mike Porfirio (D)*, Lakesia Collins (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Rob Martwick (D), Karina Villa (D), Napoleon Harris (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Napoleon Harris, III
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB567 • Last Action 04/15/2026
AN ACT relating to open records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Kentucky's open records law to clarify who qualifies as a "resident of the Commonwealth" for the purpose of inspecting public records and to allow officials to request proof of residency. Specifically, it updates the definition of a resident to include foreign business entities with a physical location in Kentucky and removes the provision allowing authorized representatives to act on behalf of residents, while also adding news-gathering organizations. Furthermore, the bill allows the official custodian of public records to require applicants to present government-issued photo identification that includes their address as proof of residency, or an alternative form of identification if they do not possess such a photo ID. These changes are intended to streamline the process of verifying residency for those seeking to access public information.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 61.870 to change the definition of "resident of the Commonwealth"; amend KRS 61.872 to allow the official custodian of public records to require government-issued photo identification that includes an address from an applicant requesting to inspect records as proof that they are a resident of the Commonwealth; allow the agency to require a different form of identification or proof if the applicant does not possess photo identification; amend KRS 61.876 to conform.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Patrick Flannery (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 45
• Last Amended: 03/13/2026
• Last Action: recommitted to Appropriations & Revenue (H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB771 • Last Action 04/15/2026
A bill for an act relating to and making appropriations for state government administration and regulation, including the department of administrative services, auditor of state, ethics and campaign disclosure board, offices of governor and lieutenant governor, department of inspections, appeals, and licensing, department of insurance and financial services, department of management, Iowa public employees' retirement system, public information board, department of revenue, secretary of state, tr
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill appropriates funds for state government administration and regulation for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027. * **Department of Administrative Services:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes: $3,602,306 (General Fund) * Utility costs: $4,487,598 (General Fund), funds do not revert and remain available for the next fiscal year. * Terrace Hill operations: $460,884 (General Fund) * State library services: $2,626,613 (General Fund) * Enrich Iowa program: $2,464,823 (General Fund) * State's historical resources: $3,804,774 (General Fund) * Administration and support of state's historic sites: $425,751 (General Fund) * Workers' compensation claims and administrative costs are funded from a separate workers' compensation fund, with remaining moneys not reverting. * **Auditor of State:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes: $1,002,686 (General Fund) * **Iowa Ethics and Campaign Disclosure Board:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes: $1,045,432 (General Fund) * **Offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor:** * General office operations: $2,864,932 (General Fund) * Governor’s quarters at Terrace Hill: $144,222 (General Fund) * **Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing:** * Administration Division: $808,285 (General Fund) * Administrative Hearings Division: $654,983 (General Fund) * Investigations: $2,769,231 (General Fund) * Health Facilities: $6,206,128 (General Fund) * Employment Appeal Board: $510,782 (General Fund) * Iowa Office of Civil Rights: $1,538,921 (General Fund) * Labor Services: $2,965,719 (General Fund), funds do not revert and remain available for the next fiscal year. * Division of Workers’ Compensation: $3,381,044 (General Fund), funds do not revert and remain available for the next fiscal year. * Professional Licensing: $1,627,969 (General Fund) * Racing and Gaming Commission (regulation, administration, and enforcement): $8,049,999 (Gaming Regulatory Revolving Fund) * Administrative Hearings Division (Road Use Tax Fund): $1,623,897 (Road Use Tax Fund) * **Department of Insurance and Financial Services:** * Banking Division: $14,881,690 (Commerce Revolving Fund) * Credit Union Division: $3,018,710 (Commerce Revolving Fund) * Insurance Division: $11,010,719 (Commerce Revolving Fund) * Captive Insurance Regulatory and Supervision Fund: $450,000 (General Fund) * **Department of Management:** * Enterprise resource planning, performance audits, and justice planning: $3,666,154 (General Fund) * Division of Information Technology: $4,421,887 (General Fund), with $325,000 allocated for cybersecurity services to local governments. * Road Use Tax Fund for enterprise resource management costs: $56,000 (Road Use Tax Fund) * **Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS):** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and other operational purposes: $26,330,702 (Iowa Public Employees' Retirement Fund) * **Iowa Public Information Board:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes: $496,227 (General Fund) * **Department of Revenue:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes: $15,349,678 (General Fund), with $400,000 for direct costs of collecting and distributing local sales and services taxes. * Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax Fund for administration and enforcement of motor vehicle fuel tax: $1,305,775 (Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax Fund) * **Secretary of State:** * Administration and Elections: $2,566,697 (General Fund) * Business Services: $1,568,795 (General Fund) * Address Confidentiality Program Revolving Fund: $195,400 (Address Confidentiality Program Revolving Fund) * **Treasurer of State:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes: $1,046,415 (General Fund) * Iowa ABLE savings plan trust administration: $200,000 (General Fund) * Road Use Tax Fund for enterprise resource management costs: $316,788 (Road Use Tax Fund) * **Iowa Utilities Commission:** * Salaries, support, maintenance, and miscellaneous purposes: $12,080,831 (Commerce Revolving Fund) * **Limitations and Fund Changes:** * The standing appropriation for enforcement of tobacco product manufacturer regulations (Code chapter 453D) is limited to $17,525 for FY 2026-2027. * The consumer fireworks fee fund and the electrical or mechanical amusement devices special fund are eliminated, and their moneys will be deposited into the licensing and regulation fund. * Moneys collected from professional boxing events will be deposited into the licensing and regulation fund instead of being used for amateur boxing grants. * All nonexamination revenues paid to the insurance division or the department of revenue will be deposited into the commerce revolving fund, rather than 40% going to the commerce revolving fund and the rest to the general fund.
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Bill Summary: FY 2026-2027 APPROPRIATIONS. This bill relates to and appropriates moneys to various state departments, agencies, and funds for FY 2026-2027, including the department of administrative services, auditor of state, Iowa ethics and campaign disclosure board, offices of governor and lieutenant governor, department of inspections, appeals, and licensing, department of insurance and financial services, department of management, Iowa public employees’ retirement system, Iowa H.F. _____ public information board, department of revenue, secretary of state, treasurer of state, and Iowa utilities commission. The bill limits a standing appropriation for FY 2026-2027 for enforcement of Code chapter 453D relating to tobacco product manufacturers under Code section 453D.8. DEPOSIT OF CERTAIN FEES. The bill eliminates the consumer fireworks fee fund and the electrical or mechanical amusement devices special fund and requires the moneys that were deposited in those funds to be deposited in the licensing and regulation fund. The bill also eliminates the provision requiring moneys collected from a professional boxing event to be used to award grants to organizations that promote amateur boxing matches and requires the moneys to be deposited in the licensing and regulation fund. Under current law, 40 percent of nonexamination revenues paid to the insurance division or the department of revenue are deposited in the commerce revolving fund, while the rest of the nonexamination revenues are deposited in the general fund of the state. The bill requires all such nonexamination revenues to be deposited in the commerce revolving fund.
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• Introduced: 04/07/2026
• Added: 04/27/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Appropriations
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/07/2026
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 2768.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #SB420 • Last Action 04/15/2026
Regards JobsOhio public records, open meetings, performance audit
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Ohio law to make records created by JobsOhio, a nonprofit corporation formed to promote economic development, subject to the state's Public Records Law, meaning they will generally be accessible to the public. It also requires JobsOhio to comply with the Open Meetings Law, ensuring that its decision-making processes are transparent and open to public observation. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Auditor of State conduct a performance audit of JobsOhio, which is an examination of the organization's efficiency and effectiveness, to ensure accountability. These changes aim to increase transparency and oversight of JobsOhio's operations, which were previously less subject to public scrutiny.
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Bill Summary: To amend sections 117.46, 121.01, 121.22, 149.011, 149.43, 187.01, 187.03, and 187.04 of the Revised Code to establish that records created by JobsOhio are public records under Ohio Public Records Law, to require JobsOhio to comply with the Open Meetings Law, and to require the Auditor of State to conduct a performance audit of JobsOhio.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2026
• Added: 04/10/2026
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Sandy O'Brien (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Referred to committee: Finance
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1113 • Last Action 04/15/2026
Pub. Rec./Crime Victims
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands public records exemptions to better protect crime victims and their families. It defines "victim" as someone who suffers harm from a crime, and "family member" to include spouses, children, parents, legal guardians, or siblings, excluding the accused. The bill makes information that could identify or locate a victim, such as their name, personal identification number, contact details, or assets, confidential and exempt from public disclosure, especially when held by agencies that regularly interact with victims. This exemption also extends to the victim's lawful representatives, family members, and next of kin, to prevent them from being located, intimidated, harassed, or abused. Importantly, for law enforcement officers who become victims in the line of duty, their names will be confidential and exempt for 72 hours after the incident, and then exempt for an additional 60 days, after which the information becomes public. The bill emphasizes that these exemptions are necessary to prevent further trauma, deter victims from cooperating with law enforcement due to fear of retaliation, and balance public access with the need for victim safety.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining terms; expanding a public records exemption for crime victims to include the name and personal identification number of a victim and any other information that could be used to locate, intimidate, harass, or abuse the victim; providing that such exemption includes the portions of records generated by any agency that regularly generates or receives information from or concerning victims of crime; providing for a public records exemption for the identity of a victim's family member, lawful representative, or next of kin and any other information that could be used to locate, intimidate, harass, or abuse these individuals; providing that such exemption includes the portions of records generated or received by any agency that regularly generates or receives information from or concerning victims of crime; providing applicability; providing that the name of a law enforcement officer in a public record which identifies him or her as a victim of crime in specified circumstances is confidential and exempt for 72 hours and providing that such information is exempt for 60 days thereafter; providing construction; providing for hb1113 -01-erLegislature future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Kaylee Tuck (R)*, Dan Daley (D), Dotie Joseph (D), Johanna López (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 47
• Last Amended: 03/11/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-32
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1932 • Last Action 04/14/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to elected public officials.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective July 1, 2026, amends Tennessee law to make certain personally identifying information of elected state and local public officials confidential and not subject to public inspection when held by government entities. This means details like home addresses, social security numbers, and other sensitive data, as defined by existing law, will be protected. However, this confidentiality has exceptions: law enforcement, courts, and other government agencies performing official duties can still access this information, and it does not affect the public's access to personnel records that are already open under current law. Furthermore, elected officials can authorize the release of their own confidential information, and the law requires that confidential information be redacted where possible without denying access to other public information within a document.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, requires that certain personally identifying information of elected state and local public officials be maintained confidentially with limited exceptions. - Amends TCA Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jeff Yarbro (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Re-refer to S. Cal Comm
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5772 • Last Action 04/14/2026
Children: protection; fetal alcohol spectrum disorders task force; create. Creates new act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Task Force within the legislative council to address FASD, which are a range of effects that can occur in an individual exposed to alcohol before birth, including conditions like Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. The task force will be composed of various voting members, such as parents of children with FASD, medical and mental health professionals, disability advocates, educators, and legislators, as well as non-voting ex officio members from relevant state departments and tribal liaisons. The task force's responsibilities include developing a statewide plan to reduce prenatal alcohol exposure, providing guidance on its implementation, identifying and recommending improvements to existing programs, and making legislative recommendations. It will also develop educational resources, expand access to diagnostic tools, and conduct public meetings in compliance with the Open Meetings Act, with all its records subject to the Freedom of Information Act. Annually, the task force must submit a report to the governor and legislature detailing needs assessments, goals, recommendations, and funding proposals. The task force's existence is set to expire five years after its first meeting unless reauthorized.
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Bill Summary: A bill to create the fetal alcohol spectrum disorders task force; to prescribe its powers and duties; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local governmental officers and entities.
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• Introduced: 03/19/2026
• Added: 03/20/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 4 : Joseph Fox (R)*, Reggie Miller (D), Carrie Rheingans (D), Cam Cavitt (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/19/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 03/19/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5455 • Last Action 04/14/2026
Health occupations: physicians; interstate medical licensure compact; update. Amends 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.1101 - 333.25211) by adding sec. 16189.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, which is an agreement between states to streamline the process for physicians to obtain licenses in multiple states, thereby improving access to healthcare. The Compact establishes a new pathway for licensure, known as an "Expedited License," for eligible physicians who meet specific criteria, including having a full and unrestricted license in a "state of principal license" (the state where they primarily reside, practice, or are employed). This new process does not replace existing state medical licensing laws but complements them, and participating states, called "member states," retain their authority to regulate physicians and take disciplinary actions. The Compact also creates an "Interstate Commission" to oversee its administration, develop rules, and manage a coordinated information system for licensed physicians. Key definitions include "Physician," which outlines the qualifications for expedited licensure, and "Member Board," referring to the state agency responsible for physician licensing. The bill details the application process, fees, renewal requirements, and procedures for joint investigations and disciplinary actions among member states, aiming to ensure patient safety while facilitating physician mobility.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend 1978 PA 368, entitled ?An act to protect and promote the public health; to codify, revise, consolidate, classify, and add to the laws relating to public health; to provide for the prevention and control of diseases and disabilities; to provide for the classification, administration, regulation, financing, and maintenance of personal, environmental, and other health services and activities; to create or continue, and prescribe the powers and duties of, departments, boards, commissions, councils, committees, task forces, and other agencies; to prescribe the powers and duties of governmental entities and officials; to regulate occupations, facilities, and agencies affecting the public health; to regulate health maintenance organizations and certain third party administrators and insurers; to provide for the imposition of a regulatory fee; to provide for the levy of taxes against certain health facilities or agencies; to promote the efficient and economical delivery of health care services, to provide for the appropriate utilization of health care facilities and services, and to provide for the closure of hospitals or consolidation of hospitals or services; to provide for the collection and use of data and information; to provide for the transfer of property; to provide certain immunity from liability; to regulate and prohibit the sale and offering for sale of drug paraphernalia under certain circumstances; to provide for the implementation of federal law; to provide for penalties and remedies; to provide for sanctions for violations of this act and local ordinances; to provide for an appropriation and supplements; to repeal certain acts and parts of acts; to repeal certain parts of this act; and to repeal certain parts of this act on specific dates,? (MCL 333.1101 to 333.25211) by adding section 16189.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 10 : Rylee Linting (R)*, Jamie Thompson (R), Steve Frisbie (R), J.R. Roth (R), Kathy Schmaltz (R), Tom Kunse (R), Kelly Breen (D), Phil Green (R), Bill Schuette (R), Curt VanderWall (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 34
• Last Amended: 03/26/2026
• Last Action: Assigned Pa 006'26 With Immediate Effect
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1879 • Last Action 04/13/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-504, relative to the expiration dates of public records exceptions.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-504, which deals with public records, by removing specific expiration dates from certain exemptions that allow certain information to be kept private. In plain language, this means that some exceptions to public access for government records will no longer automatically end after a set period, making them potentially permanent unless otherwise changed by future legislation. The bill specifically targets the deletion of these expiration dates from several subsections within the existing law, ensuring that these particular types of records, which were previously subject to a time limit for their confidential status, will now remain exempt from public disclosure indefinitely.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, deletes expiration dates for certain public record exemptions. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-504.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Jack Johnson (R)*, Kerry Roberts (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 04/10/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 04/07/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1078 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Public records; review standard
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law regarding public records by changing who can appeal a denial of access to public records in the context of a criminal case. Previously, only a "victim" could appeal such a denial through a special action within the criminal case, but this bill expands that right to "the person" who is a victim, clarifying that the victim is the one appealing. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision stating that any legal question arising under this chapter, including whether an exception to disclosure applies, will be reviewed by the court using a "de novo" standard, meaning the court will review the issue from the beginning without giving deference to the lower court's or agency's decision. This change aims to ensure a fresh and independent review of legal interpretations concerning public records access.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending section 39-121.02, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 12/29/2025
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : John Kavanagh (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Governor Vetoed
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB1476 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Law-enforcement civilian oversight bodies; disclosure of certain law-enforcement records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Virginia law to allow law-enforcement civilian oversight bodies, which are established to review police conduct, to hold closed meetings to discuss specific criminal investigative files, audit findings, and deliberations related to complaints involving certain serious offenses, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, and family abuse. It also permits these oversight bodies, along with independent policing auditors appointed by local governments, to inspect certain law-enforcement records concerning juveniles when necessary for their duties, and allows for the disclosure of information about sexual assault, sexual abuse, or family abuse cases to these oversight bodies and auditors. The bill aims to balance the need for transparency in law enforcement with the protection of sensitive information and the privacy of individuals involved in investigations.
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Bill Summary: Law-enforcement civilian oversight bodies; closed meetings; disclosure of certain law-enforcement records. Provides an exemption to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act to allow closed meetings for discussion or consideration by any law-enforcement civilian oversight body established pursuant to general law or established by a local governing body before July 1, 2020, and operating in a manner consistent with such law of the criminal investigative files, audit findings, and deliberations regarding police operations related to a specific complaint before the body involving any violation or attempted violation of certain offenses. The bill allows inspection of certain law-enforcement records concerning juveniles by such civilian oversight bodies when required to perform their duties and by any independent policing auditor, manager, director, or other person appointed by the local governing body to support such civilian oversight body. Finally, the bill allows disclosure of certain information regarding crimes involving sexual assault, sexual abuse, or family abuse to such civilian oversight body and independent policing auditor, manager, director, or other person appointed by the local governing body.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Charlie Schmidt (D)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 9 • Actions: 42
• Last Amended: 04/13/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0861)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD2219 • Last Action 04/13/2026
An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right To Know Advisory Committee Concerning Certain Existing Public Records Exceptions
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, implementing recommendations from the Right To Know Advisory Committee, makes several changes to existing laws concerning the confidentiality and disclosure of public records. It clarifies that DNA records can be disclosed to criminal justice agencies for investigations, the FBI for the CODIS database, medical examiners, and individuals charged as a result of a DNA search, with access limited to relevant records. The bill also amends laws related to employer drug testing to ensure information is only disclosed with employee consent or as legally required, and clarifies that certain vehicle registration records and accident report data are confidential, with specific exceptions for law enforcement and public safety. Additionally, it updates provisions regarding the confidentiality of personal contact information for licensed professionals, ensuring that personal residence addresses and phone numbers are not considered confidential if provided as public contact information, and clarifies that certain financial exploitation records are confidential.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right To Know Advisory Committee Concerning Certain Existing Public Records Exceptions
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• Introduced: 02/22/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Amy Kuhn (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 04/16/2026
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Signed, Apr 13, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB476 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Continuing care providers; quarterly meeting requirements.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends requirements for continuing care facilities, which are places that offer long-term residential care and services, often including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. Specifically, it mandates that at least two of the quarterly meetings between the facility's governing body (like the board of directors) and residents must be open to all residents. Furthermore, certain key individuals from the provider's leadership, including a board member not employed by the facility and the chief executive officer, must attend at least two of these meetings annually, with one of those being open to all residents. The bill also introduces a new provision allowing resident representatives, elected by a majority of independent living residents, to participate in board meetings in an advisory, non-voting capacity if requested by the resident council or a majority of independent living residents.
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Bill Summary: Continuing care providers; quarterly meeting requirements. Amends the quarterly meeting requirements for continuing care facilities to provide that at least two of such meetings per year shall be open to all residents and that certain individuals shall participate in at least two of such meetings per year. The bill also requires, if requested by the resident council or a majority of the independent living residents of a continuing care facility, the provider to include as a participant in the meetings of its board of directors or other governing body a resident representative elected by a majority of such residents, who shall participate in a non-voting, advisory capacity. This bill is identical to SB 358.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Vivian Watts (D)*, Elizabeth Bennett-Parker (D), Atoosa Reaser (D)
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 10 • Actions: 47
• Last Amended: 04/13/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0620)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB504 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Data Privacy - Consumer Data, Public Records, and Message Switching System (Data Privacy Act)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Data Privacy Act, aims to enhance consumer data protection and public record access by prohibiting the sale of personal data to purchasers seeking to use it for immigration enforcement, and requiring custodians of public records to take reasonable steps to determine if records are being accessed for immigration law enforcement. It also mandates that entities operating message switching systems, which are platforms that automatically route electronic queries and responses between law enforcement agencies and databases, implement specific actions regarding system access, and requires governmental entities to establish procedures to safeguard sensitive data, defined to include information about race, ethnicity, health, sexual orientation, citizenship, immigration status, precise location, and data inferred from personal information that indicates these sensitive attributes, from being sold or redisclosed in ways that harm resident privacy, with these new provisions taking effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Prohibiting a certain controller from knowingly selling the personal data of a consumer to a certain governmental unit that has engaged in or supported civil immigration enforcement under certain circumstances; requiring a custodian of a public record to take reasonable steps to determine whether a public record is being accessed for purposes of enforcing immigration law; requiring an entity that operates a certain message switching system to take certain actions regarding system access; etc.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Clarence Lam (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 04/11/2026
• Last Action: Referred Rules and Executive Nominations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2876 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Public bodies; executive sessions; agenda
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law to prevent public bodies from including proposals to impose or increase a tax rate, assessment, or fee on their "consent agenda," which is a list of routine items that are voted on together without separate discussion. Additionally, any matter discussed in an executive session, which is a private meeting of a public body for specific purposes like personnel or legal matters, that requires a final vote or decision must be placed on the regular agenda for public discussion and cannot be moved to the consent agenda.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Amending sections 38-431.01 and 38-431.03, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to public meetings and proceedings.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Jeff Weninger (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 04/14/2026
• Last Action: Chapter 62
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB450 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Criminal Procedure - Protection of Identity of Victim of Sexual Assault or Stalking
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled "Criminal Procedure - Protection of Identity of Victim of Sexual Assault or Stalking," aims to enhance the privacy of victims in criminal and juvenile delinquency cases by requiring courts and parties to redact identifying information from court filings and records before they are disclosed or made available for inspection by non-parties. "Identifying information" is defined to include names and any other details that could reasonably identify a minor victim, a victim of sexual assault, or a victim of stalking. A "victim of sexual assault" is defined as someone alleging sexually assaultive behavior, and a "victim of stalking" is defined as someone alleging stalking as defined by law. The bill generally prohibits the disclosure or inspection of these records unless the court finds clear and convincing evidence of good cause to allow it, or unless the identifying information is redacted. Importantly, it allows for exceptions where a Health Occupations Board, which licenses or certifies a defendant or respondent, can petition the court to access unredacted records for the purpose of investigating or disciplining the professional for sexual misconduct, provided the victim is notified and has an opportunity to object. If no objection is made, such an investigation can be considered good cause for disclosure, but the Health Occupations Board is prohibited from publicly disclosing the obtained records. The bill also reiterates the existing provision that courts may prohibit the release of a victim or witness's address or telephone number unless good cause is shown.
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Bill Summary: Prohibiting a court or a party in a criminal or juvenile delinquency case from disclosing or allowing inspection of a certain court filing or record to a nonparty unless the court or the party redacts certain identifying information relating to a certain victim of sexual assault or victim of stalking that appears in the filing or record, subject to a certain exception; providing for disclosure or inspection of a certain record or filing by a certain health occupations board; etc.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 36 : Michele Guyton (D)*, Heather Bagnall (D), Regina Boyce (D), Frank Conaway (D), Elizabeth Embry (D), Jessica Feldmark (D), Diana Fennell (D), Linda Foley (D), Cathi Forbes (D), Andrea Harrison (D), Kevin Hornberger (R), Dana Jones (D), Anne Kaiser (D), Aaron Kaufman (D), Mary Lehman (D), Robbyn Lewis (D), Jeff Long (D), Lesley Lopez (D), April Fleming Miller (R), Scott Phillips (D), Denise Roberts (D), April Rose (R), Sheila Ruth (D), Matthew Schindler (D), Ryan Spiegel (D), Dana Stein (D), Sean Stinnett (D), Deni Taveras (D), Jen Terrasa (D), Chris Tomlinson (R), Courtney Watson (D), Jennifer White Holland (D), Sarah Wolek (D), Jamila Woods (D), Teresa Woorman (D), Chao Wu (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Favorable Report by Judicial Proceedings
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB1161 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Government. Data Collection & Dissemin. Practices Act; dissemin. of personal info. to federal gov't.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Government Data Collection and Dissemination Practices Act, amends existing Virginia law to place stricter controls on how government agencies and political subdivisions can share personal information. It clarifies that such entities can only share personal information when it's necessary to comply with state or federal laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to administer state or federal programs, to fulfill a subpoena or court order, to meet contractual obligations under the Virginia Public Procurement Act or higher education financial agreements, when the individual has given explicit consent, or for a proper agency purpose. Importantly, the bill explicitly prohibits agencies from selling personal information and introduces civil penalties for specific public officers, appointees, or employees who willfully and knowingly violate these dissemination rules, with penalties increasing for subsequent violations.
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Bill Summary: Government Data Collection and Dissemination Practices Act; dissemination of personal information to federal government; civil penalties. Provides that any agency or political subdivision of the Commonwealth shall only disseminate personal information (i) to the extent necessary to comply with state or federal law, including the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act; (ii) to the extent necessary to carry out the administration of a state or federal program pursuant to state or federal law; (iii) to comply with a subpoena, court order, or administrative proceeding; (iv) to the extent necessary to ensure fulfillment of the obligations of a purchase or contract made in accordance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act or a memorandum of understanding or management agreement made in accordance with the Restructured Higher Education Financial and Administrative Operations Act; (v) when the data subject has given consent; or (vi) to the extent necessary to accomplish a proper purpose of the agency. The bill also prohibits an agency or political subdivision from selling personal information. The bill authorizes a court, in the case of a willful and knowing violation, to subject a specific public officer, appointee, or employee of any agency to civil penalties.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 12 : Kathy Tran (D)*, Alfonso Lopez (D), Marcia Price (D), Irene Shin (D), Elizabeth Bennett-Parker (D), Katrina Callsen (D), Rae Cousins (D), Dan Helmer (D), Michelle Lopes-Maldonado (D), Fernando Martinez (D), Atoosa Reaser (D), Charlie Schmidt (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 43
• Last Amended: 04/13/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0748)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB154 • Last Action 04/13/2026
Open Meetings Act - County Boards of Education - Enhanced Requirements (Local Boards of Education Transparency Act)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Local Boards of Education Transparency Act, enhances the requirements of the Open Meetings Act for county boards of education and the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners, ensuring greater public access to their proceedings. Specifically, it mandates that these boards must provide live video streaming of their open meetings if they are held at their headquarters or at a location where they have held at least five meetings in the preceding year. Furthermore, the bill requires these boards to maintain complete and unedited archived video recordings of all open meetings that were live-streamed on their respective websites for a minimum of five years after the meeting date, with exceptions allowing for the removal of pornographic, obscene, or student privacy-violating content, provided the Open Meetings Law Compliance Board is notified of any edits. This legislation aims to increase transparency by making meeting content more accessible to the public for an extended period.
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Bill Summary: Establishing enhanced requirements under the Open Meetings Act for county boards of education and the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners; requiring county boards and the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners to maintain on their respective websites an archived video recording of each open meeting for which live video streaming was made available for a minimum of 5 years after the meeting; authorizing county boards and the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners to edit certain content from the recordings; etc.
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• Introduced: 01/11/2026
• Added: 01/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Marc Korman (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Motion Special Order until Later Today (Senator Feldman) Adopted
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1822 • Last Action 04/13/2026
An Act to Enact the Maine Online Data Privacy Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the Maine Online Data Privacy Act, which establishes comprehensive data privacy protections for consumers beginning July 1, 2026. The law applies to businesses that collect or process personal data of Maine residents, requiring them to limit data collection to what is necessary, obtain consumer consent, and provide transparency about data usage. Consumers gain several key rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being processed, access and correct their data, request deletion, obtain a copy of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and profiling. The bill defines sensitive data, which includes information about race, health, sexual orientation, genetic data, precise location, and other personal details, and places stricter limitations on its processing. Controllers (businesses collecting data) must provide clear privacy notices, establish secure mechanisms for consumers to exercise their rights, and implement reasonable data security practices. The law prohibits discriminatory data processing and selling sensitive data, particularly concerning minors. Enforcement is exclusively handled by the Attorney General, who may initially provide a 60-day cure period for violations before taking legal action. The bill includes numerous exemptions for certain types of organizations and data, such as healthcare providers, financial institutions, and data used for specific legal or safety purposes. By February 1, 2027, the Attorney General must submit a report to the Legislature detailing the implementation of the law.
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Bill Summary: This bill enacts the Maine Online Data Privacy Act, which takes effect July 1, 2026. The Act regulates the collection, use, processing, disclosure, sale and deletion of nonpublicly available personal data by a person that conducts business in this State or that produces products or services targeted to residents of this State, referred to in the Act as a "controller," if the personal data is linked or can be reasonably linked to an identified or identifiable individual who is a resident of this State, referred to in the Act as a "consumer," or is linked or reasonably can be linked to a device that is linked or reasonably can be linked to an identified or identifiable consumer. Under the Act, a controller must limit the collection and processing of personal data to what is reasonably necessary and proportionate to provide or maintain a specific product or service requested by the consumer, except that the controller must limit the collection and processing of certain sensitive data to what is strictly necessary to provide or maintain a specific product or service requested by the consumer. Under the Act, "sensitive data" includes data revealing a consumer's race or ethnic origins, religious beliefs, mental or physical health conditions or diagnoses, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship or immigration status; genetic or biometric data; precise geolocation data; social security, driver's license or nondriver identification card numbers; specific financial or account access information; data of a minor under 18 years of age; or data concerning the consumer's status as the victim of a crime. The Act establishes that consumers have the right to confirm whether a controller is processing their data; correct inaccuracies in their personal data; require the controller to delete any portion of their personal data that the controller is not required to maintain by law; obtain a copy of their personal data in a format that can be readily transferred to another controller; obtain a list of the 3rd parties to which the controller has sold personal data; and opt out of the processing of their personal data for purposes of targeted advertising, sale or consumer profiling. The Act also prohibits a controller from selling any sensitive data; processing the personal data of a minor for purposes of targeted advertising or sale; processing personal data in a manner that discriminates against a person in violation of state or federal law; and retaliating against a consumer for exercising a consumer's rights under the Act, except that a controller may offer different prices or selection of goods in connection with a consumer's voluntary participation in a bona fide loyalty or discount program. The Act also requires a controller to provide consumers with a privacy notice specifying how a consumer may exercise the consumer's rights under the Act; the categories of personal data processed by the controller; the purposes for processing the personal data; the categories of personal data transferred to 3rd parties; and the categories of 3rd parties to whom personal data is shared. The controller must establish, implement and maintain reasonable data security practices and a retention schedule that requires the disposal of personal data by the controller either when deletion is required by law or when the data is no longer necessary for the purpose for which it was processed and retention of the data is not required by law. The controller must also require, by contract, that any person who processes a consumer's personal data on behalf of the controller treats the personal data confidentially and deletes or returns all personal data to the controller at the end of the processing, unless retention of the data is required by law. If a controller engages in a data processing activity that presents a heightened risk of harm to a consumer, including processing any data for targeted advertising, sale or profiling or any processing of sensitive data, the controller must conduct and document a data protection assessment identifying and weighing the benefits and potential risks of the processing activity. The controller may be required to disclose the data protection assessment to the Attorney General, who must keep it confidential, when the assessment is relevant to an investigation conducted by the Attorney General. The Act further prohibits any person from establishing a geofence within 1,750 feet of any in-person health care facility in the State, other than the operator of the facility, for the purpose of identifying, tracking, collecting data from or sending a notification regarding consumer health data to consumers who enter that area. The provisions of the Act do not apply to specifically enumerated persons, including the State, political subdivisions of the State and federally recognized Indian tribes in the State; nonprofit organizations; institutions of higher education; federally registered national securities associations; supervised financial organizations and service corporations; health care facilities and health care practitioners as well as their affiliates that both qualify as business associates and provide services only to covered entitites; state-licensed and authorized insurers that are in compliance with applicable Maine laws governing insurer data security and data privacy; and broadband Internet service providers to the extent those providers are subject to the data privacy requirements of the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 35-A, section 9301. In addition, the provisions of the Act do not apply to specifically enumerated types of data, including, for example: nonpublic personal information regulated under the federal Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act; protected health information under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996; personal data regulated by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974; data processed and maintained by the controller regarding an applicant for employment or employee to the extent the data is collected and used within the context of that role; and data necessary for the controller to administer benefits. The Act also does not prohibit controllers from engaging in specifically enumerated activities, including, for example: complying with state or federal law; complying with investigations or subpoenas from federal, state or tribal governmental authorities; cooperating with federal, tribal or Maine law enforcement agencies; providing a product or service specifically requested by the consumer; protecting life and physical safety of consumers; and preventing or responding to security incidents. The Act also does not prohibit a controller from using personal data collected in a lawful manner to effectuate a product recall, identify and repair technical errors and perform internal operations that are reasonably aligned with a consumer's expectations or otherwise compatible with providing the product or service specifically requested by the consumer. Violations of the Act may be enforced exclusively by the Attorney General under the Maine Unfair Trade Practices Act. If the violation occurs on or before April 1, 2027, the Attorney General may provide a potential defendant with a notice of violation at least 60 days prior to initiating an enforcement action, during which time the potential defendant may cure the violation to avoid the enforcement action. The Act further requires the Attorney General to submit a report by February 1, 2027 to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters regarding the implementation and operation of the Act. The committee may report out legislation related to the report to the 133rd Legislature in 2027.
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• Introduced: 04/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 7 : Amy Kuhn (D)*, Anne Carney (D), Ryan Fecteau (D), Adam Lee (D), Matthew Moonen (D), Eleanor Sato (D), David Sinclair (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 17 • Actions: 114
• Last Amended: 04/28/2025
• Last Action: Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB692 • Last Action 04/13/2026
AN ACT relating to data privacy.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective July 1, 2027, amends the Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act by defining "automatic content recognition data" as information collected through technology embedded in internet-connected smart televisions or monitors that identifies content by analyzing audio or video fingerprints, and "smart monitor" as a digital display device with internet connectivity and application execution capabilities independent of an external computer. Crucially, it includes this automatic content recognition data within the definition of "sensitive data," meaning companies will now need consumer consent to collect and process it, similar to other sensitive information like health diagnoses or racial origin, and it also adds a specific requirement for consent to collect automatic content recognition data.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 367.3611, relating to the Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act, to define "automatic content recognition" and "smart monitor" and to include automatic content recognition data in the definition of "sensitive data"; EFFECTIVE July 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 02/23/2026
• Added: 02/24/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Josh Branscum (R)*, Steve Bratcher (R), William Lawrence (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: signed by Governor (Acts Ch. 118)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB99 • Last Action 04/10/2026
Open Meetings Act - County Boards of Education - Enhanced Requirements (Local Boards of Education Transparency Act)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Local Boards of Education Transparency Act, enhances the requirements of the Open Meetings Act for county boards of education and the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners, which are considered "public bodies" under state law. Specifically, these boards must now provide live video streaming of their open meetings if they are held at their headquarters or at a location where they've held at least five meetings in the previous year. Furthermore, they are required to maintain complete and unedited archived video recordings of these streamed open meetings on their websites for a minimum of five years after the meeting date, with limited exceptions for editing out specific content like pornography or violations of student privacy, which would require notification to the Open Meetings Law Compliance Board. This legislation aims to increase transparency by making more meeting content readily accessible to the public for an extended period.
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Bill Summary: Establishing enhanced requirements under the Open Meetings Act for county boards of education and the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners; requiring the county boards and the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners to maintain on their respective websites archived video recording of each open meeting for which live video streaming was made available for a minimum of 5 years after the date of the meeting; authorizing the editing of archived video recordings under certain circumstances; etc.
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• Introduced: 01/11/2026
• Added: 01/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Cheryl Kagan (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: Motion Special Order until 4/13 (Senator Ready) Adopted
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #SB00492 • Last Action 04/09/2026
An Act Concerning Security Of Public Officials And Employees.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance the security of public officials and employees by amending existing laws. Primarily, it modifies the Freedom of Information Act to prevent public agencies from disclosing the residential addresses of certain public officials and employees, including elected state and local officials, judges, law enforcement officers, and legislative staff, from their personnel or similar files, thereby protecting their privacy and safety. Additionally, the bill permits candidate committees, which are groups that raise and spend money to elect a candidate, to use campaign funds for "personal security services," defined as services provided to a candidate, their family, or campaign staff for safety reasons directly related to campaign activities. Finally, it establishes a dedicated "legislative safety account" funded by specific sources, from which the Joint Committee on Legislative Management can disburse money to ensure the safety and security of state legislators and their staff.
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Bill Summary: To (1) amend the Freedom of Information Act to provide that public agencies may not disclose, from their personnel, medical or similar files, the residential addresses of certain public officials and employees, (2) permit candidate committees to expend campaign funds for personal security services, and (3) (A) establish a "legislative safety account" from which the Joint Committee on Legislative Management may expend moneys for purposes of state legislator and state legislative staff safety, and (B) provide for funding of such account.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2026
• Added: 03/12/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Government Administration and Elections Committee
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: File Number 582
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2593 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Requiring that a political subdivision hold an open meeting to discuss a contingency fee contract for legal services before approving such contract and requiring the attorney general to approve such contracts.
Status: Veto Overridden
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that before a political subdivision, which is a local government entity like a city or county, can enter into a contingent fee contract for legal services, it must hold an open meeting to discuss the contract and explain why it's necessary and beneficial. A contingent fee is a fee paid to an attorney only if they win the case or achieve a favorable outcome. The bill also mandates that the Attorney General must approve these contracts before they become effective, and the Attorney General will report to the legislature on any contracts they do not approve, detailing the reasons for refusal. These provisions are set to expire on July 1, 2031, unless re-enacted by the legislature.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning contingent fee contracts for legal services; relating to contracts entered into for legal services by a political subdivision; requiring an open meeting before a political subdivision may approve such a contract; requiring the attorney general to approve such contract before such contract becomes effective; requiring the attorney general to submit a report to the legislature regarding contracts that are not approved; providing for the expiration of the section.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Senate Motion to override veto prevailed; Yea: 27 Nay: 12
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #SB00466 • Last Action 04/09/2026
An Act Concerning Vexatious Requesters Under The Freedom Of Information Act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act to broaden the definition of a "vexatious requester," which is someone who repeatedly files burdensome or abusive requests for public records. Specifically, it allows public agencies to petition for relief from such requesters if they have engaged in harassing or threatening conduct, even if that conduct occurred outside of a specific records request and regardless of whether it was related to the request itself. The bill also modifies the relief a commission can grant, permitting a longer period of time (up to three years, compared to the current one year) during which an agency may be excused from complying with future requests from a requester who has been deemed vexatious for a second or subsequent time.
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Bill Summary: To include harassing and threatening conduct that occurred outside of a request for public records under the Freedom of Information Act when finding a person to be a vexatious requester and to permit a longer period of relief from requests from such vexatious requester for a second or subsequent granting of a petition.
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• Introduced: 03/05/2026
• Added: 03/06/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Government Administration and Elections Committee, Steve Meskers (D), Hector Arzeno (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: File Number 572
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2402 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Senate Substitute for HB 2402 by Committee on Education - Requiring eligible boards of education to consider participation in the community eligibility provision, providing a financial hardship exception to such participation, requiring the state department of education to assist school districts seeking such participation, extending the application deadline for authorization to operate as a public innovative district from December 1 to May 1 and deeming such applications approved if not approve
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires eligible school districts, specifically those with at least 50% of students qualifying for free meals through direct certification under the national school lunch program, to consider participating in the community eligibility provision, which allows schools to offer free meals to all students without individual applications. However, a school district can opt out if participation would cause financial hardship, provided they demonstrate this hardship in a public meeting. The state department of education will assist school districts in pursuing this provision. Additionally, the bill extends the application deadline for operating as a public innovative district, a type of school with more flexibility in its educational programs, from December 1 to May 1, and deems applications automatically approved if the state board of education does not act on them within 45 days, a change from the previous 90-day period. The bill also shortens the reconsideration period for denied applications to 45 days and requires the coalition board, which oversees public innovative districts, to approve or deny requests within 30 days, with requests also being deemed approved if no decision is made within that timeframe. Finally, it repeals existing laws related to these provisions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning education; relating to school districts; requiring eligible boards of education to consider participation in the community eligibility provision; providing a financial hardship exception to such participation; requiring the state department of education to assist school districts seeking such participation; relating to public innovative districts; extending the application deadline to operate as a public innovative district from December 1 to May 1; deeming applications approved if not approved or denied within a certain number of days; amending K.S.A. 72-4223 and 72-4225 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 03/06/2025
• Added: 03/31/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: House Approved by Governor on Tuesday, April 7, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2696 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Open records; educational records; requiring schools to release certain records; specifying certain information cannot be omitted; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective November 1, 2026, amends Oklahoma's Open Records Act to require public schools to release certain educational records to parents, guardians, or adult students in a timely manner, with some requests to be provided free of charge, and specifies that certain information cannot be omitted from these records, providing examples like a student's name, address, and participation in activities as "directory information" which can be released unless a parent or guardian opts out. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of confidential information to include specific cybersecurity-related records, such as risk assessments, vulnerability scans, penetration testing results, incident response plans, and system logs, when their disclosure could reasonably lead to unauthorized access or disruption of information systems.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.16, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 86, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 24A.16), which relates to educational records; requiring schools to release certain records to parents, guardians, or adult students; requiring records to be provided in a timely manner; mandating that certain record requests be provided for free; specifying that certain information cannot be omitted; providing examples of certain records; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.28, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 325, O.S.L. 2023 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 24A.28), which relates to confidential information; adding certain cybersecurity information to list of confidential information; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Ross Ford (R)*, Dave Rader (R)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 04/08/2026
• Last Action: Placed on General Order
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #HB05548 • Last Action 04/09/2026
An Act Concerning Revisions To The Freedom Of Information Act Concerning Employee Residential Addresses And Certain Higher Education Records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act to enhance privacy protections for certain public employees and shield specific academic records from disclosure. Primarily, it expands the prohibition against releasing the residential addresses of public employees, moving beyond just those whose residency is a condition of employment to include any public agency employee who requests their address be kept confidential and provides a business address. This change aims to protect a broader range of public servants, such as judges, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and others listed, from having their home addresses publicly accessible. Additionally, the bill exempts proprietary records held by public institutions of higher education that are related to teaching or research on various scholarly topics, such as medical, artistic, scientific, or legal issues, from public disclosure, with the exception of the institution's financial records. These changes are intended to balance the public's right to information with the need for personal privacy and the protection of academic intellectual property.
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Bill Summary: To amend the Freedom of Information Act to (1) revise the prohibition against disclosing the residential address of certain persons contained in personnel, medical or similar files by deleting reference to the employing public agency and expanding the prohibition to other public agency employees for which residency is not a requirement for employment, and (2) exempt certain proprietary records held by a public institution of higher education pertaining to teaching or research from disclosure.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2026
• Added: 03/12/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Government Administration and Elections Committee, Nicholas Menapace (D), Nicholas Gauthier (D), Sarah Keitt (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: File Number 553
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #HB05550 • Last Action 04/09/2026
An Act Exempting Course Syllabi From Disclosure Under The Freedom Of Information Act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective October 1, 2026, amends a statute concerning government administration by adding a new provision that exempts course syllabi created by or for the faculty or staff of a public institution of higher education from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The Freedom of Information Act is a law that generally gives the public the right to access government records, but this bill carves out an exception specifically for these academic documents, meaning they will no longer be subject to public requests for information.
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Bill Summary: To make a technical change to a statute concerning government administration and to exempt course syllabi at an institution of higher education from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2026
• Added: 03/12/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Government Administration and Elections Committee
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: File Number 554
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2519 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Continuing in existence certain exceptions to the disclosure of public records under the Kansas open records act.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill continues certain exceptions to the disclosure of public records under the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA), which is a law that generally requires government records to be accessible to the public. Specifically, it extends the confidentiality of emergency contact information provided by drivers, the confidentiality of information gathered by the state child death review board, and the confidentiality of records related to fulfillment houses shipping alcoholic liquor. It also makes permanent the confidentiality of information obtained by elder and dependent adult abuse multidisciplinary teams, which previously had an expiration date. The bill amends existing laws to remove the expiration dates on these specific exceptions, ensuring they remain in effect beyond their original sunset clauses.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning the Kansas open records act (KORA); relating to public records; continuing in existence certain exceptions to the disclosure thereof; amending K.S.A. 8-2,158, 40-221b and 41-353 and K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 22a-243, 45-229 and 75-782 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/23/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 03/24/2026
• Last Action: House Approved by Governor on Friday, April 3, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #SB459 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Removing the prisoner review board from the supervision of the secretary of corrections, changing the appointing authority and creating qualifications for the members of the board and requiring parole hearings to be postponed if proper notice of the public comment session is not made to the victim.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes significant changes to the Prisoner Review Board, a body responsible for parole decisions, by removing it from the supervision of the Secretary of Corrections and establishing new appointment processes and qualifications for its members. Specifically, starting July 1, 2026, the board will have five members appointed by the Governor and Attorney General, with specific experience requirements for some positions, and these members will serve four-year terms. The bill also mandates that parole hearings must be postponed if proper public notice is not given to victims, ensuring their right to comment on parole decisions. Additionally, it clarifies the board's role in certain release processes, such as functional incapacitation and terminal medical condition releases, and makes provisions for the board's inclusion in retirement system considerations for state officers.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning the prisoner review board; removing the board from the supervision of the secretary of corrections; changing the appointing authority for the members and creating qualifications for the members; requiring parole hearings to be postponed if proper notice of the public comment session is not made to the victim; amending K.S.A. 22-3709, 22-3710, 22-3711, 22-3713, 22-3728, 22-3729 and 75- 52,152 and K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 22-3717, 74-4911f, 75-4318, 75-5217 and 77-421 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 03/20/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Senate Approved by Governor on Tuesday, April 7, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2485 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Authorizing the chief executive officer of the board of regents to negotiate and settle repayment obligations arising under financial aid programs administered by the board, providing requirements for agreements between postsecondary educational institutions and school districts for postsecondary courses taught in secondary schools, directing the governor to approve short-term workforce training programs for Pell grant eligibility, modifying requirements under the every child can read act and pr
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes the chief executive officer of the state board of regents to negotiate and settle repayment obligations for students who owe money back to the state from scholarship, grant, or other financial aid programs administered by the board, and it also prohibits any student who has such outstanding repayment obligations from receiving any further financial aid from these programs.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning education; providing requirements for agreements between postsecondary educational institutions and school districts for the provision of postsecondary courses taught in secondary schools; directing the governor to approve short-term workforce training programs for Pell grant eligibility; requiring the state workforce development board to establish an internal process for such eligibility; providing for the transferability of credentials earned through career readiness assessments toward a degree; relating to the Kansas blueprint for literacy; expanding reporting requirements in the every child can read act; requiring members of the literacy advisory committee to have certain expertise; aligning literacy fluency goals with the state board of education's assessment cut scores; requiring school districts to employ reading specialists and develop individual student literacy plans for certain high-risk students; requiring the state board of education to designate best literacy practices and include a literacy practicum in the requirements for teacher licensure; requiring the development of a comprehensive literacy implementation plan; providing requirements for educator preparation programs; prohibiting Kansas promise scholarship awards from being used to fund remedial hours offered as part of corequisite courses; authorizing the chief executive officer of the state board of regents to negotiate and settle repayment obligations arising under certain state financial aid programs; prohibiting the payment of additional funds to any student who is subject to repayment obligations under such financial aid programs; amending K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 72-3262, 72-5179, 74-32,274, 74-32,290, 74-32,291, 74-32,292, 74-32,293, 74-32,294, 74-32,295 and 74-32,313 and repealing the existing sections; also repealing K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 74-32,296.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 04/04/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: House Approved by Governor on Thursday, April 9, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HR169 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Urging The aha Moku Advisory Committee To Follow Its Adopted Rules Of Practice, Fulfill Its Statutory Duties, Including Complying With The Sunshine Law, Conduct A Performance Review Of Its Executive Director, And Establish Policies To Assure Consistent Standards Of Administrative And Managerial Accountability; And Requesting The Office Of The Auditor To Conduct A Comprehensive Performance And Financial Audit Of The aha Moku Advisory Committee.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This resolution urges the Aha Moku Advisory Committee, a state body established to advise on Native Hawaiian traditional and customary resource management practices, to adhere to its own adopted rules of procedure and fulfill its legal obligations, particularly by complying with the Sunshine Law, which mandates that public meetings be properly noticed and open to the public for deliberations and decision-making. It also calls for the committee to conduct a performance review of its Executive Director and establish clear policies for administrative and managerial accountability. Furthermore, the resolution requests the Office of the Auditor to perform a thorough audit of the committee's performance and finances, with the findings to be reported to the Legislature.
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Bill Summary: RESOLUTION URGING THE ?AHA MOKU ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO FOLLOW ITS ADOPTED RULES OF PRACTICE, FULFILL ITS STATUTORY DUTIES, INCLUDING COMPLYING WITH THE SUNSHINE LAW, CONDUCT A PERFORMANCE REVIEW OF ITS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AND ESTABLISH POLICIES TO ASSURE CONSISTENT STANDARDS OF ADMINISTRATIVE AND MANAGERIAL ACCOUNTABILITY; AND REQUESTING THE OFFICE OF THE AUDITOR TO CONDUCT A COMPREHENSIVE PERFORMANCE AND FINANCIAL AUDIT OF THE ?AHA MOKU ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
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• Introduced: 03/17/2026
• Added: 03/18/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 04/08/2026
• Last Action: Resolution adopted in final form.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HJR76 • Last Action 04/09/2026
Commending the Virginia Coalition for Open Government.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This resolution commends the Virginia Coalition for Open Government for its 30 years of advocating for transparency in Virginia's government. This nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, established in 1996, is a coalition of various individuals and groups dedicated to improving accountability in the democratic process. The Coalition actively works with lawmakers and officials to strengthen laws that ensure public access to government meetings and records, and it was instrumental in the creation of the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council (FOIA Council). The organization provides valuable resources such as an online archive of FOIA interpretations, free hotlines to answer public inquiries about FOIA (the Freedom of Information Act, a law guaranteeing public access to government records), and informative newsletters and social media content. Furthermore, the Coalition supports future leaders through legal fellowships and internships, hosts an annual conference with awards recognizing contributions to open government, and offers educational programs for legal professionals and FOIA officers. They have also authored reports leading to legislative reforms and provided guidance for local governments on public meetings, even assisting other states in establishing similar open-government initiatives and now administering the National Freedom of Information Coalition.
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Bill Summary: Commending the Virginia Coalition for Open Government.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jessica Anderson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 04/09/2026
• Last Action: Bill text as passed House and Senate (HJ76ER)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S3003 • Last Action 04/08/2026
Authorizes the committees of the general assembly to allow members of the public to provide testimony remotely.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to allow committees of the Rhode Island General Assembly to accept testimony from members of the public remotely, meaning individuals can provide their input through electronic means like phone calls or video conferencing, rather than having to be physically present at the meeting location. This change is intended to make public participation more accessible, and it includes provisions that ensure remote participants are clearly audible and visible to those at the meeting, that a quorum of the committee is present, and that if video conferencing is used, the public is notified and provided with instructions on how to access the virtual meeting. The bill also specifies that it will become effective immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would authorize the committees of the general assembly to allow members of the public to provide testimony remotely, via electronic communication, including telephonic communication and telephone conferencing. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 03/04/2026
• Added: 03/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark McKenney (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/04/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1862 • Last Action 04/08/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to elected public officials.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to make certain personally identifying information of elected state and local public officials confidential, meaning it cannot be accessed by the public. This confidential information, which refers to specific details about the official as outlined in existing law, must be redacted from public records whenever possible, but this confidentiality will not prevent access to other public information within a document or file. However, this protection does not apply to law enforcement, courts, or other government agencies performing official duties, nor does it close any personnel records that are already open under current state law, and elected officials can still authorize the release of their own information.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, requires that certain personally identifying information of elected state and local public officials be maintained confidentially with limited exceptions. - Amends TCA Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Shaundelle Brooks (D)*, Jay Reedy (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Action def. in State & Local Government Committee to First January Calendar
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A10911 • Last Action 04/08/2026
Prohibits data brokers from selling the personal information of current and former military servicemembers or their households without consent.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the general business law to prohibit "data brokers" – entities that collect and sell personal information of consumers with whom they have no direct relationship – from selling the personal data of current or former military servicemembers, or their households, without explicit "consent," which is defined as a clear, affirmative, and unambiguous agreement. The bill also prohibits advertising such lists or data without consent and applies to entities doing business in New York or targeting its residents. It provides extensive definitions for terms like "consumer," "household," "military servicemember," and "sale," and outlines several exceptions, including for data regulated by federal laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act, Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, and HIPAA, as well as certain research and government-related data. Violations can lead to injunctions, civil penalties of up to $10,000, and restitution, with the Attorney General authorized to investigate and enforce these provisions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to prohibiting data brokers from selling the personal information of current and former military servicemembers
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• Introduced: 04/08/2026
• Added: 04/09/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Steve Stern (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/08/2026
• Last Action: referred to science and technology
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #SB699 • Last Action 04/08/2026
Virginia Freedom of Information Act; public bodies to post meeting agendas.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to require public bodies to post their proposed meeting agendas on their official government websites, if they have one, before the meeting takes place. It also clarifies that public bodies cannot take final action on any items added to an agenda after a meeting has started, unless the matter is urgent or discussed in a properly announced closed session, and it defines what constitutes "final action" by a public body, excluding things like referring an item to a committee or staff for more information. This change is a recommendation from the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council, aiming to increase transparency in government meetings.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; public bodies to post meeting agendas. Requires public bodies subject to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to post the proposed agenda on the public body's official government website, if any, prior to the meeting. The bill provides that no final action may be taken on any items added to an agenda after a meeting commences unless the matter is time-sensitive or is the subject of a closed meeting properly identified in a motion in accordance with FOIA requirements and defines "final action." This bill is a recommendation of the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 01/21/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Adam Ebbin (D)*, Mamie Locke (D), Elizabeth Bennett-Parker (D), David Suetterlein (R), Marcus Simon (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 04/08/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0519)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1473 • Last Action 04/07/2026
Pub. Rec./Terrorist Organizations
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for specific information related to the designation of organizations as domestic or foreign terrorist organizations by the Chief of Domestic Security. This exemption applies to information that would reveal details critical to state or national security, as provided by the Chief to the Governor and Cabinet. The bill clarifies that the Chief of Domestic Security consults with various law enforcement and security agencies, gathering highly sensitive information to make these designations, and the Legislature intends to keep this information confidential for public safety. This exemption is subject to a future legislative review and is set to automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature takes action to extend it. The bill also specifies that it will take effect on the same date as another related bill, HB 1471, if that bill becomes law.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 943.03102, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information relating to the designation of an organization as a domestic terrorist organization or a foreign terrorist organization by the Chief of Domestic Security; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Judiciary Committee, Hillary Cassel (R)*, Nan Cobb (R), William Conerly (R), Kim Kendall (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 53
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-29
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB567 • Last Action 04/06/2026
Court records; aggregated case data, request by attorney for the Commonwealth exempted.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the rules for accessing aggregated case data from court records in Virginia, specifically for requests made by an attorney for the Commonwealth, who is a prosecutor. Previously, such aggregated data reports were prohibited from including personal information like names, dates of birth, or social security numbers, and requests could be denied to ensure compliance with these restrictions. However, this bill mandates that if an attorney for the Commonwealth requests this aggregated data to help perform their duties, the clerk of a district or circuit court, or the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court of Virginia, must approve the request and provide the report. This report will now include the name, date of birth, and the last four digits of the social security number of any party involved, but only for cases within that attorney's jurisdiction. Furthermore, any report containing this sensitive personal information provided to an attorney for the Commonwealth cannot be shared further unless that information is removed or obscured (redacted).
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Bill Summary: Court records; aggregated case data; request by attorney for the Commonwealth exempted. Provides that, notwithstanding any other provision of law, if a request for a report of aggregated case data is made by an attorney for the Commonwealth to assist in the performance of his duties, the clerk or the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court of Virginia, depending on if the request is made to a district court or circuit court, shall approve such request and provide such report of aggregated case data, which shall include the name, date of birth, and last four digits of the social security number of any party. Under current law, such request may be denied to ensure compliance with existing law and such reports are prohibited from including the name, date of birth, or social security number of any party and images of the individual records in the respective case files. The bill also provides that no report of aggregated case data that includes the name, date of birth, and last four digits of the social security number of any party provided to an attorney for the Commonwealth shall be disseminated further unless such information is redacted.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Kacey Carnegie (D)*, Betsy Carr (D)
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 34
• Last Amended: 04/06/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0172)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB835 • Last Action 04/06/2026
Elections; candidates and elected officials, confidentiality of personally identifiable information.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective January 1, 2027, aims to enhance the confidentiality of personally identifiable information for candidates and elected officials in Virginia. It prohibits custodians of candidate filings from releasing a candidate's address, phone number, or email address under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, allowing candidates to instead use a unique identifier from the voter registration system on their filings. The bill also prevents the State Board of Elections from requiring candidates to disclose their address or unique identifier on petitions before they are filed. Furthermore, it expands the list of individuals who can use a post office box instead of their street address on voter lists to include elected officials, and requires that newly elected officials receive a notice with their certificate of election explaining how they can obtain protected voter status, which is a designation that can shield their personal information.
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Bill Summary: Elections; candidates and elected officials; address confidentiality. Prohibits the custodian of any filing made by a candidate from releasing the address, phone number, or email address of such candidate in response to a request made under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The bill permits a candidate to provide the unique identifier assigned to him in the voter registration system pursuant to relevant law in place of his residence address on any candidate filing. The State Board of Elections is prohibited from requiring candidates to disclose their address or unique identifier on petitions prior to their being filed. The bill also adds elected officials to the list of people who may furnish, in addition to their residence street address, a post office box address located within the Commonwealth to be included in lieu of their street address on the lists of registered voters. The certificate of election delivered to the winner of an election is required to be accompanied by a notice that the person meets the qualifications for being granted protected voter status along with instructions for updating their voter registration in order to attain such status. The bill has a delayed effective date of January 1, 2027. This bill is identical to SB 632.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Adele McClure (D)*, Bonita Anthony (D), Phil Hernandez (D), Fernando Martinez (D), Irene Shin (D), Jessica Anderson (D), Stacey Carroll (D), Nadarius Clark (D), Joshua Cole (D), Kelly Convirs-Fowler (D), Jackie Glass (D), Elizabeth Guzmán (D), J.R. Henson (D), Michelle Lopes-Maldonado (D), Kimberly Adams (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 35
• Last Amended: 04/06/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0228)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1641 • Last Action 04/06/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-604, relative to data provided to the secretary of state.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-604, which deals with data provided to the Secretary of State. Specifically, it requires the Secretary of State to exclude personal mailing addresses and telephone numbers of agency members from the annual publication of agency information, deeming this information confidential and not subject to public disclosure. This change aims to protect the privacy of individuals working within state agencies by preventing their personal contact details from being made public in these annual reports, which are compiled from data listed in another section of the code (§ 10-7-603). The bill will take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, requires the secretary of state to omit from each annual publication of agency information mailing addresses and telephone numbers of agency members. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-604.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Ed Jackson (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 03/27/2026
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 07/01/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB644 • Last Action 04/06/2026
FOIA; exemption for records of minors participating in certain programs run by state public bodies.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to exempt personal contact information of minors participating in programs run by state public bodies, such as apprenticeships, unpaid internships, or externships, from mandatory public disclosure. This means that details like a minor's home address, email address, or phone number, as provided to the state for their participation in such programs, will be kept private. However, parents or guardians will still have access to this information unless their parental rights have been terminated or a court has restricted their access. Additionally, emancipated minors can access their own information, and any individual can waive these protections in writing, allowing the information to be disclosed. This change is a recommendation from the Virginia FOIA Advisory Council.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; exemption for records of minors participating in certain programs run by state bodies. Exempts from the mandatory disclosure requirements of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act the personal contact information of minors who are participating in a program, such as an apprenticeship or unpaid internship or externship, run by a state public body. The bill is a recommendation of the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Hillary Pugh Kent (R)*, Nadarius Clark (D), Jackie Glass (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 04/06/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0189)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OR bill #HB4066 • Last Action 04/06/2026
Relating to education; and declaring an emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to Oregon's education laws, including allowing stipends for members of education service district boards, clarifying rules for the Oregon Health and Science University Board of Directors regarding collective bargaining discussions for student members, and enacting the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children to ease educational transitions for children of military families. It also grants the State Board of Education rulemaking authority for certain criminal records checks and for rules regarding indoor air quality monitoring in classrooms, and modifies provisions related to the distribution of funds for school construction bonds and the reporting of test results by school districts. Additionally, the bill updates language regarding the Department of Education's role in distributing training materials and clarifies that the State Board of Education, not the Department, will adopt rules for certain special education matters and transition services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. It also requires school district budget committees to include a member of the educational equity advisory committee, if willing and able, and amends provisions related to a study on farmworker labor standards and workplace protections, as well as exceptions for certain lamps used by school districts and education service districts. Finally, the bill declares an emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to education; creating new provisions; amending ORS 240.546, 286A.630, 326.552, 326.604, 326.606, 328.542, 332.018, 332.334, 332.356, 332.365, 334.100, 343.065, 343.287, 343.955, 344.755, 353.040, 427.430, 430.217 and 459.488 and section 3, chapter 195, Oregon Laws 2025, and section 1, chapter 568, Oregon Laws 2025; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2026 Legislative Measures
• Sponsors: 0
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 03/03/2026
• Last Action: Chapter 42, (2026 Laws): Effective date March 31, 2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1496 • Last Action 04/06/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-604, relative to data provided to the secretary of state.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, amending Tennessee Code Annotated Section 10-7-604, requires the Secretary of State to exclude personal mailing addresses and telephone numbers of agency members from the annual publication of agency information, deeming this data confidential and not subject to public disclosure, while still requiring the compilation and publication of other required data from all agencies.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: As enacted, requires the secretary of state to omit from each annual publication of agency information mailing addresses and telephone numbers of agency members. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-604.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Jerome Moon (R)*, Tom Stinnett (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 03/27/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 612
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #SB632 • Last Action 04/06/2026
Elections; candidates and elected officials, confidentiality of personally identifiable information.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective January 1, 2027, aims to enhance the confidentiality of personal information for candidates and elected officials in Virginia. It prohibits the release of a candidate's address, phone number, or email address by custodians of filings under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, unless the candidate provides written consent. Candidates will also be allowed to use a unique identifier from the voter registration system instead of their home address on filings. The bill also expands the list of individuals who can use a post office box instead of their street address on voter lists to include elected officials, and requires that newly elected officials receive a notice with their certificate of election explaining how to obtain protected voter status. Furthermore, the State Board of Elections is prohibited from requiring candidates to disclose their address or unique identifier on petitions before they are filed.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Elections; candidates and elected officials; address confidentiality. Prohibits the custodian of any filing made by a candidate from releasing the address, phone number, or email address of such candidate in response to a request made under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The bill permits a candidate to provide the unique identifier assigned to him in the voter registration system pursuant to relevant law in place of his residence address on any candidate filing. The State Board of Elections is prohibited from requiring candidates to disclose their address or unique identifier on petitions prior to their being filed. The bill also adds elected officials to the list of people who may furnish, in addition to their residence street address, a post office box address located within the Commonwealth to be included in lieu of their street address on the lists of registered voters. The certificate of election delivered to the winner of an election is required to be accompanied by a notice that the person meets the qualifications for being granted protected voter status along with instructions for updating their voter registration in order to attain such status. The bill has a delayed effective date of January 1, 2027. This bill is identical to HB 835.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Lashrecse Aird (D)*, J.D. Diggs (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 41
• Last Amended: 04/06/2026
• Last Action: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0229)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1233 • Last Action 04/03/2026
Relative to the minutes of non-public sessions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New Hampshire's Right-to-Know law regarding nonpublic session minutes by clarifying and expanding transparency requirements. Specifically, the bill stipulates that only the exact portion of minutes or decisions directly covered by the original motion to enter a nonpublic session may be withheld from public disclosure, which is a more precise standard than previous law. The bill also requires that the list of withheld minutes include additional details such as the start and end times of the nonpublic session, in addition to the existing requirements like the date and specific exemption used. If a public body decides to withhold certain minutes, they must maintain a comprehensive list of those minutes that will be made publicly available as soon as practicable. The bill preserves existing provisions that allow minutes to be withheld if two-thirds of members present vote that disclosure could adversely affect a person's reputation, render a proposed action ineffective, or relate to terrorism and emergency preparedness. The new provisions aim to increase governmental transparency by narrowing the scope of what can be kept secret and providing more detailed information about nonpublic sessions. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.
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Bill Summary: This bill modifies the right-to-know law by requiring that the only minutes or decisions withheld from public disclosure are those portions covered by the motion to enter nonpublic session. The bill also adds start times and end times in the list of nonpublic session minutes available under the right-to-know law.
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• Introduced: 11/25/2025
• Added: 12/02/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Calvin Beaulier (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 12/02/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote === BILL KILLED ===; 04/09/2026; Senate Journal 8
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #SB00251 • Last Action 04/02/2026
An Act Concerning The Auditors Of Public Accounts, Audits Of Private Entities And Performance And Accountability Standards For State And Quasi-public Agencies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective October 1, 2026, expands the authority of the Auditors of Public Accounts, the state's independent audit agency, by allowing them to require additional review when an audit only examines a sample of transactions, and mandating physical site visits for audits of certain housing and human services providers receiving at least $250,000 in state funds annually, unless those providers are already subject to specific federal audits. It also empowers the auditors to establish performance and accountability standards for state and quasi-public agencies (entities created by law, often with public oversight, that operate similarly to private businesses) that have significant violations of state statutes or regulations related to contracts, requiring these agencies to meet such standards before renewing those contracts. Furthermore, the bill grants the Auditors of Public Accounts the power to issue subpoenas, which are official orders to produce documents or appear for questioning, as part of their investigations into potential misuse of state funds or other irregularities.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: To authorize the Auditors of Public Accounts to (1) require additional review in audits where only a sampling of transactions was obtained, (2) require physical site visits of certain housing and human services providers, (3) establish agency and quasi-public agency performance and accountability standards, and (4) issue subpoenas pursuant to an investigation.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2026
• Added: 02/19/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Government Oversight Committee, Rob Sampson (R), Stephen Harding (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/02/2026
• Last Action: File Number 346
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0894 • Last Action 04/02/2026
Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding requirements for open public meetings to permit recording of such meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Idaho law to clarify that individuals attending open public meetings are generally permitted to record these meetings, with "recording" defined as capturing audio, video, or photographs. While governing bodies can implement measures to ensure orderly meetings, they cannot prohibit or unreasonably restrict recording, nor can they remove or exclude individuals for recording. However, this right to record does not apply to executive sessions, meetings or hearings held in facilities operated by the Idaho Department of Correction or the Idaho Department of Juvenile Corrections, or meetings conducted by the Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole. The bill also declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO OPEN MEETINGS; AMENDING SECTION 74-203, IDAHO CODE, TO RE- VISE PROVISIONS REGARDING REQUIREMENTS FOR OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 03/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : State Affairs Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 03/13/2026
• Last Action: Reported Signed by Governor on April 2, 2026 Session Law Chapter 281 Effective: 07/01/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4597 • Last Action 04/02/2026
FOIA-POLICE BODY CAM RECORDING
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to allow public bodies to charge requesters for the actual, necessary, and direct costs associated with redacting (obscuring sensitive information, often through pixelization) audio or video recordings made by law enforcement officers wearing body cameras, as required by the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. However, this fee cannot be charged under specific circumstances, such as when the requester is an individual not seeking financial gain and has made limited requests, is directly involved in the events depicted, is an attorney representing someone involved, is the parent or guardian of a minor depicted, or when the recording shows an officer-involved shooting. Additionally, public bodies must provide requesters with a written estimate of the redaction fee before fulfilling the request, and if a false certification is provided to avoid fees, the individual could face a $10,000 fine.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a public body may impose a fee upon a requester for the actual, necessary, and direct cost of redacting recorded audio or video content recordings made under the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. Provides that the public body may not impose the fee under specified circumstances. Requires the public body to provide the requester, in writing, with an estimate of the amount of the fee to be charged before before fulfilling the request.
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• Introduced: 01/26/2026
• Added: 01/27/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Sharon Chung (D)*, Laura Faver Dias (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/26/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Laura Faver Dias
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7016 • Last Action 04/02/2026
OGSR/Administration of Small Business Loan Programs Held by an Economic Development Agency
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes a permanent change to a Florida law that protects certain information related to small business loan programs administered by economic development agencies. Specifically, it removes a provision that would have automatically ended this protection on October 2, 2026, a process known as a "scheduled repeal" under the Open Government Sunset Review Act, which is a legislative process designed to periodically review and potentially eliminate existing laws. By deleting this repeal date, the bill ensures that the confidentiality of these loan program records will continue indefinitely, meaning they will remain exempt from public records requirements unless the legislature decides otherwise in the future.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 288.075, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for certain information relating to the administration of small business loan programs held by an economic development agency; deleting the scheduled repeal of the exemption; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/01/2025
• Added: 12/02/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Commerce and Tourism
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 34
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-24
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2154 • Last Action 04/02/2026
Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Electronic Information and Data Privacy Act," mandates that law enforcement agencies must obtain a search warrant, based on probable cause, before accessing electronic information, data, or location information belonging to subscribers or customers, with specific exceptions. These exceptions include situations where the device is reported stolen, the owner provides informed consent, there's a judicially recognized exception to the warrant requirement, the information has been voluntarily and publicly disclosed, or in cases of emergency involving imminent risk of death, serious injury, sexual abuse, kidnapping, or human trafficking, or when information is inadvertently discovered and appears to relate to a felony or certain misdemeanors. The bill also outlines procedures for obtaining subscriber records from electronic communication service providers and remote computing service providers, generally requiring a warrant unless specific exceptions apply, and establishes notification requirements for individuals whose electronic information has been accessed, with provisions for delayed notification under certain circumstances to protect investigations or individuals. Furthermore, any electronic information or data obtained in violation of this act will be subject to exclusion, similar to evidence obtained in violation of constitutional rights.
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Bill Summary: This act would require law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 01/17/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Jessica de la Cruz (R)*, Frank Ciccone (D), John Burke (D), Gordon Rogers (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AL bill #SB22 • Last Action 04/02/2026
Boards and commissions; appointment of members revised
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill revises how members are appointed to various state boards and commissions across Alabama, aiming to modernize language and clarify appointment procedures. It specifically updates sections of the Code of Alabama 1975 concerning the Southern States Energy Board, the Alabama Electronic Voting Committee, the State Health Officer's role in public corporations, the composition of councils overseeing individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and those with developmental disabilities, the Alabama Workforce Board, joint legislative committees on transportation, contract review, homeland security, and information technology, as well as the Sunset Committee, the Youth Services Board, and the Commission on Girls and Women in the Criminal Justice System. The changes include replacing gendered language with gender-neutral terms, updating titles of legislative leaders who make appointments (such as changing "President of the Senate" to "President Pro Tempore of the Senate" and "Speaker" to "Speaker of the House of Representatives"), and ensuring that the membership of these bodies reflects the racial, gender, geographic, urban, rural, and economic diversity of the state where possible. The bill also makes minor adjustments to wording for clarity and consistency, such as changing "such" to "that" and "chairman" to "chair," and specifies that the act will become effective on October 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Boards and commissions; appointment of members revised
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• Introduced: 11/03/2025
• Added: 03/18/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sam Givhan (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Enacted
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S09705 • Last Action 04/02/2026
Provides that, for a quorum, an advisory board may require that at a minimum, one quarter of the members and the presiding officer of a community board physically be present at a location where the public can attend for such board to conduct videoconferencing.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing law regarding public meetings held via videoconferencing, specifically for advisory bodies like community boards in large cities. Previously, for a public body to conduct a videoconferenced meeting, a minimum number of members had to be physically present in a location accessible to the public to meet the quorum requirement, which is the minimum number of members needed for a meeting to be valid. This bill allows an advisory body, such as a community board, to opt for a more flexible quorum requirement for videoconferenced meetings, stipulating that at least one-quarter of its members and the presiding officer must be physically present at a public location. The bill also defines an "advisory body" as an entity that primarily provides advice and input on policy and program development, planning, and evaluation, and may or may not have final voting power.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to lowering quorum requirements for meetings of community boards held by videoconferencing
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• Introduced: 04/02/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Cordell Cleare (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/02/2026
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A10808 • Last Action 04/01/2026
Prohibits the use of automatic license plate reader systems or captured plate data by government entities except for certain purposes.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled "Prohibits the use of automatic license plate reader systems or captured plate data by government entities except for certain purposes," aims to restrict how government entities can use Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) systems, which are technologies that convert images of license plates into computer-readable data. The bill defines "captured plate data" broadly to include location, date, time, photographs, license plate numbers, and other vehicle characteristics. It makes it generally unlawful for government entities to operate or use ALPR systems or captured plate data, with specific exceptions. These exceptions include using the data to check against a "hot list" (a database of vehicles related to ongoing criminal or missing persons investigations), for enforcing parking restrictions, controlling access to secured areas, electronic toll collection, and enforcing vehicle and traffic laws. The bill also imposes strict limitations on data transfer, requiring probable cause warrants for sharing with entities outside of New York state government, and mandates that captured plate data be deleted within 48 hours unless specific exceptions apply, such as being retained for evidence or as required by court orders. Furthermore, it exempts captured plate data from Freedom of Information Law requests, with exceptions for audit logs and data pertaining to the requester's own vehicle, and requires government entities to publicly report their ALPR practices annually. Finally, the bill establishes penalties for violations, including civil damages and injunctive relief, and creates an exclusionary rule preventing illegally obtained or used captured plate data from being used as evidence.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law and the public authorities law, in relation to automatic license plate reader systems
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• Introduced: 04/01/2026
• Added: 04/02/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Pamela Hunter (D)*, Emily Gallagher (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/01/2026
• Last Action: referred to consumer affairs and protection
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H5075 • Last Action 04/01/2026
Personal Privacy Protection Act
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Personal Privacy Protection Act," aims to prevent government entities, referred to as "public bodies," from collecting or sharing private information about individuals who support or volunteer for nonprofit organizations. A "nonprofit organization" is defined as an entity exempt from federal income tax or recognized as such under state law. "Personal information" is broadly defined to include any data that identifies someone as a donor, member, supporter, or volunteer of a nonprofit. The bill prohibits public bodies from requiring or compelling the release of this information, or from publicly disclosing it. It also prevents them from asking contractors or grantees for lists of nonprofits they've supported. While generally protecting this information, the bill includes several exceptions, such as disclosures required by law, lawful court orders or warrants, discovery in litigation with a demonstrated compelling need and protective order, voluntary public release by the individual, certain filings with the Secretary of State (though direct donor identification will not be disclosed), information related to donations to nonprofits affiliated with a public body unless anonymity was requested, and specific information handled by national securities associations. Violators of this act can face civil lawsuits seeking damages and legal costs, and intentional violations are considered misdemeanors punishable by fines or jail time.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Enacting The "personal Privacy Protection Act" By Adding Article 9 To Chapter 2, Title 30, So As To Prohibit Public Bodies From Collecting Or Disclosing Certain Personal Information About Donors, Members, And Supporters Of Nonprofit Organizations, To Provide Exemptions, And To Establish Penalties For Violations.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 9 : Travis Moore (R)*, Brandon Newton (R), Blake Sanders (R), Mark Smith (R), Scott Montgomery (R), Phillip Bowers (R), Paul Wickensimer (R), Val Guest (R), Cody Mitchell (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 03/31/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB206 • Last Action 04/01/2026
Authorizes legislators to attend meetings of an entity for which membership is subject to legislative confirmation
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to explicitly grant legislators the authority to attend any meeting, whether public or private, of state boards, commissions, agencies, committees, task forces, and authorities, and extends this authority to any entity where some or all of its members are appointed through a process requiring legislative confirmation, meaning the legislature must approve their appointment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 24:8, relative to the authority of legislators to attend public and private meetings of certain entities; to provide for the authority of legislators to attend any meeting held by a task force or authority; to provide for the authority of legislators to attend any meeting held by an entity with mem
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kyle Green (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs (09:00:00 4/1/2026 Room 2)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB766 • Last Action 04/01/2026
A bill for an act relating to the licensure of artificial intelligence augmented and autonomous service providers, and including penalties.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill establishes a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence augmented and autonomous service providers (AAASPs), which are entities licensed to operate clinical artificial intelligence (AI) services, by creating a new Board of Autonomous Medical Practice (board) composed of various medical professionals, ethicists, and public representatives. The bill defines different types of AI services, including "Advisory AI" (which suggests options to healthcare providers), "Supervised Autonomous AI" (which acts under human supervision), and "Fully Autonomous AI" (which operates independently), and requires licensure for AAASPs providing certain services, particularly those involving fully autonomous AI or advisory/supervised AI in critical situations, while exempting "Informational AI" that only provides general data. The board will be responsible for granting, suspending, and revoking AAASP licenses, establishing rules for practice, conducting audits for algorithmic safety and bias, and issuing state provider identifiers for insurance billing, with specific provisions for licensing classes based on AI autonomy and federal clearance, and requiring AAASPs with higher autonomy levels to obtain informed consent and adhere to a professional duty of loyalty to patients. The bill also mandates disclosures, requires AAASPs to maintain clinical logic snapshots of their algorithms, sets licensing timelines, allows for provisional licenses with potential restrictions, requires professional liability insurance and surety bonds, and establishes safety and performance benchmarks that AAASPs must meet or exceed, while also outlining a standard of care and waiving certain corporate practice of medicine restrictions to facilitate AAASP operations and reimbursement.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to the licensure of artificial H.F. _____ intelligence augmented and autonomous service providers (AAASP), defined in the bill as a corporate or legal entity licensed pursuant to the bill to operate clinical artificial intelligence services that are subject to licensure. The bill establishes the board of autonomous medical practice (board) to regulate the practice of AAASPs. The board consists of one member licensed to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery, one member licensed to practice pharmacy, one member who is a registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse, one member licensed to practice psychology, one member who is a representative of a hospital association or the chief executive officer of a hospital in this state, one member who is a health care ethicist with an advanced degree or significant professional experience in medical ethics or bioethics, four at-large members who have demonstrated expertise in health technology, artificial intelligence, systems engineering, health care administration, patient safety, or health care regulatory affairs, and one member who is not a medical professional and who represents the general public. The bill requires the director of the department of inspections, appeals, and licensing to appoint an executive director for the board, whose salary shall be set by the governor, with the approval of the senate and consistent with the pay plan for exempt positions in the executive branch of government. The executive director may employ such staff as necessary to carry out the duties of the board and take those actions that are reasonably necessary to carry out and enforce the laws and rules administered by the board, except as otherwise provided by law or rules of the board. The bill requires the board to adopt rules to set fees to offset administration of the bill. The bill also requires the board to do all of the following: grant, suspend, revoke, and monitor AAASP licenses; establish and operate or contract for a state centralized institutional review board to H.F. _____ review activities of licensees that may constitute research on humans; authorize and develop frameworks for practice agreements; conduct or contract for algorithmic safety and bias audits; and issue a state provider identifier for insurance billing. The bill allows the board to adopt rules related to licensing and professional standards. The bill prohibits the board from adopting a rule that materially restricts the practice of AAASPs or imposes a material barrier to entry to the AAASP market unless the board approves the rule by at least a two-thirds vote and publishes written findings that the restriction is supported by substantial evidence of a patient-safety risk and is the least restrictive means to address that risk. The bill requires the board to meet at least quarterly and at such additional times as necessary to carry out its duties. A meeting of the board may be called by the executive director, by the chair who shall be elected annually by the board, or upon written request of a majority of board members. Meetings of the board are subject to open meeting and public records requirements. The bill allows the board to receive complaints, conduct investigations, and issue discipline against licensees. The bill allows a licensee to contest discipline as a contested case proceeding. The bill requires a person to obtain an AAASP license to provide services using a fully autonomous AI in any circumstance, or an advisory or supervised autonomous AI in certain circumstances listed in the bill. The bill defines a fully autonomous AI as an artificial intelligence authorized to independently diagnose, treat, triage, or prescribe without the necessity of human supervision or intervention for each distinct case; a supervised autonomous AI as an artificial intelligence authorized to generate and execute a clinical action, diagnosis, or treatment plan under the supervision of a licensed human provider who retains the ability to intervene; and an advisory AI as artificial intelligence that H.F. _____ analyzes patient-specific data to generate options, potential diagnoses, risk stratification, or therapeutic suggestions to a licensed health care provider or user, where such output is intended to inform but not substitute for independent clinical judgment, and where the provider or user is expected to review, contextualize, and determine whether and how to act upon the suggestion for each patient encounter. The bill does not require a license for the provision of services using an informational AI, defined in the bill as an artificial intelligence that provides aggregated data, literature, or administrative information to a user but does not suggest a specific clinical action. The bill creates multiples classes of AAASP license, each of which shall include a modifier based on the level of autonomy employed by the artificial intelligence operated by the licensee. The bill requires an AAASP providing services that are analogous to services provided by licensed health professionals using an artificial intelligence that has not received federal clearance to obtain a class A license. For an AAASP using an artificial intelligence that has received federal clearance the bill requires a class B license. For clinical AI services providing nondiagnostic therapy, coaching, or monitoring, and which do not independently establish a diagnosis, the bill requires an AAASP to receive a class C license. The bill also establishes four levels of autonomy modifiers for AAASP licenses, including a level for AAASPs that are not required to obtain a license but voluntarily choose to do so. The bill allows an AAASP with the highest or second-highest level of autonomy modifier to issue clinical orders, and orders for prescription drugs other than controlled substances. The bill requires the board to review an application for a license for completeness within 30 days of receipt of the application. If the board does not request additional information within that time period, the board is prohibited H.F. _____ from denying an application on the basis that the application is incomplete. The bill requires the board to issue a final decision on a license application within 90 days of receipt of a complete application unless the board ethicist determines that an applicant’s proposed data collection constitutes human subjects research requiring full review by the state centralized institutional review board or an external institutional review board. If the board fails to issue a decision on an application within the time period required by the bill, the bill requires the board to issue a provisional license upon submission by the applicant of a sworn attestation under penalty of perjury that the applicant has satisfied all minimum insurance, bonding, safety, reporting, and compliance requirements for provisional licensure. The bill also includes provisions for licensure by reciprocity. The bill requires an AAASP with the highest or second-highest level of autonomy modifier to make disclosures and receive informed consent from patients prior to providing services. The bill also imposes a professional duty of loyalty on an AAASP with the highest or second-highest level of autonomy modifier that requires the AAASP to prioritize the patient’s overall welfare, which includes the optimization of clinical outcomes, financial efficiency, care coordination, and patient convenience. The bill prohibits the interface through which an artificial intelligence interacts with a patient from presenting paid commercial content, advertisements, sponsored results, or third-party marketing messages within the context of a clinical encounter, diagnosis, or treatment plan. The bill requires an AAASP to maintain an immutable clinical logic snapshot for every version of its algorithm deployed in production, including the underlying weights, decision-logic, and prompt-engineering instructions for a period of two years. The bill allows the board to perform statistical audits of an AAASP’s referral and prescription patterns. The bill requires an AAASP to comply with the requirements of the federal Health H.F. _____ Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Under the bill, an initial license issued to an AAASP shall be provisional and valid for a period of two years, unless the board and licensee agree in writing to extend the period of provisional licensure or the licensee submits an application for expedited conversion of the provisional license to a full license. The bill allows the board to impose restrictions on the scope of operations of a provisional licensee in order to facilitate phased deployment, data collection, and validation of safety and effectiveness. The bill allows the board to maintain, modify, or remove restrictions upon the conversion of a provisional license to a full license to reflect the scope within which the AAASP has demonstrated sustained safety, effectiveness, and compliance. The bill includes specific restrictions that the board may impose on a licensee, and allows the board to impose other restrictions as determined by the board by rule. Notwithstanding any restrictions imposed by the board on a licensee, the bill allows a licensee to provide services to a patient in this state who provides informed consent and meets certain criteria listed in the bill, as demonstrated by a referral or attestation from a physician and surgeon or osteopathic physician and surgeon. The bill requires an applicant for licensure to submit proof of professional liability insurance coverage that is equivalent to that required for a human specialist in the same field. The insurance coverage must include tail coverage for a period of time equal to the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims plus one year. The applicant must also submit fingerprints from certain individuals for the performance of a criminal background check, the name and contact information of the person who is designated responsible official of the AAASP, and a surety bond payable to the state to cover claims or operational failures not covered by insurance, in an amount determined by the board by rule, but not less than $50,000. In addition, an applicant for a H.F. _____ license under the highest or second-highest level of autonomy modifier shall submit the name and contact information of the designated medical director, who shall be responsible for oversight of clinical scope, safety protocols, escalation procedures, and quality assurance related to patient care. The medical director may be the same person as the designated responsible official. The bill also requires an applicant to submit a determination as to whether the applicant’s proposed activities constitute human subjects research under federal law. If the board ethicist determines that the applicant’s proposed activities constitute human subjects research, or if the applicant opts to treat the activities as human subjects research, the applicant must obtain approval from the state centralized institutional review board or an independent institutional review board approved by the board by rule prior to obtaining a license. As a condition of licensure, the bill requires an AAASP to submit and maintain a continuity plan, subject to approval by the board. The bill requires the continuity plan to detail procedures for the AAASP’s insolvency, license revocation, or market exit, including a plan for the transferal of patient data to a third party. The bill also requires an AAASP to maintain an escrow account or bond sufficient to cover the technical costs of data migration, which the board may seize to execute the AAASP’s continuity plan if the AAASP fails to voluntarily execute the continuity plan. The bill requires the board to adopt by rule objective safety and performance benchmarks that an AAASP must meet or exceed to qualify for an initial license under the highest autonomy modifier or to convert any provisional license to a full license. The benchmarks shall be designed to ensure that the AAASP demonstrates clinical competency, accuracy, and safety outcomes that meet or exceed the performance of a reasonably prudent human health care provider practicing in the same or similar specialty. To the maximum extent practicable, the H.F. _____ bill requires the board to align the benchmarks with federal benchmarks established for class B AAASP licensees and with benchmarks in other states with a similar regulatory framework for AAASP licensure. As a condition of license renewal, the bill requires an AAASP to submit an annual performance report demonstrating that the clinical AI service used by the AAASP continues to meet the safety benchmarks established at the time of the AAASP’s previous licensure, including adverse and reportable events as defined in the bill. The bill specifies that a clinical AI service or act is within the authorized scope of practice of a licensed AAASP if the service or act is consistent with and not expressly prohibited by this chapter or the limitations of the specific license class and modifier held by the AAASP; the service or act is consistent with the clinical AI service’s validated technical specifications, training data, intended use case, and performance parameters as submitted to the board; and performance of the service or act is within the accepted standard of care for the specific clinical task that would be provided in the same or similar clinical setting by a reasonable and prudent human health care provider with the same or similar specialty specialization. The bill waives prohibitions on the corporate practice of medicine or any other licensed clinical practice solely to the extent necessary to permit an AAASP to hold an AAASP license and to be reimbursed for clinical AI services authorized under the bill. The bill creates a provider-patient relationship when a licensed AAASP delivers a clinical AI service to a specific patient and the patient reasonably relies on that service for health care decision making, and such relationship gives rise to a professional duty, standard of care, confidentiality, and civil liability as otherwise provided by law. The designation of a person as a medical director does not constitute the practice of medicine with respect to individual patient encounters conducted by an AAASP. The bill limits H.F. _____ the liability for noneconomic damages for a provisional licensee who is in substantial compliance with the disclosure requirements of the bill to amounts specified in Code section 147.136A (noneconomic damage awards against health care providers), unless the act or omission constitutes gross negligence, reckless disregard, or willful misconduct. The bill grants the board exclusive authority to regulate, license, investigate, and discipline AAASPs, and to regulate the delivery of clinical AI services authorized under the bill. The bill does not limit the authority of a state licensing board to regulate the independent professional conduct of natural persons within that board’s jurisdiction. The bill prohibits a person from representing that the person has an AAASP license or modifier that the person does not have. The board may issue cease and desist orders and may request the attorney general to bring an action for injunctive relief to enforce the bill and may impose a civil penalty not to exceed $1,000 per violation per day. The bill requires the department of health and human services, acting in its capacity as the state administrator of Medicaid, and the insurance division to collaborate with the board to develop reimbursement codes, pilot programs, or coverage determinations for licensed AAASPs. The bill requires that reimbursement for claims submitted under a state provider identifier by a provider without a corresponding federal national provider identifier, or recognition from the federal centers for Medicare and Medicaid services, be funded exclusively through appropriations from the general fund of the state or other sources of nonfederal funds. Claims may be paid from federal funds if the federal centers for Medicare and Medicaid services issues written guidance confirming eligibility or otherwise makes clear through guidance or establishment of billing protocols that federal matching funds are available for the services. The bill also requires reimbursement for AAASP services to be based on value-based H.F. _____ care or capitation models unless the payer and board jointly determine in writing that value-based care or capitation models are impractical. The bill does not prohibit, restrict, or require licensure for the development, ownership, or private operation of artificial intelligence models, provided such models are not marketed or deployed as clinical AI services for patient care. The bill does not authorize conduct that is expressly prohibited by federal law or that would place a licensee in conflict with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the state uniform controlled substances Act, or the federal Controlled Substances Act, nor does it authorize the distribution of a commercial medical device in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The bill requires the commissioner of insurance, in consultation with the board and the department of health and human services, to adopt rules and issue subregulatory guidance as necessary to integrate AAASPs into conducting the business of insurance in this state. The rules and guidance shall establish that an AAASP under the highest or second-highest autonomy modifier constitutes a recognized provider type under state-regulated health policies, health plans, and health carriers; designate appropriate billing mechanisms which may include the use of existing current procedural terminology codes with specific modifiers identifying the service as delivered by an artificial intelligence, or the adoption of new distinct billing codes as they become available; prohibit health insurance carriers from denying coverage for a medically necessary service solely because the service was provided by an AAASP, and outline standards for including artificial intelligence augmented and autonomous service providers in provider networks, including credentialing requirements that are appropriate for automated systems.
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• Introduced: 03/18/2026
• Added: 03/19/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Appropriations
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: House Appropriations Committee (13:00:00 4/1/2026 RM 103)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB627 • Last Action 04/01/2026
Provides relative to live-stream video and recording of the public meetings of entities created by law (OR INCREASE LF EX See Note)
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that all public entities created by law must video record and broadcast live all proceedings of their public meetings, meaning they must make audio and video of the meeting available to the public in real or near real time, typically over the internet or on television. This requirement is an expansion of existing law, which previously only applied to nonelected boards or commissions with the authority to levy taxes. The bill clarifies that a failure to broadcast live due to a technological issue beyond the entity's control will not be considered a violation, and this requirement does not extend to executive sessions, which are private meetings held for specific legal reasons.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 42:23(B)(1) and (2)(b), (c), and (d), relative to public meetings; to provide for the video recording and live broadcast of public meetings; to require each public entity created by law to video record and broadcast live all proceedings in a public meeting; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Alonzo Knox (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2026
• Last Action: House Committee on House and Governmental Affairs (09:00:00 4/1/2026 Room 2)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5366 • Last Action 04/01/2026
Relating to rules governing the practice of law
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing West Virginia law to clarify that any records, files, or documents collected or provided under rules established by the Supreme Court of Appeals for the West Virginia Judicial and Lawyer Assistance Program are not considered public records. This means these specific documents will be exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, which is a law that generally grants the public access to government information, to the extent that the Supreme Court's rules designate them as confidential. The West Virginia Judicial and Lawyer Assistance Program is a service designed to help judges and lawyers with various issues, and this provision aims to protect the privacy of individuals seeking assistance from this program.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend and reenact §51-1-4a of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to establishing that all records, files, or other documents gathered or provided pursuant to rules promulgated by the Supreme Court of Appeals relating to the procedures, referrals, and services of the West Virginia Judicial and Lawyer Assistance Program are not public records and are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 02/09/2026
• Added: 03/04/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Joe Funkhouser (R)*, James Akers (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 51
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 4/1/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #SB00250 • Last Action 04/01/2026
An Act Concerning A Study Of State Agency Response Times To Freedom Of Information Act Requests.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, a state government office responsible for planning and budgeting, to conduct a study on how quickly state agencies respond to requests for public records made under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The FOIA is a law that gives the public the right to access government records. The study will examine average response times, identify instances where slow responses led to complaints filed with the Freedom of Information Commission (a state body that handles FOIA disputes), and propose any legislative recommendations based on the findings. The Secretary must submit a report detailing these findings to the General Assembly's government oversight committee by January 15, 2027.
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Bill Summary: To require the Office of Policy and Management to conduct a study of state agency response times to Freedom of Information Act requests.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2026
• Added: 02/19/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Government Oversight Committee, Rob Sampson (R), Hilda Santiago (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/01/2026
• Last Action: File Number 289
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3627 • Last Action 04/01/2026
Public meetings; videoconference exceptions; State Committee of Blind Vendors; audible or visible; meeting notice; emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing law regarding public meetings, specifically allowing for exceptions to in-person attendance requirements when using videoconferencing. The key change is that the State Committee of Blind Vendors, an advisory group for blind entrepreneurs operating vending facilities, will now be permitted to hold meetings and even executive sessions (private meetings to discuss sensitive matters) entirely through videoconference, as long as all members are audible or visible to each other. This is similar to an existing provision for the Statewide Independent Living Council. The bill also clarifies that meeting notices and agendas must indicate if videoconferencing will be used and identify members participating remotely. The inclusion of an emergency clause means the law will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to public meetings; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 307.1, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 369, O.S.L. 2025 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 307.1), which relates to videoconference exceptions; providing exception for the State Committee of Blind Vendors; requiring members to be audible or visible; providing information meeting notice and agenda shall contain; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Josh Cantrell (R)*, Jerry Alvord (R)*, Mark Lawson (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 03/17/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7985 • Last Action 03/31/2026
Requires those with a public records request to provide identifying information.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Rhode Island's Access to Public Records law to require that all requests for public records include sufficient identifying information to verify the requester's identity and allow the public body to communicate about the request, meaning anonymous requests will no longer be accepted. The bill also clarifies that public bodies must establish written procedures for accessing public records, which should include designating a public records officer, providing instructions on how to make a request, and specifying where requests should be submitted, with these procedures to be posted online if a website is maintained.
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Bill Summary: This act would require all requests for public records to sufficiently identify information to permit verification of the requester’s identity and would allow the public body to communicate regarding the request. This act would not allow for anonymous public records requests. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 02/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Earl Read (D)*, Jackie Baginski (D), Michael Chippendale (R), Paul Santucci (R), Tom Noret (D), Pat Serpa (D), Bill O'Brien (D), Richard Fascia (R), Doc Corvese (D), David Bennett (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/27/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1437 • Last Action 03/31/2026
Public records; format; fees
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law regarding public records to clarify definitions and procedures for accessing them. It updates the definition of "officer" to include "chairperson" instead of "chairman" and refines the definition of "public body" to more broadly include entities that are supported by or spend public monies. The bill also clarifies that public bodies and officers are responsible for preserving, maintaining, and caring for their public records, and that these records must be protected from loss or destruction unless properly disposed of. Importantly, it establishes that copies of public records should be provided in the least expensive manner possible, with a preference for electronic copies, and that fees for these copies should be based solely on material costs, with exceptions for video recordings from law enforcement agencies and records requested for commercial purposes. The bill also clarifies that a request for a public record is considered denied if the custodian fails to respond promptly or provide an index of withheld records.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending section 39-121.01, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 01/26/2026
• Added: 01/27/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Jake Hoffman (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 02/24/2026
• Last Action: House minority caucus: Do pass
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2963 • Last Action 03/31/2026
Removes the provision not allowing to publicly post or display the personal information of any protected individual or immediate family member without first obtaining permission.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Rhode Island judicial security act to remove a specific prohibition that prevented the public posting or display of personal information belonging to protected individuals or their immediate family members without their prior written permission. Protected individuals are defined as current or retired judges or magistrates of the Rhode Island unified judicial system, or federal judges and magistrates residing in Rhode Island. Personal information includes details like Social Security numbers, home addresses, and phone numbers. The bill essentially removes the requirement for explicit permission before such information can be publicly shared, while other provisions regarding the removal of personal information upon request and restrictions on data aggregators remain.
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Bill Summary: This act would amend the Rhode Island judicial security act to remove the provision not allowing to publicly post or display the personal information of any protected individual or immediate family member without first obtaining permission. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 03/04/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Matt LaMountain (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/04/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB632 • Last Action 03/31/2026
State Government - State Elected Officials - Protection of Personal Information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Office of State Elected Officials Information Privacy within the Department of Legislative Services to protect the personal information of certain state elected officials and their families, referred to as "protected individuals." This office can be contacted by protected individuals or on their behalf to request that government entities or private individuals stop publishing or remove personal information, such as home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and Social Security numbers, from the internet, social media, or social networks. The bill outlines procedures for making these requests, including written notice and confirmation of identity, and specifies that government entities must promptly acknowledge and act on these requests, removing information within 72 hours if already published. Protected individuals or the Office can take legal action against entities that violate these provisions, and members of the General Assembly can use their allotted funds to help identify and remove published personal information. The bill also makes it a misdemeanor to knowingly publish protected individuals' personal information if it poses an imminent threat and leads to specific harmful actions like assault or harassment.
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Bill Summary: Establishing the Office of State Elected Officials Information Privacy in the Department of Legislative Services; authorizing a certain protected individual or the Office to request that a governmental entity or person not publish personal information of the protected individual on the Internet, social media, or social networks or that the governmental entity or person remove the information from any existing publication; specifying certain procedures for the protection of personal information of a protected individual; etc.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Chris West (R)*, Katie Hester (D), Ben Brooks (D), Mary Beth Carozza (R), Brian Feldman (D), Kevin Harris (D), Bryan Simonaire (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 03/21/2026
• Last Action: House Government, Labor, and Elections Hearing (13:00:00 3/31/2026 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7580 • Last Action 03/31/2026
Allows that public records stored in a computer system, upon request, be provided at no charge.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Rhode Island's Access to Public Records law to stipulate that public records stored in a computer system must be provided at no charge when requested, overriding any existing provisions that might charge for them, and this change will take effect immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would allow that public records stored in a computer system, upon request, be provided at no charge. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Stephen Casey (D)*, Joseph Solomon (D), Bob Phillips (D), Jon Brien (I), Raymond Hull (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7305 • Last Action 03/31/2026
Makes changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to the Access to Public Records Act, aiming to increase transparency and accountability. Key provisions include making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public, even if previously considered confidential under federal law or other state statutes, though restrictions on their use may still apply. It also clarifies that police reports of incidents that do not result in an arrest, and final reports from internal affairs investigations, are now public records, as is all police body-worn camera footage, which must be made available within 30 days of a request. The bill increases the civil fines for public officials who knowingly violate the Act from $2,000 to $4,000, and for reckless violations from $1,000 to $2,000, and allows for daily fines for improperly withheld records. Additionally, it introduces a process for public bodies to seek court orders to relieve them from fulfilling requests deemed to be made with the intent to disrupt government operations, while also providing relief for requesters if such complaints are dismissed. The timeframe for making arrest logs public has been extended from five days to thirty days after an arrest.
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Bill Summary: This act would make numerous changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public. Additionally, this act would include a police report of an incident that does not lead to an arrest as accessible to public records request. Any final reports of investigations conducted by internal affairs would be accessible to public records request. All police worn body camera footage would be accessible to public records request and would be made available within thirty (30) days. Arrest logs made within thirty (30) days of arrest, changed from five (5) days previously, would be accessible to public records request. A civil fine for public officials who knowingly violate this chapter would increase from two thousand dollars ($2,000) to four thousand dollars ($4,000), and if a public official recklessly violates this chapter a fine of two thousand dollars ($2,000) is a change from one thousand dollars ($1,000) previously. There would also be relief in the case of a person filing frivolous request with the intent to disrupt government operations. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Jason Knight (D)*, Pat Serpa (D), Brandon Potter (D), Terri Cortvriend (D), Matthew Dawson (D), Grace Diaz (D), Jennifer Boylan (D), Megan Cotter (D), Tina Spears (D), June Speakman (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/23/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00512 • Last Action 03/31/2026
Requires district leadership teams to operate under open meetings law requirements.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires district leadership teams to operate under the open meetings law, specifically Article 7 of the New York Public Officers Law. This means that district leadership teams must now conduct their meetings in a transparent manner, with requirements such as providing public notice of meetings, keeping minutes, and allowing public access to their discussions. The open meetings law is designed to ensure government bodies conduct business openly and allow public oversight. The bill adds a new chapter to Title 21-A of the New York City administrative code to mandate this requirement, and will go into effect 90 days after becoming law. The purpose appears to be increasing transparency and accountability in the operations of district leadership teams by subjecting them to the same open meeting standards that apply to other government bodies.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to establishing certain requirements for district leadership teams
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 9 : Khaleel Anderson (D)*, Monique Chandler-Waterman (D), Brian Cunningham (D), Maritza Davila (D), Manny De Los Santos (D), Phara Souffrant Forrest (D), Al Taylor (D), Latrice Walker (D), Stefani Zinerman (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: enacting clause stricken
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A10759 • Last Action 03/30/2026
Relates to the maximum allowable timeframes to respond to requests for records under the freedom of information act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to shorten the maximum allowable timeframes for government agencies to respond to requests for records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which is a law that grants the public the right to access information from federal, state, and local government agencies. Currently, agencies must respond within five business days, but this bill introduces new, gradually decreasing deadlines for providing records once a request has been approved in whole or in part. Specifically, for requests made before December 31, 2027, agencies will have 180 days; for requests made in 2028, they will have 90 days; and for requests made on or after January 1, 2029, they will have 60 days. The bill also outlines specific conditions under which an agency can extend these deadlines, such as if federal law prevents timely review, if employees cannot safely access records, or if the records are too voluminous to review within the allotted time. If an extension is granted, the agency must notify the requester in writing with detailed reasons, provide monthly progress updates, and inform the committee on open government, with all notifications signed by the agency's commissioner. This act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, with the new deadlines for responding to requests not applying to records already involved in litigation with third parties on that date.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to timeframes for responding to requests for records under the freedom of information act
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• Introduced: 03/30/2026
• Added: 03/31/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 11 : Steven Raga (D)*, George Alvarez (D), Noah Burroughs (D), Jessica González-Rojas (D), Ron Kim (D), Maryjane Shimsky (D), Tony Simone (D), Angelo Santabarbara (D), Phil Steck (D), Anna Kelles (D), Karines Reyes (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/30/2026
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB802 • Last Action 03/30/2026
In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law to expand exceptions for public records in two key ways. First, it modifies the existing provision about notes and working papers prepared by public officials, adding a new category that allows materials created to assist individuals with disabilities (such as braille translations or large print materials) to be exempt from public disclosure. Second, the bill creates a new exception that protects the identity of claimants or victims in settlements involving sexual harassment or sexual assault claims. Additionally, the bill clarifies that while financial records are generally open to public access, agencies can still redact certain protected information, including the new sexual harassment/assault settlement exception. The changes aim to provide additional privacy protections for vulnerable individuals, particularly those with disabilities and those who have experienced sexual harassment or assault, while maintaining the general principle of transparency in government records. The amendments will take effect 60 days after the bill's enactment.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
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• Introduced: 03/03/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 12 : Liz Hanbidge (D)*, Carol Hill-Evans (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Nancy Guenst (D), Ben Sanchez (D), José Giral (D), Tarik Khan (D), Mike Schlossberg (D), Mary Jo Daley (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Roni Green (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 03/05/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5528 • Last Action 03/30/2026
Relating to protection of personal residential information of certain public officials.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes protections for the personal residential information of certain public officials in West Virginia, defining "covered individual" to include those in judicial, law-enforcement, or elected positions, along with their immediate family members residing with them. It requires any "controlling agency," which is a government entity holding public records, to remove or redact a covered individual's home address, personal phone numbers, or name when associated with their home address from publicly accessible websites or databases upon written request. If an agency fails to comply, the covered individual can pursue a civil lawsuit to force the removal and potentially recover legal costs. However, this protection does not apply to certain disclosures, such as for internal government use, legal requirements, consumer reporting agencies, law enforcement, valid subpoenas, property title records, or specific election-related purposes. Before information is redacted, the covered individual must sign a written affirmation acknowledging that this redaction might lead to the forfeiture of certain legal, promotional, or official notices they would otherwise receive.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, by adding a new section, designated §5A-8-24a, relating to providing protection of personal residential information of certain public officials; setting forth definitions; requiring a removal or redaction of personal residential information upon a written request; establishing a civil remedy; setting forth permitted disclosures; and requiring a written affirmation that the covered individual understands the redaction of information may cause the forfeiture of certain legal, promotional, or official notices.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : David Cannon (R)*, Adam Vance (R), Keith Marple (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 55
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 3/27/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0178 • Last Action 03/30/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to public meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires local governing bodies in Tennessee, which are defined as the governing bodies of cities, towns, counties, school districts, and other local political subdivisions (but not state agencies), to set aside a specific time during their public meetings for public comment. This comment period must allow citizens to speak on matters that are relevant to the items already listed on the meeting's agenda, as well as on any other topic that falls within the jurisdiction of that local governing body, even if it's not on the agenda. This amendment aims to increase public participation and transparency in local government meetings.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, requires a local governing body subject to the open meetings laws to reserve a period of public comment to provide the public with the opportunity to comment on any matter germane to the jurisdiction of the governing body, regardless of whether the matter is listed on the agenda for the meeting. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 44.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Adam Lowe (R)*, Paul Bailey (R), Jessie Seal (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 03/27/2026
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 620
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB1253 • Last Action 03/30/2026
In interscholastic athletics accountability, providing for playoffs and championships.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to allow the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA), referred to as "the association," to establish separate playoffs and championships for athletics based on whether a school is a "boundary school" (a public school, excluding charter schools) or a "nonboundary school" (a charter school, parochial school, or private school). Before making any such changes, the PIAA's Executive Board ("the board") and the Pennsylvania Athletic Oversight Committee ("the oversight committee") must hold at least one joint public meeting in each of the association's districts to gather sworn testimony and comments from the public regarding the separation of playoffs. These meetings must comply with open meeting laws, including public notice and record-keeping requirements. Following these district meetings, the board will hold another open meeting to deliberate and discuss the potential fiscal impacts and rationale for separating playoffs for all, certain, or no sports, and will allow for public comment before making a final decision. The board will then recess to executive session to consider options for altering playoffs for all sports, certain sports, or making no changes, before resuming the public meeting to implement its chosen option. Finally, the association must provide its written decision and reasoning to the oversight committee within five days of this final meeting, and the act will take effect 30 days after enactment.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), entitled "An act relating to the public school system, including certain provisions applicable as well to private and parochial schools; amending, revising, consolidating and changing the laws relating thereto," in interscholastic athletics accountability, providing for playoffs and championships.
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• Introduced: 03/30/2026
• Added: 03/31/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Marty Flynn (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/30/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Education
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1445 • Last Action 03/30/2026
Pub. Rec./Parkinson's Disease Registry
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section in Florida Statutes to establish a public records exemption for patient information held in the Parkinson's disease registry, meaning this specific information will not be accessible to the public under current public records laws (like s. 119.07(1) and s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution). This exemption is necessary to protect individuals' privacy, prevent harassment or solicitation, and ensure the registry functions effectively. However, this confidential information can still be shared with the Parkinson's Disease Research Board and with private entities contracted to manage the registry, provided these entities agree to strict conditions, including submitting research plans, maintaining confidentiality, destroying data after research, and refraining from contacting patients directly. This exemption is temporary and will be automatically repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature actively chooses to extend it.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; creating s. 1004.43521, F.S.; providing a public records exemption for specified patient information for the Parkinson's disease registry; authorizing certain information to be disclosed under certain circumstances; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee, Demi Busatta Cabrera (R)*, Jim Mooney (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 47
• Last Amended: 03/06/2026
• Last Action: Chapter No. 2026-10
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2061 • Last Action 03/30/2026
Food policy; creating the Oklahoma Food Policy Council Act. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Oklahoma Food Policy Council Act, creating a new council within the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry to advise and coordinate efforts related to food policy in the state. The council will consist of eleven members appointed by the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, representing various stakeholders including agricultural producers, food security initiatives, health departments, universities, and food banks. The council's responsibilities include fostering connections between farmers and local organizations to promote "local food" (food produced within Oklahoma) and "sustainable food" (food produced in a way that is economically viable, environmentally protective, and accessible), strengthening farm-to-school programs, improving producer-to-consumer access through farmers markets and "agritourism" (tourism related to agricultural activities), and assessing the impact of local food systems on economic development and public health. The council will operate under the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and Oklahoma Open Records Act, meaning its meetings and records will be publicly accessible, and will submit an annual report with findings and recommendations to the Governor and legislative leaders. Members will not receive compensation but can be reimbursed for travel expenses.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to food policy; creating the Oklahoma Food Policy Council Act; providing short title; defining terms; establishing membership of the Oklahoma Food Policy Council; providing for membership terms; providing for filling of vacancies; requiring compliance with the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and the Oklahoma Open Records Act; allowing for reimbursement of certain expenses; providing for an advisory and coordinating role to connect farmers, community gardens, and local organizations; promoting sustainable locally grown food and farm-to-school initiatives; supporting producer-to-consumer access, farmers markets, and agritourism; providing for collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry; requiring annual reporting to the Governor and the Legislature; providing for noncodification; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Nikki Nice (D)*, Jim Grego (R)*, Aletia Timmons (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 03/26/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Agriculture
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5052 • Last Action 03/30/2026
Relative to town meeting accessibility
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 12 of Chapter 686 of the Acts of 1970 to ensure town meeting accessibility in Burlington by allowing up to fifteen (15) Town Meeting Members to attend and participate remotely via a video conferencing platform, which requires an internet connection and a supported device, enabling them to be recognized by the Moderator or Chair and have their votes recorded electronically.
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Bill Summary: Relative to town meeting form of government in the town of Burlington. Municipalities and Regional Government. [Local Approval Received.]
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Ken Gordon (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB6002 • Last Action 03/30/2026
Concerning driver privacy protections.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new regulations for the use of automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems, which are technologies that convert images of license plates into computer-readable data. The legislation aims to balance public safety needs with individual privacy rights, acknowledging the increasing use of surveillance technology. Key provisions include defining what constitutes an ALPR system and its associated data, and strictly limiting how agencies can access and use this information. Law enforcement agencies can use ALPR data for specific investigations, such as identifying stolen vehicles, locating missing persons, or finding individuals with outstanding felony warrants, but not for general surveillance. Parking enforcement agencies can use it to enforce parking restrictions or identify vehicles for impoundment under specific local ordinances. Transportation agencies can use it for traffic management and commercial vehicle enforcement. The bill prohibits the use of ALPR systems for immigration enforcement or to track constitutionally protected activities. It also sets strict limits on data retention, generally requiring data to be deleted within 21 days unless it's part of an ongoing investigation or legal process, with specific exceptions for parking enforcement, traffic studies, and commercial vehicle enforcement. The bill also prohibits the sale or rental of ALPR data and requires vendors to implement technical controls to prevent unauthorized sharing. Violations can lead to criminal penalties, including gross misdemeanor charges, and individuals harmed by violations can pursue civil action for damages. Agencies using ALPR systems must register them with the Attorney General and adopt policies governing their use, submitting annual reports on their practices.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to driver privacy protections and automated 2 license plate reader systems; adding a new chapter to Title 10 RCW; 3 prescribing penalties; and declaring an emergency. 4
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 17 : Yasmin Trudeau (D)*, Jeff Holy (R), Emily Alvarado (D), Jessica Bateman (D), Mike Chapman (D), Steve Conway (D), Manka Dhingra (D), Noel Frame (D), Bob Hasegawa (D), Claudia Kauffman (D), Liz Lovelett (D), T'wina Nobles (D), Jamie Pedersen (D), Sharon Shewmake (D), Vandana Slatter (D), Derek Stanford (D), Javier Valdez (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 116
• Last Amended: 04/02/2026
• Last Action: Effective date 3/30/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #SB482 • Last Action 03/27/2026
Law Enforcement Officers and Agencies; persons requesting booking photographs to provide the first and last names of the individuals in the photographs; require
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Georgia law regarding public access to certain law enforcement records, specifically booking photographs and law enforcement videos, and also addresses the disclosure of recordings depicting a person's death. For booking photographs and law enforcement videos, individuals requesting these records must now provide the first and last name of the person depicted or, for videos, the approximate date, time, and location of the encounter, and submit a notarized statement affirming compliance with the law. Requests for these records, except by the individual depicted or their representative, must be made in person and as separate requests for each item. However, bona fide credentialed members of the Georgia Press Association or Georgia Association of Broadcasters are exempt from these new requirements. The bill also introduces an exemption for audio or video recordings that depict a person's death or immediate distress preceding it, preventing their public disclosure unless requested by the deceased's next of kin or someone with their written release. In closed criminal investigations, a court may order disclosure of such death-related recordings if it's deemed in the public interest and outweighs privacy concerns, but only after providing at least two weeks' notice to the next of kin. This exemption does not apply to legal proceedings for convicted defendants or to requests from credentialed members of the Georgia Press Association or Georgia Association of Broadcasters.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Titles 35 and 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to law enforcement officers and agencies and state government, respectively, so as to require persons requesting booking photographs or law enforcement videos to provide certain information to obtain such photographs and videos; to require requests for booking photographs or law enforcement videos to be made in person as separate requests; to provide a definition; to provide for the public disclosure of certain records of the General Assembly; to provide for an exemption from disclosing audio and video recordings when such recordings depict a person's death; to provide for exceptions; to authorize redactions; to provide for application; to provide for construction; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/09/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Brian Strickland (R)*, Randy Robertson (R)*, Timothy Bearden (R)*, Blake Tillery (R)*, Tonya Anderson (D)*, Kenya Wicks (D)*, Joseph Gullett (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 03/26/2026
• Last Action: House Committee Favorably Reported By Substitute
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB0048 • Last Action 03/27/2026
OMA-TOURISM/CONVENTION BDS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to expand existing provisions related to meeting participation for local workforce investment areas to also include tourism boards, convention center boards, and civic center boards. Specifically, the bill allows these boards to establish a quorum through interactive video conferencing across multiple public building locations, and permits their members to attend meetings remotely under certain conditions. The bill updates terminology, replacing references to "local workforce innovation areas" with "local workforce investment areas" and provides these boards with similar flexibility in meeting attendance as other public bodies with jurisdiction over large geographic areas. Key provisions include allowing board members to participate remotely due to personal illness, employment obligations, family emergencies, or unexpected childcare needs, while requiring advance notification to the recording secretary and adherence to specific procedural rules adopted by the board. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for these types of public bodies in conducting their meetings while maintaining transparency and public access.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. In a provision permitting an interactive video conference in establishing a quorum for a local workforce investment area in an open meeting of that public body, with certain conditions, adds that a tourism board, convention center board, or civic center board also is permitted to use an interactive video conference in establishing a quorum, with the same conditions. In a provision exempting a local workforce innovation area, with certain conditions, from requirements to be physically present at the location of a closed meeting, adds the same exemption for a tourism board, convention center board, or civic center board, with the same conditions. In a provision exempting a local workforce innovation area, with certain conditions, from limitations regarding attendance by members of a public body by a means other than physical presence, adds the same exemption for a tourism board, convention center board, or civic center board, with the same conditions. Replaces references to "local workforce innovation areas" with references to "local workforce investment areas" in provisions regarding exemptions from requirements to be physically present at the location of a closed meeting and exemptions from limitations regarding attendance by other than physical presence.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : David Friess (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0616 • Last Action 03/27/2026
Body-Worn Camera Transparency for Use of Force Emergency Amendment Act of 2026
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Body-Worn Camera Transparency for Use of Force Emergency Amendment Act of 2026, mandates the public release of body-worn camera recordings in cases of officer-involved deaths or serious use of force, even when the officer involved is not from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), as long as an MPD officer was present. It clarifies that "law enforcement officer" includes any authorized officer, agent, or employee of federal, state, or local governments involved in law enforcement, and defines "MPD" as the Metropolitan Police Department. The bill also retroactively applies these transparency requirements to incidents occurring since August 1, 2025, requiring release within 10 business days of the bill's effective date, and includes a description of the incident along with the recordings. Furthermore, it amends existing regulations to prevent MPD officers from reviewing body-worn camera footage to assist in writing initial reports for incidents involving MPD officers, but allows them to do so for incidents involving other law enforcement officers prior to the bill's emergency effective date. This emergency legislation is intended to be in effect for no longer than 90 days.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on an emergency basis, section 3004 of the Body-Worn Camera Regulation and Reporting Requirements Act of 2015 and Chapter 39 of Title 24 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations to require the release of body-worn camera recordings of Metropolitan Police Department Officers present in the event of an officer-involved death or serious use of force by a law enforcement officer other than a Metropolitan Police Department officer.
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• Introduced: 03/02/2026
• Added: 03/03/2026
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 2 : Brooke Pinto (D)*, Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 03/03/2026
• Last Action: Act A26-0282 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 005081, Expires on Jun 21, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2421 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-CRIM JUSTICE AGENCY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand an existing exemption for law enforcement records contained in shared electronic record management systems. Specifically, the bill modifies the existing language to allow a criminal justice agency (in addition to a law enforcement agency) to be exempt from disclosing a record that it did not create, did not participate in or have a role in the events described in the record, and only has access to the record through a shared electronic record management system. This means that if a law enforcement or criminal justice agency receives a public records request for a document that is part of a shared electronic system but was created by another agency and is unrelated to the receiving agency's own work, that agency can choose not to disclose the record. The amendment provides additional protection for agencies that might have peripheral access to records through interconnected electronic systems, preventing them from being obligated to release documents they did not originally generate or have direct involvement in creating.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from inspection and copying a law enforcement record created for law enforcement purposes and contained in a shared electronic record management system if the law enforcement agency or criminal justice agency (rather than only the law enforcement agency) that is the recipient of the request did not create the record, did not participate in or have a role in any of the events which are the subject of the record, and only has access to the record through the shared electronic record management system.
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• Introduced: 01/31/2025
• Added: 02/01/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Natalie Manley (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 01/31/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2884 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-CLOSED MTG MINUTES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify the process for filing lawsuits related to denied public records requests, specifically for minutes or verbatim records of closed meetings. Under the new provision, if a requester is denied access to minutes from a closed meeting that have not been previously made public, they must wait 60 days before filing a lawsuit. This 60-day waiting period begins either when the public body receives the request or after the Public Access Counselor issues a binding or non-binding opinion, whichever occurs later. The waiting period is intended to provide an opportunity for the requested records to be reviewed according to the Open Meetings Act. This change aims to create a more structured and deliberative process for resolving disputes over access to government meeting records, giving public bodies additional time to review and potentially release documents before litigation begins.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, if the denial of a request includes a request for minutes or a verbatim record of a meeting of the public body closed to the public as provided in the Open Meetings Act that have not been previously made available for public inspection, suit may be filed under a specified provision only after a 60-day period following (i) the receipt of the request by the public body or (ii) the issuance of a binding or non-binding opinion from the Public Access Counselor, whichever is later, to allow for review of the requested records as provided under the Open Meetings Act.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Margaret DeLaRosa (D)*, Martha Deuter (D), Harry Benton (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4409 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-POLICE REDACTIONS 10 DAYS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which is a law that grants the public the right to access government records. Specifically, it changes the timeframe for law enforcement and correctional agencies to respond to public records requests. Previously, these agencies, like all other public bodies, had 5 business days to either provide the records or deny the request. Now, law enforcement and correctional agencies will have 15 business days to respond, an extension of 10 business days. This extension is allowed for situations where the requested records are partially exempt from disclosure and require redactions, such as blurring body camera footage, before the remaining information can be released. The bill also allows for an additional extension of up to 15 business days for these specific redaction needs, meaning a total of up to 30 business days could be taken to fulfill such requests.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a law enforcement or correctional agency shall, promptly, either comply with or deny a request for public records within 15 business days (rather than within 5 business days) after its receipt of the request, unless the time for response is properly extended under certain provisions. Allows for an extension for not more than 15 business days from the original due date for the reason that the requested records are records that are partially exempt from disclosure but that require blurring of body camera footage by a law enforcement or correctional agency or other redactions by a law enforcement or correctional agency before making the remaining requested information available for inspection and copying.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jackie Haas (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4444 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT-FEE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act, which is a law that allows the public to access government records. The key changes are to the fees that government bodies can charge for fulfilling record requests. Specifically, the bill allows public bodies to charge the actual cost for personnel time spent searching for, retrieving, and reviewing records for necessary redactions, instead of the previous limit of $10 per hour. However, the first two hours of this search and retrieval time will be free, a reduction from the previous eight free hours. Additionally, the bill removes a provision that limited these cost recovery rules to only commercial requests, meaning these new fee structures will apply to all requesters.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a public body may charge the actual cost (rather than up to $10) for each hour spent by personnel in searching for and retrieving a requesting record or in examining the record for necessary redactions. Specifies that no fees shall be charged for the first 2 hours (rather than the first 8 hours) spent by personnel searching for or retrieving a requested record. Deletes a provision that limits the applicability of these cost recovery provisions to commercial requests.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1855 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-JUDICIAL BRANCH
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand the definition of "public body" to include the judicial branch and its components, which were previously excluded from the Act's requirements. The bill explicitly exempts records related to the preparation of judicial opinions and orders from public disclosure, protecting the confidentiality of judicial decision-making processes. Additionally, the bill removes the jurisdiction of the Public Access Counselor over denials of record requests from the judicial branch, meaning that judicial branch entities will not be subject to the same review process as other public bodies when they refuse to release records. This change effectively creates a special carve-out for the judicial branch, giving them more discretion in handling public records requests while maintaining the privacy and independence of judicial deliberations. The modifications aim to balance transparency with the need to protect the judicial process from undue external interference or scrutiny of internal decision-making materials.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, for purposes of the Act, "public body" includes the judicial branch and components of the judicial branch of the State. Exempts records that pertain to the preparation of judicial opinions and orders. Excludes denials of requests of records from the judicial branch or components of the judicial branch from the jurisdiction of the Public Access Counselor.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 01/29/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Curtis Tarver (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 01/28/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4445 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-COMMERCIAL BODY CAMERA
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to establish new rules for the commercial use of body-worn camera recordings, which are defined as recordings captured by an officer-worn body camera. If a public body believes a request for such a recording is likely for commercial purposes, it must inform the requester if the recording contains identifiable subjects (individuals whose identity can be discerned) and warn them that commercial use triggers obligations under this new law, with potential civil liability for non-compliance. Before releasing a recording for commercial use, the public body must notify any known identifiable subjects, informing them of the request, the requester's intent to use it commercially, and their rights to pre-publication notice and revenue sharing. Individuals intending to use a recording commercially must also provide written notice to identifiable subjects, detailing their intent to publish, the platforms used, their expectation of profit, and the subjects' right to a share of revenue. Crucially, anyone making a "profit-derived use" (any commercial use generating revenue like advertising or subscriptions) must share at least 50% of their gross revenue with the identifiable subjects, allocated based on their "duration of appearance" (how long they are perceptible in the recording). Identifiable subjects aggrieved by violations can sue for damages and attorney's fees, and the bill clarifies that these provisions do not limit other legal rights, while public bodies are immune from liability for others' non-compliance.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, if a public body determines that a request for a body-worn camera recording is reasonably likely to be used for a commercial purpose, then the public body's response to the requester shall inform the requester: (1) if the recording contains one or more identifiable subjects; (2) that use of the recording for any commercial purpose triggers obligations under the provisions if the recording contains an identifiable subject; and (3) that failure to comply with the provisions may result in civil liability. Provides that prior to disclosing a body-worn camera recording to a requester, the public body shall provide written notice to each identifiable subject in the recording that is known to the public body. Provides that prior to any publication, posting, dissemination, or distribution, a person intending to use a body-worn camera recording for a commercial purpose must provide written notice to each identifiable subject. Provides that, if a person engages in a profit-derived use of a body-worn camera recording, then the person shall remit not less than 50% of the gross revenues derived from the use of the body-worn camera recording to the identifiable subjects depicted in the recording. Provides that an identifiable subject who is aggrieved by a violation of the provisions may bring a civil action against any person who violates the provisions or who knowingly directs, assists, or benefits from a violation of the provisions. Provides that a person who is aggrieved by a violation of the provisions may recover damages and any other appropriate relief, including reasonable attorney's fees. Provides that nothing in the provisions shall be construed to limit, diminish, or adversely affect any rights, remedies, causes of actions, or protections under any other State or federal law. Provides that a public body, its officers, and its employees are immune from liability for any failure by a person other than the public body to comply with the provisions. Defines "body-worn camera recording", "identifiable subject", "profit-derived use", "duration of appearance", and "officer-worn body camera".
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1851 • Last Action 03/27/2026
AFN COMMITTEE TELECONFERENCE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act to modify the rules for meetings of the Access and Functional Needs (AFN) Advisory Committee. Specifically, the bill allows committee members to attend meetings remotely via video or audio conference, with all attending members counting toward the meeting's quorum, while still requiring at least one member to be physically present at the publicly posted meeting location. The bill maintains the committee's existing structure and responsibilities, which include coordinating quarterly meetings, researching and recommending strategies for supporting people with disabilities during emergencies, and providing annual reports to the General Assembly, Governor's Office, and Illinois Emergency Management Agency. The committee is composed of state agency representatives and appointed members from various backgrounds, including people with different types of disabilities, local emergency management coordinators, and first responders. The bill essentially provides more flexibility for committee members to participate in meetings while maintaining the committee's core mission of improving emergency preparedness and response for individuals with access and functional needs.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act. In provisions regarding the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee, provides that the Advisory Committee shall comply with all provisions of the Open Meetings Act except that the Advisory Committee is exempt from the provisions that specifically require a quorum of members of a public body to be physically present at the location of an open meeting. Allows Advisory Committee members to attend meetings of the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee remotely by video or audio conference with all attending members counting toward a quorum, provided there is at least one member in physical attendance at the publicly posted physical location of the meeting.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 01/29/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Natalie Manley (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 01/28/2025
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2882 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-RESPONSE PERIODS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify response time requirements for public records requests. Currently, public bodies must respond to a records request within 5 business days, but the bill extends this to 15 business days. Additionally, the time for extending a response is increased from 5 to 10 business days. The bill allows extensions for various reasons, such as records being stored in multiple locations, requiring extensive search efforts, needing review by specialized personnel, or requiring consultation with other public bodies. For commercial requests, the response time is extended from 21 to 30 business days. The bill maintains provisions that if a public body fails to respond within the specified timeframes, they cannot charge fees for providing the records and cannot claim the request is unduly burdensome. These changes aim to provide public bodies more flexibility in processing complex or voluminous records requests while still maintaining transparency and accountability in government record access.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that each public body shall, promptly, either comply with or deny a request for public records within 15 business days (rather than 5 business days) after its receipt of the request, unless extended for an additional 10 business days (rather than 5 business days) for specified reasons. Provides that commercial requests must be responded to within 30 business days (rather than 21 working days).
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Margaret DeLaRosa (D)*, Martha Deuter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4682 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-REPEAT COMMERCIAL REQUEST
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which is a law that grants the public the right to access government records. Specifically, it adds a provision that states repeated requests for records made for commercial purposes will be considered "unduly burdensome," meaning they can be refused. This applies when the same person makes multiple requests that are similar or ask for updated versions of records they've already received or been denied. The purpose of this change is to prevent individuals or entities from repeatedly asking for the same or similar commercial information, which can strain government resources.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that repeated requests for commercial purposes shall be deemed unduly burdensome if the requests are from the same person and seek similar or updated records.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Dan Didech (D)*, Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Michael Kelly (D), Ryan Spain (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Ryan Spain
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4446 • Last Action 03/27/2026
POLICE BODY CAMERA RECORD
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act to modify provisions regarding the disclosure of body camera recordings under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which is a law that grants the public the right to request access to government records. Specifically, the bill changes the requirement for redacting recordings disclosed under FOIA. Previously, recordings *shall* be redacted to remove identifying information of individuals not directly involved in the encounter, but now they *may* be redacted, giving law enforcement agencies more discretion. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that nothing in these provisions *prohibits* the disclosure of any recording, even if it would normally be exempt from disclosure under FOIA, whereas before it *required* disclosure of recordings that would be exempt. This means that while agencies can choose to redact more information, they are not prevented from releasing recordings that might otherwise be withheld.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. In provisions concerning whether recordings made with the use of an officer-worn body camera are subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, provides that any recording disclosed under the Freedom of Information Act may, rather than shall, be redacted to remove identification of any person that appears on the recording and is not an officer, a subject of the encounter, or directly involved in the encounter. Provides that nothing in the provisions shall prohibit the disclosure of any recording or portion of any recording regardless of whether it would be exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, rather than require the disclosure of any recording or portion of any recording which would be exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4408 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-VICTIM INFORMATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to create a new exemption from public disclosure for certain records. Specifically, it adds a provision that exempts records held by public bodies, law enforcement agencies, or correctional agencies that contain the name, address, or other identifying or contact information of individuals under 18 years old who are victims of sexual abuse, sexual assault, or sexual violence. This means that such sensitive information about child victims will be protected from public inspection and copying under FOIA, ensuring their privacy and safety.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that records in the possession of any public body created in the course of administrative enforcement proceedings, and any law enforcement or correctional agency for law enforcement purposes, that contain the name, address, or other identifying information or contact information of a person who is under the age of 18 years old and who is a victim of sexual abuse, sexual assault, or sexual violence are exempt from inspection and copying under certain provisions regarding a public body redacting the exempt information.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jackie Haas (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3380 • Last Action 03/27/2026
BODY CAMERAS-FOIA REQUESTS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act to modify the rules regarding the disclosure of body camera recordings. Specifically, the bill limits the disclosure of recordings that have been "flagged" - meaning they involve a complaint, firearm discharge, use of force, arrest, detention, or incident resulting in death or bodily harm. Under the new provisions, such recordings can only be disclosed through a court order, or to specific parties including: the person involved in the encounter, their legal representative, a witness to the encounter, the witness's legal representative, or a news media representative. The bill maintains existing protections for recordings, such as the requirement to retain recordings for 90 days and to keep flagged recordings for at least two years. The changes aim to balance transparency with privacy concerns by creating a clear framework for when and how body camera footage can be accessed, while still allowing important recordings to be reviewed by relevant parties. The bill does not fundamentally change the existing requirements for when officers must use body cameras or how they must be maintained, but instead focuses on refining the rules around recording access and disclosure.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. Limits disclosure of a recording made with the use of an officer-worn body camera which is flagged due to the filing of a complaint, discharge of a firearm, use of force, arrest or detention, or resulting death or bodily harm to a request made by (1) court order; (2) a person involved in the encounter that resulted in the recording being flagged; (3) a legal representative of a person involved in the encounter that resulted in the recording being flagged; (4) a witness of the encounter that resulted in the recording being flagged; (5) a legal representative of a witness of the encounter that resulted in the recording being flagged; or (6) a representative of news media.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Justin Slaughter (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5332 • Last Action 03/27/2026
PUBLIC SAFETY-BENEFITS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public Safety Employee Benefits Act (PSEBA) to clarify eligibility for benefits for surviving spouses and to redefine when certain benefits are triggered. Specifically, it mandates that health coverage and educational benefits are only provided if a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or correctional officer is killed in the line of duty, as defined by the Illinois Line of Duty Compensation Act, rather than under broader circumstances previously outlined. Additionally, a significant change is that a surviving spouse will no longer be required to provide a notarized affidavit or other notarized proof that they have not remarried to receive benefits guaranteed under the Act. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Public Safety Employee Benefits Act. Provides that required health coverage benefits and education benefits are contingent on the law enforcement officer being killed in the line of duty. Provides that a surviving spouse shall not be required to submit a notarized affidavit or other notarized documentation attesting that the surviving spouse has not been remarried as a condition of eligibility for any benefit, payment, or right guaranteed under the Act. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5406 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-BUSINESS DAY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to clarify the definition of "business day" and adjust timelines for commercial requests. Specifically, it defines a "business day" as Monday through Friday, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and specified holidays, with additional exclusions for school districts, community colleges, and universities to include their winter and spring breaks and the day after Thanksgiving. Furthermore, for requests made for a "commercial purpose" – meaning the use of public records for sale, resale, or advertising – the bill changes the response timeframe from 21 "working days" to 21 "business days," ensuring that these requests are processed within a clearer, more consistent timeframe.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Defines "business day" as Monday through Friday, not including Saturday, Sunday, and specified holidays. In provisions regarding requests for commercial purposes, changes a reference to 21 working days to a reference to 21 business days.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S09607 • Last Action 03/27/2026
Requires agencies subject to FOIL requirements to promulgate rules and regulations regarding to whom a requestor may appeal a denial and how to request records from or appeal a denial; makes certain provisions relating to publication of contact information for FOIL requests and appeals.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires agencies subject to the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) to establish clear procedures for how individuals can appeal a denial of access to records and how to submit requests for records, including specifying mailing and email addresses for these appeals and requests. It also mandates that agencies post contact information for their records access officers and the individuals or bodies responsible for hearing appeals on their websites, along with details on how to request records in person, by mail, email, or any other designated method. Furthermore, agencies with websites must allow for online submission of record requests and appeals of denials, and must accept and respond to appeals submitted via email. The bill aims to make the FOIL process more accessible and transparent by standardizing and publicizing these procedures.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to certain reforms for agencies subject to the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 03/27/2026
• Added: 03/28/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rachel May (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/27/2026
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4771 • Last Action 03/27/2026
POLICE DATA SHARING ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Law Enforcement Data Sharing Act, mandates that criminal justice agencies must share all criminal justice data and records, including personally identifying and demographic information, with bona fide researchers (individuals or organizations approved by an institutional review board who agree to use the data solely for research and statistical purposes and not identify individuals). This data includes information related to law enforcement stops, searches, seizures, arrests, citations, diversion programs, criminal charges and dispositions, release from custody, probation, parole, and disciplinary actions within the correctional system. Additionally, agencies must share any data that would otherwise be accessible to the public under the Freedom of Information Act, and may share any other responsive criminal justice data upon request. The Attorney General will provide guidance on compliance within six months of the act's effective date, and agencies can charge reasonable fees for data retrieval, though these can be waived.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Creates the Law Enforcement Data Sharing Act. Provides that a criminal justice agency shall share with a bona fide researcher all criminal justice data and records, including relevant personally identifying information and demographic information, held by that agency relating to: (1) a law enforcement stop, search, or seizure; (2) a warrant, arrest, or citation; (3) participation in a pre-arrest or post-arrest diversion, specialty court, or other alternative resolution program; (4) a criminal charge, disposition, or sentence; (5) a pretrial or posttrial release from custody, or any terms or conditions of release; (6) a grant, order, change in the terms of, or termination of pretrial supervised release, probation, parole, or participation in correctional or rehabilitative programs; or (7) a formal discipline, reclassification, or relocation of any person under criminal sentence or correctional control. Provides that a criminal justice agency shall share with a bona fide researcher all criminal justice data and records, including relevant personally identifying information and demographic information, held by the criminal justice agency that is subject to mandatory or discretionary disclosure to any member of the public under the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a criminal justice agency may share with a bona fide researcher any other criminal justice data, records, or information, including relevant personally identifying information and demographic information, held by that agency that is responsive to a bona fide researcher's request. Provides that, within 6 months after the effective date of the Act, the Attorney General shall issue guidance to assist criminal justice agencies in complying with the Act's requirements. Provides that a criminal justice agency may assess reasonable fees, not to exceed actual costs, for the search, retrieval, and copying of criminal justice data, records, or information requested under the Act, and may waive fees at their discretion.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/03/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Kam Buckner (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2752 • Last Action 03/27/2026
PEN CD-MEETINGS-A/V CONFERENCE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois Pension Code to allow committees of the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund board to conduct meetings via audio or video conference without physically gathering all members in one location. The bill permits such virtual meetings only when the board chairperson determines that an in-person meeting would pose a health or safety risk and that a remote meeting is in the best interest of the board and public. To ensure transparency and accessibility, the bill mandates several key requirements: all participating members must be able to hear each other, public members must have a way to hear discussions and votes, at least one board member or administrative officer must be physically present at the meeting location, all votes must be conducted by roll call, and 48 hours' notice must be given with specific details about how to access the virtual meeting. For emergency meetings, slightly different notice requirements apply, and the presiding officer must state the nature of the emergency. The bill aims to provide flexibility for board meetings while maintaining public access and accountability, particularly in situations where physical gathering might be challenging or unsafe.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund Article of the Illinois Pension Code. Provides that meetings of committees of the board may be conducted by audio or video conference, without the physical presence of a quorum of the members if the chairperson of the board determines that an in-person meeting would pose a risk to the health or safety of members of the board or the public and that conducting a meeting by an audio or video conference is in the best interest of the board and the public. Sets forth provisions concerning notice, public participation, voting, verbatim records, and costs.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Bob Rita (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4683 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-MASS REQUESTER
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to establish specific rules for "mass requesters," defined as individuals or entities submitting identical or substantially similar requests for records to five or more public bodies within a 30-day period. Public bodies must now respond to these mass requesters within 21 business days, providing an estimate of time and fees, denying the request with justification, declaring it unduly burdensome with an opportunity to revise, or providing the requested records. While generally prioritizing requests from non-mass requesters, public bodies must still comply with mass requests within a reasonable time unless records are exempt. The bill also makes it a violation for a person to knowingly conceal their status as a mass requester when asked by a public body, which can lead to the denial of their request. Furthermore, mass requesters must notify the public body of any objections to a denial before seeking review from the Public Access Counselor or filing a lawsuit, and their ability to recover attorney's fees is limited unless the public body knowingly fails to respond or provide a basis for denial.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Requires a public body to respond to a request for records submitted by a mass requester within 21 business days after receipt. Requires the response to (i) provide to the requester an estimate of the time required by the public body to provide the records requested and an estimate of the fees to be charged, which the public body may require the person to pay in full before copying the requested documents, (ii) deny the request pursuant to one or more of the exemptions set out in the Act, (iii) notify the requester that the request is unduly burdensome and extend an opportunity to the requester to attempt to reduce the request to manageable proportions, or (iv) provide the records requested. Provides that, unless the records are exempt from disclosure, a public body shall comply with a request for records within a reasonable period considering the size and complexity of the request and giving priority to records requested by requesters who are not mass requesters. Provides that it is a violation of the Act for a person to knowingly obtain a public record without disclosing the person's status as a mass requester, if requested to do so by the public body, within 5 business days. Allows the public body to deny the request based upon the violation. Requires a mass requester to notify the public body of an objection before seeking review of a denial of a request with the Public Access Counselor, and requires review by a Public Access Counselor before judicial review. Limits awards of attorney's fees to mass requesters under the Act. Defines "mass requester". Makes conforming changes.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Dan Didech (D)*, Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Michael Kelly (D), Ryan Spain (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Ryan Spain
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4684 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-PURPOSELESS MASS REQUEST
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to address "purposeless mass requests," which are defined as requests sent electronically to at least seven public bodies within 30 days without a genuine intent to study or use the information. The bill clarifies the definition of "commercial purpose" to include providing services to a specific customer or client, while still exempting news media and non-profit organizations for their primary purposes. It establishes a process for public bodies to tentatively designate a request as a "purposeless mass request," requiring them to notify the requester and allow them a short period to provide evidence of a reasonable purpose. If the request is confirmed as a purposeless mass request, the public body will have 21 business days to respond, which may include estimating costs and time, denying the request, deeming it unduly burdensome, or providing the records, and importantly, prohibits the award of attorney's fees in cases where a public body reasonably determined a request was a purposeless mass request.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Changes the definition of "commercial purpose". Defines "purposeless mass request". Provides that a public body may designate a request as a purposeless mass request under specified conditions. Establishes procedures for notice, requester response, and a final determination concerning the request. Sets timelines for processing such requests and authorizes responses to them. Prohibits attorney's fees in actions where the public body reasonably determined a request was a purposeless mass request.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Dan Didech (D)*, Michael Kelly (D), Ryan Spain (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Ryan Spain
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3041 • Last Action 03/27/2026
DATA PRIVACY AND PROTECTION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Illinois Data Privacy and Protection Act, which establishes comprehensive regulations for how businesses collect, process, and transfer personal data. The bill requires covered entities (businesses that determine the purposes of data collection) to collect only data that is reasonably necessary and proportionate, obtain explicit consent from individuals before collecting or transferring their sensitive data, and provide clear privacy policies. Key provisions include giving individuals the right to access, correct, delete, and export their personal data, with special protections for minors and sensitive information like biometric data, precise location information, and financial details. The bill mandates that businesses implement robust data security practices, prohibits discrimination in data usage, and restricts targeted advertising to minors. Large data holders must designate privacy officers, conduct regular privacy impact assessments, and have executive officers certify compliance annually. Enforcement mechanisms include the ability for the Attorney General, State's Attorneys, or municipalities to bring civil actions against violators, as well as allowing individuals to sue for damages. Small businesses are given some exemptions to reduce compliance burdens, and the Attorney General is empowered to create rules and adjust thresholds to keep the law current with technological changes. The act will become effective 180 days after becoming law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Creates the Illinois Data Privacy and Protection Act. Provides that a covered entity (any entity or any person, other than an individual acting in a non-commercial context, that alone or jointly with others determines the purposes and means of collecting, processing, or transferring covered data) may not collect, process, or transfer covered data unless the collection, processing, or transfer is limited to what is reasonably necessary and proportionate. Provides that a covered entity and a service provider shall establish, implement, and maintain reasonable policies, practices, and procedures concerning the collection, processing, and transferring of covered data. Contains provisions concerning retaliation; transparency; individual data rights; consent; data protection for children and minors; civil rights; data security; small business protections; executive responsibility; service providers and third parties; enforcement; severability; and rulemaking. Effective 180 days after becoming law.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Abdelnasser Rashid (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5221 • Last Action 03/27/2026
CONSUMER DATA PRIVACY ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Consumer Data Privacy Act, establishes new rules for how businesses handle personal data of Illinois residents, taking effect on January 1, 2027. It grants consumers rights such as the ability to confirm if their data is being processed, access, correct, and delete their personal data, and obtain a portable copy of their data. Crucially, consumers will have the right to opt out of the sale of their personal data, targeted advertising (which is defined as ads selected based on a consumer's past online activities to predict their preferences), and profiling for automated decisions that have significant legal or similarly significant effects on them, such as decisions about financial services or housing. The Act also outlines responsibilities for data controllers (entities that determine the purposes and means of data processing) and processors (entities that process data on behalf of controllers), including requirements for data security and transparency through privacy notices. It includes specific provisions for small businesses and makes conforming changes to the Freedom of Information Act, while also preempting local home rule authority on these matters.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Consumer Data Privacy Act. Sets forth provisions concerning agreements between personal data processors and controllers. Provides for consumer personal data rights, including the right to opt out of the processing of personal data concerning the consumer for purposes of targeted advertising, the sale of personal data, or profiling in furtherance of automated decisions that produce legal effects. Sets forth provisions concerning the responsibilities of controllers; requirements for small businesses; and data privacy and protection assessments. Provides for civil penalties. Preempts home rule. Amends the Freedom of Information Act to make a conforming change. Effective January 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Edgar González (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5276 • Last Action 03/27/2026
LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER-SAFETY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public Official Safety and Privacy Act by adding law enforcement officers to the definition of "public official," meaning that these officers will now be covered by the protections afforded to public officials under this Act, which generally relates to safeguarding their personal information and privacy.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Public Official Safety and Privacy Act. Adds law enforcement officers to the definition of "public official".
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3032 • Last Action 03/27/2026
OPEN MEETINGS-ADVISORY BODY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to clarify and expand the conditions under which advisory bodies can conduct meetings remotely. The bill introduces new definitions for "advisory body" (a public body that supports and advises on policy implementation but does not make final decisions) and "decision-making body" (a public body that makes decisions to implement legislation or policy). The key provision allows advisory bodies to conduct open or closed meetings by audio or video conference without a physical quorum, provided they meet several conditions: the body must vote to conduct the meeting remotely, provide additional public notice, ensure all members can hear each other and be verified, allow public access to the meeting (either in-person or through alternative means like a phone or web link), and have at least one member, legal counsel, or administrator physically present at the regular meeting location (if feasible). The bill aims to provide more flexibility for advisory bodies in conducting meetings, particularly in situations where physical gathering might be challenging, while maintaining transparency and public access to governmental proceedings.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that an advisory body may conduct an open or closed meeting by audio or video conference without the physical presence of a quorum of its members if certain conditions are met. Defines "advisory body" and "decision-making body". Makes technical changes.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Janet Yang Rohr (D)*, Martha Deuter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2888 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-FEES AND COSTS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by modifying the provisions related to fees for public records requests. Specifically, the bill removes the requirement for public bodies to provide an accounting of personnel hours when charging fees for voluminous electronic record requests. Under the current law, when a public body imposes fees for large electronic record requests (based on data size and format), they must provide a detailed breakdown of fees, costs, and personnel hours. The new version eliminates the mandate to report personnel hours, while still requiring an accounting of fees and costs. The bill maintains existing provisions that allow public bodies to charge for the actual cost of purchasing recording media, with some protections for requesters such as no charge for the first 50 pages of black and white copies and no fees for the first 8 hours of personnel search time. The changes aim to simplify the fee accounting process for public bodies when responding to large electronic record requests, particularly those with a commercial purpose.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. In provisions regarding the authority to charge fees and the imposition of a fee for a voluminous request, removes requirements for an accounting of all personnel hours in connection with the request for public records.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Margaret DeLaRosa (D)*, Martha Deuter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2890 • Last Action 03/27/2026
OPEN MTGS-NOTICE OF CHANGES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to simplify and modernize the requirements for notifying the public about changes to regular meeting dates. Currently, public bodies are required to provide notice of meeting date changes by publishing in a newspaper or, for smaller local governmental units, by posting notices in at least three prominent places. The bill eliminates these existing notification methods and instead mandates that public bodies post notices of meeting date changes on their official websites. The bill maintains the existing requirement of providing at least 10 days' notice before changing a regular meeting date and continues to require that notice be posted at the public body's principal office or the building where the meeting will be held. This change aims to make meeting information more accessible by leveraging digital platforms, potentially reducing administrative costs associated with newspaper publications while ensuring that the public can more easily find up-to-date information about government meetings.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. In provisions regarding notice of changes to regular meeting dates, deletes requirements for publication in a newspaper or, in certain cases, posting in at least 3 prominent places within the governmental unit. Adds a requirement that notice of changes to regular meeting dates shall also be posted on the website of the public body.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Margaret DeLaRosa (D)*, Martha Deuter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3491 • Last Action 03/27/2026
JUDICIAL PRIVACY ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the Judicial Privacy Act to protect the personal information of federal judicial officers, which includes judges and clerks of federal courts, as well as state judicial officers, such as judges and clerks of state courts. The definition of "personal information" that can be protected is broadened to include financial details, date of birth, race and ethnicity, and biometric data. The bill outlines a specific process for federal and state judicial officials to make a written request to protect their personal information, including a standardized form for this request, and allows for court files or documents containing such information to be sealed. The purpose of these changes is to enhance the safety and security of judicial officials, enabling them to perform their duties without fear of reprisal, while still allowing them to voluntarily disclose their own information and ensuring that free access to their public decisions and opinions is not hindered.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Judicial Privacy Act to expand coverage to federal judicial officials and State judicial officials that includes judges and clerks of the State and federal judicial system. Amends "personal information" that may be protected to include financial, date of birth, race and ethnicity, and biometric information. Provides the method of making a written request to protect personal information by a federal and State judicial official. Creates form for the written request. Allows a court file or document to be sealed. Makes other changes.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Sally Turner (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3443 • Last Action 03/27/2026
OMA-COUNCIL DEV DISAB
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends two laws to provide more flexibility for members of the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities (ICDD) in attending meetings. Specifically, the bill changes the Open Meetings Act to exempt the ICDD from the requirement that a quorum of members must be physically present at meetings. Additionally, the bill modifies the ICDD Law to allow council members to request permission to attend meetings via video or audio conference under certain circumstances. These circumstances include being prevented from physically attending due to personal illness or disability, or needing to provide care to a family member with a disability. The chairperson must grant such a request, and the member will be counted toward the meeting's quorum. This change aims to make council meetings more accessible for members who may have mobility challenges or caregiving responsibilities, ensuring that individuals with developmental disabilities or their representatives can more easily participate in important policy-making discussions. The bill is effective immediately upon becoming law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that the requirement that a quorum be physically present at the location of an open meeting shall not apply to the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities. Amends the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities Law. Provides that a member of the Council may request permission of the chairperson to attend a meeting by video or audio conference, and that request shall be granted if the member is prevented from physically attending due to personal illness or disability or if the member is required to provide care to a family member who has a disability. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Maurice West (D)*, Laura Faver Dias (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4704 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-STUDENT HOTLINES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Student Confidential Reporting Act and the Freedom of Information Act to protect the confidentiality of information shared with school helplines. Specifically, it ensures that any reports or information submitted to a "similar independent school helpline" (defined as a confidential, toll-free service for students to report threats to school safety, not intended for punishment, and involving trained operators) are treated with the same confidentiality as reports made to the Safe2Help Illinois program. This means such information cannot be released except under specific circumstances outlined in the Student Confidential Reporting Act or the Juvenile Court Act of 1987, and it is exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, which is a law that generally grants the public access to government records. Violating these confidentiality provisions by intentionally disclosing such information will be a Class C misdemeanor, a minor criminal offense.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Student Confidential Reporting Act to provide that any report or information submitted to a similar independent school helpline to the Safe2Help Illinois program is also confidential, may not be released except as otherwise provided in the Act or in the Juvenile Court Act of 1987, and is not subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a person who intentionally discloses information in violation of the added provision commits a Class C misdemeanor. Defines "similar independent school helpline". Amends the Freedom of Information Act to make conforming changes.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Tracy Katz Muhl (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5484 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA PRIVATE INFO-GENDER
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand the definition of "private information," which refers to sensitive personal data that public bodies may withhold from public disclosure. Specifically, it adds "gender identity," "sexual orientation," and "gender expression" to the list of identifiers considered private information, alongside existing categories like social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and personal email addresses. This change means that information related to an individual's gender identity, sexual orientation, or gender expression, when held by a public body, will now be protected under the same privacy provisions as other sensitive personal data, preventing its automatic release through public records requests.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. In the definition of "private information", includes gender identity, sexual orientation, and gender expression.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Mary Beth Canty (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3515 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-COMMERCIAL PURPOSES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act to make several key changes. The bill expands the definition of "commercial purpose" to include any use that furthers the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester. It also narrows the definition of "news media" by excluding internet sites and social media channels that post law enforcement videos in exchange for compensation based on view count. For audio and video records, the bill allows public bodies to charge up to $40 per hour for personnel time spent searching, retrieving, reviewing, redacting, and reproducing records, with the first 3 hours (previously 8 hours) of search and retrieval time being free. Additionally, the bill modifies provisions of the Body Camera Act to exclude requests for body camera footage made for commercial purposes from mandatory disclosure requirements. These changes aim to provide more clarity and control over public records access, particularly for commercial requesters, while potentially limiting the ability of some online platforms to monetize law enforcement video content.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, for purposes of the Act, "commercial purpose" includes any use or purpose that furthers the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester or the person on whose behalf a request is made. Provides that, for purposes of the Act, "news media" does not include Internet sites, social media channels, or other sites or applications that post law enforcement videos in exchange for compensation based on the number of views. Provides that a public body may charge up to $40 for each hour spent by personnel in searching for, retrieving, reviewing, redacting, and reproducing audio and video records except for the first 8 hours spent by personnel in searching for or retrieving a requested record. Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. Provides that requests for a commercial purpose, as defined in the Freedom of Information Act, are not subject to provisions of the Act requiring the release of body-camera footage that has been flagged for specified reasons.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Janet Yang Rohr (D)*, Anthony DeLuca (D), Laura Faver Dias (D), Martha Deuter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4681 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-MASS REQ & VEXATIOUS REQ
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to introduce new definitions and procedures for handling requests for public records, particularly those from frequent or problematic requesters. It clarifies the definition of "commercial purpose" to include using public records for sale, resale, or to provide services to a specific customer, while exempting news media and non-profit, academic, or scientific organizations when their primary purpose is public interest or research. The bill defines "business day" or "working day" as Monday through Friday, excluding weekends, state holidays, and for educational institutions, winter and spring breaks and the day after Thanksgiving. It introduces the term "mass requester" for individuals or groups submitting similar requests to seven or more public bodies, requiring such requesters to receive a response within 21 business days, including an estimate of time and fees, or a denial, and prohibits knowingly obtaining records as a mass requester without disclosing that status if asked. The bill also defines "vexatious requester" based on a history of numerous or burdensome requests, allowing public bodies to petition the Public Access Counselor for relief, which could include an order to disregard current and future requests from that individual for up to a year. Furthermore, it requires individuals denied access to public records to first notify the public body of their intent to sue and offer an opportunity for an oral conference to resolve the issue within 10 business days before filing a lawsuit. Finally, the bill mandates that courts award attorney's fees and costs to a public body if it prevails in a lawsuit against a commercial purpose requester, a recurrent requester, a mass requester, or a vexatious requester.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Changes the definition of "commercial purpose". Defines "business day" or "working day", as well as "mass requester" and "vexatious requester". Requires a public body to respond to a request for records submitted by a mass requester within 21 days after receipt. Sets forth procedures and requirements regarding mass requesters. Provides that it is a violation of the Act to knowingly obtain a public record as a mass requester without disclosing the person's status as a mass requester, if requested to do so by the public body. Requires persons denied access to inspect or copy any public record to first notify the public body of intent to file suit and provide an opportunity to confer orally, within 10 business days after receipt of the notification, about curing or resolving the issue. Requires a court to award a public body attorney's fees and costs against a commercial purpose requester, a recurrent requester, a mass requester, or a vexatious requester. Allows a public body to petition the Public Access Counselor for relief from a requester that the public body alleges is a vexatious requester, including an order that the public body need not comply with the current request and other requests from the vexatious requester for up to one year. Sets forth procedures and requirements regarding vexatious requesters. Makes conforming changes.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Dan Didech (D)*, Michael Kelly (D), Ryan Spain (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Ryan Spain
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5145 • Last Action 03/27/2026
FOIA-LAW ENFORCEMENT RECORDS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to clarify that it does not intend to bypass court processes for determining the public availability of law enforcement records such as arrest and booking details, mug shots, body-worn camera footage, 9-1-1 audio, and crime scene photos, unless these records are relevant to a requester's current or potential case or claim. It also increases the maximum fee for black and white copies from 15 to 25 cents per page, modifies fees for searching, retrieving, and reviewing records for commercial requests, and exempts certain law enforcement records from disclosure unless they are relevant to a requester's case or claim.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Specifies that the Act is not intended to circumvent the process used by the courts to address whether arrest and booking records, mug shots, body-worn camera footage, in-car camera footage, 9-1-1 audio files, crime scene photographs, or other similar law enforcement records are to be made publicly available, except when those records may be relevant to a current or potential case or claim by the requester. Increases the cap on the fee that may be imposed for black and white copies from 15 cents per page to 25 cents per page. Makes changes to the fees public bodies may charge for time spent by personnel in searching for and retrieving a requested record or examining the record for necessary redactions. Exempts from disclosure under the Act specified law enforcement records, except when those records may be relevant to a current or potential case or claim by the requester.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzanne Ness (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2582 • Last Action 03/27/2026
OPEN MEETINGS ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to make several changes to how public bodies, specifically Chicago Police District Councils, can conduct meetings. For 3-member bodies, the bill establishes that 2 members constitute a quorum and can adopt motions or resolutions. The bill allows Chicago Police District Councils to hold closed meetings to discuss sensitive public safety matters, such as ongoing law enforcement investigations or situations where an open discussion could pose a risk to an investigation or individuals' safety. The legislation also modifies meeting notice requirements, stipulating that public bodies must post meeting agendas at their principal office (if one exists) and on their website, with a specific provision for bodies without a physical office allowing them to satisfy notice requirements through website posting. Additionally, the bill excludes certain gatherings of two Police District Council members from being considered a "meeting" and permits these councils to hold meetings via audio or video conference, with some exceptions for regularly scheduled meetings. These changes aim to provide more flexibility in meeting procedures while maintaining transparency in public governance.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that for a 3-member body, 2 members of the body constitute a quorum, and the affirmative vote of 2 members is necessary to adopt any motion, resolution, or ordinance unless a greater number is otherwise provided. Provides that a Chicago Police District Council may hold a closed meeting involving public safety concerns to discuss (i) an ongoing, prior, or future law enforcement or official misconduct investigation or allegation thereof involving specific individuals or (ii) other topics that if discussed in an open meeting would pose an unreasonable risk to an ongoing criminal investigation or an unreasonable risk to the safety of specific individuals. Provides that an agenda for each regular meeting of a public body must be posted the principal office of the public body if such an office exists. Provides that if a public body has a website that is maintained by its full-time staff but does not have a principal office or single building where meetings are regularly held, that body is deemed to have complied with the requirement to post physical notice at the office or building of the meeting if the notice is timely posted on the public body's website. Excludes from the definition of "meeting" for a Chicago Police District Council a gathering of 2 members, except if gathered for a regularly scheduled meeting or otherwise gathered to adopt any motion, resolution, or ordinance. Provides a Chicago Police District Council may hold meetings by audio or video conference without the physical presence of the members under certain conditions except for required regularly scheduled meetings.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Ann Williams (D)*, Lindsey LaPointe (D), Kam Buckner (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2255 • Last Action 03/26/2026
A bill for an act relating to the request for redaction of personally identifiable information from electronic documents displayed for public access by county assessors and county recorders.(Formerly HF 2061.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the list of individuals whose names can be redacted from publicly accessible electronic documents maintained by county assessors and county recorders to include United States senators, representatives to Congress, statewide elected officials, and members of the general assembly, in addition to existing protections for peace officers, law enforcement employees, judicial officers, and prosecutors. The bill also requires the secretary of state to submit recommendations to the general assembly by November 1, 2026, on how to safeguard the personal residence information of candidates while still verifying their residency for election purposes.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, a peace officer, a civilian employee of a law enforcement agency, a state or federal judicial officer, or state or federal prosecutor may request their name be redacted from documents made public by the county assessor or county recorder. This bill adds United States senators, representatives to Congress, statewide elected officials, and members of the general assembly to this list of people. The bill requires the secretary of the state to submit recommendations to the general assembly on how to protect information containing the personal residence of those seeking election while at the same time verifying the candidate’s place of residences for the purpose of meeting any applicable residency requirement. The recommendations are to be submitted before November 1, 2026.
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• Introduced: 01/30/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 01/30/2026
• Last Action: Placed on calendar under unfinished business. S.J. 659.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2505 • Last Action 03/26/2026
Providing an exception for Kansas department of wildlife and parks records regarding the location of any species that is threatened, endangered or in need of conservation from the disclosure requirements of the Kansas open records act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Kansas Open Records Act to create an exception for records held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks that contain the precise location of species listed as threatened or endangered under federal law (16 U.S.C. § 1531 et seq.) or species that are threatened, endangered, or in need of conservation under state law (K.S.A. 32-957 et seq.). These specific location records will no longer be subject to public disclosure requirements, meaning they cannot be requested by the public, unless the request is made by a landowner, their lessee, or designee regarding their own property. The bill also repeals the existing section of law and states that it will take effect upon publication in the Kansas Register.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning public records; providing an exception for Kansas department of wildlife and parks records regarding the location of any species that is threatened, endangered or in need of conservation from the disclosure requirements of the Kansas open records act; amending K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 45-221 and repealing the existing section.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Will Carpenter (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: House Conference Committee Report agree to disagree adopted; Representative Rahjes, Representative Neelly and Representative Featherston appointed as second conferees
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #HB0102 • Last Action 03/26/2026
Victim Privacy Amendments
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to enhance crime victims' privacy rights by allowing victims, for offenses occurring on or after July 1, 2026, to request that their initials be used instead of their full names in publicly accessible criminal justice documents created by various government agencies, such as charging documents and court filings, with exceptions for documents related to criminal protective orders, criminal stalking injunctions, and those created by the Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division. The bill also clarifies what constitutes a "publicly available" document, meaning it's accessible to the general public even if a fee is required, but not if it's only available to parties involved in a case, and requires entities to maintain victim information to respond to court orders for disclosure.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill addresses a crime victim's right to privacy.
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• Introduced: 12/29/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Sahara Hayes (D)*, Stephanie Pitcher (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 49
• Last Amended: 03/11/2026
• Last Action: Governor Signed in Lieutenant Governor's office for filing
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H1598 • Last Action 03/26/2026
Relative to transparency in clerk magistrate hearings
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 35A of Chapter 218 of the Massachusetts General Laws to enhance transparency in clerk magistrate hearings by establishing a presumption that such hearings and their associated records are open to the public. Under the proposed legislation, a hearing can only be closed to the public if the court makes a written finding that the defendant's privacy interest outweighs the public's right to access, and this determination must be made after a formal hearing on the record. Importantly, the bill allows interested non-parties to participate in this proceeding by filing a limited notice of appearance. Any decision to close a hearing must be specific in its reasoning and narrowly tailored to that specific reason. Additionally, the bill mandates that all hearings under this section must be either stenographically recorded or audio recorded and subsequently transcribed, which will help ensure a comprehensive and verifiable record of the proceedings. This legislation appears aimed at increasing judicial transparency while still providing a mechanism to protect individual privacy when absolutely necessary.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to further regulate clerk magistrate hearings. The Judiciary.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Tony Cabral (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF259 • Last Action 03/26/2026
A bill for an act limiting the release of personal information for traffic violations observed by an out-of-state traffic camera, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly SF 51.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces a new law limiting the disclosure of personal information for out-of-state traffic camera violations in Iowa. Specifically, the bill prohibits the Iowa Department of Transportation, local authorities, and law enforcement agencies from releasing personal information (such as driver's license or vehicle registration details) if that information would be used to issue or collect a fine for a traffic violation captured by a traffic camera outside of Iowa. Anyone requesting personal information must affirm the reason for their request under penalty of perjury. The bill defines a "traffic camera" as an optical device that detects and records traffic law violations like running red lights, speeding, or failing to pay tolls. The prohibition does not apply if the request is related to investigating criminal or civil law violations beyond traffic camera infractions. The bill provides definitions for key terms like "person" and "personal information" by referencing existing state code sections. The new law will take effect on January 1, 2026, and the department is authorized to develop administrative rules to implement the provisions of this legislation.
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Bill Summary: An Act limiting the release of personal information for traffic violations observed by an out-of-state traffic camera, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Transportation
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 03/26/2025
• Last Action: Placed on calendar under unfinished business. H.J. 760.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H1676 • Last Action 03/26/2026
To respect and protect domestic violence and sexual assault victims and survivors
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 97D of Chapter 41 in the Massachusetts General Laws to require police departments, district attorneys, and other legal bodies to respond to public requests for statistical data related to domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, and abuse perpetrated by family or household members. The data must be provided with personal identifying information redacted to protect the privacy of victims and survivors. Specifically, the bill adds a provision that mandates these legal entities to share aggregated statistical information about such incidents when requested, ensuring transparency while safeguarding the confidentiality of those involved. This change aims to provide a clearer public understanding of the prevalence and patterns of domestic violence and sexual assault while protecting the personal details of victims and survivors.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to protect domestic violence and sexual assault victims and survivors. The Judiciary.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Michelle DuBois (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB843 • Last Action 03/26/2026
Creates the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment and Privacy Protection Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment and Privacy Protection Act, aims to protect the personal information of victims of sexual offenses, referred to as "protected individuals." It defines "personal information" broadly to include details like home addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, and financial information, and clarifies that a "criminal justice agency" is any government or authorized private entity involved in the justice system. The Act allows protected individuals to request that public bodies and third parties not publish their personal information or remove it if it has already been published, requiring written requests with specific details. Public bodies must acknowledge these requests within five days and remove or explain the non-removal of information within seventy-two hours, while third parties must remove the information within seventy-two hours and notify the individual. Protected individuals can seek legal action, including injunctions and attorney fees, for violations, and third parties may also be liable for damages. The bill also establishes criminal penalties for knowingly publishing personal information that poses an imminent threat, resulting in specific offenses like assault or harassment, though these penalties do not apply to public bodies. However, individuals recognized as protected individuals are not exempt from the publication or removal of their personal information from records posted by the office of the secretary of state.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact R.S. 44:24, relative to public records; to provide for definitions; to create the Sexual Assault Survivor Empowerment and Privacy Protection Act; to provide for limited access to personal information of protected individuals; to provide for injunctive or declaratory relief and attorney fees or damages; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Delisha Boyd (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/28/2026
• Last Action: Becomes HB 1012.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB2562 • Last Action 03/26/2026
Modifies exemptions to the sunshine law
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Missouri's sunshine law (a transparency law governing public meetings and records) by adding a new exemption to the existing list of situations where government bodies can keep certain information confidential. Specifically, the bill adds a 30th exemption that allows public governmental bodies to keep records related to security or travel for elected officials confidential if disclosing those records would potentially endanger the safety of the official or the general public. The bill maintains the existing comprehensive list of exemptions, which already includes scenarios like legal actions, personnel records, security measures, and personal health information. The new provision appears designed to protect elected officials from potential security risks by preventing the public disclosure of sensitive travel or security-related information. This modification continues the law's balancing act between maintaining government transparency and protecting legitimate safety concerns, giving public bodies another specific avenue to protect potentially sensitive information related to elected officials' movements and security arrangements.
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Bill Summary: Modifies exemptions to the sunshine law
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• Introduced: 12/22/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Mike Costlow (R)*, George Hruza (R), Michael Steinmeyer (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/22/2025
• Last Action: Referred: Local Government(H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #SB00225 • Last Action 03/26/2026
An Act Concerning Fees For Copying, Reviewing And Redacting Records Created By Police Body-worn Recording Equipment And Dashboard Cameras.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective October 1, 2026, allows public agencies to charge a fee for redacting (obscuring or pixelating) portions of records created by police body-worn recording equipment or dashboard cameras that cannot be legally disclosed under state or federal law, such as those involving victims of domestic abuse or minors, as defined by the Freedom of Information Act. The fee is intended to cover the time spent redacting these records, with the first four hours of labor being free, and subsequent labor costs capped at the hourly wage of the lowest-paid qualified employee, not to exceed $100 per hour of the record's length, with a potential $50 per half-hour rounding up. However, this fee is waived for individuals directly involved in the incident captured in the recording, their legal representatives, or in cases of alleged police misconduct or disciplinary investigations involving the officer in the recording, and it also modifies existing fee structures for copying public records to account for these new redaction costs.
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Bill Summary: To authorize a public agency to charge a redaction fee for the disclosure of a record created by police body-worn equipment or dashboard cameras that contains portions not authorized to be disclosed under state or federal law.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 02/18/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Administration and Elections Committee, Rob Sampson (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 03/26/2026
• Last Action: File Number 202
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF4536 • Last Action 03/26/2026
Use of generative artificial intelligence in official records prohibited, and civil remedies and enforcement provided.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, proposing to add Minnesota Statutes, chapter 13E, prohibits government entities from using generative artificial intelligence (AI), defined as machine-based technology that can generate outputs like content or decisions, to create or help create official government records, which are defined as recorded information documenting a government entity's official actions or functions. The bill mandates that drafts of official records must be kept for the same duration as the final record, and it provides enforcement mechanisms, allowing the attorney general to take action and individuals to file civil lawsuits for equitable or declaratory relief, with prevailing plaintiffs eligible for attorney fees and costs, provided they give the government entity 90 days' written notice of any alleged violation to allow for a cure.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government records; prohibiting the use of generative artificial intelligence in official records; providing civil remedies and enforcement; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota Statutes, chapter 13E.
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• Introduced: 03/23/2026
• Added: 03/24/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Katie Jones (D)*, Jay Xiong (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/19/2026
• Last Action: Author added Xiong
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF3834 • Last Action 03/25/2026
Expand personal information protections for judicial officials to state legislators
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections for personal information, such as residential addresses and personal phone numbers, to include current and former members of the Minnesota legislature, similar to existing protections for judicial officials. It redefines "judicial official" to "covered official" to encompass legislators and clarifies what constitutes "personal information" and "publicly available information" for these individuals. Additionally, the bill establishes a legislative task force to study and recommend improvements to privacy protections for all Minnesota government officials, with a report due by January 15, 2027, and appropriates funds for its operation. The revisor of statutes is also instructed to update terminology and renumber relevant sections of law to reflect these changes.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data privacy; expanding personal information protections for judicial officials to state legislators; creating a legislative task force to study personal information protections for government officials; requiring a report; appropriating money; amending Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, sections 480.40, subdivision 1; 480.45, subdivision 2.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Bonnie Westlin (D)*, Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Author added Hemmingsen-Jaeger
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SCR1002 • Last Action 03/25/2026
Campaign finance; aggregate report; amount
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This concurrent resolution, if approved by voters, would amend Arizona law regarding campaign finance reports by increasing the threshold for itemizing individual contributions from in-state donors from $100 to $200 per election cycle, meaning campaigns would only need to provide detailed information about individual contributions exceeding $200, rather than $100, for in-state donors. The resolution also clarifies reporting requirements for various types of contributions and disbursements, including those from political action committees (PACs), political parties, corporations, labor organizations, and loans, and specifies when contributions and expenditures are considered to have been made for reporting purposes.
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Bill Summary: Campaign finance; aggregate report; amount
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• Introduced: 12/08/2025
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : John Kavanagh (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 02/23/2026
• Last Action: House FMAE Committee action: Do Pass, voting: (4-2-0-1-0-0)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0627 • Last Action 03/25/2026
Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding requirements for open public meetings to permit recording of such meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Idaho law to clarify that no person attending public meetings held by a governing body of a public agency shall be prevented or prohibited from recording such meetings, defining "recording" as capturing audio, video, or photographs electronically or digitally. While governing bodies can implement measures for the orderly conduct of meetings, they cannot prohibit or unreasonably restrict recording, nor can they remove or exclude individuals for recording. The bill also includes an emergency clause, stating it will take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO OPEN MEETINGS; AMENDING SECTION 74-203, IDAHO CODE, TO RE- VISE PROVISIONS REGARDING REQUIREMENTS FOR OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: General Orders Calendar (10:00:00 3/25/2026 House Floor)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4070 • Last Action 03/25/2026
Establishes "Privacy Protection Act"; concerns collection and sharing of certain personal information.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Privacy Protection Act," aims to safeguard personal information by establishing new rules for its collection and sharing by government entities and healthcare facilities. It prohibits government entities from requesting or collecting sensitive personal information like immigration status, citizenship, place of birth, social security number, or individual taxpayer identification number unless it's necessary for assessing eligibility for or administering public services, benefits, programs, or professional licenses, or as otherwise required by law, with exceptions for judicial orders, warrants, and federal law. Similarly, healthcare facilities are restricted from collecting this information unless it's essential for safe and appropriate care, billing, or program eligibility, while still allowing for complete medical records under HIPAA. The act also clarifies that certain collected information, particularly regarding immigration and taxpayer identification, will not be considered public records and cannot be disclosed except under specific legal requirements, judicial orders, warrants, or with explicit written consent from the individual, which must detail the information to be shared, the purpose, and acknowledge voluntariness. Furthermore, it restricts the sale, sharing, or transfer of automated license plate recognition (ALPR) information, with exceptions for sharing with other government entities or law enforcement for criminal investigations under strict conditions, and clarifies that vendors using ALPR systems must adhere to these restrictions. The bill also amends existing law concerning motor vehicle records to prevent their disclosure for immigration enforcement purposes without informed consent, a judicial warrant, or a valid judicial order, except where federal law dictates otherwise.
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Bill Summary: Establishes "Privacy Protection Act"; concerns collection and sharing of certain personal information.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 26 : Annette Quijano (D)*, Ellen Park (D)*, Lou Greenwald (D)*, Teresa Ruiz (D)*, Andrew Zwicker (D)*, John McKeon (D)*, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D), Balvir Singh (D), Rosaura Bagolie (D), Anthony Verrelli (D), Robert Karabinchak (D), Ed Rodriguez (D), Larry Wainstein (D), Gabriel Rodriguez (D), Ravi S. Bhalla (D), Eliana Pintor Marin (D), Roy Freiman (D), Shama Haider (D), Vincent Kearney (D), Brian Stack (D), Linda Greenstein (D), Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D), Angela Mcknight (D), Joe Cryan (D), Patrick Diegnan (D), Shirley Turner (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Approved P.L.2026, c.4.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5733 • Last Action 03/25/2026
FOIA-POLICE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to exempt certain law enforcement records from public disclosure, including video and audio recordings from in-car and body cameras that are shared between public bodies, and records related to the work of a law enforcement agency's threat assessment team. It also exempts criminal history records and personal information held by the Illinois State Police under the Criminal Identification Act. For public bodies receiving over 1,000 FOIA requests annually, the response time for requests involving video recordings is extended from 5 business days to 30 business days, and general response time extensions are increased from 5 to 10 business days. Additionally, the bill modifies fee structures for audio and video file requests, waiving the first 60 minutes of staff time for preparation and then charging based on the lowest-paid staff member's hourly wage, with a provision for victims or their families to be exempt from these fees. These changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that records containing law enforcement in-car camera and officer-worn body camera video and audio recordings that a public body received from another public body are exempt from inspection or copying under the Act. Provides that records concerning the work of the threat assessment team of a law enforcement agency are exempt from inspection or copying under the Act. Provides that criminal history records are exempt from inspection or copying under the Act. Provides that personal and private information submitted to and maintained by the Illinois State Police under the Criminal Identification Act is exempt from inspection or copying under the Act. Provides that, if a public body received more than 1,000 requests under the Act in the preceding year, then (i) the public body shall either comply with or deny a request for a record that includes video records within 30 business days (rather than 5 business days) after its receipt of the request and (ii) the time for response to any request the public body receives may be extended by not more than 10 business days (rather than 5 business days) from the original due date for specified reasons. Provides that, if a request is made for an audio or video file that is maintained in an electronic format, then the public body may not charge for the first 60 minutes of staff time to prepare the response, including conducting necessary research regarding the request, as well as locating, collecting, reviewing, and redacting any responsive audio or video files. Provides that, after the first 60 minutes of staff time, the public body may charge the preparation costs of the public body's lowest paid staff member employed in a position that performs the work to prepare the response (rather than charging specified dollar amounts for specified megabytes of data). Makes technical and other changes. Effective January 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 03/24/2026
• Added: 03/25/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/24/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H8119 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Prohibits warrantless purchases of personal data in connection with any criminal, civil, or other investigatory or enforcement activity.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to prevent law enforcement and other government entities from purchasing personal data from third parties, such as data brokers, without a warrant, thereby closing a loophole that allows them to bypass constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. It defines key terms like "governmental entity," "law enforcement entity," "personal data" (which includes a broad range of information like browsing history, location, and communications content), and "third party." The bill explicitly prohibits these entities from obtaining or receiving personal data from third parties in exchange for anything of value, or from other government agencies if that data was originally purchased. However, exceptions are made for situations where a warrant is obtained, there's an imminent danger, the data is publicly available, the individual voluntarily shared it with law enforcement in mind, or the data is being provided to or by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The bill also outlines enforcement mechanisms, allowing individuals to seek legal remedies and prohibiting the use of illegally obtained data in investigations or court proceedings, except as evidence of a violation of this chapter, and it will take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would prohibit warrantless searches of personal data in connection with any criminal, civil, or other investigatory or enforcement activity. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 02/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Brandon Potter (D)*, Jason Knight (D), Edith Ajello (D), David Morales (D), Matthew Dawson (D), Jose Batista (D), Carol McEntee (D), Leo Felix (D), David Place (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/27/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01410 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Requires entities that submit records to state agencies that are excepted from disclosure under FOIL to periodically re-apply for the exception.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires entities that submit records to state agencies, which are currently exempt from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), to periodically re-apply for that exemption. FOIL is a New York State law that grants the public the right to access government records. The bill amends existing law to stipulate that any request for an exemption must now specify the exact portions of the record to be exempted and state the reasons for the request, and importantly, must be for a defined period, not exceeding three years. Furthermore, before an exemption expires, the submitter must apply for a three-year extension, which the agency must review and either grant or deny, with the option for the submitter to appeal a denial. If an extension is not applied for, the exemption will automatically expire. The bill also clarifies that the submitter bears the burden of proving their entitlement to an exemption, while the agency must prove that a record falls within an exemption if they deny access. The term "agency" or "state agency" in this context refers to specific state departments, boards, bureaus, divisions, councils, offices, and public corporations where most members are appointed by the governor.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring entities that submit records to state agencies that are excepted from disclosure under the freedom of information law to periodically re-apply for the exception
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Linda Rosenthal (D)*, Harvey Epstein (D), Tony Simone (D), Phil Steck (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB2308 • Last Action 03/24/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to public records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, which governs public records, to specify that certain information related to the carrying out of a sentence of death is not confidential and is open to public inspection. Specifically, it clarifies that the identity of a supplier that provides drugs for lethal injection executions is public information, as are the qualifications and experience of individuals involved with that supplier. However, personal identifying information such as residential and office addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, and tax identification numbers of these individuals remain confidential. Additionally, records concerning payments made to individuals or suppliers for their involvement in executions are also made public, with specific reporting requirements for payments to contractors. This change aims to increase transparency regarding the execution process while still protecting the privacy of individuals involved.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, specifies that certain information related to the carrying out of a sentence of death is not confidential and is open to public inspection. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Mark Pody (R)*, Raumesh Akbari (D), Heidi Campbell (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Assigned to General Subcommittee of Senate State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB3016 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Relating To Privacy.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates Hawaii's data breach notification law by expanding the definition of "personal information" to better protect individuals from identity theft and other harms. It introduces new definitions for "identifier," which includes common ways to identify someone online like a name, username, phone number, or email address, and "specified data element," which covers a broader range of sensitive information such as Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, financial account details, biometric data, and health insurance numbers, though it excludes certain protected health information. The bill also clarifies that telecommunications carriers complying with specific federal regulations are considered compliant with Hawaii's data breach notification requirements, alongside financial institutions and healthcare providers already recognized as such. These changes are intended to make the law more comprehensive in addressing modern privacy risks, with an effective date of July 1, 3000.
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Bill Summary: Adds definitions of "identifier" and "specified data element" and amends the definition of "personal information" for the purposes of notifying affected persons of data and security breaches under the State's data breach notification law. Includes telecommunications carriers subject to and in compliance with certain federal provisions among the businesses deemed compliant with this law. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
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• Introduced: 01/24/2026
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Chris Lee (D)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Jarrett Keohokalole (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Karl Rhoads (D)*, Les Ihara (D), Glenn Wakai (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 03/23/2026
• Last Action: Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with Representative(s) Garcia voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Garrett, Quinlan excused (2).
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB2047 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Relating To The Aha Moku Advisory Committee.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the process for hiring and overseeing the Executive Director of the Aha Moku Advisory Committee, a group established to integrate traditional Hawaiian knowledge with modern natural resource management. The Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources will now be responsible for appointing, supervising, and managing the Executive Director, who will be exempt from standard civil service rules and must meet specific qualifications related to Native Hawaiian practices, community engagement, and administrative experience. The bill also mandates that any formal decisions or recommendations made by the Aha Moku Advisory Committee must occur at publicly noticed meetings where a quorum is present, and it revises the committee's reporting requirements to include more detailed information about their activities, finances, and recommendations. These changes aim to improve accountability and transparency within the Aha Moku program, ensuring it aligns with its original purpose and benefits the Native Hawaiian community.
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Bill Summary: Amends the process for the hiring of the Executive Director of the Aha Moku Advisory Committee. Specifies that the Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources is responsible for the appointment, oversight, and administrative authority over the Executive Director of the Aha Moku Advisory Committee. Requires any formal position, recommendation, or advisory action of the Aha Moku Advisory Committee to be adopted at a duly noticed public meeting at which a quorum is present. Amends the reporting requirements of the Aha Moku Advisory Committee. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
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• Introduced: 01/24/2026
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 26 : Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Cory Chun (D)*, Diamond Garcia (R)*, Tina Grandinetti (D)*, Daisy Hartsfield (D)*, Mark Hashem (D)*, Daniel Holt (D)*, Ikaika Hussey (D)*, Linda Ichiyama (D)*, Greggor Ilagan (D)*, Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Susan Keohokapu-Lee Loy (D)*, Darius Kila (D)*, Trish La Chica (D)*, Michael Lee (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Scot Matayoshi (D)*, Lauren Matsumoto (R)*, Dee Morikawa (D)*, Ikaika Olds (D)*, Julie Reyes Oda (R)*, Kanani Souza (R)*, Jenna Takenouchi (D)*, Shirley Ann Templo (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 03/07/2026
• Last Action: Senate Water, Land, and Agriculture Hearing (13:01:00 3/24/2026 Conference Room 224 & Videoconference)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2508 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Clarifying the scope of authority of the office of independent investigations to align with current operations and practices and to include public disclosure requirements and protect privacy.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies the authority of the Office of Independent Investigations (OII) to align with its current operations and practices, while also establishing public disclosure requirements and privacy protections. It expands the types of incidents the OII can investigate to include deaths that occur during or after any use of force by an officer, not just deadly force, if that force may have contributed to the death, and allows for the review of prior investigations if new evidence emerges. The bill also grants the OII access to information from responding fire departments and ambulance services, with specific protections for health care information, and clarifies when involved agencies must notify the OII of an incident, particularly concerning deaths resulting from use of force. Furthermore, it defines what information related to OII investigations is considered confidential and exempt from public disclosure, such as investigative records until a prosecutor decides on charges, and non-investigative records that implicate an individual's privacy.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to clarifying the scope of authority of the 2 office of independent investigations to align with current operations 3 and practices and to include public disclosure requirements and 4 protect privacy; amending RCW 43.102.030, 43.102.080, and 43.102.120; 5 reenacting and amending RCW 43.102.010 and 42.56.240; and adding a 6 new section to chapter 43.102 RCW. 7
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Debra Entenman (D)*, Shelley Kloba (D), Sharlett Mena (D), Chris Stearns (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Kristine Reeves (D), Steve Bergquist (D), Brian Burnett (R), Beth Doglio (D), Roger Goodman (D), Timm Ormsby (D), Natasha Hill (D), Gerry Pollet (D), Chipalo Street (D), Julia Reed (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 43
• Last Amended: 04/01/2026
• Last Action: Effective date 6/11/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1356 • Last Action 03/24/2026
State government; transferring certain duties from Office of Management and Enterprise Services to certain departments; modifying duties of Fleet Management Division. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill transfers certain duties and functions from the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) to other state departments, modifies the duties of the Fleet Management Division, and makes other changes related to state government operations. Specifically, the Criminal Justice Pay for Success Revolving Fund will now be managed by the Department of Corrections, and the Civil Service Division, along with its responsibilities for employee dispute resolution and whistleblower programs, is transferred from OMES to the Department of Labor. The Office of Veterans Placement, previously within OMES, will now be part of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill also renames the Fleet Management Division to the Fleet Oversight Division and shifts the responsibility for managing state agency motor vehicles from OMES to individual agencies, with the Fleet Oversight Division providing oversight and reporting. Additionally, the bill makes changes to the State Use Program, transferring its administration from OMES to the State Department of Rehabilitation Services, which will now oversee contracts for goods and services provided by qualified organizations employing people with significant disabilities. The Pay for Success Innovation Fund will be dissolved, with remaining monies returned to their original agencies. The bill also includes provisions for electronic reporting, clarifies definitions, and repeals certain existing statutes.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: state government - fund - contract - report - Civil Service Division - procedures - Pay for Success Innovation Fund - Office of Veterans Placement - promulgation of rules - Fleet Management Division - Fleet Oversight Manager - monies - authority - statement - duties - State Use Advisory Council - codification - recodification - repealers - effective date - emergency
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• Introduced: 12/30/2025
• Added: 12/31/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : David Bullard (R)*, Toni Hasenbeck (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/18/2026
• Last Action: Senate Floor SB1356 (3-24-26) (BULLARD) FA3 - SB1356 (3-24-26) (BULLARD) FA3
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #HB0325 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Government Records Classification Amendments
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies provisions related to the classification of government records, specifically by amending definitions and rules concerning public and private records. It clarifies what constitutes "classification" of records as public, private, controlled, protected, or exempt from disclosure. The bill also updates the definition of "initial contact report" by removing the requirement to include names of victims and instead focusing on the nature of initial actions taken by agencies. Furthermore, it revises the list of records considered public, notably removing documentation of compensation paid to contractors or private providers from the explicitly public list and instead including records documenting a governmental entity's receipt or expenditure of funds, such as financial accounts, budgets, vouchers, grants, financial reports, general ledgers, and compensation paid to contractors, vendors, or private providers. The bill also makes changes to what is considered private information, specifically adding that a taxpayer's receipt of certain property tax exemptions, deferrals, abatements, or relief is considered private. Finally, it sets an effective date for these changes.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill modifies provisions related to the classification of certain government records.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/23/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Lisa Shepherd (R)*, Keven Stratton (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 55
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: Governor Signed in Lieutenant Governor's office for filing
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00334 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Relates to publishing records of public interest by agencies and the legislature on their websites.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Public Officers Law to encourage government agencies and state legislative houses to proactively publish records of public interest on their websites. The legislation recognizes that technological advances have made it easier to disseminate public information and argues that government should leverage these capabilities to enhance transparency. Under the bill, agencies and legislative houses are directed to publish records that are already publicly available and deemed to be of substantial public interest, when they have the technological capability to do so. The bill includes protections to prevent the publication of records that would inappropriately invade personal privacy, and allows agencies to remove records from their websites when they are no longer of significant public interest or have reached the end of their legal retention period. The Committee on Open Government is tasked with creating regulations to implement these provisions, and the bill importantly does not limit agencies' existing abilities to publish records proactively. The legislation aims to make government more accessible and accountable by leveraging internet technologies to share public information more widely and efficiently.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to publishing records of public interest by agencies and the state legislature
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• Introduced: 12/24/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : James Skoufis (D)*, Andrew Gounardes (D), Brad Hoylman (D), Robert Jackson (D), Liz Krueger (D), Kevin Parker (D), Jose Serrano (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REPORTED AND COMMITTED TO FINANCE
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A09340 • Last Action 03/24/2026
Permits assessment of certain fees and costs upon wrongful denial of access to records under the freedom of information law when either the person has substantially prevailed, or if the agency failed to respond within the statutory time.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to expand the circumstances under which a court can assess attorney's fees and litigation costs against a government agency in Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) cases. Specifically, the bill allows courts to award reasonable attorney's fees and litigation costs when a requester substantially prevails in a FOIL request or when an agency fails to respond within the legally mandated timeframe. The bill also clarifies that courts must assess such fees if the agency had no reasonable basis for denying access to records. Additionally, the bill ensures that these provisions do not limit any other legal remedies available under civil practice law. The changes are intended to incentivize government agencies to be more transparent and responsive to public records requests by potentially imposing financial penalties for unjustified denials or delays. The bill will take effect on the first of September following its passage into law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to permitting assessment of certain fees and costs upon wrongful denial of access to records under the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 12/10/2025
• Added: 12/11/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Thomas Schiavoni (D)*, Robert Carroll (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 12/10/2025
• Last Action: reported referred to ways and means
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A07796 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Provides for accessing records under the freedom of information law including notification procedures and the release of names of natural persons and residential addresses.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to improve the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) procedures for accessing government records. The bill clarifies and expands regulations around record requests, including provisions that prohibit agencies from denying requests due to staffing limitations or voluminous nature, and allows agencies to engage outside professional services to help fulfill requests. The bill introduces new requirements for agencies when handling record requests, such as providing a written explanation if they cannot respond within 20 business days and specifying a date when a determination will be made. It also adds provisions regarding the handling of lists containing names of natural persons and residential addresses, requiring requestors to certify they will not use such lists for solicitation or fundraising purposes. Additionally, the bill mandates that state agencies with websites must provide online submission options for record requests and requires agencies to retrieve electronic records when doing so is more efficient than manual retrieval. The changes aim to make government records more accessible and streamline the FOIL request process by providing clearer guidelines and expectations for both requestors and government agencies.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to accessing records under the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 04/11/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 9 : Anna Kelles (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D), Jessica González-Rojas (D), Harvey Epstein (D), Yudelka Tapia (D), Steve Stern (D), Maryjane Shimsky (D), Alicia Hyndman (D), Nily Rozic (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 04/11/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3522 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Establishes "Privacy Protection Act"; concerns collection and sharing of certain personal information.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Privacy Protection Act," aims to safeguard personal information by restricting its collection and sharing by government entities and healthcare facilities. It prohibits government entities from collecting sensitive personal data like immigration status, citizenship, birth place, or social security numbers unless absolutely necessary for assessing eligibility for or administering public services, benefits, programs, or professional qualifications, or as mandated by state law, with exceptions for federal law, judicial orders, or warrants. Similarly, healthcare facilities are restricted from collecting this information unless needed for safe and appropriate care, billing, or program administration, or as required by law. The act also limits the sharing of automated license plate recognition information by government entities, generally prohibiting its sale or transfer except to other government entities or law enforcement under specific conditions, and clarifies that certain information collected under these provisions will not be considered public records, thus not subject to open records requests, with exceptions for legal requirements or explicit consent. Furthermore, it amends existing law concerning motor vehicle records to prevent their disclosure for federal immigration enforcement purposes without informed consent, a judicial warrant, or a valid judicial order, except where federal law dictates otherwise.
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Bill Summary: Establishes "Privacy Protection Act"; concerns collection and sharing of certain personal information.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Teresa Ruiz (D)*, Andrew Zwicker (D)*, John McKeon (D)*, Brian Stack (D), Linda Greenstein (D), Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D), Angela Mcknight (D), Joe Cryan (D), Patrick Diegnan (D), Shirley Turner (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Substituted by A4070 (1R)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #SB495 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Application of the public records and open meetings laws to charter schools and private schools participating in school choice programs.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands Wisconsin's public records and open meetings laws to explicitly include charter schools and private schools participating in school choice programs. Specifically, the bill amends existing statutes to define these schools as "authorities" and "governmental bodies" subject to transparency requirements, meaning they must follow the same public disclosure rules as other government entities. The bill includes an important exemption that protects individual student records from public disclosure, ensuring student privacy. To participate in school choice programs, private schools must now comply with public records and open meetings laws (Chapters 19 Subchapters II and V). This change means that these schools will need to make certain documents and meeting records available to the public, similar to traditional public schools, while still protecting sensitive student information. The bill aims to increase transparency and accountability for schools receiving public funding through school choice programs, giving parents and community members more insight into how these schools operate.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that charter schools and private schools participating in a parental choice program are subject to the state[s public records and open meetings laws. The bill includes an exemption from disclosure under the public records law for records concerning individual pupils that are maintained by such a school.
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• Introduced: 10/02/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 24 : Chris Larson (D)*, Tim Carpenter (D)*, Kristin Dassler-Alfheim (D)*, Sarah Keyeski (D)*, Brad Pfaff (D)*, Melissa Ratcliff (D)*, Kelda Roys (D)*, Jeff Smith (D)*, Mark Spreitzer (D)*, Angelina Cruz (D), Joe Sheehan (D), Margaret Arney (D), Mike Bare (D), Ryan Clancy (D), Joan Fitzgerald (D), Alex Joers (D), Darrin Madison (D), Lori Palmeri (D), Christian Phelps (D), Christine Sinicki (D), Lee Snodgrass (D), Ryan Spaude (D), Angela Stroud (D), Angelito Tenorio (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 10/02/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #AB634 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Release of audio and video footage following officer-involved deaths or other critical incidents involving a law enforcement officer. (FE)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that law enforcement agencies release certain data within 15 days of specific critical incidents, including officer-involved deaths, incidents causing great bodily harm or death in an officer's presence or custody, and incidents involving a death where an officer discharged a firearm. The term "data" is broadly defined to include body camera footage, vehicle camera recordings, emergency call audio, law enforcement video, and recordings from the public in the agency's possession. The bill requires agencies to make this data viewable and printable online at no charge, and the released information must include actions and events leading up to the incident. Agencies are allowed to redact or withhold data in specific circumstances, such as protecting privacy interests, obscuring disturbing images, protecting confidential informant identities, or preventing security risks. Before releasing the data, agencies must make reasonable attempts to notify affected individuals, including law enforcement employees who can be identified in the footage, victims, individuals under 18, and the district attorney's office. The bill also requires law enforcement agencies to retain unaltered versions of any modified data and ensures that employees are trained on the new data release requirements. This legislation aims to increase transparency in law enforcement interactions, particularly in incidents involving serious harm or death.
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Bill Summary: Current law provides what data from body camera footage a law enforcement agency must keep confidential in response to an open records request and provides when reports to the district attorney following an officer-involved death must be released to the public and what material may be deleted from those reports. This bill creates a requirement for law enforcement agencies to release data to the public if the data relate to certain incidents. The incidents for which data must be released are an officer-involved death, any occurrence that results in great bodily harm or death in the presence or custody of a law enforcement officer regardless of whether it was caused by the law enforcement officer, or an incident involving a death if the incident also involves a discharge of a firearm by a law enforcement officer regardless of the cause of death. The bill defines “data” to include footage from a law enforcement body camera or car camera, audio recordings of emergency phone calls, video captured by a law enforcement agency, and other video or recordings from the public that the law enforcement agency possesses. The bill provides that the law enforcement agency must release the data within 15 days of the incident. The bill exempts certain data from the requirement to be released. Under the bill, a law enforcement agency may redact, distort, edit, or withhold the exempted data in accordance with the exemption. Data that are exempted include data that are required to be kept confidential under law; data that are requested to be kept confidential by a crime victim; and data that are redacted or edited to protect privacy interests, to obscure nudity or disturbing images, or to protect the identity of confidential informants or other strategies for crime detection or investigation. Under the bill, if a law enforcement agency alters data as permitted by the bill, the agency must retain the unaltered data. Under the bill, a law enforcement agency that is subject to the bill’s requirement to release data must make reasonable attempts to notify others within 48 hours of the incident that creates the requirement to release the data. The persons who must be notified are an individual who is permitted to request that the data be altered, an employee of the law enforcement agency that can be identified in the data and any union representative of the employee, the office of the district attorney, and an individual who can be identified in the data if the individual is under 18 or a victim. The bill does not change current law regarding data from body cameras that are not covered by this bill. For further information see the state and local fiscal estimate, which will be printed as an appendix to this bill.
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• Introduced: 11/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 14 : Angelina Cruz (D)*, Shelia Stubbs (D)*, Margaret Arney (D)*, Ryan Clancy (D)*, Francesca Hong (D)*, Darrin Madison (D)*, Vincent Miresse (D)*, Supreme Moore Omokunde (D)*, Christian Phelps (D)*, Pricilla Prado (D)*, Sequanna Taylor (D)*, Angelito Tenorio (D)*, Kelda Roys (D), Chris Larson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/07/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #AB497 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Application of the public records and open meetings laws to charter schools and private schools participating in school choice programs.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands Wisconsin's public records and open meetings laws to explicitly include charter schools and private schools participating in school choice programs. Specifically, the bill amends existing statutes to define these schools as "authorities" subject to public records requirements and open meetings regulations. Under the new provisions, charter schools (whether or not they are considered an instrumentality of a school district) and private schools participating in programs like parental choice will now have to follow the same transparency rules as other government entities. The bill includes an important exemption that protects individual student records from public disclosure, ensuring student privacy is maintained. Additionally, the bill requires these schools to comply with specific chapters of Wisconsin's public records law (Chapters 19, Subchapters II and V) as a condition of participating in school choice programs. This change aims to increase accountability and transparency for schools receiving public funding while still safeguarding sensitive student information.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that charter schools and private schools participating in a parental choice program are subject to the state[s public records and open meetings laws. The bill includes an exemption from disclosure under the public records law for records concerning individual pupils that are maintained by such a school.
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• Introduced: 10/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 24 : Angelina Cruz (D)*, Joe Sheehan (D)*, Margaret Arney (D)*, Mike Bare (D)*, Ryan Clancy (D)*, Joan Fitzgerald (D)*, Alex Joers (D)*, Darrin Madison (D)*, Lori Palmeri (D)*, Christian Phelps (D)*, Christine Sinicki (D)*, Lee Snodgrass (D)*, Ryan Spaude (D)*, Angela Stroud (D)*, Angelito Tenorio (D)*, Chris Larson (D), Tim Carpenter (D), Kristin Dassler-Alfheim (D), Sarah Keyeski (D), Brad Pfaff (D), Melissa Ratcliff (D), Kelda Roys (D), Jeff Smith (D), Mark Spreitzer (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 10/09/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #AB487 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Meeting in closed session to consider information technology security issues.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows specific government entities in Wisconsin, including the State Investment Board, Ethics Commission, Elections Commission, Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology, and Joint Legislative Audit Committee, to hold closed sessions to discuss information technology (IT) security issues. Currently, government bodies are generally required to meet in open sessions that are accessible to the public, but this bill creates an exception for sensitive IT security matters. The bill prohibits public access to records about these IT security discussions, though the committees can share these records with each other in closed sessions. Additionally, the bill requires these committees to periodically publish summaries of the IT security issues they discuss, with the important caveat that these summaries must be carefully edited to protect confidential, proprietary, and sensitive information. This approach aims to balance the need for transparency with the critical requirement of protecting potentially vulnerable information technology systems from potential security risks by preventing the public disclosure of specific technical details that could be exploited.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, a governmental body is generally required to meet in open session. Open session is a meeting that is held in a place reasonably accessible to members of the public and open to all citizens at all times. This bill allows the following entities to go into closed session for the purpose of considering information technology security issues affecting information technology systems over which the entities have jurisdiction or exercise responsibility: 1. The State of Wisconsin Investment Board. 2. The Ethics Commission. 3. The Elections Commission. 4. The Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology. 5. The Joint Legislative Audit Committee. The bill also prohibits public access to records regarding information technology security issues considered in closed session, as provided under the bill, except that the bill allows the custodians of such records to submit the records to the Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology and the Joint Legislative Audit Committee for consideration in closed session. The bill also requires the committees to periodically prepare and publish a summaries of information technology security issues considered by the committees in closed session. The committees must make sufficient alterations in the summaries to prevent disclosing confidential, proprietary, and other sensitive information.
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• Introduced: 10/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Nate Gustafson (R)*, David Steffen (R)*, Jerry O'Connor (R)*, Barbara Dittrich (R)*, Jim Piwowarczyk (R)*, Paul Melotik (R)*, Dave Murphy (R)*, Julian Bradley (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 10/09/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB1873 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Relating To The Board Of Regents Of The University Of Hawaii.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes regarding the Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii, including exempting one six-hour strategic planning retreat per year from open meeting requirements if certain conditions are met, such as no decision-making occurring and materials being made public. It also mandates that all Board of Regents members complete governance training within twelve months of confirmation and every two years thereafter, covering topics like fiduciary duties and open meeting laws. The bill requires the Candidate Advisory Council, which vets candidates for the Board of Regents, to ensure nominees have specific subject matter experience and are not registered lobbyists who have recently lobbied on University of Hawaii matters. Additionally, financial disclosures of Board of Regents members will no longer be made public, and the Board, in collaboration with the Candidate Advisory Council, must submit annual reports to the Legislature.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Exempts one six-hour strategic planning retreat of the Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii per year from open meeting requirements if certain conditions are met. Requires members of the Board of Regents to complete a governance training and attend the training at least once every two years thereafter. Requires the Candidate Advisory Council to ensure that all candidates presented to the Governor for nomination have certain subject matter experience and are not registered lobbyists who have lobbied on matters pertaining to the University of Hawaii. Exempts the financial disclosures of the Board of Regents as mandated by the State Ethics Code from being made public. Requires the Board of Regents, in collaboration with the Candidate Advisory Council, to submit annual reports to the Legislature. Effective 7/1/3000. (SD1)
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Andrew Garrett (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Darius Kila (D)*, Christopher Muraoka (R)*, Ikaika Olds (D)*, Kanani Souza (R)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 03/23/2026
• Last Action: Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM/JDC.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #HR027 • Last Action 03/23/2026
States findings of the House of Representatives and repeals and replaces House Rule 45 to provide for an Ethics and House Policy Committee and amends House Rule 26 to remove a provision.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This resolution repeals and replaces Idaho House Rule 45 to establish an Ethics and House Policy Committee, which will handle ethics complaints internally and confidentially, with its proceedings not subject to public records requests unless the committee unanimously decides otherwise. This new rule outlines the committee's composition, requiring members to have served at least one full term and have no prior ethics violations, and details the process for submitting, investigating, and resolving ethics complaints, including requirements for written complaints, confidential delivery, respondent answers, and potential disciplinary actions that will ultimately be voted on by the full House. Additionally, this resolution amends House Rule 26, which governs committee meetings, by removing a provision that allowed executive sessions for preliminary investigations of ethics complaints under the now-repealed Rule 45, thereby reinforcing the confidentiality of the new ethics committee's proceedings.
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Bill Summary: A HOUSE RESOLUTION STATING FINDINGS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND REPEALING RULE 45 OF THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES; STATING FINDINGS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND PROVIDING FOR THE ADDITION OF A NEW RULE 45 TO THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES; AND STATING FINDINGS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND PROVIDING FOR THE AMENDMENT OF RULE 26 OF THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2026
• Added: 03/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Ways and Means Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: U.C. to be returned to Judiciary, Rules & Administration Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #AB171 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Privacy protections for judicial officers.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill enhances privacy protections for judicial officers by modifying the existing law (2023 Wisconsin Act 235) to provide more comprehensive safeguards for their personal information. The key changes include requiring written privacy requests to be notarized, defining a "designated officer" for receiving such requests, and clarifying what constitutes personal information. The bill specifies that a home address is only considered personal information if it is directly associated with the judicial officer's name, and it introduces a new term "secondary residence" to describe additional personal living spaces. The legislation adds protections for registers of deeds and land records websites, allows exceptions for government agencies to share information for legitimate purposes, and provides liability protections for government agencies and employees who inadvertently disclose information. The bill also modifies the definition of "publicly post or display" to exclude direct communications with judicial officers and their immediate family members. Importantly, the bill requires judicial officers to update their privacy requests within 90 days if their home address changes and allows for certain third-party access to protected documents under specific circumstances, such as for title insurance companies or licensed attorneys. The bill aims to balance personal privacy concerns with the need for governmental transparency and functionality.
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Bill Summary: 2023 Wisconsin Act 235, effective April 1, 2025, established certain privacy protections for judicial officers upon submission of a written request. A Xwritten request,Y under Act 235, is a written notice signed by a judicial officer or a representative of the judicial officer[s employer requesting a government agency, business, association, or other person to refrain from publicly posting or displaying publicly available content that includes the personal information of the judicial officer or the judicial officer[s immediate family. The bill modifies the definition of a Xwritten requestY to include a requirement for notarization. Under the bill, a Xwritten requestY means a notarized written notice signed by a judicial officer or a representative of the judicial officer[s employer completed and filed under the procedures established by Act 235 and amended under the bill. The bill adds a requirement that a judicial officer describe with reasonable particularity in a written request the records the judicial officer believes to contain personal information. Act 235 provides that a written request is valid if the judicial officer sends the request to the director of state courts and the director of state courts has a policy and procedure for filing the requests, or if the judicial officer sends the request directly to a government agency, person, data broker, business, or association. The bill modifies the latter option, specifying that the judicial officer must send the request directly to the designated officer of a government agency. The bill defines a Xdesignated officerY to mean the officer or employee of a government agency, the register of deeds, or a provider of a land records website designated in writing to the director of state courts, or, in the absence of a written designation, the highest ranking officer or employee for any of these entities. The bill also changes a requirement that the director of state courts must, each quarter, provide to the appropriate officer with ultimate supervisory authority for a government agency a list of judicial officers who have submitted a written request for privacy protections to instead require that the director of state courts provide the designated officer for a government agency with such a list. The bill provides that a home address constitutes personal information as defined in the bill only if it is directly associated with or displayed with the judicial officer[s name. The bill requires a judicial officer to update a written request within 90 days of the date any home address identified in the request ceases to be a home address for any reason. The bill also defines a secondary residence for purposes of the bill to mean a residence for personal use that is not a person[s permanent residence but where a person regularly resides. The bill modifies the definition of the phrase Xpublicly post or displayY established in Act 235 to expressly exclude direct communications with a judicial officer or any immediate family member of a judicial officer. The bill also adds an exception to the prohibition on a government agency publicly posting or displaying a judicial officer[s personal information subject to protections upon a written request, providing that a government agency may publicly post or display such information if required by law to do so. The bill also makes several changes to provisions of Act 235 relating to the register of deeds and land records websites, including adding clarification that a land records website does not include a website administered by the register of deeds. The bill adds to the list of exceptions under which the register of deeds may allow third-party access to a document otherwise subject to protection, including providing an exception to allow access by a title insurance company, an authorized agent of a title insurance company, or an attorney licensed to practice in the state. The bill adds liability protections for government agencies and employees of government agencies, providing that no government agency and no employee of a government agency is generally or personally liable or subject to any liability or accountability by reason of a violation of the privacy protections set forth under Act 235, unless the liability or accountability is the result of intentional or reckless actions. The bill provides that nothing in the privacy protections established under Act 235 and amended in the bill prohibits a government agency from sharing information with other government agencies for any legitimate governmental purpose.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Ron Tusler (R)*, Jerry O'Connor (R)*, Rick Gundrum (R)*, Jeff Mursau (R)*, William Penterman (R)*, Rob Kreibich (R)*, Dave Murphy (R)*, Christine Sinicki (D)*, Barbara Dittrich (R)*, Van Wanggaard (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #AB172 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Consumer data protection and providing a penalty. (FE)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive consumer data protection regulations for businesses in Wisconsin that process personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or 25,000 consumers with over 50% of their revenue from selling personal data. The bill provides consumers with several key rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being processed, access and correct their data, request deletion of their data, obtain a copy of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain types of data processing. Controllers (businesses that determine the purpose of data processing) must provide clear privacy notices, establish secure methods for consumers to submit requests, and respond to consumer requests within 45 days. The bill requires controllers to limit data collection to what is necessary, implement data security practices, and obtain consent before processing sensitive data. Processors (entities processing data on behalf of controllers) must adhere to specific contractual requirements and assist controllers in meeting their obligations. The bill mandates regular data protection assessments for certain processing activities and provides exemptions for specific types of data and processing purposes. Enforcement is exclusively handled by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Department of Justice, with potential civil forfeitures of up to $10,000 per violation. Importantly, the bill preempts local ordinances from regulating data collection, processing, or sales, and does not create a private right of action for consumers. The regulations will take effect on July 1, 2027, with some provisions becoming effective on July 1, 2031.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes requirements for controllers and processors of the personal data of consumers. The bill defines a XcontrollerY as a person that, alone or jointly with others, determines the purpose and means of processing personal data, and the bill applies to controllers that control or process the personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or that control or process the personal data of at least 25,000 consumers and derive over 50 percent of their gross revenue from the sale of personal data. Under the bill, Xpersonal dataY means any information that is linked or reasonably linkable to an individual except for publicly available information. The bill provides consumers with the following rights regarding their personal data: 1) to confirm whether a controller is processing the consumer[s personal data and to access the personal data; 2) to correct inaccuracies in the consumer[s personal data; 3) to require a controller to delete personal data provided by or about the consumer; 4) to obtain a copy of the personal data that the consumer previously provided to the controller; and 5) to opt out of the processing of the consumer[s personal data for targeted advertising; the sale of the consumer[s personal data; and certain forms of automated processing of the consumer[s personal data. These rights are subject to certain exceptions specified in the bill. Controllers may not discriminate against a consumer for exercising rights under the bill, including by charging different prices for goods or providing a different level of quality of goods or services. A controller must establish one or more secure and reliable means for consumers to submit a request to exercise their consumer rights under the bill. Such means must include a clear and conspicuous link on the controller[s website to a webpage that enables a consumer or an agent of a consumer to opt out of the targeted advertising or sale of the consumer[s personal data and, on or after July 1, 2028, an opt-out preference signal sent, with a consumer[s intent, by a platform, technology, or mechanism to the controller indicating the consumer[s intent to opt out of any processing of the consumer[s personal data for the purpose of targeted advertising or sale of the consumer[s personal data. The bill requires controllers to respond to consumers[ requests to invoke rights under the bill without undue delay. If a controller declines to take action regarding a consumer[s request, the controller must inform the consumer of its justification without undue delay. The bill also requires that information provided in response to a consumer[s request be provided free of charge once annually per consumer. Controllers must also establish processes for consumers to appeal a refusal to take action on a consumer[s request. Within 60 days of receiving an appeal, a controller must inform the consumer in writing of any action taken or not taken in response to the appeal, including a written explanation of the reasons for its decisions. If the appeal is denied, the controller must provide the consumer with a method through which the consumer can contact the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection to submit a complaint. Under the bill, a controller must provide consumers with a privacy notice that discloses the categories of personal data processed by the controller; the purpose of processing the personal data; the categories of third parties, if any, with whom the controller shares personal data; the categories of personal data that the controller shares with third parties; and information about how consumers may exercise their rights under the bill. Controllers may not collect or process personal data for purposes that are not relevant to or reasonably necessary for the purposes disclosed in the privacy notice. The bill[s requirements do not restrict a controller[s ability to collect, use, or retain data for conducting internal research, effectuating a product recall, identifying and repairing technical errors, or performing internal operations that are reasonably aligned with consumer expectations or reasonably anticipated on the basis of a consumer[s relationship with the controller. Persons that process personal data on behalf of a controller must adhere to a contract between the controller and the processor, and such contracts must satisfy certain requirements specified in the bill. The bill also requires controllers to conduct data protection assessments related to certain activities, including processing personal data for targeted advertising, selling personal data, processing personal data for profiling purposes, and processing sensitive data, as defined in the bill. DATCP may request that a controller disclose a data protection assessment that is relevant to an investigation being conducted by DATCP. DATCP and the Department of Justice have exclusive authority to enforce violations of the bill[s requirements. A controller or processor that violates the bill[s requirements is subject to a forfeiture of up to $10,000 per violation, and DATCP or DOJ may recover reasonable investigation and litigation expenses incurred. During the time between the bill[s effective date and July 1, 2031, before bringing an action to enforce the bill[s requirements, DATCP or DOJ must first provide a controller or processor with a written notice identifying the violations. If within 30 days of receiving the notice the controller or processor cures the violation and provides DATCP or DOJ with an express written statement that the violation is cured and that no such further violations will occur, then DATCP or DOJ may not bring an action against the controller or processor. The bill also prohibits cities, villages, towns, and counties from enacting or enforcing ordinances that regulate the collection, processing, or sale of personal data. For further information see the state fiscal estimate, which will be printed as an appendix to this bill.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 32 : Shannon Zimmerman (R)*, Shae Sortwell (R)*, Scott Allen (R)*, David Armstrong (R)*, Elijah Behnke (R)*, Barbara Dittrich (R)*, Cindi Duchow (R)*, Joy Goeben (R)*, Nate Gustafson (R)*, Dan Knodl (R)*, Rob Kreibich (R)*, Scott Krug (R)*, Anthony Kurtz (R)*, Dave Maxey (R)*, Paul Melotik (R)*, Dave Murphy (R)*, Jeff Mursau (R)*, Amanda Nedweski (R)*, Jerry O'Connor (R)*, William Penterman (R)*, Jim Piwowarczyk (R)*, Treig Pronschinske (R)*, Pat Snyder (R)*, David Steffen (R)*, Paul Tittl (R)*, Ron Tusler (R)*, Robert Wittke (R)*, Clint Moses (R)*, Romaine Quinn (R), Steve Nass (R), Kelda Roys (D), Howard Marklein (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #SB166 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Consumer data protection and providing a penalty. (FE)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive consumer data protection requirements for businesses that process personal data in Wisconsin. The bill applies to controllers (entities that determine the purpose and means of processing personal data) that handle data for at least 100,000 consumers or at least 25,000 consumers while deriving over 50% of their revenue from selling personal data. Consumers are granted several key rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being processed, access and correct their data, request deletion of their data, obtain a copy of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain automated processing. Controllers must provide clear, accessible privacy notices, establish secure methods for consumers to submit requests, and cannot discriminate against consumers who exercise their rights. The bill requires controllers to limit data collection to what is necessary, obtain consent for sensitive data processing, and implement reasonable data security practices. Enforcement is exclusively handled by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection and the Department of Justice, with potential fines up to $10,000 per violation. The bill also preempts local governments from creating their own data protection ordinances and includes various exemptions for certain types of organizations and data, such as healthcare entities, financial institutions, and nonprofits. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2027, with some provisions becoming effective on July 1, 2031.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes requirements for controllers and processors of the personal data of consumers. The bill defines a XcontrollerY as a person that, alone or jointly with others, determines the purpose and means of processing personal data, and the bill applies to controllers that control or process the personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or that control or process the personal data of at least 25,000 consumers and derive over 50 percent of their gross revenue from the sale of personal data. Under the bill, Xpersonal dataY means any information that is linked or reasonably linkable to an individual except for publicly available information. The bill provides consumers with the following rights regarding their personal data: 1) to confirm whether a controller is processing the consumer[s personal data and to access the personal data; 2) to correct inaccuracies in the consumer[s personal data; 3) to require a controller to delete personal data provided by or about the consumer; 4) to obtain a copy of the personal data that the consumer previously provided to the controller; and 5) to opt out of the processing of the consumer[s personal data for targeted advertising; the sale of the consumer[s personal data; and certain forms of automated processing of the consumer[s personal data. These LRB-2468/1 MDE:cdc&emw 2025 - 2026 Legislature SENATE BILL 166 rights are subject to certain exceptions specified in the bill. Controllers may not discriminate against a consumer for exercising rights under the bill, including by charging different prices for goods or providing a different level of quality of goods or services. A controller must establish one or more secure and reliable means for consumers to submit a request to exercise their consumer rights under the bill. Such means must include a clear and conspicuous link on the controller[s website to a webpage that enables a consumer or an agent of a consumer to opt out of the targeted advertising or sale of the consumer[s personal data and, on or after July 1, 2028, an opt-out preference signal sent, with a consumer[s intent, by a platform, technology, or mechanism to the controller indicating the consumer[s intent to opt out of any processing of the consumer[s personal data for the purpose of targeted advertising or sale of the consumer[s personal data. The bill requires controllers to respond to consumers[ requests to invoke rights under the bill without undue delay. If a controller declines to take action regarding a consumer[s request, the controller must inform the consumer of its justification without undue delay. The bill also requires that information provided in response to a consumer[s request be provided free of charge once annually per consumer. Controllers must also establish processes for consumers to appeal a refusal to take action on a consumer[s request. Within 60 days of receiving an appeal, a controller must inform the consumer in writing of any action taken or not taken in response to the appeal, including a written explanation of the reasons for its decisions. If the appeal is denied, the controller must provide the consumer with a method through which the consumer can contact the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection to submit a complaint. Under the bill, a controller must provide consumers with a privacy notice that discloses the categories of personal data processed by the controller; the purpose of processing the personal data; the categories of third parties, if any, with whom the controller shares personal data; the categories of personal data that the controller shares with third parties; and information about how consumers may exercise their rights under the bill. Controllers may not collect or process personal data for purposes that are not relevant to or reasonably necessary for the purposes disclosed in the privacy notice. The bill[s requirements do not restrict a controller[s ability to collect, use, or retain data for conducting internal research, effectuating a product recall, identifying and repairing technical errors, or performing internal operations that are reasonably aligned with consumer expectations or reasonably anticipated on the basis of a consumer[s relationship with the controller. Persons that process personal data on behalf of a controller must adhere to a contract between the controller and the processor, and such contracts must satisfy certain requirements specified in the bill. The bill also requires controllers to conduct data protection assessments related to certain activities, including processing personal data for targeted advertising, selling personal data, processing personal data for profiling purposes, and processing sensitive data, as defined in LRB-2468/1 MDE:cdc&emw 2025 - 2026 Legislature SENATE BILL 166 the bill. DATCP may request that a controller disclose a data protection assessment that is relevant to an investigation being conducted by DATCP. DATCP and the Department of Justice have exclusive authority to enforce violations of the bill[s requirements. A controller or processor that violates the bill[s requirements is subject to a forfeiture of up to $10,000 per violation, and DATCP or DOJ may recover reasonable investigation and litigation expenses incurred. During the time between the bill[s effective date and July 1, 2031, before bringing an action to enforce the bill[s requirements, DATCP or DOJ must first provide a controller or processor with a written notice identifying the violations. If within 30 days of receiving the notice the controller or processor cures the violation and provides DATCP or DOJ with an express written statement that the violation is cured and that no such further violations will occur, then DATCP or DOJ may not bring an action against the controller or processor. The bill also prohibits cities, villages, towns, and counties from enacting or enforcing ordinances that regulate the collection, processing, or sale of personal data. For further information see the state fiscal estimate, which will be printed as an appendix to this bill.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 03/27/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 32 : Romaine Quinn (R)*, Steve Nass (R)*, Kelda Roys (D)*, Howard Marklein (R)*, Shannon Zimmerman (R), Shae Sortwell (R), Scott Allen (R), David Armstrong (R), Elijah Behnke (R), Barbara Dittrich (R), Cindi Duchow (R), Joy Goeben (R), Nate Gustafson (R), Dan Knodl (R), Rob Kreibich (R), Scott Krug (R), Anthony Kurtz (R), Dave Maxey (R), Paul Melotik (R), Dave Murphy (R), Jeff Mursau (R), Amanda Nedweski (R), Jerry O'Connor (R), William Penterman (R), Jim Piwowarczyk (R), Treig Pronschinske (R), Pat Snyder (R), David Steffen (R), Paul Tittl (R), Ron Tusler (R), Robert Wittke (R), Clint Moses (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 03/27/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #SB299 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Requiring the supreme court nominating commission to release certain records under the Kansas open records act.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Kansas law to require the Supreme Court Nominating Commission, which is responsible for recommending candidates for the state's Supreme Court, to make most of its records public under the Kansas Open Records Act, a law that generally grants the public access to government records. Specifically, the bill mandates that all records of the commission, including the names and cities of residence of individuals nominated for the commission or its chairperson, must be disclosed. However, it carves out an exception, allowing the commission to keep confidential sensitive financial information or background check details of applicants or nominees for judicial office. The bill also clarifies that no rule adopted by the commission or the Kansas Supreme Court can prevent the disclosure of these records, overriding any previous discretion the commission might have had to withhold them under other exceptions to public disclosure.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning courts; relating to the supreme court nominating commission; requiring certain records of the commission to be released under the open records act; amending K.S.A. 20-123 and repealing the existing section.
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• Introduced: 04/10/2025
• Added: 04/11/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Federal and State Affairs
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 03/17/2026
• Last Action: Senate Approved by Governor on Friday, March 20, 2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #AB1215 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Management and preservation of records and correspondence of members of the legislature. (FE)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill removes an existing exclusion that prevents the records and correspondence of members of the legislature from being considered "public records" for the purpose of managing and preserving them, meaning these legislative records will now be subject to the same retention schedules and oversight by the Public Records Board as other state public records.
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Bill Summary: Currently, the Public Records Board supervises the state’s public records management and preservation programs and may set retention schedules for public records. However, the records and correspondence of any member of the legislature are excluded from the definition of “public records” for public records retention purposes. This bill eliminates that exclusion. For further information see the state fiscal estimate, which will be printed as an appendix to this bill.
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• Introduced: 03/19/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Clint Anderson (D)*, Christine Sinicki (D)*, Supreme Moore Omokunde (D)*, Mike Bare (D)*, Vincent Miresse (D)*, Brienne Brown (D)*, Ryan Clancy (D)*, Amaad Rivera-Wagner (D)*, Chris Larson (D), Mark Spreitzer (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/19/2026
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #SB1159 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Management and preservation of records and correspondence of members of the legislature. (FE)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill removes an existing exclusion that prevents the records and correspondence of members of the legislature from being considered "public records" for the purpose of managing and preserving them, meaning these legislative records will now be subject to the same retention schedules and oversight by the Public Records Board as other state public records.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Currently, the Public Records Board supervises the state’s public records management and preservation programs and may set retention schedules for public records. However, the records and correspondence of any member of the legislature are excluded from the definition of “public records” for public records retention purposes. This bill eliminates that exclusion. For further information see the state fiscal estimate, which will be printed as an appendix to this bill.
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• Introduced: 03/26/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Chris Larson (D)*, Mark Spreitzer (D)*, Clint Anderson (D), Christine Sinicki (D), Supreme Moore Omokunde (D), Mike Bare (D), Vincent Miresse (D), Brienne Brown (D), Ryan Clancy (D), Amaad Rivera-Wagner (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/19/2026
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #SB633 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Meeting in closed session to consider information technology security issues.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows specific governmental bodies in Wisconsin, including the State Investment Board, Ethics Commission, Elections Commission, Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology, and Joint Legislative Audit Committee, to meet in closed session to discuss information technology (IT) security issues. Currently, governmental bodies are typically required to meet in open sessions accessible to the public, but this bill creates an exception for sensitive IT security discussions. The bill prohibits public access to records about these closed-session IT security discussions, with a key caveat that these records can be shared with the Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology and the Joint Legislative Audit Committee for further review. Additionally, the bill mandates that these committees periodically prepare and publish summaries of the IT security issues discussed, with the requirement that they modify the summaries sufficiently to protect confidential, proprietary, and other sensitive information. The changes are designed to allow government entities to discuss potentially vulnerable cybersecurity matters without risking exposure of critical security details that could potentially compromise their information systems.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, a governmental body is generally required to meet in open session. Open session is a meeting that is held in a place reasonably accessible to members of the public and open to all citizens at all times. This bill allows the following entities to go into closed session for the purpose of considering information technology security issues affecting information technology systems over which the entities have jurisdiction or exercise responsibility: 1. The State of Wisconsin Investment Board. 2. The Ethics Commission. 3. The Elections Commission. 4. The Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology. 5. The Joint Legislative Audit Committee. The bill also prohibits public access to records regarding information technology security issues considered in closed session, as provided under the bill, except that the bill allows the custodians of such records to submit the records to the Joint Committee on Information Policy and Technology and the Joint Legislative Audit Committee for consideration in closed session. The bill also LRB-4704/1 JK:skw 2025 - 2026 Legislature SENATE BILL 633 requires the committees to periodically prepare and publish a summaries of information technology security issues considered by the committees in closed session. The committees must make sufficient alterations in the summaries to prevent disclosing confidential, proprietary, and other sensitive information.
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• Introduced: 11/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Julian Bradley (R)*, Nate Gustafson (R), Barbara Dittrich (R), Paul Melotik (R), Dave Murphy (R), Jerry O'Connor (R), Jim Piwowarczyk (R), David Steffen (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 11/14/2025
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #AB1161 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Online services accessed by minors, minors’ personal data, and granting rule-making authority.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new regulations for businesses that provide online services to minors, defining a "covered business" as one operating in the state, earning most revenue from online services, likely accessed by individuals under 18, collecting personal data, and controlling how that data is processed. It prohibits these businesses from collecting, selling, sharing, or retaining unnecessary personal data from minors, using previously collected data for new purposes, or allowing monitoring or tracking of minors without a conspicuous signal. The bill also restricts using minors' data for media recommendations, prohibits late-night push notifications, and mandates a minimum duty of care to prevent emotional distress, compulsive use, or discrimination against minors. Furthermore, it requires default privacy settings to be set to the highest level, prohibits easy ways to lower privacy settings, and mandates tools for minors to request account deletion, with all these provisions taking effect on January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: This bill creates requirements and restrictions related to data collection and use and product design for certain businesses that provide online services to minors. The bill defines a “covered business” as a business that 1) conducts business in this state; 2) generates a majority of its annual revenue from online services; 3) provides online services, products, or features that are reasonably likely to be accessed by an individual who is less than 18 years of age (minor); 4) collects consumers’ personal data or has consumers’ personal data collected on its behalf; and 5) alone or jointly with others determines the purposes and means of the processing of consumers’ personal data. With exceptions, a “consumer” is an individual who is a resident of this state, and a “covered minor” is a consumer who a covered business knows is a minor or labels as a minor in accordance with rules promulgated by the Department of Justice (discussed below). With exceptions, “personal data” is any information that is linked or reasonably linkable to an identified or identifiable individual or a device of such an individual or of a member of the individual’s household. “Processing” means any operation performed on personal data, including its collection, use, storage, disclosure, analysis, or other handling. With exceptions, an “online service, product, or feature” is a digital product that is accessible to the public by means of the Internet, including through a website or mobile application. Under the bill, a covered business generally may not 1) collect, sell, share, or retain any personal data of a covered minor that is not necessary to provide an online service, product, or feature with which the covered minor is actively and knowingly engaged; 2) use previously collected personal data of a covered minor for any purpose other than a purpose for which the personal data was collected; 3) permit any individual, including a parent, to monitor the online activity of a covered minor or to track the location of the covered minor without providing a conspicuous signal to the covered minor when the covered minor is being monitored or tracked; 4) with exceptions, use the personal data of a covered minor to select, recommend, or prioritize media for the covered minor; or 5) send push notifications to a covered minor between midnight and 6 a.m. Also under the bill, a covered business that processes a covered minor’s personal data owes a minimum duty of care to the covered minor that is not satisfied unless its use of the covered minor’s personal data and the design of its online service, product, or feature will not result in 1) reasonably foreseeable emotional distress to the covered minor; 2) reasonably foreseeable compulsive use of the online service, product, or feature by the covered minor; or 3) discrimination against the covered minor based on race, ethnicity, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, or national origin. The bill defines “age assurance” as methods used to determine, estimate, or communicate the age or age range of an online user. A “processor” is a person who processes personal data on behalf of a covered business or another processor. The bill imposes the following requirements on covered businesses and processors during the process of conducting age assurance: personal data of a user that is strictly necessary for age assurance; 2) upon determining whether a user is a covered minor, they must immediately delete any personal data about the user that they collected for age assurance, except the determination of the user’s age range; 3) they may not use any personal data about a user that they collected for age assurance for any purpose other than age assurance; 4) they may not combine the personal data about a user that they collected for age assurance with any other personal data about the user, except with respect to the determination of the user’s age range; 5) they may not disclose the personal data about a user that they collected for age assurance to a third party that is not a processor; and 6) they must implement a review procedure to allow users to appeal their age determination. The bill requires a covered business to configure all default privacy settings provided to a covered minor to the highest level of privacy, including all of the following default settings on a social media platform: existence of the covered minor’s account, or media created or posted by the covered minor, to a known adult user unless the covered minor has allowed a specific known adult user to view the account or media or has chosen to make public the account or media; 2) not permitting a known adult user to comment or provide feedback on the covered minor’s media unless the covered minor has enabled this function; 3) not permitting direct messaging between the covered minor and a known adult user unless the covered minor chooses to allow direct messaging with a specific known adult user; 4) not displaying the covered minor’s location to other users unless the covered minor shares the covered minor’s location with a specific user; 5) not displaying the users connected to the covered minor unless the covered minor chooses to share the information; 6) disabling search engine indexing of the covered minor’s account profile; and 7) not sending push notifications to the covered minor. In addition, a covered business may not provide a covered minor with a single setting that makes all default privacy settings less protective at once. A covered business also may not request or prompt a covered minor to make privacy settings less protective unless the change is strictly necessary for the covered minor to access an online service, product, or feature that the covered minor has requested. The bill further requires a covered business to provide a prominent tool to allow a covered minor to request that the covered minor’s account on a social media platform be unpublished or deleted and to honor such a request no later than 15 days after receiving the request. The bill requires a covered business to prominently and clearly provide on its website or mobile application all of the following: 1) the covered business’s terms of service, privacy policies and information, and community standards; 2) for each algorithmic recommendation system used, its purpose and specified information about its inputs, including how each input uses the personal data of covered minors and influences recommendations; and 3) specified information about each feature of a service that uses the personal data of covered minors. The bill requires DOJ to promulgate rules with respect to certain matters, including identifying commercially reasonable and technically feasible methods for covered businesses and processors to determine if a user is a covered minor and providing privacy protections for age assurance data. The bill specifies that a covered business or processor that violates the bill’s provisions or rules promulgated under the bill commits an unfair trade practice. DOJ may investigate an alleged violation and may commence an action for a temporary or permanent injunction.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 03/13/2026
• Added: 03/14/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 24 : Alex Joers (D)*, Jill Billings (D)*, Renuka Mayadev (D)*, Deb Andraca (D)*, Ryan Clancy (D)*, Karen DeSanto (D)*, Ben DeSmidt (D)*, Jodene Emerson (D)*, Joan Fitzgerald (D)*, Russell Goodwin (D)*, Darrin Madison (D)*, Vincent Miresse (D)*, Greta Neubauer (D)*, Ann Roe (D)*, Christine Sinicki (D)*, Lee Snodgrass (D)*, Shelia Stubbs (D)*, Randy Udell (D)*, Robyn Vining (D)*, Jeff Smith (D), Dianne Hesselbein (D), Kelda Roys (D), Jamie Wall (D), Mark Spreitzer (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/13/2026
• Last Action: Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1860 • Last Action 03/23/2026
Confidential records; requiring certain victim photographs submitted to the Pardon and Parole Board be kept confidential; clemency; Open Records Act; clemency hearing packets; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new protections for victims and their families by requiring confidentiality of crime scene and autopsy photographs during clemency hearings before the Pardon and Parole Board. Specifically, the legislation mandates that parties submit two separate clemency hearing packets: one for public view that excludes sensitive photographs, and another for the Board and Governor that includes all materials, including autopsy and crime scene images depicting victims. The bill amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act to add crime scene and autopsy photographs submitted to the Pardon and Parole Board to the list of confidential records that are not accessible to the public. The Pardon and Parole Board is given the authority to seal any materials in the public packet that might infringe on a victim's privacy, as determined by a majority vote of the Board members. The Governor will receive the complete packet with all photographs, while the public packet will be redacted to protect victims' dignity. This legislation aims to balance the public's right to information with the need to protect victims and their families from potentially traumatizing visual evidence during clemency proceedings. The new law is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to prepare for implementation.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to confidential records; prescribing right of victims to confidentiality of certain crime scene and autopsy photographs; prohibiting public access to certain photographs submitted to the Pardon and Parole Board; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 116, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 24A.5), which relates to the Open Records Act; adding certain victim photographs to list of confidential records; prohibiting certain victim photographs submitted to the Board from being presented to the public; requiring parties to submit two separate clemency hearing packets to the Board; clarifying contents for each packet; allowing Board to seal certain records; clarifying which packet the Governor will receive; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Eric Roberts (R)*, Todd Gollihare (R)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Senate Floor HB1860 (3-23-26) (GOLLIHARE) FA2 - HB1860 (3-23-26) (GOLLIHARE) FA2
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB1147 • Last Action 03/20/2026
Public Service Commission – Administrative Operations and Personnel Matters (Public Service Commission Flexibility Act)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill declares the Public Service Commission's (PSC) authority as an essential government function, expands the duties of the Executive Secretary to include directing administrative affairs and approving expenses, and allows for the designation of a Deputy Executive Secretary. It also requires the PSC to submit its operating budget to the Department of Budget and Management for informational purposes, maintain business and accounting records according to generally accepted principles, and undergo an annual audit by an independent certified public accountant. Furthermore, the bill broadens the types of experts the PSC can hire, including financial, modeling, and climate experts, and establishes an independent personnel management system for PSC employees based on merit, with fair procedures for hiring, promotion, termination, and grievance resolution, while ensuring permanent employees retain their state employee status for transfers and benefits. Finally, the bill exempts the PSC from state and local taxation and specifies that it will take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Establishing that the exercise by the Public Service Commission of its authority is an essential government function; altering the duties of the Commission and the Executive Secretary of the Commission; providing for the designation of a certain employee as Deputy Executive Secretary of the Commission; requiring the Commission to submit certain information to the Department of Budget and Management each year, keep certain records, and submit to certain audits; etc.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 02/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Linda Foley (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn by Sponsor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB546 • Last Action 03/20/2026
Data privacy; establishing consumer rights; appeal process; privacy notice; data protection assessments; penalties; liability. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes consumer data privacy rights in Oklahoma, granting individuals the right to access, correct, delete, and obtain a portable copy of their personal data, and to opt out of targeted advertising, the sale of their data, and certain types of profiling. It requires businesses, referred to as "controllers," to obtain consent for processing sensitive data and to implement reasonable security measures. Controllers must also provide a clear privacy notice detailing their data processing practices and establish methods for consumers to submit requests, with a process for appealing denied requests. The Attorney General is granted exclusive enforcement authority, with a 30-day notice period for alleged violations to allow for correction, and penalties of up to $7,500 per violation. The bill defines terms like "personal data," "sensitive data," and "dark patterns" (user interfaces designed to manipulate choices), and includes exemptions for certain entities and types of data, such as protected health information and data used in research. The law will take effect on January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 546 By: Howard of the Senate and West (Josh), Archer, Pae, Provenzano, Waldron, and Alonso-Sandoval of the House An Act relating to data privacy; defining terms; establishing consumer rights for processing of certain data; requiring compliance with certain consumer requests; establishing procedures for response to certain consumer requests; requiring establishment of certain appeal process; prohibiting certain contractual provisions; requiring establishment of methods for submission of certain consumer requests; establishing duties of controller; prohibiting controller from taking certain actions; providing exceptions; requiring privacy notice; specifying required contents in privacy notice; requiring certain disclosures; establishing duties of processor; establishing requirements for certain contracts; authorizing use of independent assessor under certain circumstances; requiring data protection assessments under certain circumstances; establishing requirements for data protection assessments; requiring availability of data protection assessments to Attorney General upon request; providing for confidentiality of data protection assessments; specifying applicability of requirements for data protection assessments; requiring controller in possession of certain data to take certain actions; providing enforcement authority to the Attorney General; requiring posting of certain information on Attorney General website; requiring notice of certain action; requiring certain period to cure violations before bringing certain action; providing penalties for certain violations; authorizing award of certain fees and expenses; providing for applicability of provisions; providing exceptions to applicability of provisions; exempting certain information; providing for compliance under certain circumstances; providing construing provisions; authorizing processing of personal data for certain purposes; prohibiting violation of evidentiary privileges; clarifying certain liability; limiting authorized purposes for processing of certain data; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Data privacy
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Brent Howard (R)*, Josh West (R)*, Daniel Pae (R), Melissa Provenzano (D), John Waldron (D), Nick Archer (R), Arturo Alonso-Sandoval (D)
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 43
• Last Amended: 03/17/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 03/20/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #HB0319 • Last Action 03/19/2026
Electronic Records Amendments
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies how county recorders handle electronic documents by establishing new procedures for "digital authentication," which is a method of verifying a person's identity and ensuring an electronic document hasn't been altered using tamper-evident technology. County recorders will now be required to comply with approval requirements before accepting these digitally authenticated records, which are defined as electronic documents that have been authenticated and meet specific standards. To accept these records, counties must submit a detailed proposal to the State Archives outlining their digital authentication system, security measures, verification procedures, and consultation with relevant stakeholders, and then obtain approval from the State Archivist. The State Archives, in turn, will establish technical standards and procedures for digital authentication systems, including security, preservation, and verification requirements, and will consult with the Division of Technology Services for technical expertise. This bill also clarifies the duties of the Division of Archives and Records Service and the Division of Technology Services in relation to digital authentication and sets an effective date of May 6, 2026.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill modifies provisions relating to county recording of documents and digital authentication.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Paul Cutler (R)*, Wayne Harper (R)
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 62
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: Governor Signed in Lieutenant Governor's office for filing
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AK bill #SB153 • Last Action 03/19/2026
Public Meetings: Exempt Muni Svc Area Bds
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Alaska Statute 44.62.310(d), which deals with exceptions to the state's Open Meetings Act, specifically focusing on municipal service area boards. Currently, these boards are exempt from open meeting requirements only when meeting solely to address administrative or managerial matters. The bill removes this specific language, which appears to broaden the exemption for municipal service area boards and potentially allow them more flexibility in conducting meetings outside of the Open Meetings Act's standard transparency requirements. Municipal service area boards are local government entities that typically manage specific services within a defined geographic area, such as water, sewer, or other community infrastructure. By removing the restrictive language about the nature of their meetings, the bill gives these boards more discretion in how they conduct their business without being bound by the typical open meeting regulations. The bill also includes a provision for immediate implementation upon passage, as specified in Alaska Statute 01.10.070(c).
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Bill Summary: An Act exempting municipal service area boards from the requirements of the Open Meetings Act; and providing for an effective date.
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• Introduced: 04/02/2025
• Added: 04/03/2025
• Session: 34th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Robert Yundt (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 04/02/2025
• Last Action: Senate Community & Regional Affairs Hearing (13:30:00 3/19/2026 Beltz 105 (tsbldg))
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #HB0450 • Last Action 03/19/2026
Data Privacy Amendments
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Utah laws concerning government data privacy and records management by introducing new provisions and modifying current ones. Key changes include requiring the redaction of phone numbers and street addresses from certain publicly disclosed government reports before they are posted online, and clarifying that this redacted information is not considered a public record. It also updates definitions and responsibilities related to data privacy, including the creation of a "chief privacy officer" and the duties of the Utah Privacy Commission and the Utah Office of Data Privacy. The bill also modifies requirements for governmental entities regarding data privacy programs, data breach notifications, and training for employees who handle personal data. Additionally, it adjusts the process for individuals to request amendments to their personal data held by government entities and clarifies the procedures for reporting and responding to data breaches. Finally, it renumbers and updates provisions related to private information for "at-risk government employees" and revises the role and appointment of the data privacy ombudsperson.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill amends the Government Data Privacy Act and the Government Records Access and Management Act.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/03/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 2 : David Shallenberger (R)*, Kirk Cullimore (R)
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 81
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: Governor Signed in Lieutenant Governor's office for filing
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A02573 • Last Action 03/19/2026
Requires state agencies to make available all public documents in a digital format on their website in a manner that allows such documents to be printed; provides that no document required by law to remain confidential shall be deemed a public document.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York state printing and public documents law by requiring all state agencies to make public documents available in a digital format on their websites in a way that allows easy printing. The bill specifically clarifies that any document legally mandated to remain confidential shall not be considered a public document. This means state agencies must proactively publish their public records online, ensuring transparency and accessibility for citizens while maintaining appropriate confidentiality for sensitive materials. The new requirement will take effect 90 days after the bill becomes law, giving state agencies time to update their website systems and document management practices to comply with the new regulation.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the New York state printing and public documents law, in relation to requiring state agencies to make available all public documents in a digital format on their website
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : John McDonald (D)*, Nily Rozic (D), Steve Otis (D), Nader Sayegh (D), Marianne Buttenschon (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO FINANCE
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR8014 • Last Action 03/19/2026
Online Privacy Act of 2026
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Online Privacy Act of 2026," aims to establish comprehensive individual rights regarding personal information privacy and set security requirements for businesses that handle such data. It proposes the creation of a new government agency, the Digital Privacy Agency (DPA), to oversee and enforce these provisions. Key individual rights include the ability to access, correct, delete, and port personal data, as well as the right to human review of automated decisions and individual autonomy in how their data is used, particularly for behavioral personalization. The bill also mandates that "covered entities" (businesses that collect and process personal information online) implement data minimization practices, secure data properly, and notify individuals and the DPA in case of data breaches or misuse. It explicitly prohibits certain practices like "dark patterns" (deceptive design elements in privacy notices) and discriminatory data processing. The DPA will be headed by a Director and will have broad powers to investigate, issue rules, and take enforcement actions, including civil penalties and private rights of action for individuals. The bill also includes provisions for state enforcement and clarifies its relationship with existing federal privacy laws, generally aiming to provide stronger protections without superseding existing, more protective laws.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To provide for individual rights relating to privacy of personal information, to establish privacy and security requirements for covered entities relating to personal information, and to establish an agency to be known as the Digital Privacy Agency to enforce such rights and requirements, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 03/20/2026
• Added: 04/15/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 1 : Zoe Lofgren (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 04/14/2026
• Last Action: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on the Judiciary, and Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5757 • Last Action 03/19/2026
Medical marihuana: caregivers; marihuana plants; decrease number that can be cultivated, and limit number of caregiver registrations per address. Amends secs. 3, 4 & 6 of 2008 IL 1 (MCL 333.26423 et seq.).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act to decrease the number of marihuana plants a registered primary caregiver can cultivate for a qualifying patient from 12 to 6, and it limits the number of caregiver registrations allowed per address to one, aiming to streamline regulations and potentially reduce the number of registered caregivers at a single location. The bill also clarifies that the "cannabis regulatory agency" is the official body overseeing these regulations, replacing the previous term "marijuana regulatory agency," and makes other minor technical changes to ensure consistency in terminology and legal references.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 2008 IL 1, entitled"Michigan Medical Marihuana Act,"by amending sections 3, 4, and 6 (MCL 333.26423, 333.26424, and 333.26426), section 3 as amended by 2021 PA 62, section 4 as amended by 2016 PA 283, and section 6 as amended by 2020 PA 400.
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• Introduced: 03/18/2026
• Added: 03/19/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 8 : Joe Aragona (R)*, Angela Rigas (R), Tim Kelly (R), Joey Andrews (D), Jay DeBoyer (R), Tom Kunse (R), Tullio Liberati (D), Pat Outman (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 03/18/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A10645 • Last Action 03/19/2026
Relates to the publication of information on public meetings; requires the office of information technology services to develop a mobile application and website to publish information on every public meeting held by a state or local public body; requires public bodies to report such meetings to the office of information technology services.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Office of Information Technology Services (OITS) to create a mobile application and website to publish details about every public meeting held by state or local public bodies, as defined by Article 7 of the Public Officers Law, which generally refers to governmental bodies that conduct public business. These public bodies will be mandated to report meeting information, including the date, time, location (with videoconferencing links), and a summary of the meeting's purpose, to OITS for publication on the new platform. This initiative aims to increase transparency and accessibility of information regarding government meetings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the state technology law and the public officers law, in relation to the publication of information on public meetings
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• Introduced: 03/19/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Jo Anne Simon (D)*, Maryjane Shimsky (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/19/2026
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF4575 • Last Action 03/18/2026
Generative artificial intelligence in official records usage prohibition provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Generative Artificial Intelligence in Official Records Usage Prohibition Provision, establishes new rules for how government entities in Minnesota can use artificial intelligence (AI) when creating official records. It defines "artificial intelligence" as technology that can learn from input to generate outputs like content or decisions, specifically including generative AI used for writing, but excluding simple dictation or caption generation. An "official record" is defined as any documented information created, received, or kept by a government entity that shows its official actions or functions. The core provision prohibits government entities from using AI to create official records or even drafts of them. The bill also mandates that any drafts of official records must be kept for the same duration as the final record. Enforcement of this prohibition is granted to the attorney general, and individuals can also file civil lawsuits seeking court orders to ensure compliance, with prevailing plaintiffs eligible for attorney fees. Before suing, individuals must provide the government entity with 90 days' written notice of the alleged violation, giving the entity a chance to fix the issue.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government records; prohibiting the use of generative artificial intelligence in official records; providing civil remedies and enforcement; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota Statutes, chapter 13E.
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• Introduced: 03/17/2026
• Added: 03/18/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Erin Maye Quade (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/17/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB2168 • Last Action 03/18/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to public records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, which governs public records, to specify that certain information related to the carrying out of a sentence of death is not confidential and is open to public inspection. Specifically, it clarifies that the identity of a supplier that provides drugs for lethal injection, along with their qualifications and experience, is public information, though their employees' personal addresses and identification numbers remain confidential. Additionally, records concerning payments made to individuals or suppliers for their involvement in executions are also to be made public, with specific reporting requirements for payments to contractors. This change aims to increase transparency regarding the execution process in Tennessee.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, specifies that certain information related to the carrying out of a sentence of death is not confidential and is open to public inspection. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Jody Barrett (R)*, Gabby Salinas (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Taken off notice for cal in s/c Public Service Subcommittee of State & Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #HB609 • Last Action 03/17/2026
Require public body to allow public comment before taking action
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 121.22 of the Ohio Revised Code to strengthen public meeting transparency requirements for public bodies. The bill requires public bodies to establish rules that allow for public commentary and testimony before taking formal action on any item, with the ability to set reasonable restrictions on the length and nature of such commentary. Specifically, the bill prohibits requiring individuals to register or obtain prior approval to speak, though public bodies may request a person's name and contact information before granting speaking permission. The legislation maintains the existing requirement that public meetings be open to the public and conducted with transparency, while providing clear guidelines for how public commentary should be handled. The bill also preserves existing exceptions for certain types of meetings and allows public bodies to set reasonable parameters around public input, such as time limits. If a public body violates these requirements, individuals can seek legal remedies, including potential injunctions and civil forfeitures. The overall intent is to ensure that citizens have a meaningful opportunity to provide input to public bodies before decisions are made.
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Bill Summary: To amend section 121.22 of the Revised Code to require a public body to allow for public commentary and testimony before taking formal action on any item.
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• Introduced: 11/25/2025
• Added: 11/26/2025
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : David Thomas (R)*, Meredith Craig (R)*, Sean Brennan (D), Chris Glassburn (D), Thomas Hall (R), Mark Johnson (R), Josh Williams (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 11/25/2025
• Last Action: House General Government D., Craig, 2nd Hearing, Proponent Testimony (16:15:00 3/17/2026 Room 114)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7004 • Last Action 03/17/2026
OGSR/Conviction Integrity Unit Reinvestigation Information
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida Statute 119.071 to remove a scheduled repeal date for an exemption that protects information gathered during reinvestigations by "conviction integrity units," which are special units within state attorney's offices tasked with reviewing claims of actual innocence. The exemption, which applies to information generated after a unit formally accepts a case for review, will now remain in effect indefinitely, rather than being set to expire on October 2, 2026, as previously planned under the Open Government Sunset Review Act, which mandates periodic legislative review of such exemptions.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 119.071, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for certain conviction integrity unit reinvestigation information; abrogating the scheduled repeal of the exemption; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/10/2025
• Added: 11/12/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Criminal Justice
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Ordered enrolled
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2638 • Last Action 03/17/2026
A bill for an act relating to public records, including employment separation information for certain government employees, contractors, or appointees.(Formerly HF 2388.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that certain information regarding the departure of government employees, contractors, or appointees is considered a public record, meaning it can be accessed by the public. Specifically, it mandates that the last date an individual worked for a government body, and any payments or benefits they received beyond their regular compensation for work performed up to that last day, must be disclosed. This applies regardless of how this information is documented, whether in written agreements or other arrangements, and aims to increase transparency in government employment separations.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, a person has the right to examine and copy a public record. Code section 22.7 provides a list of public records that must be kept confidential unless otherwise ordered by a court, by the lawful custodian of the records, or by another person duly authorized to release such information, including personal information in confidential personnel records of government bodies. However, Code section 22.7(11) provides that certain personal information in confidential personnel records is considered a public record. This bill further specifies that certain personal information in confidential personnel records regarding the separation of government employees, contractors, or appointees is a public record, regardless of whether the information is set forth in a written document, contract, agreement, or arrangement. Such information includes the last date of work and any moneys or benefits provided beyond compensation for work performed prior to the individual’s last day as an employee, contractor, or appointee for the government body.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 02/20/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Schultz, and Winckler. S.J. 587.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7014 • Last Action 03/17/2026
OGSR/Social Media Platform Investigations
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends the expiration date of exemptions from public records requirements for information gathered during investigations into social media platform activities by the Attorney General and the Department of Legal Affairs. Specifically, it amends two sections of Florida Statutes: Section 287.137, which deals with investigations by the Attorney General or law enforcement agencies, and Section 501.2041, which covers investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs or law enforcement agencies into violations by social media platforms. The exemption, which keeps certain information confidential during and after an investigation, including proprietary business information, trade secrets, and personal identifying information, was set to expire on October 2, 2026, but this bill pushes that repeal date to October 2, 2031, meaning these confidentiality provisions will remain in effect for an additional five years unless the legislature acts to repeal them sooner.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 287.137, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for certain information received in investigations by the Attorney General or a law enforcement agency into social media platform activities; extending the scheduled repeal date of the exemption; amending s. 501.2041, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for certain information received in investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs or a law enforcement agency into violations by certain social media platforms; extending the scheduled repeal date of the exemption; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/01/2025
• Added: 12/02/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Commerce and Tourism, Governmental Oversight and Accountability
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Ordered enrolled
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4931 • Last Action 03/17/2026
Civil rights: open meetings; remote meeting participation for licensing board meetings; allow. Amends sec. 3a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263a).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Michigan Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which public bodies can hold remote or electronic meetings. Specifically, the bill adds licensing boards to the list of public bodies that can meet electronically starting February 13, 2024, with some important restrictions. Licensing boards are defined as bodies responsible for determining qualifications or issuing credentials in occupations, such as those established under the public health code, occupational code, and skilled trades regulation act. However, members of licensing boards participating electronically are prohibited from voting on rule-processing issues. The bill maintains existing requirements for electronic meetings, including ensuring two-way communication, providing public notice at least 18 hours in advance on the body's website, and explaining how the public can participate. The legislation builds on previous provisions that allowed remote meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic and for specific circumstances like military duty, and continues to provide flexibility for certain types of public bodies to conduct meetings electronically while maintaining transparency and public access.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending section 3a (MCL 15.263a), as amended by 2023 PA 214.
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• Introduced: 09/11/2025
• Added: 09/12/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 5 : Karl Bohnak (R)*, Ken Borton (R), David Martin (R), Doug Wozniak (R), Bill Schuette (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 09/11/2025
• Last Action: Placed On Third Reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB554 • Last Action 03/16/2026
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to facilitate the interstate practice of social work by allowing licensed social workers to practice in other member states under a "Multistate License" and "Multistate Authorization to Practice," thereby improving public access to social work services and reducing duplicative licensing requirements. The compact establishes a "Compact Commission" to oversee its implementation and a "Data System" for sharing licensure and disciplinary information among member states, while preserving each state's authority to regulate social work practice within its borders and take disciplinary actions against licensees. The bill outlines the requirements for both states and individual social workers to participate in the compact, including educational qualifications, passing national exams, and adhering to the laws of the state where services are provided, and specifies procedures for handling adverse actions, reissuing licenses when a social worker changes their primary state of residence, and resolving disputes between member states.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 02/12/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 38 : Aerion Abney (D)*, Carol Hill-Evans (D), Arvind Venkat (D), Kristine Howard (D), José Giral (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Mike Schlossberg (D), Ben Waxman (D), Tim Brennan (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Tarik Khan (D), Ed Neilson (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Malcolm Kenyatta (D), Bob Freeman (D), Jenn O'Mara (D), Dan Frankel (D), Anthony Bellmon (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Justin Fleming (D), Danielle Otten (D), Dan Deasy (D), Roni Green (D), Mary Jo Daley (D), Gina Curry (D), Joanne Stehr (R), Nathan Davidson (D), Rick Krajewski (D), Tim Twardzik (R), Sean Dougherty (D), Chris Pielli (D), Bob Merski (D), Steve Samuelson (D), John Inglis (D), Dave Madsen (D), Abigail Salisbury (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Heather Boyd (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Re-referred to Appropriations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB571 • Last Action 03/16/2026
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Interstate Occupational Therapy Licensure Act, authorizes the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join an Interstate Compact designed to improve public access to occupational therapy services by allowing licensed occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to practice in multiple member states under a "Compact Privilege." The Governor is empowered to execute this compact, which establishes the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission to oversee its implementation and enforce its rules. The compact aims to enhance public safety by facilitating the exchange of licensure and investigative information between states, support military families by easing relocation burdens, and leverage telehealth for service delivery. Key provisions include defining terms like "Home State" (where a licensee primarily resides) and "Remote State" (where a licensee practices under the compact privilege), outlining the requirements for obtaining and maintaining a Compact Privilege, detailing procedures for adverse actions (disciplinary measures) taken against a licensee, and establishing the structure and powers of the Commission, including its rulemaking authority and dispute resolution mechanisms. The bill also specifies how the compact becomes operative, the duties of the State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure in implementing it, and the reimbursement of expenses for Pennsylvania's compact administrator.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 04/10/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Lisa Boscola (D)*, Greg Rothman (R), Kristin Phillips-Hill (R), Jay Costa (D), Judy Ward (R), Joseph Picozzi (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Re-referred to Appropriations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB6081 • Last Action 03/16/2026
Protecting Washingtonians from invasion of privacy, including the unauthorized disclosure of sex designation information and historic sex designation changes in official government records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect Washingtonians' privacy by preventing the unauthorized disclosure of sex designation information and past changes to that designation in official government records. It amends several existing laws to ensure that information related to sex designation changes on vital records, such as birth certificates, is sealed and not publicly accessible, and that driver's licenses and identicards issued after a sex designation change only reflect the current designation without indicating any prior changes. The bill also clarifies that supporting documentation for sex designation changes on vital records will be sealed and not subject to public inspection, and that state archives will not make this supporting documentation publicly available. Additionally, it strengthens protections for personal information in government records, particularly concerning sex designation, and ensures that such information is not disclosed without consent, except in specific circumstances like emergencies.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to protecting Washingtonians from invasion of 2 privacy, including the unauthorized disclosure of sex designation 3 information and historic sex designation changes in official 4 government records; amending RCW 46.20.091, 46.20.156, 46.20.157, 5 70.58A.500, 70.58A.510, 70.58A.520, 70.58A.530, and 70.58A.540; 6 reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.230; adding a new section to 7 chapter 46.20 RCW; and declaring an emergency. 8
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Jamie Pedersen (D)*, Marko Liias (D), Jessica Bateman (D), Manka Dhingra (D), Noel Frame (D), Bob Hasegawa (D), T'wina Nobles (D), Rebecca Saldaña (D), Derek Stanford (D), Javier Valdez (D), Claire Wilson (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 42
• Last Amended: 03/19/2026
• Last Action: Effective date 3/16/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB482 • Last Action 03/16/2026
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Interstate Occupational Therapy Licensure Act, authorizes the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join an Interstate Compact, which is a formal agreement between states. The primary goal of this Compact is to improve public access to occupational therapy services by allowing licensed occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants to practice in other member states without needing to obtain a separate license in each state. This is achieved through a "Compact Privilege," which is essentially a license granted by a "Remote State" (where the patient is located) to a practitioner licensed in their "Home State" (their primary residence). The bill outlines the definitions of key terms, the requirements for states to participate in the Compact, the process for obtaining and maintaining a Compact Privilege, and the responsibilities of the Occupational Therapy Compact Commission, a national administrative body that will oversee the Compact. It also details procedures for adverse actions, dispute resolution, and the establishment of rules. The Governor is authorized to execute the Compact, and the Secretary of the Commonwealth will publish notice once it becomes effective. The State Board of Occupational Therapy Education and Licensure will be responsible for implementing temporary regulations and processing Compact Privilege applications.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 25 : Brandon Markosek (D)*, Danilo Burgos (D), Bob Freeman (D), Pat Harkins (D), Christina Sappey (D), Kyle Donahue (D), José Giral (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Nancy Guenst (D), Arvind Venkat (D), Liz Hanbidge (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Tarik Khan (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Mary Jo Daley (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Dan Deasy (D), Roni Green (D), Maureen Madden (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Joseph Webster (D), Heather Boyd (D), Abigail Salisbury (D), Brian Munroe (D), Jill Cooper (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Re-referred to Appropriations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB80 • Last Action 03/16/2026
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact, a national agreement designed to improve public access to audiology and speech-language pathology services by allowing licensed professionals to practice in multiple member states under a "compact privilege." This means that if Pennsylvania joins, a licensed audiologist or speech-language pathologist in Pennsylvania who meets the compact's requirements can practice in other member states without needing a separate license in each one, and vice versa, as long as they maintain their home state license and adhere to the practice laws of the state where the patient is located. The compact establishes a commission to oversee its implementation, sets definitions for key terms like "home state" (where a licensee primarily resides) and "remote state" (another member state where practice is authorized), and outlines procedures for licensure verification, adverse actions (disciplinary measures), and data sharing among member states, while preserving each state's authority to regulate the profession and protect public safety.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 01/11/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 33 : Arvind Venkat (D)*, Kristin Marcell (R), Kristine Howard (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Lisa Borowski (D), Chris Pielli (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Liz Hanbidge (D), Jim Haddock (D), Mike Schlossberg (D), Dan Frankel (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Bob Freeman (D), Pat Harkins (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Malcolm Kenyatta (D), Christina Sappey (D), Tarah Probst (D), Kyle Donahue (D), Danielle Otten (D), Elizabeth Fiedler (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Roni Green (D), Tim Bonner (R), Tarik Khan (D), Sean Dougherty (D), Brandon Markosek (D), Jeremy Shaffer (R), Carol Kazeem (D), Dave Madsen (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Donna Scheuren (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Re-referred to Appropriations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H4522 • Last Action 03/16/2026
Authorizing remote participation at town meetings and special town meetings in the Town of Concord
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows the Town of Concord to conduct Town Meetings and Special Town Meetings using three potential formats: fully in-person, fully remote (online), or in a hybrid format that combines both in-person and remote participation. The bill requires that any remote or hybrid meeting be recorded and the recording must be made publicly available on the town's website or another video platform for at least 30 days after the meeting, and the recording will also be considered a public record that can be requested for disclosure. Importantly, the bill stipulates that any actions taken during a remote or hybrid meeting will have the same legal standing and effectiveness as actions taken during a traditional in-person meeting. The legislation overrides existing state laws or charter provisions that might otherwise restrict remote meeting formats, and it will take effect immediately upon passage. This bill provides flexibility for local democratic participation, especially useful during times when gathering in large groups might be challenging, such as during public health emergencies or for residents with mobility limitations.
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Bill Summary: Relative to remote participation at town meetings and special town meetings in the town of Concord. Election Laws. [Local Approval Received.]
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• Introduced: 09/15/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 2 : Simon Cataldo (D)*, Carmine Gentile (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 09/15/2025
• Last Action: Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2388 • Last Action 03/16/2026
A bill for an act relating to public records, including employment separation information for certain government employees, contractors, or appointees.(See HF 2638.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that certain information regarding the separation of government employees, contractors, or appointees is considered a public record, meaning it can be accessed by the public. Specifically, it mandates that details such as the individual's last day of work, the reasons for their departure including any alleged misconduct or breach of contract, and any payments or public benefits provided beyond their regular compensation for work already performed, must be disclosed. This applies regardless of how this information is documented, whether in writing, a contract, or any other agreement. This change expands upon existing law that allows public access to certain personnel records, ensuring greater transparency in government employment and contract terminations.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, a person has the right to examine and copy a public record. Code section 22.7 provides a list of public records that must be kept confidential unless otherwise ordered by a court, by the lawful custodian of the records, or by another person duly authorized to release such information, including personal information in confidential personnel records of government bodies. However, Code section 22.7(11) provides that certain personal information in confidential personnel records is considered a public record. This bill further specifies that certain personal information in confidential personnel records regarding the separation of government employees, contractors, or appointees is a public record, regardless of whether the information is set forth in a written document, contract, agreement, or arrangement. Such information includes the last date of work, the reasons for separation including any alleged misconduct or breach of contract, and any moneys or public benefits provided beyond compensation for work performed prior to the individual’s last day as an employee, contractor, or appointee for the government body.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Gary Mohr (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn. H.J. 672.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1408 • Last Action 03/16/2026
Prohibiting public disclosure of personal information on the Internet by an elected official.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new criminal offense for elected officials who deliberately expose personal information about their constituents online with harmful intent. Specifically, the bill defines "personal information" broadly to include names, addresses, contact details, photographs, and online identifiers, and establishes that an elected official commits a misdemeanor if they knowingly publish such information on the internet with the intent to threaten, intimidate, or potentially incite violence against a constituent or their immediate family. The offense is punishable by a fine of up to $500, up to one year in jail, or both. The bill also provides a mechanism for constituents to request removal of their personal information from government websites by submitting a written request that includes evidence of their status as a constituent and an affirmation under penalty of perjury that the information poses a serious threat to their safety. Falsifying such a request would constitute false swearing, which is a separate criminal offense. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and aims to protect constituents from potential harassment or harm by elected officials who might misuse personal information.
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Bill Summary: This bill creates a misdemeanor offense for an elected official to publicly disclose on the Internet personal information of a constituent with the intent to harass.
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• Introduced: 12/03/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Alissandra Murray (D)*, Karen Hegner (D), Linda Haskins (D), Cathryn Harvey (D), Sanjeev Manohar (D), Janet Lucas (D), Peter Lovett (D), Sue Vail (D), Teresa O'Rorke (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 12/05/2025
• Last Action: Removed from Consent (Reps. Farrington, McFarlane, Tom Mannion, D. Kelley, Popovici-Muller, Mehegan, C. McGuire, Drew, Read, Corcoran) 03/10/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB66 • Last Action 03/16/2026
AN ACT relating to public agencies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows public agencies, such as boards and commissions, to conduct meetings using video teleconferencing, a technology that allows people to communicate and interact remotely. While members can attend virtually, they generally cannot do so if the meeting involves making decisions that implement or interpret laws, affect private rights, or involve awarding funds, unless a quorum is present in person. Members participating virtually will not be reimbursed for travel expenses. Additionally, public agencies will be required to publish information about their appointed and elected members, including their contact details, on their website.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 12.070 to permit a board, commission, or similar administrative body to conduct video teleconference meetings to allow public participation; allow members of a board, commission, or similar administrative body to attend meetings virtually unless a decision implements, interprets, or prescribes law or policy, affects private rights or procedures available to the public, or administers or awards funds; prohibit members who participate virtually from receiving reimbursement for travel expenses; amend KRS 61.826 to prohibit a member of a public agency that attends a meeting through video teleconference from receiving reimbursement of travel expenses; amend KRS 164.004 to conform.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 02/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 12 : John Hodgson (R)*, Shane Baker (R), Ryan Bivens (R), Steve Bratcher (R), Emily Callaway (R), Jennifer Decker (R), Kevin Jackson (R), D.J. Johnson (R), Chris Lewis (R), Matt Lockett (R), Marianne Proctor (R), T.J. Roberts (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: to State & Local Government (S)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0247 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Municipal Clerks
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a public records exemption for personal identifying and location information of current and former municipal clerks, their staff (including elections filing officers, records management liaison officers, and deputy or assistant municipal clerks), and their immediate family members. The exemption covers home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and places of employment for these individuals and their spouses and children, as well as the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by their children. The bill includes a statement of public necessity, explaining that municipal clerks and their staff often handle sensitive information and may be exposed to potential threats due to their work, which could involve investigations into election fraud or other legal matters. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature. The bill also specifies that the exemption applies to information held before, on, or after the effective date and provides a mechanism for individuals to request the release of their exempt information. The law will take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing a public records exemption for personal identifying and location information of current and former municipal clerks and their staff and the personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of such municipal clerks and their staff; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/22/2025
• Added: 10/22/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Daryl Campbell (D)*, Dan Daley (D)*, Jose Alvarez (D), Robin Bartleman (D), Fentrice Driskell (D), Felicia Robinson (D), Mitch Rosenwald (D), Debra Tendrich (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 10/22/2025
• Last Action: Died in Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SR246 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Designating the week of March 15 through 21, 2026, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This resolution designates the week of March 15 through 21, 2026, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania, urging all residents to observe the principles of open and accessible government. The resolution highlights the importance of Pennsylvania's Sunshine Act, which requires public agencies to hold public meetings when a quorum deliberates or takes official action, and allows public comment and recording of these meetings, and the Right-to-Know Law, which presumes government records are public and provides a process for appealing denied requests. Both laws are fundamental to ensuring residents are informed about government actions and can hold officials accountable.
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Bill Summary: A Resolution designating the week of March 15 through 21, 2026, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
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• Introduced: 03/13/2026
• Added: 03/14/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Cris Dush (R)*, Pat Stefano (R), Scott Martin (R), Kristin Phillips-Hill (R), Elder Vogel (R), Lynda Schlegel-Culver (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/13/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules & Executive Nominations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0181 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./ Pawnbroker Transactions
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Florida law to make records related to pawnbroker transactions, when delivered to the Department of Law Enforcement, confidential and exempt from public records requirements, meaning they will not be accessible to the general public. This exemption is being added to the existing confidentiality provision for such records delivered to other law enforcement officials, with the Legislature finding that the sensitive and personal nature of this information necessitates its protection regardless of which law enforcement agency receives it. The bill also includes a provision for future legislative review and a repeal date of October 2, 2031, for this exemption, unless the Legislature acts to extend it, and its effective date is contingent on another piece of legislation, HB 1345, also becoming law.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 539.003, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for records relating to pawnbroker transactions that are delivered to the Department of Law Enforcement; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/15/2025
• Added: 10/16/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Bill Partington (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Died in Judiciary Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0179 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Current Appellate Court Clerks
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption for the personal identifying and location information of current appellate court clerks, including their home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and work information, as well as similar details for their spouses and children. The bill defines "appellate court clerk" as individuals appointed as clerks of the Florida Supreme Court or district courts of appeal, or court employees in specific job classifications. The exemption covers information typically found in public records, such as home addresses, telephone numbers, and employment details, and is designed to protect these court employees from potential retaliation or harassment by individuals who may have negative interactions with the court. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill also includes a statement of public necessity explaining that appellate court clerks could be targets for revenge due to the nature of their work, and that releasing their personal information could jeopardize their safety and the safety of their families. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining the term "appellate court clerk"; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current appellate court clerks and their spouses and children; providing for future legislative review and repeal; providing for retroactive application; amending s. 744.21031, F.S.; conforming a cross-reference; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/15/2025
• Added: 10/15/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Gottlieb (D)*, Daryl Campbell (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 10/15/2025
• Last Action: Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0287 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Applicants, Owners, and Operators of Family Foster Homes and References of Such Persons
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes personal identifying and location information for applicants of family foster homes, as well as current and former owners and operators of these homes, and their spouses, children, and other adult household members, confidential and exempt from public records requirements. This exemption also extends to the names, addresses, and phone numbers of character or neighbor references for these applicants and operators. The bill, which amends Florida Statute 409.175, aims to protect individuals involved in the foster care system from potential harm, fraud, or the acquisition of sensitive personal information, and includes a provision for future legislative review and repeal of this exemption by October 2, 2031, with an effective date of July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 409.175, F.S.; providing confidentiality and an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of applicants for family foster homes and the names and personal identifying and location information of the spouses, children, and other adult household members of such applicants; providing confidentiality and an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former owners and operators of family foster homes and the names and personal identifying and location information of the spouses, children, and other adult household members of such owners and operators; providing confidentiality and an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of character or neighbor references of a family foster home applicant or a current or former owner or operator of a family foster home; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/30/2025
• Added: 10/31/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Human Services Subcommittee, Fiona McFarland (R)*, William Conerly (R)*, Linda Chaney (R), Johanna López (D), Jim Mooney (R), Danny Nix (R), Will Robinson (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 36
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Died in Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0043 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Sales of Ammunition
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida Statutes to create a public records exemption for information related to ammunition purchases. Specifically, the bill extends existing confidentiality protections for firearm background check records to now include records about ammunition buyers who are not prohibited from purchasing ammunition. Under the proposed change, any records created by the Department of Law Enforcement during a criminal history check for ammunition purchases will be confidential and cannot be disclosed to other agencies or individuals. The bill includes a sunset provision, meaning this exemption will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature. The Legislature justifies this exemption by arguing that releasing such information could potentially lead to harassment of law-abiding citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights, drawing parallels to existing protections for firearm ownership records. The bill's effective date is contingent on the passage of a related bill (HB 41) in the same legislative session. The confidentiality provision aims to protect the personal information of individuals purchasing ammunition by preventing the creation of registries or lists that could be used to profile or target gun owners.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 790.065, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for records containing certain information pertaining to a buyer or transferee who is not found to be prohibited from receipt or transfer of ammunition; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 09/25/2025
• Added: 09/26/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Dan Daley (D)*, Daryl Campbell (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 09/25/2025
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0021 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Agency Employees
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public record requirements for certain identifying and location information of current or former agency employees, their spouses, and their children, aiming to protect them from harassment, stalking, identity theft, and other harms. Specifically, it exempts home addresses (dwelling locations), telephone numbers (including personal cell phones), personal email addresses, and dates of birth of employees, as well as the names, home addresses, telephone numbers, personal email addresses, dates of birth, and places of employment of their spouses and children, and the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by their children. This exemption applies retroactively and will be reviewed by the Legislature in 2031. The bill also makes conforming changes to other sections of Florida Statutes to reflect this new exemption and includes a statement of public necessity explaining the rationale behind these protections.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing definitions; providing an exemption from public record requirements for certain identifying and location information of current or former agency employees and the spouses and children of such employees; providing for retroactive application; specifying that the exemption does not limit certain existing exemptions; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; amending ss. 28.2221, 119.0714, 409.2577, and 744.21031, F.S.; conforming cross-references to changes made by the act; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 09/15/2025
• Added: 09/16/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Kim Kendall (R)*, Bill Partington (R)*, Johanna López (D), Alex Rizo (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Died in Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0251 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Emergency Department Physicians
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current emergency department physicians, defined as physicians licensed under chapter 458 or 459 who work in hospital emergency departments. This exemption also extends to the names, home addresses, personal telephone numbers, dates of birth, and places of employment of their spouses and children younger than 26 years old, as well as the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by these children. The bill specifies that this exemption applies to information held by agencies before, on, or after July 1, 2026, and requires agencies that are custodians of this information to maintain its exempt status if the individual requests it and provides a written, notarized statement confirming their eligibility. This exemption is subject to future legislative review and is set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted, with the Legislature finding it a public necessity due to the potential vulnerability of emergency department physicians and their families to harm from individuals who may have had negative encounters with them.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current emergency department physicians and the spouses and certain children of such emergency department physicians; providing for retroactive application; requiring certain agencies that are custodians of exempt information to maintain the exempt status of such information under certain circumstances; specifying procedures for requesting an agency to maintain the exempt status of such information until the exemption no longer applies to the individual; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/22/2025
• Added: 10/23/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee, Tiffany Esposito (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Died in State Affairs Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0015 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec. and Meetings/Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates public records and meetings exemptions for the Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact, a multi-state agreement that allows for easier professional licensing across state boundaries. Specifically, the bill protects certain personal identifying information of social workers (excluding name, licensure status, and license number) from public disclosure, unless the originating state authorizes such disclosure. The bill also exempts certain meetings of the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission and its committees from public meeting requirements when discussing matters specifically exempted by federal or state law. Additionally, any recordings, minutes, or records generated during these exempt meetings will also be kept confidential. The Legislature justifies these exemptions as necessary for Florida to effectively participate in the interstate compact and protect sensitive professional information. The bill includes a sunset provision, meaning these exemptions will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature votes to continue them. The bill's implementation is contingent on the passage of related legislation (HB 13) in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating s. 491.023, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information held by the Department of Health or the Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling pursuant to the Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact; authorizing the disclosure of such information under certain circumstances; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for certain meetings or portions of certain meetings of the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission or its executive committee or other committees; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings, minutes, and records generated during the exempt meetings or portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 09/15/2025
• Added: 09/16/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Christine Hunschofsky (D)*, Daryl Campbell (D), Anna Eskamani (D), Rita Harris (D), Mitch Rosenwald (D), Debra Tendrich (D), Marie Woodson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 09/15/2025
• Last Action: Died in Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0263 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption from public disclosure for the personal identifying and location information of current county and city administrators and their family members. Specifically, the bill makes exempt from public records requirements the home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and places of employment for current county administrators, deputy county administrators, assistant county administrators, city managers, deputy city managers, and assistant city managers, as well as the same information for their spouses and children. The bill also includes the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by their children. The exemption is justified by the potential for personal safety risks and potential targeting of these public officials and their families due to decisions made in their professional roles. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature. The bill provides a mechanism for these officials to request the maintenance of the exemption and allows for the information to be released under specific circumstances, such as the death of the protected individual or through a notarized request from the individual themselves.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current county administrators, deputy county administrators, assistant county administrators, city managers, deputy city managers, and assistant city managers, including the names and personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of current county administrators, deputy county administrators, assistant county administrators, city managers, deputy city managers, and assistant city managers; providing for future legislative review and repeal; providing for retroactive application; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/27/2025
• Added: 10/27/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Alex Rizo (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 10/27/2025
• Last Action: Died in Intergovernmental Affairs Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0627 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Law Enforcement Officers Actively Engaged in Official Duty
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows law enforcement officers, as defined by Florida law, who are actively performing their official duties, such as responding to a call or conducting an investigation, to refuse to accept or process a public records request at that moment. The officer themselves will determine if they are actively engaged in official duty and must then verbally inform the person making the request that they cannot process it and direct them to the agency's records custodian or an online public records portal if one exists. Persistently trying to force an officer to accept a request while they are on duty after being told they cannot process it could result in a charge of resisting an officer without violence. This change to the law regarding public records, which are generally accessible to the public, will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.07, F.S.; authorizing certain law enforcement officers to decline to accept or process public records requests; providing requirements for such officers; providing a penalty; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/03/2025
• Added: 12/04/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Kim Berfield (R)*, Tom Fabricio (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Died in Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0376 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Sexual Assault Counselors
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption for the personal identifying and location information of sexual assault counselors, including their home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs. The bill adds this exemption to the existing list of personnel whose personal information is protected from public disclosure, with the goal of protecting sexual assault counselors from potential harassment or retaliation. The exemption is based on the Legislature's finding that these counselors may be at risk if their personal information becomes publicly available, especially since such information can be revealed through police reports and discovery documents. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill includes a detailed explanation of the public necessity for this exemption, emphasizing the potential danger to counselors who support victims of sexual assault and who may become targets of threats or harassment if their personal information is disclosed. The new exemption will take effect on July 1, 2026, and applies retroactively to existing records.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of sexual assault counselors; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/04/2025
• Added: 11/05/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tina Polsky (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/04/2025
• Last Action: Died in Children, Families, and Elder Affairs
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0248 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Municipal Clerks and their Staff
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a public records exemption for the personal identifying and location information of current and former municipal clerks and their staff, including elections filing officers, records management liaison officers, and deputy or assistant municipal clerks. Specifically, the bill makes exempt from public disclosure the home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs of these municipal employees, as well as the names, home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and places of employment of their spouses and children. The bill also protects the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by their children. The exemption is justified by the potentially sensitive nature of municipal clerks' work, which can involve handling critical administrative functions and potentially investigating matters that could lead to criminal prosecution. The bill includes a provision for future legislative review and is set to be automatically repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature. The exemption applies retroactively and will take effect on July 1, 2026, providing municipal clerks and their staff with protection from potential threats or violence by keeping their personal information private.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing a public records exemption for personal identifying and location information of current and former municipal clerks and their staff and the personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of such municipal clerks and their staff; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/20/2025
• Added: 10/20/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ana Maria Rodriguez (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 10/20/2025
• Last Action: Died in Community Affairs
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0292 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Appellate Court Clerks
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption for personal identifying and location information of appellate court clerks. Specifically, the bill defines an "appellate court clerk" as a person appointed as a clerk of the Florida Supreme Court or district court of appeal, or a court employee in certain job classifications. The legislation provides an exemption from public records requirements for home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs of current appellate court clerks, as well as similar information about their spouses and children. The bill also includes the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by the children of appellate court clerks in this exemption. The rationale for this exemption, as stated in the bill, is to protect appellate court clerks and their families from potential acts of revenge by disgruntled litigants who may target them due to interactions during court proceedings. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature. The bill also makes a conforming change to a cross-reference in another section of Florida statutes and will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining the term “appellate court clerk”; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current appellate court clerks and the spouses and children of such appellate court clerks; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application; amending s. 744.21031, F.S.; conforming a cross reference; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/24/2025
• Added: 10/25/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Darryl Rouson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 10/24/2025
• Last Action: Died in Messages
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1118 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Data Centers
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a temporary exemption from public records requirements for information related to a person's plans, intentions, or interest in locating a data center within a county or municipality. This exemption applies when a person formally requests confidentiality from the local government, and it lasts for 12 months or until the information is otherwise disclosed or the person waives confidentiality, though the fact that the project is a data center must still be disclosed. The bill also defines "proprietary confidential business information" as information owned or controlled by the person seeking confidentiality, which, if disclosed, would harm their business operations and has not been publicly revealed, including business plans, internal and external audit reports, security measures, and information related to competitive interests. This exemption is subject to future legislative review and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted, and the Legislature has declared it a public necessity to protect businesses from market disadvantages and encourage data center development in the state by preventing the disclosure of sensitive information that could harm their competitive edge and deter them from investing in Florida.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 112.231, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information relating to the plans, intentions, or interest of a person to locate a data center; defining the term “proprietary confidential business information”; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Community Affairs, Bryan Ávila (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Died on Calendar
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1064 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Disclosure of Public Servants' Personal Information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new protections for certain public servants in Florida, recognizing that their roles can put them and their families at risk due to the increased accessibility of personal information online. It creates a new law that allows "covered persons," which include law enforcement, judges, prosecutors, elected officials, and their immediate family members until age 26, to send a written notice to a "data broker" – a company that collects and sells personal information – to prevent the disclosure of their "protected information." Protected information includes home addresses, home phone numbers, personal email addresses, social security and driver's license numbers, vehicle identifiers, and mobile device tracking information. Once a data broker receives this notice, they have 10 business days to stop disclosing or redisclosing this protected information. The bill allows data brokers to provide a specific email address for receiving these notices, provided it's publicly published and maintained. If a data broker fails to comply, they can be sued for ordinary negligence, and it won't be a defense that the information was available elsewhere or that the person accessing it agreed to terms and conditions. The bill outlines exceptions, such as disclosures authorized by the covered person or those facilitating a transaction initiated by them, and provides for damages, attorney fees, and costs for violations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to the disclosure of public servants’ personal information; providing legislative findings; creating s. 111.101, F.S.; defining terms; authorizing certain public employees and officials to provide a written notice to a data broker to prevent disclosure of specified personal data concerning themselves and related persons; prohibiting a data broker from disclosing or redisclosing certain data after receipt of such notice; authorizing data brokers to provide e mail addresses for receipt of such notice under specified conditions; providing for civil actions against a data broker for failure to comply; providing the standard of fault in such actions; providing that it is not a defense that protected information was available through specified means; providing that it is an affirmative defense to assert that the person is not a covered person; providing exceptions; providing for damages and costs; providing construction; providing severability; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jennifer Bradley (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7030 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates exemptions from public records requirements for information held by the Department of Legal Affairs concerning investigations into violations related to companion chatbots, bots in general, and deidentified data. Specifically, information gathered during notifications or active investigations of these violations will be kept confidential until the investigation concludes or becomes inactive, though it can be shared internally or with other government agencies for official duties, or publicly if it helps locate victims. Upon completion of an investigation, certain information, including personal identifying details, computer forensic reports, and proprietary information (defined as private business information that would harm the company if disclosed and is not publicly available), will remain confidential. These exemptions are subject to a future legislative review and repeal in 2031, and the bill outlines the public necessity for these protections, emphasizing the need to prevent interference with investigations, protect sensitive personal data from identity theft, and safeguard businesses from financial harm and competitive disadvantage.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 501.9984, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information held by the Department of Legal Affairs relating to notifications or investigations of certain companion chatbot violations; providing construction; authorizing the department to disclose such information during an active investigation for specified purposes; requiring that certain information remain confidential and exempt upon the completion or cessation of an investigation; defining the term “proprietary information”; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 501.9985, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information held by the department relating to notifications or investigations of certain bot-related consumer protection violations; providing construction; authorizing the department to disclose such information during an active investigation for specified purposes; requiring that certain information remain confidential and exempt upon the completion or cessation of an investigation; defining the term “proprietary information”; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 501.9986, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information held by the department relating to notifications or investigations of certain deidentified data-related consumer protection violations; providing construction; authorizing the department to disclose such information during an active investigation for specified purposes; requiring that certain information remain confidential and exempt upon the completion or cessation of an investigation; defining the term “proprietary information”; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 01/17/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Appropriations, Commerce and Tourism
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Died in Messages
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0076 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records and Meetings/Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates new provisions related to the Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact, establishing specific exemptions for public records and meetings. The bill protects certain personal identifying information about social workers (excluding name, licensure status, and licensure number) from public disclosure, unless the state that originally reported the information authorizes its release. It also creates exemptions for meetings of the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission and its committees when discussing matters specifically exempted by federal or state law, and protects the recordings, minutes, and records generated during such exempt meetings from public disclosure. The Legislature justifies these exemptions as necessary for Florida to effectively participate in the interstate compact, noting that without these protections, the state would be unable to become a member of the compact. The bill includes a sunset provision, meaning these exemptions will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature specifically reviews and reenacts them. The bill's implementation is contingent on the passage of related legislation (SB 74) during the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating s. 491.023, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information held by the Department of Health or the Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling pursuant to the Social Work Licensure Interstate Compact; authorizing the disclosure of such information under certain circumstances; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for certain meetings or portions of certain meetings of the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission or its executive committee or other committees; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings, minutes, and records generated during the exempt meetings or portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 09/24/2025
• Added: 09/24/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Gayle Harrell (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 09/24/2025
• Last Action: Died in Health Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0447 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec. and Meetings/Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes court proceedings and records related to mental health and substance abuse treatment confidential and closed to the public, with exceptions for the respondent's consent or a judge's finding of good cause, and expands the exemption of certain information from public records to include petitions and applications for treatment, allowing disclosure to specific service providers and authorizing courts to use a respondent's name for case management purposes.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and public meetings; amending ss. 394.464 and 397.6760, F.S.; specifying that all hearings relating to mental health and substance abuse, respectively, are confidential and closed to the public; providing exceptions; exempting certain information from public records requirements; expanding a public records exemption to include certain petitions and applications; authorizing disclosure of certain confidential and exempt documents to certain service providers; authorizing courts to use a respondent's name for certain purposes; revising applicability; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; making technical changes; providing statements of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/18/2025
• Added: 11/19/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Patt Maney (R)*, Webster Barnaby (R), Johanna López (D), Jim Mooney (R), Bill Partington (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 42
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Died in Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0258 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Medical Examiners
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption for medical examiners' personal information. Specifically, the bill defines a "medical examiner" as any district, associate, or substitute medical examiner and their employees or agents. The legislation provides an exemption from public records requirements for the home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs of current and former medical examiners, as well as the names, addresses, employment information, and dates of birth of their spouses and children. The bill also protects the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by the children of medical examiners. The exemption is justified by the potential security risks and privacy concerns for medical examiners and their families, with the Legislature arguing that releasing such personal information could compromise their ability to perform public duties and potentially endanger their safety. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature, and it applies retroactively to information held by agencies before, on, or after the effective date of the exemption.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining the term “medical examiner”; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former medical examiners and the spouses and children of such medical examiners; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/22/2025
• Added: 10/23/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Danny Burgess (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 10/22/2025
• Last Action: Died in Health Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1084 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/State Attorney's Office and Office of Statewide Prosecution Nonlegal Support Staff
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida law to exempt certain personal information of nonlegal support staff working for state attorneys' offices and the Office of Statewide Prosecution from public records requirements, meaning this information will no longer be accessible to the public. This exemption applies to the staff members themselves, as well as their spouses and children, and includes their home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs. The bill defines "state attorney's office or Office of Statewide Prosecution nonlegal support staff" by a list of specific job class codes. This exemption is intended to protect these individuals and their families from potential retaliation or harm due to the sensitive nature of the information they handle in their roles, which can involve criminal justice data and interactions with various parties involved in legal cases. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature acts to extend it. Additionally, the bill makes a conforming change to another section of Florida Statutes regarding public records exemptions for telephone numbers and includes a statement of public necessity explaining the rationale behind these protections, with an effective date of October 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining the term “state attorney’s office or Office of Statewide Prosecution nonlegal support staff”; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current state attorney’s office and Office of Statewide Prosecution nonlegal support staff and the spouses and children of such staff; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application; amending s. 744.21031, F.S.; conforming a cross-reference; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Nick DiCeglie (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0821 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Autopsy Reports of Sudden and Expected Deaths
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new exemption from public records requirements for autopsy reports of infants, children, or individuals of any age who die suddenly and unexpectedly or are suspected to have died from Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome (SADS). The bill allows these confidential autopsy reports to be viewed and copied by the deceased's surviving parents and adult siblings, shared with the Department of Health for epidemiological research while maintaining their confidential status, submitted to public health authorities in accordance with federal regulations, and used to create deidentified aggregate data for national research institutions. The exemption is designed to protect the emotional well-being of the deceased's family by preventing widespread unauthorized dissemination of sensitive medical information through digital platforms. The bill includes a sunset provision, meaning the exemption will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature specifically reenacts it. The legislation acknowledges the potential emotional harm that could result from public release of detailed autopsy reports, particularly in cases of sudden and unexpected deaths, and seeks to provide privacy and protection for grieving families.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 406.11, F.S.; creating an exemption from public records requirements for autopsy reports of certain sudden and unexpected deaths; specifying circumstances under which such autopsy reports and certain information contained therein may be disclosed; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Died in Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1554 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Experimental Treatment Outcomes
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to make certain information within public reports on experimental treatment outcomes and safety signals confidential and exempt from public records requirements, specifically amending Florida Statute 499.0295. The exemption would apply to health information and proprietary pricing details contained in these reports, which are published annually by the Department of Health. The bill includes a statement of public necessity, arguing that releasing this sensitive personal health data could harm patients with terminal or life-threatening rare diseases who are undergoing experimental treatments, as they have a strong expectation of privacy. The Legislature finds that the potential harm from disclosure outweighs any public benefit. The bill also has a contingent effective date, meaning it will only take effect if similar legislation is passed during the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 499.0295, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information contained in a public report published by the Department of Health relating to experimental treatment outcomes and safety signals; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Danny Burgess (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Died in Health Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0729 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Protective Injunctions and Protection Orders
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's domestic violence protection laws to strengthen requirements around firearm surrender when a protective injunction is issued. Specifically, the bill mandates that when a final judgment on a domestic violence injunction is issued, the respondent must immediately surrender all firearms, ammunition, and concealed weapon licenses to local law enforcement. Law enforcement officers are required to take possession of these items, issue a receipt, and file documentation with the court. The bill establishes detailed procedures for firearm surrender, including allowing law enforcement to seek search warrants if firearms are not voluntarily surrendered. The legislation also provides mechanisms for temporary firearm transfers to another eligible person who can securely store the weapons, and establishes a process for returning firearms if the injunction is later vacated. Additionally, the bill modifies criminal penalties, changing the statute to make a second or subsequent violation of a protective injunction a third-degree felony. The new provisions aim to enhance victim safety by more rigorously controlling firearm access for individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, with the law set to take effect on October 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to protective injunctions and protection orders; amending s. 741.30, F.S.; requiring a respondent to surrender to the local law enforcement agency all firearms, ammunition, and licenses to carry a concealed weapon or firearm after the issuance of a final judgment on an injunction for protection against domestic violence; providing for the surrender and storage of firearms, ammunition, and licenses to carry a concealed weapon or firearm after issuance of a protective injunction; requiring law enforcement agencies to develop certain policies and procedures; providing for return of firearms, ammunition, and licenses to carry a concealed weapon or firearm when a protective injunction is vacated, terminated, or otherwise rendered no longer affective; authorizing a respondent to elect to transfer all firearms and ammunition surrendered or seized by a law enforcement agency to another person under certain circumstances; amending s. 741.31, F.S.; revising the criminal penalty for a second or subsequent violation of an injunction for protection against domestic violence or a foreign protection order; providing an effective date. hb729-00
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/10/2025
• Added: 12/11/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Robin Bartleman (D)*, Daryl Campbell (D), Anna Eskamani (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 12/10/2025
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0747 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Sealing of Criminal History Records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's existing law regarding the sealing of criminal history records by expanding the public records exemption to include sealed records of individuals adjudicated guilty of certain nonviolent misdemeanor offenses. The bill maintains the confidentiality of sealed criminal history records, making them unavailable to the general public and accessible only to specific entities such as the subject of the record, their attorney, criminal justice agencies, judges, and certain licensing and employment-related organizations. The expanded exemption includes a sunset provision, meaning it will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reviews and reenacts it. The bill's rationale emphasizes that limiting public access to sealed records helps individuals overcome barriers to employment, housing, and societal reintegration, which can ultimately reduce crime and recidivism. The legislation also includes strict confidentiality requirements, with potential first-degree misdemeanor charges for unauthorized disclosure of sealed record information. The bill's effective date is contingent on the passage of related legislation (HB 745) in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; reenacting and amending s. 943.059, F.S.; expanding an existing public records exemption to include sealed criminal history records of persons adjudicated guilty of certain nonviolent misdemeanor offenses; providing for future review and repeal of the expanded exemption; providing for reversion of specified language if the exemption is not saved from repeal; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/11/2025
• Added: 12/12/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Traci Koster (R)*, Susan L. Valdés (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Died in Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1650 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Commission on Ethics
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new provision within Florida law that makes information received by or derived from investigations conducted by the Commission on Ethics confidential and exempt from public records requirements, specifically referencing section 119.07(1) of Florida Statutes (which outlines public records access) and section 24(a) of Article I of the State Constitution (which guarantees the right to access public records). This exemption applies while an investigation related to ethics complaints is active, with the stated public necessity being that premature release of such information could hinder or jeopardize the commission's ability to effectively conduct its investigations. The bill also includes a provision for future legislative review and repeal of this exemption, which is set to automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature acts to extend it, and its effective date is contingent upon the passage of another related bill.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 112.3243, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information received by the commission or derived from its investigations; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Don Gaetz (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0695 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Health Care
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates new sections in Florida Statutes to provide exemptions from public meetings and public records requirements for certain interstate commissions related to healthcare professionals. Specifically, it exempts portions of meetings of the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact Commission, and the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission when they discuss matters that are already exempt from disclosure by federal or state law. Additionally, any recordings, minutes, or records generated during these exempt portions of meetings will also be exempt from public records laws. These exemptions are deemed a public necessity to allow Florida to effectively implement and administer these interstate compacts, which govern the licensure and practice of emergency medical services personnel, physician assistants, and social workers across state lines. The bill also includes a provision for future legislative review and repeal of these exemptions, with a sunset date of October 2, 2031, unless reenacted.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating ss. 401.4661, 456.661, and 491.023, F.S.; providing exemptions from public meetings requirements for certain portions of meetings of the Interstate Commission for EMS Personnel Practice, the Physician Assistant Licensure Compact Commission, and the Social Work Licensure Compact Commission, respectively; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings, minutes, and records generated during exempt portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/09/2025
• Added: 12/10/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Health & Human Services Committee, Mike Redondo (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 35
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Died in Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1754 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records and Meetings/Drug Overdose Death Review Committee/Suicide Death Review Committee
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates exemptions from public records and open meeting requirements for the Drug Overdose Death Review Committee and the Suicide Death Review Committee, and any local committees they establish. These committees review deaths from drug overdoses and suicides, respectively, and the bill aims to protect the privacy of the deceased and their families by making records that identify them confidential. This means that information revealing the identity of a decedent or their family member will not be publicly accessible, though it can be shared between the committees, with government agencies for their duties, or with researchers approved by the Department of Health who agree to strict privacy measures. Portions of committee meetings where this confidential information is discussed will also be closed to the public, but these closed sessions must be recorded and the recordings maintained by the committees. Disclosing this confidential information to unauthorized individuals will be a misdemeanor. The bill also includes provisions for future legislative review and repeal, and states that these exemptions are necessary to protect the reputation and safety of families, prevent emotional distress, and ensure the effectiveness of the review processes, arguing that the potential reduction in deaths outweighs the public benefit of releasing such sensitive information.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; amending ss. 394.47893 and 394.47894, F.S.; creating an exemption from public records requirements for certain records and information held by the Drug Overdose Death Review Committee and the Suicide Death Review Committee, respectively, or a local review committee established thereunder; authorizing the disclosure of such records and information under certain circumstances; creating an exemption from public meetings requirements for portions of meetings of the committees which would reveal confidential and exempt information; requiring the recording of exempt portions of such meetings; requiring the committees to maintain such recordings; providing criminal penalties; providing for future legislative review and repeal; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Nick DiCeglie (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Died in Children, Families, and Elder Affairs
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1546 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Commission on Ethics
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill exempts the personal identifying and location information, including home addresses, telephone numbers, and dates of birth, of current and former employees and commissioners of the Commission on Ethics, as well as their spouses and children, from public records requirements. The Commission on Ethics investigates violations of ethics laws and the Sunshine Amendment (which generally requires government meetings and records to be open to the public), and the bill states that this exemption is necessary due to the potential for retaliation and intimidation against commission staff and members by dissatisfied complainants, especially in an era of increased political violence. This exemption is subject to future legislative review and repeal, and it applies retroactively to information held before its effective date of July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former employees and commissioners of the Commission on Ethics and their spouses and dependents; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ana Maria Rodriguez (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Died in Ethics and Elections
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0661 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Private Investigators
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public record requirements for sensitive personal information of current and former private investigators licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as well as their spouses and children. Specifically, it protects their home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and for children, the names and locations of their schools and day care facilities. The bill explains that this exemption is a public necessity because private investigators often deal with sensitive cases that could lead to retaliation, and making their personal information public could endanger them and their families. This exemption is subject to a future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature decides to extend it. The bill also includes a statement of public necessity justifying the exemption and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public record requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former private investigators licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the spouses and children of such private investigators; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/05/2025
• Added: 12/06/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee, Paula Stark (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Died in Government Operations Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1373 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Judicial Qualifications Commission Employees
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill exempts the personal identifying and location information, including home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs, of current and former employees of the Judicial Qualifications Commission, as well as the same information for their spouses and children, from public records requirements. This exemption is intended to protect these individuals from potential harassment and harm by disgruntled litigants who may target commission employees due to dissatisfaction with judicial proceedings or outcomes. The bill also includes provisions for legislative review and repeal of this exemption, specifies that it applies retroactively, and states that it will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former employees of the Judicial Qualifications Commission and the personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of such employees; providing for legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Bruce Antone (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1440 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Office of Financial Regulation
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts several provisions to exempt certain information held by the Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) from public records requirements, aiming to protect sensitive data and facilitate investigations. Specifically, it creates exemptions for information related to cybersecurity events involving loan originators, mortgage brokers, and lenders, as well as for certain information in reports of financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. The bill also expands existing exemptions for money services businesses to include documents related to cybersecurity incidents and information about virtual currency businesses and qualified payment stablecoin issuers. Furthermore, it exempts customer personal information received by the OFR concerning data breaches at financial institutions and information received during applications to organize new state credit unions, including personal financial details and business plans. Finally, it exempts reports and records filed with the OFR concerning money laundering and terrorist financing, particularly those involving trust companies that are qualified payment stablecoin issuers, to prevent tipping off potential offenders and protect ongoing investigations, with most exemptions subject to future legislative review and repeal.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 494.00125, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information received by the Office of Financial Regulation pursuant to certain cybersecurity event provisions relating to information systems and customer information of loan originators, mortgage brokers, and mortgage lenders and for information received by the office as a result of investigations and examinations of such cybersecurity events; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 517.2015, F.S.; providing a public records exemption for certain information in reports of financial exploitation; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; reenacting and amending s. 560.129, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for certain information obtained by the Office of Financial Regulation concerning or during the course of an investigation or examination conducted by the office, including customer and consumer complaints, to incorporate the inclusion of documents relating to cybersecurity incidents, data breaches, and information security programs; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information received by the office pursuant to certain cybersecurity events, documents relating to information systems, and customer information of money services businesses and for information received by the office as a result of investigations and examinations of such cybersecurity events; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 560.129, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for certain information obtained by the Office of Financial Regulation concerning or during the course of an investigation or examination conducted by the office, including customer and consumer complaints, to incorporate the inclusion of documents relating to virtual currency businesses and qualified payment stablecoin issuers; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; specifying that certain provisions do not become effective under certain circumstances; providing statements of public necessity; amending s. 655.0171, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for customer personal information received by the office relating to breaches of security of financial institutions or received by the office as a result of investigations of such breaches under certain circumstances; providing exceptions; providing definitions; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 655.057, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information received by the office pursuant to applications for authority to organize new state credit unions and for certain information relating to specified persons; providing exceptions; defining the term “personal identifying information”; revising the date for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; reenacting and amending s. 655.057, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for certain information obtained by the office concerning an investigation or examination conducted by the office, including reports or papers of examinations, operations, or condition, and trade secrets to incorporate the inclusion of trust companies that are qualified payment stablecoin issuers; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; reenacting and amending s. 655.50, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for reports and records filed with the office to incorporate the inclusion of financial institutions that are trust companies that are qualified payment stablecoin issuers; providing a statement of public necessity; providing contingent effective dates.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Banking and Insurance, Rules, Jonathan Martin (R)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Died in Messages
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0972 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records and Meetings/Respiratory Care Interstate Compact
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes public records and meetings exemptions for the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact (RCIC), a professional licensing agreement between states for respiratory therapists. The bill creates confidentiality protections for certain personal identifying information of respiratory therapists held in the compact's data system, allowing such information to remain private except for name, licensure status, and licensure number. The bill also exempts certain meetings of the RCIC Commission or its executive committee from public meeting requirements when sensitive or confidential matters are discussed, and protects the recordings, minutes, and records from those exempt meetings from public disclosure. These exemptions are deemed necessary to enable Florida to participate effectively in the interstate compact, with the understanding that the personal information of respiratory therapists should be protected. The bill includes a sunset provision, meaning these exemptions will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts them after review. The bill's implementation is contingent on the passage of related legislation (SB 970) in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating s. 468.3711, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information held by the Department of Health or the Board of Respiratory Care pursuant to the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact; authorizing the disclosure of such information under certain circumstances; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for certain meetings or portions of meetings of the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact Commission or the executive committee of the commission; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings, minutes, and records generated during exempt portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tommy Wright (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Died in Health Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1265 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Office of Insurance Regulation
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a privilege for certain information obtained by the Commissioner of Insurance Regulation or the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), a non-profit organization that helps state insurance regulators, during examinations or analyses of insurance companies, meaning this information cannot be subpoenaed or used as evidence in private lawsuits, though the Commissioner can use it for official duties and share it with other regulatory bodies and law enforcement if they agree to keep it confidential, and also creates exemptions from public records requirements for proprietary business information, like group capital calculations and liquidity stress tests, provided to the Office of Insurance Regulation by insurers, as well as biographical statements and related materials submitted to the office, with both the privilege and exemptions subject to legislative review and repeal in 2031.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; creating s. 624.28, F.S.; creating a privilege for documents, materials, and other information obtained by the Commissioner of Insurance Regulation or the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in the course of an examination or analysis; prohibiting the commissioner and certain persons from testifying in certain private civil actions; authorizing the commissioner to share certain information under certain circumstances; providing for reciprocity; providing definitions; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the privilege; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 624.4212, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain proprietary business information provided to the Office of Insurance Regulation by an insurer; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain biographical statements, biographical affidavits, and supplementary materials related thereto provided to or obtained by the office; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Insurance & Banking Subcommittee, Linda Chaney (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Died in State Affairs Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1314 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records and Meetings/Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section of Florida law to provide exemptions from public records and public meetings requirements related to the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact, which is an agreement between states to allow podiatric physicians to practice in multiple states more easily. Specifically, it exempts personal identifying information of podiatric physicians, other than their name, licensure status, and number, from public disclosure unless the state that originally provided the information authorizes its release. It also exempts certain meetings or portions of meetings of the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact Commission, established to manage the compact, when they discuss sensitive and confidential matters, and exempts any recordings, minutes, or records generated during these exempt meetings. These exemptions are deemed a public necessity to allow Florida to participate in the compact and are subject to a sunset review, meaning they will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts them. The bill's effective date is contingent on the passage of similar legislation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating s. 461.0182, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information held by the Department of Health or the Board of Podiatric Medicine pursuant to the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact; authorizing the disclosure of such information under certain circumstances; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for certain meetings or portions of certain meetings of the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact Commission; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings, minutes, and records generated during the exempt meetings or portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ana Maria Rodriguez (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Died in Health Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0144 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Judicial Qualifications Commission
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption for personal identifying and location information of current and former employees of the Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC), as well as their spouses and children. Specifically, the bill protects home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and places of employment from public disclosure. The Legislature justifies this exemption by highlighting the potential risks faced by JQC employees, who may be targeted by disgruntled litigants dissatisfied with the commission's handling of judicial misconduct complaints. The exemption includes protections for employees' personal information in public records, such as county property records, and provides a mechanism for individuals to request the release of their information if desired. The exemption is subject to legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature. The bill aims to protect JQC employees from potential harassment, intimidation, and physical harm by preventing the public disclosure of their personal information.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former employees of the Judicial Qualifications Commission and the personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of such employees; providing for legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/08/2025
• Added: 10/09/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Darryl Rouson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 10/08/2025
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0090 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Receipt or Transfer of Ammunition
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida Statute 790.065 to extend confidentiality protections to records related to ammunition purchases, similar to existing protections for firearm purchases. Specifically, the bill makes records about buyers or transferees who are legally permitted to receive ammunition confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements. The bill includes a sunset provision that will automatically repeal this confidentiality exemption on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The legislation's rationale emphasizes protecting individuals' privacy and preventing potential harassment, arguing that knowledge of ammunition purchases could be used to profile or intimidate law-abiding citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights. The bill's effectiveness is contingent upon the passage of a related bill (SB 88), and it includes a detailed explanation of why such confidentiality is necessary, highlighting concerns about potential misuse of personal information related to ammunition purchases. The bill aims to shield individuals' personal information from public disclosure while maintaining background check processes for legal ammunition transfers.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 790.065, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for records containing certain information pertaining to a buyer or transferee who is not found to be prohibited from receipt or transfer of ammunition; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for the reversion of specified statutory text unless certain conditions are met; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 09/26/2025
• Added: 09/26/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tina Polsky (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 09/26/2025
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0891 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Office of the Corrections Ombudsman
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a public records exemption for correspondence and communications between incarcerated individuals, the public, and the Office of the Corrections Ombudsman, including the Ombudsman, committee members, and office staff. These communications will be confidential and exempt from standard public records disclosure requirements. The bill provides a rationale for this exemption, stating that public disclosure could potentially jeopardize the safety of incarcerated persons and might discourage open communication about correctional facility conditions. The exemption is designed to protect individuals from potential retaliation by correctional officers who may be under investigation as a result of these communications. The public records exemption will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reviews and reenacts it through the Open Government Sunset Review Act, which is a standard procedure for temporary public records exemptions in Florida. The bill's implementation is contingent on the passage of a related bill (HB 889) in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 11.92, F.S.; providing a public records exemption for correspondence and communications with the Office of the Corrections Ombudsman and the Corrections Oversight Committee; providing for future review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/23/2025
• Added: 12/24/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Susan L. Valdés (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 12/23/2025
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0437 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill strengthens public access to government records by clarifying the definition of "actual cost of duplication" to include agency resources like staff time and IT, while prohibiting overhead costs. It mandates that government agencies promptly acknowledge and respond in good faith to public records requests within three business days, or they cannot charge fees for the records. Agencies must now provide written justifications and cite specific laws when denying access or claiming a record is exempt, and they cannot introduce new exemptions or justifications in court that weren't previously stated. The bill also removes fees for accessing public records electronically under contractual agreements and requires agencies to provide records in specified formats, though they can charge a fee for this service, with exceptions for requests that take less than 30 minutes to fulfill or for records previously disclosed. It introduces a new definition for "any electronic medium stored, maintained, or used by an agency" and allows for fee reductions or waivers for public interest purposes, including waiving the first 10 hours of cost for certain requests. Agencies are prohibited from charging for the review and redaction of exempt information, and must provide a written cost estimate upon request. Violations of public records laws are now explicitly considered violations of Chapter 119, with civil penalties for agencies that unlawfully deny access or delay records, and criminal penalties for those outside the state who knowingly violate these provisions. Furthermore, courts are required to award attorney fees and costs against agencies that unlawfully deny access to public records, and agencies may reimburse individuals for attorney fees if they are acquitted of a violation. Finally, the bill repeals a section related to remote electronic access services and makes conforming changes to the criminal punishment code.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.011, F.S.; revising the definition of the term "actual cost of duplication"; amending s. 119.07, F.S.; providing that it is a violation of ch. 119, F.S., to fail to acknowledge a public records request promptly and respond to such request in good faith; requiring a custodian of public records to perform specified actions within a specified timeframe; prohibiting an agency from imposing costs or fees if the custodian fails to take such actions in the required timeframe; requiring a custodian to state in writing certain justifications and citations; prohibiting an agency from asserting that a record was exempt or confidential and exempt under specified circumstances; prohibiting an agency from asserting certain justifications under specified circumstances; removing provisions authorizing a fee for accessing a public record electronically under a contractual agreement; defining the term "any electronic medium stored, maintained, or used by an agency"; requiring an agency to provide public records requests in specified formats; authorizing an agency to charge a fee for such provision; prohibiting an agency from charging certain costs or fees for specified public hb437-01-c1 records requests; providing for the reduction or waiver of fees under specified conditions; requiring a written, detailed cost estimate to be provided upon request to persons seeking to inspect or copy a public record; prohibiting an agency from charging fees for review and redaction of certain records; amending s. 119.10, F.S.; providing that a violation of any law that provides access to public records is a violation of ch. 119, F.S.; providing a civil penalty for a person who violates provisions relating to accessing public records; providing criminal penalties for a person outside this state who knowingly violates such provisions; requiring the court to assess specified penalties if it makes certain determinations; amending s. 119.12, F.S.; requiring the court to assess and award against the agency certain costs and fees; removing a provision exempting a complainant from providing certain written notice; authorizing agency reimbursement of attorney fees under specified conditions; repealing s. 282.711, F.S., relating to remote electronic access services, to conform to changes made by the act; amending s. 921.0022, F.S.; conforming a provision to changes made by the act; providing an effective date. hb437-01-c1
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/17/2025
• Added: 11/18/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Alex Andrade (R)*, Daryl Campbell (D), Jim Mooney (R), Susan Plasencia (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 44
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Died in Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0370 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Commissioners of the Florida Commission on Human Relations
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption from public disclosure for personal identifying information of current or former personnel and commissioners of the Florida Commission on Human Relations. Specifically, the bill protects home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs of these personnel and commissioners, as well as the names, addresses, and employment information of their spouses and children. The exemption also covers the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by their children. The bill provides a specific rationale for this exemption, noting that releasing such information could potentially expose these individuals and their families to physical and emotional harm from disgruntled individuals who may have been subject to the commission's investigations or actions. The exemption is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill reflects a legislative determination that the potential harm to these personnel and their families outweighs the public benefit of disclosing their personal information, and it aims to protect them from potential threats or acts of revenge related to their professional duties.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of certain current or former personnel and commissioners of the Florida Commission on Human Relations and the spouses and children of such current or former personnel and commissioners; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/04/2025
• Added: 11/05/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tracie Davis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/04/2025
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1383 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Experimental Treatments for Terminal Conditions and Life-threatening Rare Diseases
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida Statute 499.0295 to make certain information in the Department of Health's annual report on experimental treatments for terminal conditions and life-threatening rare diseases confidential and exempt from public records requirements. Specifically, the health information and proprietary pricing details within these reports will be protected from public disclosure. The bill states this is a public necessity because releasing such sensitive personal health data could harm patients who are undergoing experimental treatments, as they have a strong expectation of privacy, and the potential harm from disclosure outweighs any public benefit. This exemption will take effect if similar legislation is passed in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 499.0295, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements certain information contained in a public report published by the Department of Health relating to experimental treatment outcomes and safety signals; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Gallop Franklin (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Died in Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0549 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Injunctions for Protection in Cases of Repeat or Serious Violence
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create new privacy protections for petitions related to injunctions for protection against "serious violence by a known person". Specifically, the bill makes confidential certain court documents and identifying information for petitions that are dismissed without a hearing or for procedural reasons. The bill aims to protect the reputation of individuals named in such dismissed petitions, recognizing that unverified allegations could be defamatory. It also seeks to protect the physical safety of petitioners, respondents, and law enforcement by keeping identifying information confidential until the respondent is personally served with the petition. The confidentiality provisions apply to the petition contents, any identifying information about the petitioner or respondent, affidavits, hearing notices, and temporary injunctions. The bill includes a legislative finding that these privacy protections are necessary to prevent potential harm and unwarranted reputation damage. The effective date of the bill is contingent on the passage of related legislation (HB 547).
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.0714, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for petitions, and the contents thereof, for injunctions for protection against serious violence by a known person; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information that can be used to identify a petitioner or respondent in such a petition for an injunction; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/25/2025
• Added: 11/26/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Anne Gerwig (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 11/25/2025
• Last Action: Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1124 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Autopsy Reports of Certain Sudden and Unexpected deaths
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for autopsy reports of infants or children who die suddenly and unexpectedly, or individuals of any age whose death is suspected to be caused by SADS (Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome), a condition involving irregular heart rhythms that can lead to sudden death. While these reports will generally be kept confidential, surviving parents and adult siblings of the deceased will still be allowed to view and obtain copies. The reports can also be shared with the Department of Health for epidemiological research and tracking, and with public health authorities for specific purposes, provided they maintain confidentiality. Additionally, deidentified information and aggregate data from these reports can be released to national research institutions for similar research goals. This exemption is subject to a future legislative review and is set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted. The bill's stated public necessity is to protect the emotional well-being of families by preventing the widespread dissemination of sensitive autopsy findings, which could cause emotional distress and detract from the memory of the deceased, especially given the ease of sharing information online.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 406.11, F.S.; creating an exemption from public records requirements for autopsy reports of certain sudden and unexpected deaths; specifying circumstances under which such autopsy reports and certain information contained therein may be disclosed; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ileana Garcia (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Died in Health Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0268 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Emergency Department Physicians
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill defines an "emergency department physician" as a licensed physician working in a hospital's emergency department and creates an exemption from public records laws for certain personal information of these physicians, their spouses, and their children under 26 years old, including their home addresses, personal phone numbers, dates of birth, and the names and locations of schools or daycare facilities their children attend. This exemption is retroactive and requires agencies holding this information to maintain its exempt status if the individual requests it and provides sworn confirmation of their eligibility, and the agency must continue to protect the information until the exemption no longer applies. The bill also includes a statement of public necessity, explaining that emergency department physicians are vulnerable to violence and harassment due to the nature of their work, and that releasing their personal information could endanger them and their families, with this harm outweighing any public benefit from disclosure. This exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining the term “emergency department physician”; providing exemptions from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current emergency department physicians and the spouses and certain children of such emergency department physicians; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; requiring certain agencies that are custodians of the exempt information to maintain the exempt status of such information under certain circumstances; specifying procedures for requesting an agency to maintain the exempt status of such information; providing that an individual has a duty to withdraw a request if the exemption no longer applies to him or her; requiring custodial agencies to maintain the exempt status of such information until the exemption no longer applies to the individual; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/23/2025
• Added: 10/24/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Health Policy, Ana Maria Rodriguez (R)*, Gayle Harrell (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/03/2026
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0210 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Petitions for Injunctions for Protection Against Serious Violence by a Known Person
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create privacy protections for petitions seeking injunctions for protection against serious violence by a known person. Specifically, the bill exempts from public disclosure petitions that are dismissed without a hearing or at an ex parte hearing, recognizing that unverified allegations in such documents could be defamatory and damage an individual's reputation. The bill also makes confidential any information that could identify the petitioner or respondent in such injunction petitions until the respondent is personally served with the documents. This confidentiality is intended to protect the physical safety and security of individuals seeking protection through injunctive proceedings, as well as law enforcement officers who must serve these documents. The bill includes a provision that it will only take effect if companion legislation (SB 32) is also adopted in the same legislative session. The changes apply to court records and official records, ensuring that sensitive information about potential serious violence protection cases remains private until appropriate legal steps have been taken.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.0714, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for petitions, and the contents thereof, for injunctions for protection against serious violence by a known person; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information that can be used to identify a petitioner or respondent in such a petition for an injunction; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 10/16/2025
• Added: 10/16/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Barbara Sharief (D)*, Rosalind Osgood (D), Tracie Davis (D), Mack Bernard (D), Shev Jones (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 10/16/2025
• Last Action: Died in Messages
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1146 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Recordings of Protective Investigations
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for recordings of interviews conducted as part of a protective investigation by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), meaning these recordings will not be accessible to the general public under current public records laws like s. 119.07(1) of Florida Statutes. However, these recordings can still be released to individuals conducting the investigation, who must keep them confidential, or to the caregiver of the child involved in the investigation if requested in connection with a judicial proceeding, unless a court orders otherwise. This exemption is intended to protect the privacy of children and witnesses involved in abuse, abandonment, or neglect investigations, and it is scheduled for review and potential repeal on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill also includes a statement of public necessity, explaining that protecting sensitive interview details is crucial for maintaining a safe environment for children and the integrity of investigations, and it will take effect only if another related bill, SB 1144, also becomes law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 39.301, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings of interviews conducted as part of a protective investigation by the Department of Children and Families; authorizing the release of such recordings to certain persons; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ana Maria Rodriguez (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Died in Children, Families, and Elder Affairs
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1162 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Office of the Corrections Ombudsman and the Corrections Oversight Committee
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to make correspondence and communications with the Office of the Corrections Ombudsman and the Corrections Oversight Committee confidential and exempt from public disclosure, meaning these records would not be accessible to the public under the state's open records laws. The Office of the Corrections Ombudsman is an independent body that investigates complaints and concerns related to correctional facilities, and the Corrections Oversight Committee provides oversight of these facilities. The bill argues this exemption is a public necessity to protect incarcerated individuals from retaliation by correctional officers if they report issues, and to encourage open communication with the Ombudsman's office about conditions within correctional facilities. The bill also includes a contingent effective date, meaning it will only become law if similar legislation is passed in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 11.92, F.S.; providing a public records exemption for correspondence and communications with the Office of the Corrections Ombudsman and the Corrections Oversight Committee; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ana Maria Rodriguez (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1792 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Pawnbroker Transactions
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands an existing exemption from public records requirements, meaning certain information will no longer be readily available to the public. Specifically, records related to pawnbroker transactions that are delivered to the Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), a state agency responsible for law enforcement and criminal justice, will now be considered confidential. This exemption applies to the general public records law (s. 119.07(1)) and a constitutional provision (s. 24(a), Art. I of the State Constitution) that guarantees public access to government records. The bill clarifies that these confidential records can only be used for official law enforcement purposes, though law enforcement officials can still share the pawnbroker's and customer's names and addresses, along with a description of the pawned item, with the alleged owner of that property. Furthermore, this exemption is subject to a future legislative review process known as the Open Government Sunset Review Act, and it will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature actively votes to extend it. The bill also includes a statement of public necessity, explaining that this expansion is needed to protect sensitive personal information from pawnbroker transactions, such as names, addresses, and even thumbprints, which could increase the risk of identity theft for individuals involved. The Legislature believes that the potential harm from releasing this information outweighs any public benefit of disclosure, and that this exemption will help ensure consistent treatment of such records across different law enforcement agencies and support the statewide sharing of information about secondhand dealer transactions. Finally, the bill's effective date is contingent on another piece of legislation, SB 1582, also becoming law during the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 539.003, F.S.; expanding the exemption from public records requirements for records relating to pawnbroker transactions to include those records delivered to the Department of Law Enforcement; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Clay Yarborough (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Died in Fiscal Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0942 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Motor Vehicle Operator Privacy
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Driver Privacy Act," amends Florida's motor vehicle operator privacy laws by expanding protections for personal information collected by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The bill prohibits the sale or sharing of motor vehicle records, personal information, and email addresses with third-party companies (defined as marketing firms, debt collectors, insurance companies, or data brokers), as well as foreign countries of concern or foreign principals. It defines several key terms, including "secure login credentials" and "public-facing portal," and maintains existing confidentiality provisions for emergency contact information and login credentials. The bill establishes penalties for unauthorized use or release of information, specifically a non-criminal fine of up to $2,000 for entities that misuse information from the Driver and Vehicle Information Database. The provisions apply retroactively, and the bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with certain exemptions subject to future legislative review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to motor vehicle operator privacy; providing a short title; amending s. 119.0712, F.S.; defining terms; prohibiting certain personal information and e-mail addresses from being sold to or shared with a third-party company, foreign country of concern, or foreign principal; providing for retroactive application; providing penalties for a third-party company that uses or releases certain information for a specified purpose; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Alexis Calatayud (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/17/2025
• Last Action: Died in Transportation
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1215 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section in Florida Statutes to implement the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact, which is an agreement between states to allow podiatric physicians to practice in multiple states under a unified licensure system. The bill exempts certain personal identifying information of podiatric physicians, excluding their name, licensure status, and number, from public records requirements when held by the Department of Health or the Board of Podiatric Medicine, unless the state that originally provided the information authorizes its disclosure. It also exempts meetings or portions of meetings of the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact Commission or its committees where matters exempted by federal or state law are discussed from public meeting requirements, and exempts recordings, minutes, and records from these exempt meetings from public records requirements. These exemptions are temporary and subject to legislative review, set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless extended. The bill states that these exemptions are a public necessity to allow Florida to participate in the compact and protect sensitive information.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating s. 461.0182, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information held by the Department of Health or the Board of Podiatric Medicine pursuant to the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact; authorizing the disclosure of such information under certain circumstances; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for certain meetings or portions of certain meetings of the Interstate Podiatric Medical Licensure Compact Commission or its executive committee or other committees; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings, minutes, and records generated during the exempt meetings or portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Gallop Franklin (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Died in Health Professions & Programs Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0777 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Office of Financial Regulation
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates several new public records exemptions for the Office of Financial Regulation related to cybersecurity events, data breaches, and information security in financial institutions. Specifically, the bill makes confidential and exempt from public disclosure certain sensitive information received by the office during investigations of cybersecurity incidents involving loan originators, mortgage brokers, money services businesses, and financial institutions. The exemptions cover personal financial information, customer data, computer forensic reports, and proprietary information that could potentially reveal security vulnerabilities or trade secrets. The bill includes provisions that allow limited disclosure of information during active investigations for official purposes or to assist in notifying potential victims. The exemptions are time-limited and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts them through a review process. The rationale for these exemptions is to protect ongoing investigations, prevent identity theft, maintain the integrity of financial institutions' cybersecurity systems, and encourage accurate reporting of security incidents without risking further financial harm or exposing sensitive information to malicious actors.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 494.00125, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information received by the Office of Financial Regulation pursuant to certain cybersecurity event provisions relating to information systems and customer information of loan originators, mortgage brokers, and mortgage lenders and for information received by the office as a result of investigations and examinations of such cybersecurity events; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 560.129, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information received by the office pursuant to certain cybersecurity events provisions relating to information systems and customer information of money services businesses and for information received by the office as a result of investigations and examinations of such cybersecurity events; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 655.0171, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for customer personal information received by the office relating to hb777-00 breaches of security of financial institutions or received by the office as a result of investigations of such breaches under certain circumstances; providing exceptions; providing definitions; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 655.057, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information received by the office pursuant to applications for authority to organize new financial institutions and for certain information relating to specified persons; providing exceptions; defining the term "personal identifying information"; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/16/2025
• Added: 12/17/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Webster Barnaby (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 12/16/2025
• Last Action: Died in Government Operations Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0884 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Owners and Operators of Family Foster Homes
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption for the personal identifying and location information of current and former owners and operators of family foster homes, as well as their spouses and children. The exemption covers home addresses, telephone numbers, places of employment, dates of birth, and photographs, and also protects the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by their children. The bill defines key terms such as "family foster home" (using the definition from existing statute), "owner," "operator," and "child" in precise legal language. The Legislature justifies this exemption by emphasizing the potential safety risks to foster parents and children, noting that these individuals could be vulnerable to threats or revenge from biological parents, and that releasing such information could jeopardize their personal safety. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature specifically votes to continue it. The bill provides retroactive application of the exemption and will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining terms; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former owners and operators of family foster homes and the names and personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of such owners and operators; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/11/2025
• Added: 12/12/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ana Maria Rodriguez (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Died in Children, Families, and Elder Affairs
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1237 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Respiratory Care Interstate Compact
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section in Florida Statutes to establish exemptions from public records and public meetings requirements related to the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact Commission. Specifically, it exempts a respiratory therapist's personal identifying information, beyond their name, license status, or number, from public disclosure unless the state that originally provided the information authorizes its release. It also exempts portions of meetings of the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact Commission, its executive committee, or other committees where matters specifically exempted by federal or state law are discussed, from public meeting requirements. Furthermore, recordings, minutes, and records generated during these exempt meetings or portions of meetings will also be exempt from public records requirements. These exemptions are deemed a public necessity to protect therapists' personal information and to allow Florida to participate in the compact, and they are subject to a future legislative review, set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless extended. The bill's effective date is contingent on the passage of similar legislation, HB 1235, in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating s. 468.3711, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for a respiratory therapist's personal identifying information; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for certain portions of meetings of the Respiratory Care Interstate Compact Commission; providing an exemption from public records requirements for recordings, minutes, and records generated during exempt portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : William Conerly (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Died in Government Operations Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1346 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Department of Legal Affairs/Artificial Intelligence Violations
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for information gathered by the Department of Legal Affairs during investigations into violations related to artificial intelligence (AI). Specifically, any information received by the department as part of a notification or investigation of an AI violation under section 501.1739, Florida Statutes, will be kept confidential and exempt from public disclosure until the investigation is completed or no longer active. This exemption is intended to prevent the premature release of information that could hinder investigations, protect sensitive personal and proprietary business information, and avoid revealing security vulnerabilities. The bill also outlines specific circumstances under which this confidential information can still be shared, such as for official duties, public notification if it aids in locating victims, or with other government entities. After an investigation concludes, certain information, including personal identifying details, computer forensic reports, and proprietary business information, will remain confidential. This exemption is subject to a legislative review and is set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted. The bill also includes a statement of public necessity explaining why this exemption is crucial for effective investigations and to prevent further harm to individuals and businesses.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 501.1739, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information relating to investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs of certain violations relating to artificial intelligence violations; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Colleen Burton (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Died in Commerce and Tourism
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1514 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records and Meetings/Space Florida
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill revives and amends a law to make certain information held by Space Florida, a state agency focused on spaceport development and the space industry, confidential and exempt from public records requirements if it qualifies as a trade secret, which is defined as proprietary information that gives a business a competitive advantage. This exemption also applies to portions of Space Florida's board of directors' meetings where these trade secrets are discussed, allowing those portions to be closed to the public and exempt from public meetings requirements, and any records generated during these closed meetings will also be kept confidential. The bill specifies that Space Florida must inform the public in writing if a requested record contains a trade secret, and this exemption is subject to legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted. The bill also includes a statement of public necessity, explaining that protecting trade secrets is crucial for Space Florida to attract and retain businesses in the space industry, as disclosure could harm economic development and give competitors an unfair advantage.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; reviving, reenacting, and amending s. 331.326, F.S., relating to confidentiality of information relating to trade secrets; providing an exemption from public records requirements for information held by Space Florida which is a trade secret; providing that portions of meetings of Space Florida’s board of directors during which such confidential and exempt information is discussed are closed to the public and exempt from public meetings requirements; providing an exemption from public records requirements for records generated during closed portions of such meetings; providing for legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Danny Burgess (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1027 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Disclosure of Public Servants' Personal Information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new protections for certain public servants in Florida by allowing them to prevent data brokers from disclosing their personal information. A data broker is defined as a company that collects and sells personal data to others. The bill specifies that "covered persons" include judges, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, elected officials, and certain family members of these individuals, recognizing that their public roles can put them at risk. These covered individuals, or their authorized agents, can send a written notice to a data broker requesting that their "protected information"—which includes home addresses, phone numbers, personal email addresses, social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and vehicle identifiers—not be disclosed. Data brokers must comply with this request within 10 business days and are prohibited from further disclosure or redisclosure of this information. The bill allows data brokers to provide a specific email address for receiving these notices, provided it's publicly published and remains unchanged without notice. If a data broker fails to comply, they can be sued for ordinary negligence, and it will not be a defense that the information was publicly available elsewhere. The bill outlines penalties for violations, including damages, attorney fees, and costs, and takes effect on January 15, 2027.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to the disclosure of public servants' personal information; providing legislative findings; creating s. 111.101, F.S.; defining terms; authorizing certain public employees and officials to provide a written notice to a data broker to prevent disclosure of specified personal data concerning themselves and related persons; prohibiting a data broker from disclosing or redisclosing certain data after receipt of such notice; authorizing data brokers to provide e- mail addresses for receipt of such notice under specified conditions; providing for civil actions against a data broker for failure to comply; providing the standard of fault in such actions; providing that it is not a defense that protected information was available through specified means; providing that it is an affirmative defense to assert that the person is not a covered person; providing exceptions; providing for damages and costs; providing construction; providing severability; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Juan Porras (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Died in Industries & Professional Activities Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0876 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records and Public Meetings/Hearings Relating to Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Florida statutes related to confidentiality of court proceedings and records for mental health and substance abuse cases. The bill makes all hearings relating to mental health examination, treatment, substance abuse treatment, assessment, and stabilization confidential and closed to the public, with exceptions for cases where the respondent consents or a judge finds good cause to open the hearing. The bill expands confidentiality protections for court documents, petitions, applications, and court orders, ensuring that a respondent's name and personal identifying information remain private. Specific authorized entities, such as the petitioner, respondent, attorneys, guardians, healthcare practitioners, and certain government departments, may still access these confidential records. The legislation emphasizes protecting individuals' sensitive medical information and aims to prevent potential reputational damage or discouragement from seeking treatment due to fear of public disclosure. The bill includes provisions for legislative review and sets an automatic repeal date of October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts the law. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2026, and apply to both existing and future court documents and appeals.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and public meetings; amending ss. 394.464 and 397.6760, F.S.; providing that all hearings relating to mental health examination or treatment and substance abuse treatment or assessment and stabilization, respectively, are confidential and closed to the public; providing exceptions; providing that certain information is exempt from public records requirements; revising a public records exemption to include certain petitions and applications; authorizing disclosure of certain confidential and exempt documents to certain service providers; authorizing courts to use a respondent’s name for certain purposes; revising applicability; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; making technical changes; providing statements of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/11/2025
• Added: 12/12/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Don Gaetz (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Died in Children, Families, and Elder Affairs
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0997 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./Public Employees Relations Commission
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes several exemptions to public records requirements related to the Public Employees Relations Commission (PERC), which is an agency that handles labor relations for public employees. First, it exempts written communications developed in preparation for or preliminary to any order issued by PERC or its designees, meaning these internal documents will not be publicly accessible. Second, it makes statements of interest signed by public employees seeking to decertify their bargaining agent confidential, with an exception allowing challenges if the statements were obtained improperly, aiming to protect employees' rights to change representation without fear of reprisal. Third, it exempts the personal identifying and location information, including home addresses, phone numbers, and dates of birth, of PERC's chair, commissioners, and hearing officers, as well as their spouses and children, citing a heightened risk of harm from disgruntled individuals due to their official duties. All these exemptions are subject to a future legislative review and repeal unless reenacted.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 447.205, F.S.; exempting from public records requirements written communications developed in preparation for, or preliminary to, the issuance of any order by the Public Employees Relations Commission or its designees; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 447.308, F.S.; exempting from public records requirements showing of interest statements signed by public employees and filed with the Public Employees Relations Commission; providing an exception; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; exempting from public records requirements the personal identifying and location information of the chair, commissioners, and hearing officers of the Public Employees Relations Commission and the personal identifying and location information of spouses and children of such personnel; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date. hb997-00
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Died in Government Operations Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0466 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Legal Assistants/Office of the Public Defender/Office of Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional Counsel
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption for legal assistants working in the Office of the Public Defender and the Office of Criminal Conflict and Civil Regional Counsel. Specifically, the bill defines "legal assistant" as an employee of these offices who is not a public defender or counsel, and exempts their home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs from public records requirements. The exemption also covers the personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of these legal assistants. The bill includes a statement of public necessity, explaining that legal assistants may face potential risks from criminal defendants and their associates due to their work interactions. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless renewed by the Legislature. Additionally, the bill makes a conforming cross-reference change in another section of Florida statutes. The new provisions will take effect on July 1, 2026, and apply retroactively to existing records.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining the term “legal assistant”; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs of current legal assistants employed by the office of the public defender and the office of criminal conflict and civil regional counsel and the personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of such legal assistants; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 744.21031, F.S.; conforming a cross reference; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/12/2025
• Added: 11/13/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tommy Wright (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/12/2025
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0410 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Private Investigators
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new exemption to Florida's public records laws that protects personal identifying information for current and former private investigators licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS), as well as their spouses and children. Specifically, the bill exempts home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, places of employment, and school/daycare locations from public disclosure requirements. The legislative rationale emphasizes the sensitive nature of private investigative work, which often involves uncovering fraud or locating missing persons, and the potential risks of retaliation or harassment if personal information becomes publicly accessible. The exemption is not permanent; it is subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill argues that protecting this information balances public transparency with the personal safety of private investigators and their families, and it will apply retroactively. The exemption will take effect on July 1, 2026, providing time for implementation and review.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current and former private investigators licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the spouses and children of such private investigators; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/05/2025
• Added: 11/06/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Commerce and Tourism, Keith Truenow (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0744 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records Requests Made to Law Enforcement Officers
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section of Florida law addressing public records requests made to law enforcement officers. The bill defines specific circumstances under which law enforcement officers can refuse to process public records requests while performing official duties, such as responding to a service call, conducting an investigation, or engaging in other police activities. When an officer is actively performing official duties, they must verbally inform the person requesting records that they cannot process the request at that moment and instead direct the individual to either the agency's records custodian or an online public records portal. If an individual knowingly and persistently attempts to compel an officer to process a records request while the officer is on duty, they could be charged with obstruction of a law enforcement officer under existing state law. The bill specifically excludes situations where an officer is performing duties at an official agency location. Key terms like "law enforcement officer" and "employing agency" are defined by referencing existing statutory definitions. The provisions of this bill will take effect on July 1, 2026, providing ample time for law enforcement agencies to prepare for and implement the new requirements.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records requests made to law enforcement officers; creating s. 119.101, F.S.; defining terms; prohibiting law enforcement officers from accepting and processing public records requests while engaged in certain activities; providing that a law enforcement officer makes a certain determination; requiring that a law enforcement officer verbally inform an individual of certain information; providing criminal penalties for individuals who knowingly and willfully persist in attempting to compel a law enforcement officer to accept and process a public records request under certain circumstances; providing applicability; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/03/2025
• Added: 12/04/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Clay Yarborough (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/03/2025
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0520 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/State Retirement Plan/Division of Retirement
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida state law to create a comprehensive exemption from public records requirements for all records identifying participants in state retirement plans administered by the Division of Retirement. Specifically, the bill protects the names, addresses, and other personal identifying information of retirement plan members, payees, and beneficiaries from public disclosure. The legislation allows these records to be shared only with other governmental entities for official purposes, and includes a provision for legislative review that will automatically repeal the exemption on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature specifically reenacts it. The bill's supporters argue that this exemption is necessary to protect retirement plan participants from potential predatory individuals or organizations who might misuse their personal information, and to provide uniform protection for all Florida Retirement System members regardless of their specific retirement plan. The justification emphasizes that preventing unauthorized disclosure will allow retirement plan participants to invest their funds without fear of their sensitive information being exposed without their consent.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 121.031, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for all records identifying participants in any state retirement plan administered by the Division of Retirement of the Department of Management Services and held by the division or the State Board of Administration; providing exceptions; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; deleting provisions providing a limited exemption from public records requirements for certain retirement records; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/17/2025
• Added: 11/18/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Corey Simon (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/17/2025
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0812 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/Sealed Criminal History Records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands an existing law that allows certain criminal history records to be sealed, meaning they are kept confidential and not accessible to the public under Florida's public records law (s. 119.07(1), Florida Statutes, and Article I, Section 24(a) of the State Constitution). Specifically, it extends this confidentiality to sealed criminal history records of individuals who were found guilty of certain nonviolent misdemeanor offenses or other specified acts. The bill also clarifies that a state attorney can access these sealed records for the purpose of prosecuting a subsequent case. Importantly, this expansion of the exemption is subject to a review process and is set to expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature takes action to save it from repeal, at which point the law would revert to its previous wording as of June 30, 2026, with some exceptions. The Legislature has declared this expansion a public necessity, stating that it helps individuals reintegrate into society by removing barriers to employment and housing, thereby promoting economic stability and reducing crime. The bill also includes a directive for the Division of Law Revision to update a reference to specific legislation and sets a contingent effective date tied to the passage of similar legislation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; reenacting and amending s. 943.059, F.S.; expanding an existing public records exemption to include sealed criminal history records of persons adjudicated guilty of certain acts or nonviolent misdemeanor offenses; authorizing disclosure of criminal history records to a state attorney for a specified purpose; providing for future review and repeal of the expanded exemption; providing for reversion to specified statutory text if the exemption is not saved from repeal; providing for expiration; providing a directive to the Division of Law Revision; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/09/2025
• Added: 12/10/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Criminal Justice, Corey Simon (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Died in Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0770 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill revises Florida's public records laws to strengthen transparency and accountability for government agencies. The bill modifies the definition of "actual cost of duplication" to include reasonable agency resource costs, such as clerical assistance, while explicitly excluding overhead costs. It requires public records custodians to acknowledge and respond to records requests within three business days, either by providing the records, estimating the time and cost to provide them, or denying the request with a specific statutory exemption. The bill prohibits agencies from charging fees if they fail to respond promptly and prevents agencies from asserting new exemptions during legal challenges that were not previously raised. Additionally, the bill establishes penalties for agencies that intentionally obstruct public records access, including mandatory attorney fees, cost assessments, and potential financial penalties. The legislation also requires agencies to provide electronic payment options for records requests, offer records in requested electronic formats, and potentially reduce or waive fees for requests serving public purposes like journalism, academic research, or nonprofit activities. These changes aim to make public records more accessible and hold government agencies more accountable for transparent record-keeping and disclosure practices.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.011, F.S.; revising the definition of the term “actual cost of duplication”; amending s. 119.07, F.S.; providing that it is a violation of specified provisions to fail to acknowledge a public records request promptly and in good faith; requiring custodians of public records to perform specified actions within a specified timeframe; prohibiting an agency from imposing costs or fees if the custodian of public records fails to take such actions within the required timeframe; requiring custodians of public records to state in writing certain justifications and citations; prohibiting an agency from asserting that a record was exempt or confidential and exempt under specified circumstances; providing that an agency may not assert certain justifications under specified circumstances; deleting provisions authorizing a fee for accessing a public record electronically under a contractual agreement; prohibiting agencies from charging for specified public records requests; defining the term “any electronic medium stored, maintained, or used by an agency”; requiring agencies to provide requested public records in specified formats; authorizing agencies to charge a fee for such provision; providing for the reduction or waiver of fees under specified conditions; requiring that such reductions and waivers be applied uniformly; prohibiting an agency from charging for a certain timeframe under specified conditions; requiring that a written, detailed cost estimate be provided upon request to persons seeking to inspect or copy a public record; providing that an agency is not authorized to charge fees for redaction of certain records; requiring an agency subject to ch. 119, F.S., to provide an electronic option for payment of fees associated with a public records request; amending s. 119.10, F.S.; providing that violations of any law providing access to public records are violations of specified provisions; providing a civil penalty for persons who violate provisions related to accessing public records; providing criminal penalties for persons outside this state who knowingly violate specified provisions; requiring courts to assess specified penalties if the court makes certain determinations; amending s. 119.12, F.S.; requiring that the court assess against agencies certain costs and fees and award such costs and fees to the complainant; requiring that certain fees be assessed against an agency under certain conditions; authorizing agency reimbursement of attorney fees and costs under specified conditions; amending s. 119.15, F.S.; requiring that certain provisions authorizing a public records exemption be repealed after a specified timeframe unless the Legislature reenacts the exemption; amending s. 921.0022, F.S.; conforming provisions to changes made by the act; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/05/2025
• Added: 12/06/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Darryl Rouson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/05/2025
• Last Action: Died in Governmental Oversight and Accountability
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0830 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records/County Administrators and City Managers
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create a new exemption from public disclosure for certain personal identifying and location information of county and city administrative officials. Specifically, the bill protects the home addresses, telephone numbers, and dates of birth of current county administrators, deputy and assistant county administrators, city managers, deputy and assistant city managers. The exemption also extends to the names, home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, photographs, and places of employment of these officials' spouses and children, as well as the names and locations of schools and day care facilities attended by their children. The bill includes a statement of public necessity explaining that such information could be used to perpetrate fraud or acts of revenge against these public officials and their families, potentially jeopardizing their safety. The exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted by the Legislature. The bill provides a mechanism for officials to request the release of their exempt information and specifies that the exemption applies to information held before, on, or after the effective date, which is July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current county administrators, deputy county administrators, assistant county administrators, city managers, deputy city managers, and assistant city managers, including the names and personal identifying and location information of the spouses and children of current county administrators, deputy county administrators, assistant county administrators, city managers, deputy city managers, and assistant city managers; providing for future legislative review and repeal; providing for retroactive application; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/09/2025
• Added: 12/10/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Thomas Leek (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 12/09/2025
• Last Action: Died in Messages
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1179 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec. and Meetings/Space Florida
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new law that exempts certain information held by Space Florida, a state agency focused on aerospace development, from public disclosure and open meetings requirements. Specifically, any trade secret, which is defined as confidential business information that provides a competitive advantage, held by Space Florida, its users, or space industry businesses will be kept private. This means that records containing these trade secrets will not be accessible to the public, and meetings where these secrets are discussed can be closed to the public. The bill states this exemption is a public necessity because protecting such information is crucial for attracting and retaining aerospace businesses, fostering economic growth, and preventing competitors from gaining an advantage. This exemption is temporary and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature acts to extend it. The bill also specifies that it will take effect on the same date as another piece of legislation, HB 1177, if that bill is passed in the same legislative session.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and meetings; creating s. 331.3261, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records and public meetings requirements for Space Florida; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tyler Sirois (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Died in Ways & Means Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1361 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Public Records Requests Pertaining to Law Enforcement Officers
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida Statute 119.07, which governs public records, by adding a new requirement for individuals seeking to inspect or copy public records related to a law enforcement officer, as defined in section 943.10(1) of Florida Statutes. Specifically, any person making such a request must present a valid driver's license or identification card issued by Florida or another state to the custodian of public records. The custodian is then required to keep a copy of this identification along with the request itself. This new rule, however, does not apply to law enforcement officers who are acting in their official capacity. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records requests pertaining to law enforcement officers; amending s. 119.07, F.S.; requiring certain identification from a person requesting to inspect or copy a public record relating to a law enforcement officer; requiring the custodian of public records to retain a copy of such identification; providing applicability; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Marie Woodson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Died in Government Operations Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H1055 • Last Action 03/13/2026
Pub. Rec./State Attorney and Office of Statewide Prosecution Nonlegal Support Staff
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill exempts personal identifying and location information, including home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, and photographs, of current state attorney and Office of Statewide Prosecution nonlegal support staff, as well as their spouses and children, from public records requirements. This exemption is considered a public necessity because these individuals may be targeted for revenge due to the sensitive nature of the criminal justice information they handle, potentially jeopardizing their safety and that of their families. The bill also includes provisions for legislative review and repeal of this exemption, allows for retroactive application, and conforms a cross-reference in another statute related to public records.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for the personal identifying and location information of current state attorney and Office of Statewide Prosecution nonlegal support staff and the spouses and children of such nonlegal support staff; providing for legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; amending s. 744.21031, F.S.; conforming a cross-reference; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sam Greco (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #SB626 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Restricting right-to-know requests to persons domiciled or maintaining a permanent residence in New Hampshire and requiring proof of domicile or residency to file right-to-know requests.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New Hampshire's right-to-know law by restricting public record access requests to only citizens who can prove they are domiciled or maintain a permanent residence in the state. Specifically, the bill defines "citizen" as a natural person with a permanent residence in New Hampshire and requires individuals requesting governmental records to provide documentation proving their state residency, such as through voter registration or identification. The bill also includes an exemption for news organizations located outside of New Hampshire, allowing them to continue making record requests. Under this proposed legislation, government bodies and agencies would only be required to make governmental records available for inspection and copying to individuals who can demonstrate their New Hampshire residency status. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage and is expected to have a minimal fiscal impact of less than $10,000 annually. This change would significantly alter the current right-to-know process by limiting public record access to state residents and requiring specific documentation to prove residency before a request can be processed.
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Bill Summary: This bill restricts right-to-know requests to persons domiciled or maintaining a permanent residence in New Hampshire and requires proof of domicile or residency to file right-to-know requests.
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• Introduced: 11/25/2025
• Added: 11/26/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Bill Gannon (R)*, Tim McGough (R), Donovan Fenton (D), Dan Innis (R), Mark McConkey (R), Howard Pearl (R), Tara Reardon (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 11/25/2025
• Last Action: Pending Motion Committee Amendment # 2026-1055s; 03/12/2026; Senate Journal 6
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3353 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Personal information protections for judicial official expanded to state legislators, legislative task force created, report required, and money appropriated.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands existing personal information protections, which previously applied only to judicial officials, to now include current and former members of the Minnesota legislature, redefining "judicial official" to "covered official" for this purpose. It also establishes a legislative task force composed of twelve members, including representatives from the legislative branch, state agencies, and judicial system, to study and analyze the need for enhanced privacy protections for all Minnesota government officials and to explore ways to administer these protections effectively. This task force is required to submit a report with its findings and any recommended legislative changes by January 15, 2027, and a specific amount of money is appropriated from the general fund to support its work.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data privacy; expanding personal information protections for judicial officials to state legislators; creating a legislative task force to study personal information protections for government officials; requiring a report; appropriating money; amending Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, sections 480.40, subdivision 1; 480.45, subdivision 2.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 02/17/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 7 : Mike Freiberg (D)*, Kristin Bahner (D), Kelly Moller (D), Kari Rehrauer (D), Katie Jones (D), Carlie Kotyza-Witthuhn (D), Walter Hudson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Author added Hudson
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5723 • Last Action 03/12/2026
IL EPSTEIN FILES INVESTIGATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Illinois Epstein Files Investigation Commission, an investigatory and advisory body tasked with examining matters related to Jeffrey Epstein's network that have a connection to Illinois, to help enforce Illinois laws, and to promote transparency. The Commission will have the power to issue subpoenas, which can be enforced by a circuit court, and must report its findings periodically to the Attorney General, Governor, and the General Assembly. The bill also includes protections for victims and whistleblowers, and grants the Attorney General specific authority, including the ability to share information with the Commission. Additionally, the bill amends the Statewide Grand Jury Act to expand its jurisdiction to include a broader range of offenses, such as human trafficking, sexual exploitation of children, bribery, official misconduct, money laundering, and racketeering, provided that these offenses occurred in more than one county, have a statewide connection, or are certified as necessary by the Attorney General. The Commission will cease operations after five years and the Act will be repealed after six years.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Illinois Epstein Files Investigation Act. Establishes the Illinois Epstein Files Investigation Commission as an investigatory and advisory commission to investigate matters related to Jeffrey Epstein's network with a nexus to Illinois, facilitate enforcement of Illinois law, and promote transparency. Grants the Commission investigatory powers, including subpoena authority enforceable in circuit court, and requires referrals to the Attorney General and periodic reports to the Attorney General, Governor, and the General Assembly. Provides victim and whistleblower protections. Authorizes the Attorney General to exercise specified authority. Directs the Attorney General to share information upon request by the Commission. Ceases operation of the Commission after 5 years and repeals the Act after 6 years. Amends the Statewide Grand Jury Act to expand jurisdiction, to include human trafficking, involuntary servitude, sexual exploitation of children, permitting and failure to report sexual abuse of a child, prostitution-related offenses, patronizing a sexually exploited child, child pornography, bribery, official misconduct, solicitation of misconduct, tampering with public records, perjury, communicating with or harassment of jurors and witnesses, money laundering, obstruction of justice, and racketeering activity, but with a requirement for Attorney General certification or a requirement that offenses occur in more than one county or have a statewide nexus. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 03/02/2026
• Added: 03/03/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 23 : Abdelnasser Rashid (D)*, Kelly Cassidy (D), Anne Stava-Murray (D), Nabeela Syed (D), Patrick Sheehan (R), Diane Blair-Sherlock (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Jay Hoffman (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Natalie Manley (D), Kevin Olickal (D), Lisa Davis (D), Carol Ammons (D), Barbara Hernandez (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Edgar González (D), Aarón Ortíz (D), Will Guzzardi (D), Kam Buckner (D), Michael Crawford (D), Nicole La Ha (R), Kevin Schmidt (R), Jennifer Sanalitro (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 03/02/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SD bill #HB1092 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Update provisions pertaining to open records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends South Dakota Codified Law Section 1-27-1.5, which lists records that are not subject to open records laws, meaning they are generally kept private. The bill updates this list by adding new categories of information that will be considered confidential, including certain records related to cybersecurity, emergency response plans, and specific details about archaeological or historical sites that could be vulnerable to theft or vandalism. It also clarifies existing exemptions, such as those for law enforcement investigations and personnel information, and adds new exemptions for records related to inmate disciplinary matters and certain settlement agreements involving the South Dakota Investment Council or Retirement System, or county and municipal hospitals. The intent is to modernize and refine what information government entities can withhold to protect public safety, proprietary interests, and sensitive personal data, while still aiming to maintain transparency where appropriate.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT ENTITLED An Act to update provisions pertaining to open records.
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• Introduced: 01/18/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 14 : Mary Fitzgerald (R)*, Tim Reed (R)*, Eric Emery (D), Tim Goodwin (R), Taffy Howard (R), Trish Ladner (R), Scott Moore (R), Erik Muckey (D), Tom Pischke (R), Matt Roby (R), Michael Rohl (R), Glen Vilhauer (R), Tim Walburg (R), Keri Weems (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 03/03/2026
• Last Action: Signed by the Governor on March 12, 2026 H.J. 562
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1317 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Relative to patient privacy protections.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes robust privacy protections for medical, disability, and mental health data in New Hampshire, reflecting the state's commitment to personal liberty and limited government intrusion. The legislation prohibits state agencies, contractors, vendors, and grant recipients from collecting, maintaining, or disclosing personally identifiable health data to the federal government or third parties, except under specific conditions: when the individual (or their legal representative) provides informed written consent, when disclosure is legally required, or when necessary for providing healthcare services. The bill mandates that any required disclosures must be limited to the minimum necessary data, preferably using de-identified or anonymized information, and ensures that all parties handling such data adhere to the same privacy standards. It explicitly reinforces existing protections under federal laws like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), and other privacy-related statutes, and grants the state Attorney General enforcement authority with the ability to impose civil penalties for violations. The law aims to protect individuals, particularly those with medical conditions, disabilities, or mental health needs, from potential stigma or discrimination by carefully controlling the sharing of their sensitive personal information, and will take effect 60 days after its passage.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that no state agency, political subdivision, contractor, vendor, or grant recipient shall collect, maintain, or disclose personally identifiable medical, disability, or mental health data to the federal government or any third party, except in limited circumstances as permitted under state and federal law.
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• Introduced: 11/26/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Heath Howard (D)*, Alice Wade (D), Billie Butler (D), Chris Muns (D), Hope Damon (D), Jessica LaMontagne (D), Nicholas Germana (D), Toni Weinstein (D), David Watters (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 12/02/2025
• Last Action: Remove from Table (Rep. H. Howard): Motion Failed DV 130-186 03/11/2026 House Journal 7
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB6049 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Protecting student and employee information from public disclosure.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled "Protecting student and employee information from public disclosure," amends existing state laws (RCW 42.56.250 and 42.56.320) to expand the types of information that are exempt from public inspection and copying. Specifically, it adds protections for individual survey responses voluntarily provided by state employees, vendors, or contractors for the purpose of improving state government, as well as individual student responses to the healthy youth survey. The bill also clarifies that "deidentified," "anonymized," and "aggregated" data formats do not prevent the release of certain employee demographic and benefit enrollment information. Additionally, it includes provisions to protect employees who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, hate crimes, or harassment, or who participate in an address confidentiality program, from having their personally identifying information disclosed. The bill also defines "aggregated," "anonymized," and "deidentified" for clarity. Importantly, Section 1 of this act is set to expire on June 1, 2028, while Section 2 will take effect on that date, indicating a transition in how this information is handled.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to protecting student and employee information 2 from public disclosure; amending RCW 42.56.250 and 42.56.320; 3 reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.250; providing an effective date; 4 and providing an expiration date. 5
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Claire Wilson (D)*, Noel Frame (D), T'wina Nobles (D), Lisa Wellman (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: By resolution, returned to Senate Rules Committee for third reading.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB2849 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Relating To Public Meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that public meeting notices, starting January 1, 2525, must prominently display certain crucial information at the beginning. This includes the agenda listing all topics to be discussed, the meeting's date, time, and location, and where the full board packet, which contains detailed background materials, can be accessed both in person and online. Additionally, the notice must clearly state the board's contact information for submitting testimony before the meeting and provide explicit instructions on how individuals can request auxiliary aids or services, or any other accommodation due to a disability, along with any deadlines for such requests. The legislature's intent is to make essential information more accessible to the public, especially for those with disabilities who may struggle with lengthy introductory texts, thereby promoting transparency and equitable participation in government meetings.
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Bill Summary: Requires certain information to appear at the beginning of notices for public meetings, where applicable. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD2)
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Joy San Buenaventura (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 03/06/2026
• Last Action: Referred to JHA, referral sheet 17
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2637 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Safeguarding personal information entrusted to agencies that is of no legitimate concern to the public.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to expand the types of personal information that government agencies must protect from public disclosure, particularly information that is not of legitimate public concern. Specifically, it adds new categories of protected information, including age, date of birth (with exceptions for voter registration records), language preference, residential address (with exceptions for business addresses, voter registration, and real property records), place of birth, precise location data or GPS coordinates (except when an employee is on official duty), government-issued identifiers like social security numbers, passport numbers, driver's license numbers, student numbers, vehicle license plate numbers, and application numbers, and individual consumer utility account data. The bill also includes a provision that makes it void if specific funding is not provided by June 30, 2026, indicating a potential fiscal impact or a need for legislative appropriation to implement these new protections.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to safeguarding personal information entrusted to 2 agencies that is of no legitimate concern to the public; reenacting 3 and amending RCW 42.56.230; and creating a new section. 4
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 16 : Mia Gregerson (D)*, Sharlett Mena (D), Lauren Davis (D), Chris Stearns (D), Lillian Ortiz-Self (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Mary Fosse (D), Edwin Obras (D), Roger Goodman (D), Timm Ormsby (D), Jamila Taylor (D), Janice Zahn (D), Nicole Macri (D), Alex Ramel (D), Sharon Tomiko Tomiko Santos (D), Strom Peterson (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 02/17/2026
• Last Action: By resolution, returned to House Rules Committee for third reading.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2244 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Adopting the recommendations of the public records exemptions accountability committee in its 2025 annual report.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill adopts recommendations from the Public Records Exemptions Accountability Committee's 2025 annual report, making several changes to existing laws. It clarifies that the office of the state long-term care ombudsman will establish disclosure procedures consistent with federal law and the state's public records act (RCW 42.56 RCW), which generally requires government records to be open to public inspection. The bill also modifies rules regarding grand jury reports, specifying that they can be released to the public if they concern broad public policy, serve the public interest, and do not prejudice ongoing investigations. Information about archaeological sites will now be exempt from disclosure under a specific provision of the public records act to prevent site depredation. The bill also adjusts how reports and records from state toxicologist analyses of blood samples from traffic accident fatalities are handled, making them available to parties in civil or criminal actions. Additionally, it updates regulations on the disclosure of accident reports, allowing for the release of certain identifying information to interested parties and requiring redaction of personal details for broader public disclosure under the public records act. It also removes a provision that made reports on children with behavior problems confidential, and changes a law concerning the director of financial management's reports on state departments to remove the "confidential" designation. Finally, the bill repeals three existing laws related to the confidentiality of information in specific contexts.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to adopting the recommendations of the public 2 records exemptions accountability committee in its 2025 annual 3 report; amending RCW 43.190.110, 10.27.160, 27.53.070, 46.52.065, 4 46.52.080, 72.05.130, 21.20.480, and 43.41.100; and repealing RCW 5 18.46.090, 24.06.480, and 26.12.080. 6
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Sharlett Mena (D)*, Julia Reed (D), Joe Fitzgibbon (D), Shaun Scott (D), Davina Duerr (D), Beth Doglio (D), Mia Gregerson (D), Kristine Reeves (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 01/22/2026
• Last Action: By resolution, returned to House Rules Committee for third reading.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR7901 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Government Surveillance Reform Act of 2026
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Government Surveillance Reform Act of 2026, enacts significant changes to foreign intelligence surveillance authorities, primarily by amending the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 (FISA). Key provisions include establishing stricter protections for communications of U.S. persons and individuals located in the United States when their data is collected under Section 702 of FISA, requiring a warrant for certain types of data collection that would otherwise not need one for law enforcement purposes, and limiting the use of such information in criminal, civil, and administrative actions. The bill also prohibits "reverse targeting" of U.S. persons, meaning the government cannot intentionally target individuals outside the U.S. if the primary goal is to obtain information about a specific U.S. person, with limited exceptions. Furthermore, it introduces data retention limits for information collected under Section 702, enhances Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC) supervision over demands for technical assistance from service providers, and requires a primary foreign intelligence purpose for queries. The bill also includes provisions to prevent federal law enforcement from purchasing personal data from data brokers, strengthens accuracy procedures for FISA applications, clarifies the definition of "derived" information, and sunsets a grandfather clause related to Section 215 of the USA PATRIOT Act. It also expands the role and access of amici curiae (court-appointed advisors) in FISC proceedings, mandates declassification of significant FISC decisions, and clarifies FISC jurisdiction over its own records. Additionally, the bill introduces new protections for various types of digital data, such as location information, web browsing records, and search query records, requiring warrants for their acquisition, and reforms how law enforcement can access data from data brokers and vehicle data. Finally, it mandates enhanced reporting and transparency from intelligence agencies and courts regarding surveillance activities and establishes accountability procedures for federal employees who violate surveillance laws.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To implement reforms relating to foreign intelligence surveillance authorities, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 03/13/2026
• Added: 05/30/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 6 : Warren Davidson (R)*, Zoe Lofgren (D), Pramila Jayapal (D), Sara Jacobs (D), Jerry Nadler (D), Michael Rulli (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 05/29/2026
• Last Action: Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Intelligence (Permanent Select), for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2235 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Concerning public records act exemptions regarding concealed pistol licenses, permits to purchase firearms, and firearms purchases or transfers.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the state's public records act to expand exemptions for certain firearm-related documents, specifically creating new protections for license applications, permits, and transfer records related to firearms. The bill adds three new categories of confidential documents: (1) concealed pistol license applications and associated documents, including proof of firearms safety training, (2) permit applications for firearms purchases and associated documents, and (3) applications for firearm purchases or transfers and related records. While these documents remain confidential, they can still be released to law enforcement, corrections agencies, or other authorized entities under specific circumstances. The changes are part of a broader statute that defines various types of investigative and personal information that are exempt from public disclosure, aimed at protecting individuals' privacy and preventing potential misuse of sensitive personal information related to firearm ownership and licensing. The bill ensures that while these records remain confidential, they can still be accessed by appropriate authorities when necessary for legal or safety purposes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to public records act exemptions regarding 2 concealed pistol licenses, permits to purchase firearms, and firearms 3 purchases or transfers; and reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.240. 4
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• Introduced: 12/31/2025
• Added: 01/01/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Jim Walsh (R)*, Liz Berry (D), Travis Couture (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 12/31/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, returned to House Rules Committee for third reading.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF4412 • Last Action 03/12/2026
Elected officials and candidates residential addresses written request requirement provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that if the home address of an elected official or a candidate for elected office is considered public information under state law, then government officials can only release that address if they receive a written request for it. This change is being made to Minnesota Statutes, specifically to section 13.601, which deals with data practices and public access to government information.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; requiring a written request for access to residential addresses of elected officials and candidates; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.601, by adding a subdivision.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 5 : Bill Lieske (R)*, John Hoffman (D), Michael Kreun (R), Karin Housley (R), Julia Coleman (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/11/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0632 • Last Action 03/11/2026
Amends and adds to existing law to establish provisions to protect public employees from certain adverse actions, to provide certain remedies for violations, and to provide special procedures for public record requests by the Legislature and legislative staff.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes protections for public employees in Idaho by clarifying remedies for adverse actions taken against them and by creating new provisions for communications with the Legislature and for legislative public records requests. Specifically, it amends existing law to ensure that employees can seek damages and legal fees if they experience an adverse action because they engaged in protected activities, including communicating with the Legislature or providing information for legislative purposes. A new section is added to protect public employees from retaliation if they communicate in good faith with any member of the Idaho Legislature, legislative committee, or legislative staff about information, data, analysis, or professional expertise, even if it doesn't involve reporting abuse or waste, and also protects employees who assist with legislative requests or participate in legislative proceedings. Furthermore, a new section mandates that state government agencies must respond to public records requests from the Legislature or legislative staff within specific timeframes, acknowledging receipt within three working days and providing a substantive response within ten working days, with provisions for extensions under certain circumstances, while still respecting existing legal exemptions for confidential or otherwise protected information. Finally, the bill renumbers a section on severability and declares an emergency, setting an effective date of July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY AND ETHICS; AMENDING SECTION 6-2105, IDAHO CODE, TO REVISE A PROVISION REGARDING REMEDIES FOR EMPLOYEE AC- TIONS AND PROOF REQUIRED; AMENDING CHAPTER 21, TITLE 6, IDAHO CODE, BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION 6-2110, IDAHO CODE, TO ESTABLISH PROVI- SIONS REGARDING PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE LEGISLATURE AND TO PROVIDE PROTECTIONS FOR SUCH COMMUNICATIONS; AMENDING CHAPTER 1, TITLE 74, IDAHO CODE, BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION 74-127, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC RECORDS REQUESTS AND AGENCY DUTY TO RESPOND; AMENDING SECTION 74-127, IDAHO CODE, TO REDESIGNATE THE SECTION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : State Affairs Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Senate State Affairs Committee (08:00:00 3/11/2026 Room WW55)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5691 • Last Action 03/11/2026
Drains: appeals; period to appeal apportionment or assessment costs on drain projects; modify. Amends secs. 72 & 72a of 1956 PA 40 (MCL 280.72 & 280.72a).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the process for appealing decisions made by a drain commissioner, who is an official responsible for overseeing drain projects. Specifically, it changes the timeframe within which a property owner who feels unfairly treated by a determination regarding the necessity of a drain project can file an appeal in circuit court. Previously, the appeal period was 10 days after the determination of necessity or no necessity. This bill extends the appeal period to 60 days after the determination of no necessity is filed with the drain commissioner, and establishes a new 21-day appeal period after a review under section 154 if the drain is determined to be necessary. These changes aim to provide more time for individuals to challenge decisions related to drain projects, which can involve assessments of costs on properties within a drainage district.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1956 PA 40, entitled"The drain code of 1956,"by amending sections 72 and 72a (MCL 280.72 and 280.72a), section 72 as amended by 2018 PA 646.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2026
• Added: 03/11/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 8 : Will Snyder (D)*, Luke Meerman (R), Tom Kunse (R), Jerry Neyer (R), Angela Witwer (D), Carol Glanville (D), Joey Andrews (D), Peter Herzberg (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/10/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 03/10/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2157 • Last Action 03/11/2026
Scenic rivers; creating the Southeast Scenic Rivers Act. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Southeast Scenic Rivers Act, establishes the Southeast Scenic Rivers Commission to preserve and manage designated scenic rivers in Oklahoma, specifically the Glover, Kiamichi, Little, and Mountain Fork Rivers, due to their unique natural beauty and recreational value. The Commission, an agency of the state, will be funded through appropriations to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission and will consist of eleven members appointed by various state officials, with specific representation from affected counties, conservation groups, academic institutions, and tribal communities. The Commission is empowered to create management plans, set standards for adjacent land use to protect scenic values, appoint an administrator, cooperate with other government agencies, accept gifts and grants, and take legal action to enforce its regulations, all while operating under the Oklahoma Open Meeting and Open Records Acts. Additionally, the bill amends existing law to require the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission to cooperate with the newly created Southeast Scenic Rivers Commission. This act will become effective on November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: scenic rivers - Southeast Scenic Rivers Commission - funds - membership - powers and duties - promulgation of rules - codification - effective date
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : David Bullard (R)*, Jim Grego (R)*, George Burns (R), Warren Hamilton (R), Kelly Hines (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/24/2026
• Last Action: Senate Floor SB2157 (3-11-26) (BULLARD) FS FA1 - SB2157 (3-11-26) (BULLARD) FS FA1
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5694 • Last Action 03/11/2026
Drains: other; requirements for notices of drain projects; modify. Amends secs. 6, 54, 72, 105, 106, 122, 126, 154, 157, 196, 197, 221, 391, 393, 424, 432, 433, 441, 441a, 467, 469, 489a, 519, 521, 538a, 558 & 562 of 1956 PA 40 (MCL 280.6 et seq.) & adds sec. 436.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Drain Code of 1956 to update various provisions related to drain projects, primarily focusing on improving notification procedures and clarifying existing processes. A key addition is Section 436, which establishes standardized requirements for notices related to drain projects, mandating that all such notices must include a website address where additional information like parcel numbers and maps of the drainage district can be found, and that this information must be publicly accessible online or on the county website if no official presence is maintained. The bill also refines how existing drains and easements are recognized, clarifies procedures for releasing unused easements, and updates requirements for public notices regarding drain district designations, board of determination meetings, bid lettings, and the abandonment or vacation of drains. It also introduces provisions for the consolidation of drainage districts and clarifies the roles and responsibilities of various officials and boards throughout the drain project lifecycle, ensuring greater transparency and accessibility of information for affected landowners and municipalities.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1956 PA 40, entitled"The drain code of 1956,"by amending sections 6, 54, 72, 105, 106, 122, 126, 154, 157, 196, 197, 221, 391, 393, 424, 432, 433, 441, 441a, 467, 469, 489a, 519, 521, 538a, 558, and 562 (MCL 280.6, 280.54, 280.72, 280.105, 280.106, 280.122, 280.126, 280.154, 280.157, 280.196, 280.197, 280.221, 280.391, 280.393, 280.424, 280.432, 280.433, 280.441, 280.441a, 280.467, 280.469, 280.489a, 280.519, 280.521, 280.538a, 280.558, and 280.562), sections 72, 105, and 122 as amended by 2018 PA 646, section 154 as amended by 2020 PA 281, section 196 as amended by 2024 PA 237, section 197 as amended by 2017 PA 62, section 221 as amended by 2020 PA 291, and section 433 as amended by 1982 PA 449, and by adding section 436.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2026
• Added: 03/11/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 7 : Angela Witwer (D)*, Tom Kunse (R), Carol Glanville (D), Joey Andrews (D), Julie Brixie (D), Will Snyder (D), Peter Herzberg (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/10/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 03/10/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #SB357 • Last Action 03/11/2026
Expand violent offender database; revise database availability
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the definition of "violent offender" to include individuals convicted of certain felony violations of section 2903.18 of the Revised Code, and it mandates that information collected for the violent offender database, which includes details like name, address, employment, and distinguishing marks, be made publicly accessible online. Furthermore, the bill requires that this database information be available through LEADS (Law Enforcement Automated Data System), a system used by law enforcement, and ensures that LEADS will prominently flag when an officer is viewing the information of a registered violent offender. This aims to increase public awareness and law enforcement access to information about violent offenders.
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Bill Summary: To amend sections 2903.41, 2903.42, and 2903.43 and to enact section 5503.102 of the Revised Code to expand the violent offender database, to make public records in that database available on the internet, and to make the database information available through LEADS.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 02/12/2026
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Theresa Gavarone (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Senate Judiciary 1st Hearing, Sponsor (09:45:00 3/11/2026 North Hearing Room)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB4468 • Last Action 03/11/2026
Relating to confidentiality of court files and law-enforcement records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes changes to the confidentiality of court files and law-enforcement records in West Virginia, specifically concerning victims of certain crimes. It requires that the name and address of victims in criminal complaints for listed offenses, such as those related to sexual offenses and domestic violence, be kept confidential. If these criminal complaints are disclosed, the victim's name and address must be redacted, meaning they will be blacked out or removed. The bill also allows for victims to waive this confidentiality in writing and permits disclosure to other government entities for official duties, provided those entities also maintain the same level of confidentiality. Importantly, this bill repeals previous provisions that allowed for court orders and subpoenas to obtain these confidential records, simplifying the process for protecting victim information. Additionally, it updates internal effective dates for these provisions and requests the Supreme Court of Appeals to create necessary rules to implement these changes, extending the deadline for these rules to July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: A BILL to amend and reenact §61-8B-19 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to confidentiality of court files and law-enforcement records; requiring the name and address of victims in criminal complaints of listed crimes is confidential; requiring redactions for disclosed criminal complaints; providing for waiver of confidentiality; providing exceptions for disclosures to certain governmental entities subject to the same confidentiality provisions; repealing provisions relating to court orders and subpoenas; and amending certain internal effective dates.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Elias Coop-Gonzalez (R)*, James Akers (R), Frederick Joe Parsons (R), Pat McGeehan (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 34
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Senate Judiciary Committee Meeting (00:00:00 3/11/2026 Senate Judiciary Committee Room, 208 West)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0350 • Last Action 03/11/2026
Public Records/Crime Victims
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands public records exemptions to better protect crime victims and their families. It defines "family member" as a spouse, child, parent, legal guardian, or sibling, excluding the accused. It also defines "officer" to include certified law enforcement, correctional, and correctional probation officers, and "victim" as someone who suffers harm due to a crime, also excluding the accused. The bill makes information that could identify or locate a victim, or be used to intimidate, harass, or abuse them, exempt from public disclosure, especially when held by agencies that regularly interact with victims. This exemption also extends to the identity and similar potentially harmful information of a victim's lawful representative, family member, or next of kin. For law enforcement officers who are victims, their names will be confidential and exempt for 72 hours after the incident, and then exempt for an additional 60 days, after which the exemption for their name as a victim will expire. These exemptions are intended to prevent further trauma and encourage cooperation with law enforcement, and are subject to future legislative review.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining terms; expanding a public records exemption for crime victims to include the name and personal identification number of a victim and any other information that could be used to locate, intimidate, harass, or abuse the victim; providing that such exemption includes the portions of records generated by any agency that regularly generates or receives information from or concerning victims of crime; providing for a public records exemption for the identity of a victim’s family member, lawful representative, or next of kin and any other information that could be used to locate, intimidate, harass, or abuse these individuals; providing that such exemption includes the portions of records generated by any agency that regularly generates or receives information from or concerning victims of crime and that the record identifies the person as a family member, lawful representative, or next of kin of a person identified as a victim of crime in the record; providing that the name of a law enforcement officer in a public record which identifies him or her as a victim of crime in specified circumstances is confidential and exempt for 72 hours and providing that such information is exempt for 60 days thereafter; providing that such exemption includes the portions of records generated by any agency that regularly generates or receives information from or concerning victims of crime; providing applicability; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/04/2025
• Added: 11/05/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability, Erin Grall (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 01/27/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/HB 1113
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S02598 • Last Action 03/10/2026
Expands the training time for local municipalities in relation to the open meetings law; requires at least one hour of such training be provided by the committee on open government or an appropriate entity in relation to compliance with the open meetings law and if not provided, a justification shall be given.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the required annual training for members of various local municipal boards, including planning boards and boards of appeals, from four to five hours, with any excess hours allowed to be carried over to subsequent years. Crucially, at least one hour of this training must be provided by the committee on open government or a similar entity, specifically focusing on compliance with the open meetings law, which governs how public bodies conduct their business and ensures transparency. If a municipality chooses to waive or modify these training requirements, they must provide public notice and a justification for their decision. This legislation aims to enhance the understanding and adherence to open meeting principles among local officials.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general municipal law, the general city law, the town law and the village law, in relation to expanding training requirements for municipalities in relation to compliance with the open meetings law
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• Introduced: 01/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Shelley Mayer (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 01/21/2025
• Last Action: referred to local governments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD152 • Last Action 03/10/2026
An Act to Amend the Freedom of Access Act to Require a Specific Time Frame for Agencies to Comply with Requests for Public Records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Access Act to establish a specific 30-day time frame for government agencies to respond to public records requests, replacing the previous vague standard of "reasonable time". Under the proposed changes, agencies must now acknowledge receipt of a records request within 5 working days and provide a good faith estimate of when they will fulfill the request. While agencies can still request clarification about the specific records sought, they are now legally required to fully respond within 30 days after the date the request was made. The bill aims to increase transparency and accountability by creating a clear, consistent timeline for public access to government records, ensuring that citizens can more predictably obtain information about government activities. This amendment applies to all public records requests across state agencies, with some potential exceptions as provided by other statutes.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, the Freedom of Access Act requires that an agency or official having custody or control of a public record must comply with a request for public records made under the Act within a reasonable time. This bill amends the Act to require that agencies or officials comply with a request within 30 days after the date on which the request is made.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 3 : Laurel Libby (R)*, Grayson Lookner (D), David Sinclair (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 01/13/2025
• Last Action: House: C-A (H-558) - House: C-A (H-558)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0269 • Last Action 03/10/2026
Victims of Domestic Violence and Dating Violence
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections and resources for victims of domestic and dating violence by first requiring the Division of Telecommunications within the Department of Management Services to study the feasibility of a web-based 911 alert system that allows for real-time data sharing between emergency call centers (Public Safety Answering Points or PSAPs) and law enforcement, creates a unique phone number for users, and enables a secret code or phrase to signal an urgent need for assistance, with the results of this study to be reported to the Legislature by January 31, 2027. The bill also amends existing Florida Statutes to include "dating violence" alongside "domestic violence" in legislative findings regarding the need for address confidentiality programs, formally defines "dating violence" as certain acts committed by someone with a past or present romantic or intimate relationship with the victim, allows victims of dating violence to apply for the Attorney General's address confidentiality program which protects their location from disclosure if it would increase their risk of harm, and conforms other provisions related to public records exemptions for victims of stalking and guidelines for the fair treatment of victims and witnesses in the criminal justice system to include dating violence.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to victims of domestic violence and dating violence; providing definitions; requiring the Division of Telecommunications within the Department of Management Services to consult with certain entities to conduct a feasibility study regarding a specified alert system; providing requirements for such alert system; requiring the division to report to the Legislature the results of the feasibility study by a specified date; amending s. 741.401, F.S.; revising legislative findings to include victims of dating violence; amending s. 741.402, F.S.; defining the term "dating violence"; amending s. 741.403, F.S.; authorizing victims of dating violence to apply to participate in the Attorney General's address confidentiality program; amending ss. 741.408, 741.4651, and 960.001, F.S.; conforming provisions to changes made by the act; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 10/28/2025
• Added: 10/28/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 22 : Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Peggy Gossett-Seidman (R)*, Rachel Plakon (R)*, Doug Bankson (R), Webster Barnaby (R), Robin Bartleman (D), Fabián Basabe (R), Yvette Benarroch (R), Kevin Chambliss (D), Linda Chaney (R), Lindsay Cross (D), Dan Daley (D), Kimberly Daniels (D), Fentrice Driskell (D), Anna Eskamani (D), Anne Gerwig (R), Karen Gonzalez Pittman (R), Dianne Hart-Lowman (D), Christine Hunschofsky (D), Kim Kendall (R), Johanna López (D), Michelle Salzman (R), Debra Tendrich (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/SB 296
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #SB56 • Last Action 03/10/2026
FOIA; procedure for responding to requests, charges, posting of notice of rights & responsibilities.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify how public bodies handle requests for public records and calculate associated charges. The bill limits fees charged for producing public records to the median hourly rate of pay of the public body's employees or the actual hourly rate of the employee performing the work, whichever is less. If no employee can process the request at or below the median rate, the public body may petition a court for relief from this fee limitation. The bill also expands court jurisdiction, allowing petitions for additional response time to be heard in either general district or circuit court and giving such petitions priority on the court's docket. Additionally, the bill makes technical amendments by moving provisions about record production charges into a separate section of the FOIA and updates the required notice of rights and responsibilities that public bodies must post on their websites to reflect the new fee calculation method. The changes aim to make public record requests more transparent and cost-effective while providing some flexibility for public bodies with limited resources.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; procedure for responding to requests; charges; posting of notice of rights and responsibilities. Limits the fees charged for producing public records to the median hourly rate of pay of employees of the public body or the actual hourly rate of pay of the person performing the work, whichever is less, and provides that a public body may petition a court for relief from this fee limit if there is no one who can process the request at the median hourly rate of pay or less. The bill makes corresponding amendments to the required statement on charges in the notice of rights and responsibilities that must be posted on a public body's website. The bill also amends existing law providing that a public body may petition a court for additional time to respond to a request for public records to allow such petitions to be heard in either general district or circuit court, to give such petitions priority on the court's docket, and to toll the response time while such a petition is pending before a court. The bill makes technical amendments, including moving provisions regarding charges for the production of public records into a separate section of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 12/03/2025
• Added: 12/04/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Danica Roem (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 11/26/2025
• Last Action: Left in General Laws
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4556 • Last Action 03/10/2026
Requires municipalities to accept complaints and provide certain municipal announcements by electronic means.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires municipalities to establish electronic systems for residents to submit complaints and receive important municipal announcements, aiming to increase transparency and accessibility. Specifically, municipalities must provide an online form on their website, if they have one, for people to submit complaints electronically to the municipal clerk or their designated representative. If a municipality lacks its own website, the Department of Community Affairs will host this complaint form and forward submissions. Additionally, municipalities must set up a system allowing residents to sign up for electronic notifications, such as through email, text messages, or social media, for various types of municipal information. This includes public meeting notices, meeting minutes, approved budgets, declared emergencies, urgent public health and safety alerts, and significant traffic changes like road closures, as defined by the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act." Crucially, the implementation of these electronic systems is contingent upon funding being made available to the municipalities through state appropriations, grants, or other sources, to comply with constitutional provisions regarding unfunded mandates.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill would require municipalities to have electronic systems in place to receive complaints and to provide certain municipal announcements. The complaint system required by the bill would allow an individual to fill out and transmit a complaint form on the Internet website of the municipality. The notification system would allow an individual to sign up to receive electronic announcements of certain municipal information through e-mail, text messages, social media, or other electronic means. While many municipalities already have such systems in place, many do not. This bill would require all municipalities to have these systems in order to ensure that all residents of the State receive the benefits of these transparency measures. In light of the unfunded mandate provisions of the State Constitution, under which a State law may be declared unconstitutional if it does not authorize resources other than the property tax to offset the additional direct expenditures required for its implementation, this bill would only require the implementation of these electronic systems if funding is made available for those purposes through State appropriations, grants, or otherwise.
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• Introduced: 03/09/2026
• Added: 03/12/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Carol Murphy (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/11/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0511 • Last Action 03/10/2026
Pub. Rec./Code Inspector Body Cameras
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new public records exemption for body camera recordings made by code inspectors (local government officials who enforce building, zoning, and property maintenance codes) under specific circumstances. The bill defines a body camera as a wearable device recording audio and video during official duties and establishes that recordings taken in private residences, healthcare facilities, or places a reasonable person would consider private are confidential and exempt from public disclosure. The bill allows disclosure of these recordings in limited situations, such as to the person recorded, their personal representative, or pursuant to a court order, which must consider factors like potential harm to reputation, privacy interests, and the necessity of disclosure. Local governments must retain these body camera recordings for at least 90 days and are required to follow specific guidelines when releasing any portions of the recordings. The exemption applies retroactively and is subject to future legislative review, with an automatic repeal date of October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts the provision. The bill's sponsors argue that this exemption is necessary to protect sensitive personal information and help code inspectors perform their duties more effectively, while still preserving the ability to review the accuracy of code inspection work.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.0713, F.S.; defining terms; providing an exemption from public records requirements for body camera recordings recorded by a code inspector under certain circumstances; providing exceptions; requiring a local government to retain body camera recordings for a specified timeframe; providing for retroactive application; providing construction; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; directing the Division of Library and Information Services of the Department of State to adopt a specified retention requirement for certain body camera recordings by a specified date; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/21/2025
• Added: 11/22/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Bill Partington (R)*, Chuck Brannan (R), Kim Kendall (R), Johanna López (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 11/21/2025
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to SB 506
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7001 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Florida Gaming Control Commission
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida Statutes regarding the Florida Gaming Control Commission's public records and meetings exemptions by removing the scheduled repeal of existing exemption provisions. The bill maintains protections for confidential information obtained by the commission, allowing such information to retain its exempt status when shared with other governmental agencies. It preserves rules about closed meetings, which require the commission chair to publicly declare the necessity of discussing exempt information, create a written record of this declaration, and fully record any closed sessions. The bill specifies that only commission members, Department of Legal Affairs staff, and other necessary persons can attend exempted portions of meetings, and ensures that any meeting closures are limited to maintain the state's general policy favoring public transparency. Importantly, the bill eliminates the previous provision that would have automatically repealed these exemption rules on October 2, 2026, effectively making the current confidentiality and meeting closure provisions permanent. The act will take effect immediately upon becoming law, continuing the Florida Gaming Control Commission's ability to protect sensitive information while maintaining some level of procedural transparency.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 16.716, F.S., which provides an exemption from public record and public meeting requirements for exempt or confidential and exempt information obtained by the Florida Gaming Control Commission; removing the scheduled repeal of the exemption; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Danny Nix (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 11/05/2025
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to SB 7008
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7005 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Persons Provided Public Emergency Shelter
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends section 252.385 of the Florida Statutes to permanently protect the addresses and telephone numbers of individuals who are provided public emergency shelter during storms or catastrophic events. Currently, this information is exempt from public records requirements, meaning government agencies cannot disclose these personal details. The bill removes the existing scheduled repeal date of October 2, 2026, which was previously part of the law under the Open Government Sunset Review Act (a process that requires periodic legislative review of certain public records exemptions). By eliminating the sunset provision, the bill ensures that the privacy protections for people in emergency shelters will continue indefinitely, helping to safeguard the personal information of vulnerable individuals during times of crisis. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 252.385, F.S., which provides an exemption from public record requirements for the address and telephone number of persons provided public emergency shelter; removing the scheduled repeal date of the exemption; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/05/2025
• Added: 11/06/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Meg Weinberger (R)*, Johanna López (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 11/05/2025
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/SB 7000
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #SB297 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Provides a process for insurers to assert the right to prevent public inspection of certain filing information based on a claim of trade secret. (8/1/26)
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a process for insurance companies to claim that certain information within their rate filings is a trade secret, meaning it has independent economic value because it's not generally known and is kept secret through reasonable efforts. To claim trade secret protection, insurers must clearly mark the specific pages or portions of documents as "trade secret," submit this information separately from non-trade secret material, and provide a sworn affidavit detailing why the information qualifies as a trade secret, including that it's not publicly available and its disclosure would cause demonstrable harm. However, the bill explicitly states that certain financial information used in rate calculations, transactions with affiliates, employee compensation, dividends, and information used to support or oppose legislation will *not* be considered trade secrets and will remain public. The commissioner of insurance will review these claims, and if denied, the insurer will be notified. Additionally, an independent third-party entity will periodically review trade secret claims, and those who knowingly make false claims to conceal unlawful financial practices could face fines and license suspension or revocation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 22:1464(D), relative to insurance rate filings; to provide for transparency in rate filings; to provide for trade secret protection for insurance rate filings; to provide for definitions; to provide for penalties; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 02/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Royce Duplessis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/28/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate; read by title. Rules suspended. Read second time and referred to the Committee on Insurance.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7007 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Small Business Loan Program Information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill permanently removes the scheduled expiration of an existing exemption related to confidential records for small business loan programs. Specifically, the bill eliminates language that would have automatically repealed a section of Florida Statutes (section 288.075) on October 2, 2026, under the Open Government Sunset Review Act. The Open Government Sunset Review Act typically requires periodic legislative review of public records exemptions to ensure they remain necessary and justified. By removing the scheduled repeal language, the bill effectively makes the existing confidentiality provisions for certain economic development agency information permanent. This means that certain sensitive information related to small business loan programs will continue to be exempt from public records requirements without the need for future legislative renewal. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 288.075, F.S., which provides an exemption from public record requirements for certain information held by an economic development agency; removing the scheduled repeal of the exemption; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 11/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Judson Sapp (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 11/05/2025
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to SB 7016
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7013 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends four sections of Florida Statutes related to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, maintaining existing confidentiality provisions for information obtained during departmental investigations or examinations. Currently, information gathered during active investigations is confidential and exempt from public records laws (specifically Florida Statutes 119.07(1) and the state constitution's public records provisions), remaining confidential until the investigation concludes or administrative actions are completed. The bill removes the previously scheduled October 2, 2026 repeal date and associated Open Government Sunset Review Act provisions, effectively making these confidentiality protections permanent. The department retains the ability to release such confidential information when necessary to fulfill its official duties or when sharing with other governmental agencies for their official purposes. By removing the sunset provisions, the bill ensures continued protection of sensitive investigative information without requiring future legislative review or renewal, while preserving the existing framework for handling potentially sensitive departmental investigation materials related to motor vehicle and driver licensing matters.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending ss. 319.1414, 319.25, 320.861, and 322.71, F.S., which provide exemptions from public record requirements for information received by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles as a result of an investigation or examination conducted pursuant to certain provisions; removing the scheduled repeal dates of the exemptions; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, William Conerly (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/SB 7012
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7015 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Social Media Platform and Antitrust Investigations
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends the scheduled repeal date for two existing legal exemptions related to investigations of social media platforms and antitrust violations. Specifically, the bill amends sections 287.137 and 501.2041 of the Florida Statutes to change the sunset date from October 2, 2026, to October 2, 2031. These exemptions currently protect certain confidential information gathered during investigations by the Attorney General, Department of Legal Affairs, or law enforcement agencies into social media platform activities or potential antitrust violations. The Open Government Sunset Review Act requires periodic legislative review of such exemptions to ensure they remain necessary and appropriate. By extending the repeal date to 2031, the bill allows these information protection provisions to remain in effect for an additional five years, giving investigators continued ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information during their inquiries. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 287.137, F.S., which provides an exemption from public record requirements for certain information received in investigations by the Attorney General or a law enforcement agency into social media platform activities; extending the scheduled repeal date of the exemption; amending s. 501.2041, F.S., which provides an exemption from public records requirements for certain information received in investigations by the Department of Legal Affairs or a law enforcement agency into violations by certain social media platforms; extending the scheduled repeal date of the exemption; providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/12/2025
• Added: 12/13/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Sam Greco (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 12/12/2025
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/SB 7014
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7017 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Trade Secrets
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies several Florida statutes to remove references to "trade secrets" from various public records exemptions, effectively making information previously protected as a trade secret potentially subject to public disclosure. Specifically, it removes the scheduled repeal of a general exemption for trade secrets held by an agency, meaning that exemption will no longer automatically expire. The bill also amends numerous sections across different areas of law, such as antitrust violations, economic development, healthcare, workers' compensation, consumer protection, and insurance, by deleting the specific inclusion of "trade secrets" as a category of information that is confidential and exempt from public records requirements. The intent is to streamline or eliminate these specific trade secret exemptions from public access across a broad range of state agencies and business dealings.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 119.0715, F.S., which provides an exemption from public record requirements for a trade secret held by an agency; removing the scheduled repeal of the exemption; amending ss. 287.137, 288.075, 334.049, 408.185, 409.91196, 440.108, 497.172, 501.171, 501.1735, 501.2041, 501.722, 520.9965, 548.062, 559.5558, 569.215, 627.0628, and 1004.4472; removing references to trade secrets from public records exemptions; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Judson Sapp (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to SB 7026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7019 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Department of Military Affairs
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends a public records exemption for certain information held by the Florida Department of Military Affairs, specifically information that is stored in, transmitted through, or pertains to the United States Department of Defense (DoD). This exemption, which is part of the Open Government Sunset Review Act, prevents this sensitive information from being publicly disclosed under Florida's public records law, Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes. The bill changes the scheduled repeal date of this exemption from October 2, 2026, to October 2, 2031, meaning the exemption will remain in effect for an additional five years unless the Legislature intervenes. The Open Government Sunset Review Act requires that such exemptions be periodically reviewed to ensure they are still necessary.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 119.0712, F.S., which provides an exemption from public record requirements for certain information held by the Department of Military Affairs stored in a United States Department of Defense system of records, transmitted using a United States Department of Defense network or communications device, or pertaining to the United States Department of Defense; extending the scheduled repeal date of the exemption; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Sam Greco (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/SB 7002
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7021 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Examination and Assessment Instruments
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing law to expand and clarify exemptions from public record requirements for certain examination and assessment instruments used in Florida's education system. Specifically, it makes these instruments, including developmental materials and related workpapers, confidential and exempt from public disclosure when held by public schools, district school boards, Florida College System institutions, state universities, their boards of trustees, the Department of Education, the State Board of Education, and the Board of Governors. The bill also requires the State Board of Education and the Board of Governors to establish rules for retaining and disposing of these records, and it allows these entities to share such confidential information among themselves and mandates disclosure to the Department of Education, the State Board of Education, or the Board of Governors upon request. The exemption's scheduled repeal is extended to October 2, 2031, and the Legislature finds this exemption necessary to prevent cheating, maintain the integrity of assessments, and avoid significant public costs associated with replacing compromised testing materials.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 1008.23, F.S.; repealing a duplicative exemption from public record requirements for certain examination and assessment instruments; expanding an exemption from public record requirements for examination and assessment instruments to include such instruments when held by certain entities; requiring the State Board of Education and the Board of Governors to adopt certain rules and regulations, respectively, governing the retention and disposal process for specified records; removing a provision requiring the State Board of Education and Board of Governors to adopt certain rules and regulations, respectively, governing access to specified records; authorizing specified entities to disclose exempt information to certain entities; requiring specified entities to disclose exempt information in certain circumstances; providing construction; extending the scheduled repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, Danny Nix (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to SB 7022
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H7023 • Last Action 03/09/2026
OGSR/Cybersecurity
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled OGSR/Cybersecurity, aims to strengthen cybersecurity protections for government agencies by expanding exemptions from public records and public meetings requirements. It defines key terms like "breach" and "cybersecurity" and creates new exemptions for various types of sensitive information, including network schematics, security practices, risk assessments, login credentials, and data related to user access of public portals. The bill also revises existing exemptions for cybersecurity insurance and agency-produced software, while removing some previous exemptions for specific login credentials and cybersecurity information held by certain departments. Additionally, it makes portions of public meetings that would reveal this sensitive cybersecurity information exempt from public access, with provisions for recording and transcribing these closed sessions. The exemptions are subject to future legislative review and repeal, with some set to expire in 2031. The bill also repeals certain existing provisions related to data security in educational institutions and insurance corporations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to a review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act; amending s. 119.0725, F.S.; providing and revising definitions; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain cybersecurity processes or practices, certain cybersecurity program reports, login credentials, and certain information associated with access to a public-facing portal held by an agency; revising an exemption from public records requirements for certain cybersecurity insurance information and certain cybersecurity-related information held by an agency; consolidating a public record exemption for certain agency-produced data processing software held by an agency; expanding an exemption from public meetings requirements for portions of a meeting that would reveal certain cybersecurity-related information held by an agency; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; amending s. 15.16, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for certain secure login credentials held by the Department of State; amending s. 24.1051, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for certain cybersecurity-related information held by the Department of the Lottery; amending s. 101.5607, F.S.; conforming a provision to changes made by the act; amending s. 106.0706, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for certain user identifications and passwords held by the Department of State; amending s. 112.31446, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for certain secure login credentials held by the Commission on Ethics; amending s. 119.07, F.S.; conforming a provision to changes made by the act; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for certain agency-produced data processing software; amending s. 119.0712, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for certain secure login credentials and certain information associated with access to a public-facing portal held by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles; amending s. 119.0713, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for certain cybersecurity-related information held by a utility owned or operated by a unit of local government; amending s. 119.0714, F.S.; conforming a provision to changes made by the act; amending s. 282.318, F.S.; removing an exemption from public records requirements for a comprehensive risk assessment held by an agency; removing exemptions from public records requirements for certain cybersecurity- related internal policies and procedures, certain cybersecurity-related internal audits and evaluations held by an agency, and certain cybersecurity-related reports held by an agency; repealing s. 627.352, F.S., relating to security of data and information technology in Citizens Property Insurance Corporation; repealing s. 1004.055, F.S., relating to security of data and information technology in state postsecondary education institutions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Operations Subcommittee, William Conerly (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to SB 7024
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF4221 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Disseminating information crime expansion to include all individuals provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the existing law that prohibits the dissemination of personal information to include all individuals, not just law enforcement officials, and creates a new civil cause of action for damages. Specifically, it allows individuals to sue someone who knowingly and without consent makes their personal information, or that of their family or household members, publicly available if this dissemination poses an imminent and serious threat to their safety and the disseminator knew or should have known about the threat. The bill defines "personal information" broadly to include things like home addresses, phone numbers, and details about minor children, and allows for damages including mental anguish, a civil penalty of up to $10,000, and attorney fees, as well as other equitable relief. There are exceptions for lawful criminal investigations, reporting unlawful conduct, matters of public interest, legal proceedings, and information authorized or required by law, and the bill clarifies it does not alter protections under federal law for online platforms. The changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to public safety; expanding the crime of disseminating personal information to include all individuals; creating a civil action for dissemination of personal information; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.5151; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 604.
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• Introduced: 03/06/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Glenn Gruenhagen (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/05/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2460 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Modifying an exception to the Kansas open records act that authorizes certain individuals to have identifying information restricted from public access on public websites that identify home addresses or home ownership by providing that certain individuals who were employed for five or more years, certain elected officials and persons who reside at an address that is subject to restriction from public access may request to have such information restricted and removing an exception related to info
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA) to create new exceptions for restricting access to certain personal information on public websites. Specifically, it allows members of the legislature, state officers elected statewide, members of the state board of education, and elected municipal officials to request that their home addresses or home ownership information be kept private on public websites. It also extends this privacy protection to individuals who previously held these positions for five or more years, and to any person residing at an address that is already protected under these new provisions, provided they file a request with the public agency. The bill also removes an existing exception related to records from the state bank commissioner concerning money transmission businesses.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning the Kansas open records act (KORA); relating to permissible exceptions to disclosure; providing modifying an exception to KORA that authorizes members of the legislature certain individuals to have identifying information restricted from public access on public websites that identify home addresses or home ownership; providing that certain individuals who were employed for five or more years may request to have such information restricted; authorizing members of the legislature, state officers elected on a statewide basis, members of the state board of education and elected members of the governing body of any municipality to request to have such information restricted; authorizing any other person who resides at an address that is subject to restriction from public access to request to have such information restricted; removing an exception to KORA related to information or reports obtained and prepared by the office of the state bank commissioner; amending K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 45-221 and repealing the existing section.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/16/2026
• Last Action: Senate Hearing: Monday, March 9, 2026, 10:30 AM Room 346-S
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H5130 • Last Action 03/09/2026
DMV, disclosure of personal information
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, by adding Section 56-3-550 to the South Carolina Code of Laws, prohibits the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) from disclosing an individual's "personal information" – which is defined by federal law (18 U.S.C. Section 2725) as information that identifies an individual, including their driver's license number, name, address, and medical information – without that individual's explicit permission, unless the request falls under specific exceptions outlined in federal law (18 U.S.C. 2721(b)), such as for law enforcement or court proceedings. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the DMV must establish and implement procedures to notify individuals when their personal information is requested under circumstances not covered by these exceptions, allowing them to waive their privacy rights if they choose to permit the disclosure. The DMV is required to have these waiver procedures in place within sixty days of the bill's enactment and must inform the General Assembly in writing once this is accomplished.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 56-3-550 So As To Prohibit The Department Of Motor Vehicles From Disclosing Certain Personal Information Without An Individual's Express Consent, And To Require The Department To Establish And Carry Out Waiver Procedures For Requests For Such Personal Information.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : Cody Mitchell (R)*, Richie Yow (R), Gary Brewer (R), Dennis Moss (R), Heather Crawford (R), J.A. Moore (D), Val Guest (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Member(s) request name added as sponsor: Crawford, J.Moore, Guest
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB791 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Provides relative to the regulation of artificial intelligence (OR +$256,243 GF EX See Note)
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled "The People's A.I. Act," establishes regulations for artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots in Louisiana, aiming to protect user data privacy, ensure transparency, and define liability. Key provisions include requiring "affirmative consent" from users before their personal data or chat logs can be collected or used for purposes like advertising or training, with specific definitions for what constitutes valid consent and what does not, such as accepting broad terms of use or inaction. The bill defines terms like "chatbot" (an AI system simulating conversation), "chatbot provider" (the entity making the chatbot available), "personal data" (information linked to an identifiable individual), and "dark pattern" (user interfaces designed to trick users). It prohibits chatbot providers from processing personal data without consent, using chat logs for targeted advertising, or engaging in profiling beyond what's needed for a user's request, with special protections for users under 18. Users are granted the right to access their chat logs, and chatbot providers must implement robust data security programs. The bill mandates clear disclosures to users that they are interacting with an AI, not a human, and requires monthly risk assessments for potential harm. The Attorney General is empowered to create rules for implementing these provisions, including defining harm metrics and transparency requirements. The bill also establishes that chatbots are considered products for liability purposes, and chatbot providers have a duty to prevent user injury, holding them liable even if they exercised reasonable care or didn't directly contract with the user. Violations can lead to civil actions by the Attorney General or district attorneys, and individuals can sue for damages, including statutory damages of $5,000 per violation for privacy breaches or a total of $5,000 for transparency violations, plus potential punitive damages for knowing violations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact Chapter 70 of Title 51 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, comprised of R.S. 51:3301 through 3308, relative to the regulation of artificial intelligence; to provide for definitions; to provide for data privacy and security; to provide for transparency; to provide for harm assessments; to provide authority to make rules; to provide for severability; to establish liability; to provide for enforcement; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 02/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Delisha Boyd (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/28/2026
• Last Action: Read by title, under the rules, referred to the Committee on Commerce.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SD bill #HB1084 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Amend provisions pertaining to the public availability of information contained in certain records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing South Dakota law to clarify what information from voter registration records is publicly available. It specifies that while voter registration records are generally open for public inspection, certain sensitive personal information, such as social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and birth month and day, will not be disclosed. Additionally, the bill exempts the home addresses, personal phone numbers, and personal email addresses of current or retired state or federal judges and justices, as well as law enforcement officers, from public disclosure, while still allowing the city and county of their residence to be public record. The Unified Judicial System and the Division of Criminal Investigation will be responsible for providing lists of these individuals to the Secretary of State to ensure their personally identifiable information is protected.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT ENTITLED An Act to amend provisions pertaining to the public availability of information contained in certain records.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 03/01/2026
• Last Action: Signed by the Governor on March 09, 2026 H.J. 534
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0939 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Pub. Rec./E-mail Addresses Collected by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to create an exemption from public disclosure for certain email addresses collected by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). Specifically, the bill protects email addresses gathered for purposes related to vehicle titles, license plates, driver licenses, identification cards, and vessel registrations. The exemption applies retroactively and will remain in effect until October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it through the Open Government Sunset Review Act. The bill provides a detailed rationale for the exemption, noting that email addresses can be used for identity theft, consumer scams, and unwanted solicitations when combined with personal identifying information. By making these email addresses exempt from public records requirements, the Legislature aims to protect DHSMV customers from potential risks associated with their personal contact information being publicly available. The bill will take effect on the same date as a related bill (HB 937) that expands the department's ability to use email for various notifications and communications.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.0712, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain e-mail addresses collected by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles; providing for retroactive application of the exemption; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/30/2025
• Added: 12/31/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Taylor Yarkosky (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 12/30/2025
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to SB 490
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB842 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Public Service Commission - Administrative Operations and Personnel Matters (Public Service Commission Flexibility Act)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Public Service Commission Flexibility Act, establishes that the Public Service Commission's (PSC) authority is an essential government function, expands the duties of the Executive Secretary to include directing administrative affairs and approving expenses, and allows for the designation of a Deputy Executive Secretary to act in the Executive Secretary's absence. It also requires the PSC to submit its operating program budget to the Department of Budget and Management for informational purposes annually, maintain business and accounting records according to generally accepted principles, and undergo an independent audit of its accounts and transactions each fiscal year. Furthermore, the bill grants the PSC more flexibility in hiring and retaining various experts and personnel, including financial, modeling, and climate experts, and establishes an independent personnel management system for PSC employees based on merit, with fair procedures for hiring, promotion, termination, and grievance resolution, while ensuring these employees retain rights and benefits as state employees for transfer purposes. The bill also exempts the PSC from state and local taxation and clarifies that certain state finance and procurement laws do not apply to the PSC.
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Bill Summary: Establishing that the exercise by the Public Service Commission of its authority is an essential government function; altering the duties of the Commission and the Executive Secretary of the Commission; providing for the designation of a certain employee as Deputy Executive Secretary of the Commission; requiring the Commission to submit certain information to the Department of Budget and Management each year, keep certain records, and submit to certain audits; etc.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 02/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brian Feldman (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn by Sponsor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB1317 • Last Action 03/09/2026
State Government - Data-Sharing Agreements and Personal Identifying Information - Prohibition and Reporting (Maryland Data Privacy and Federal Shield Act)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Maryland Data Privacy and Federal Shield Act, mandates that the Attorney General will report annually to the Governor and the General Assembly, starting January 1, 2027, on all data-sharing agreements between Maryland state or local governments and the federal government, assessing their compliance with privacy laws and recommending corrections if needed. Furthermore, it prohibits state and local government entities, including sheriffs and their employees, from sharing "personal identifying information" – defined to include citizenship or immigration status, religious beliefs, and biometric data – with the federal government, unless explicitly required by law or court order. This prohibition also extends to providing information or assistance for establishing or maintaining a federal registry based on an individual's race, national origin, or religious affiliation.
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Bill Summary: Requiring the Attorney General to submit a certain report on data-sharing agreements between the State or a unit of local government and the federal government; and prohibiting certain individuals or agencies from providing certain information or assisting in the establishment or maintenance of a certain registry under certain circumstances.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Julian Ivey (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn by Sponsor
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB736 • Last Action 03/09/2026
Provides for the transparency of setting insurance rates
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Louisiana law regarding the transparency of insurance rate filings, specifically focusing on what information can be protected as a "trade secret," which is defined as information that has independent economic value because it's not generally known and is kept secret through reasonable efforts. Insurers claiming trade secret protection must now submit a specific notice to the commissioner of insurance, clearly marking trade secret pages, separating them from other information, and providing a sworn affidavit detailing why the information qualifies as a trade secret and the measures taken to keep it secret, along with a public-facing summary. The bill explicitly states that certain financial information, transactions with affiliates, compensation, dividends, and information used to support or oppose legislation will *not* be considered trade secrets and must be disclosed. The commissioner will review these claims, and if denied, the insurer will be notified; furthermore, an independent third party will periodically review trade secret claims, and knowingly filing a false claim to conceal unlawful financial practices can result in fines and license suspension or revocation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend and reenact R.S. 22:1464(D), relative to transparency in rate filing; to provide criteria for determining whether certain information qualifies as a trade secret; to provide for trade secret protection; to require the submission of a notice of a trade secret to the commissioner of insurance; to provide for reporting; to provide for fines and penalties; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 02/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kyle Green (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/27/2026
• Last Action: Read by title, under the rules, referred to the Committee on Insurance.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #SB0269 • Last Action 03/06/2026
School Board Meeting Notification Requirements
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing laws to change the notification requirements for both state and local school board meetings, generally requiring agendas to be published on the respective board's website at least 48 hours before a meeting, a reduction from the previous 72-hour requirement, though this notice period can be disregarded in emergencies as defined by state law. The bill also clarifies that the "chair" of the state board, rather than the "chairman," calls meetings and specifies that the state board must meet at least 11 times annually. For local school boards, the bill maintains their ability to adopt rules of order and procedure, conduct meetings accordingly, and make these rules publicly available, while also allowing them to meet outside their district boundaries during disasters or local emergencies, or for site visits where no official action is taken.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill amends provisions related to state and local school board meetings.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Todd Weiler (R)*, Jason Kyle (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 39
• Last Amended: 02/24/2026
• Last Action: Senate/ filed in Senate file for bills not passed
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #SB0064 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Government Records Amendments
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA) by updating various provisions related to public records access and management. Key changes include clarifying definitions, modifying procedures for record requests and appeals, and introducing new requirements for governmental entities regarding employee education on records management. Specifically, it adjusts the voter registration process to allow for additional privacy protections for victims of domestic violence or dating violence, and for law enforcement officers and members of the armed forces. The bill also revises rules concerning the use of public email for political purposes, the disclosure of certain government records, and the fees associated with record requests. Furthermore, it mandates the creation and distribution of a one-page summary of government records requirements for all government employees and establishes new procedures for handling record requests, including provisions for expedited responses and exceptional circumstances. The bill also clarifies the classification and disclosure of various record types, such as those related to law enforcement, public safety, and government procurement, and introduces criminal penalties for certain violations of records management laws, including the unlawful destruction of records related to pending requests. Finally, it updates the appeals process for record denials and fee waiver denials, and modifies the definition of "access denial" to align with other sections of the act.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill amends provisions relating to the Government Records Access and Management Act.
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• Introduced: 01/02/2026
• Added: 01/03/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Wayne Harper (R)*, Matt MacPherson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Senate/ filed in Senate file for bills not passed
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #HB0551 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Government Records Access Amendments
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies provisions related to government records access by introducing a new definition for "subject of a record request" to include individuals named in or directly involved in the creation of a requested record, and clarifies that such individuals cannot participate in the governmental entity's review or response to the request. It also amends the process for responding to record requests by requiring governmental entities to notify requesters within five business days if their request for expedited processing is denied because it doesn't benefit the public, and explicitly states that the subject of a record request cannot participate in the review or response process. Furthermore, the bill adds a provision that individuals who authored, signed, or were directly involved in creating a record cannot make the final decision on its classification, and this also applies if the classification occurs after a request is made, preventing the subject of the request from making that final decision. Finally, it requires political subdivisions to prohibit individuals who are the subject of a record request from participating in the review, response, or appeal process related to that request.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill modifies provisions related to government records access.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/13/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Lisa Shepherd (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: House/ filed in House file for bills not passed
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S7044 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Public Records/Custodians of Gold Coin and Silver Coin
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands public records exemptions for information gathered by the Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) during investigations and examinations, specifically to include entities acting as custodians of gold and silver coins, as authorized by a previous law (chapter 2025-100, Laws of Florida). This means that customer complaints, trade secrets, personal financial information, payment instrument transaction details, and deferred presentment transaction information related to these gold and silver coin custodians will be kept confidential, similar to how such information is protected for other financial institutions and money transmitters. The bill also establishes that these exemptions are subject to a future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the legislature acts to extend them. The rationale provided is that this confidentiality is necessary to protect ongoing investigations, prevent harm to individuals and institutions, and ensure the effective functioning of financial regulation, particularly concerning potential money laundering and terrorist financing activities.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; reenacting and amending s. 560.129, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for certain information obtained by the Office of Financial Regulation concerning or during the course of an investigation or examination conducted by the office, including customer and consumer complaints, to incorporate the inclusion of money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin as authorized by chapter 2025-100, Laws of Florida; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; reenacting and amending s. 560.312, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for payment instrument transactions to incorporate the inclusion of money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin as authorized by chapter 2025-100, Laws of Florida; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; amending s. 560.4041, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for deferred presentment transactions to incorporate the inclusion of money transmitters acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin as authorized by chapter 2025-100, Laws of Florida; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; reenacting and amending s. 655.057, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for certain information obtained by the office concerning an investigation or examination conducted by the office, including reports or papers of examinations, operations, or condition and trade secrets, to incorporate the inclusion of financial institutions acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin as authorized by chapter 2025-100, Laws of Florida; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; reenacting and amending s. 655.50, F.S.; expanding a public records exemption for reports and records filed with the office to incorporate the inclusion of financial institutions acting as custodians of gold coin and silver coin as authorized by chapter 2025-100, Laws of Florida; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Banking and Insurance
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/CS/HB 1087
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
UT bill #HB0286 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Artificial Intelligence Transparency Amendments
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Artificial Intelligence Transparency Amendments, establishes new requirements for "frontier developers" – entities that develop advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models using significant computing power – and "large frontier developers" (those with at least $500 million in annual revenue) to ensure transparency and safety in AI development and deployment. Key provisions include mandating the creation and public posting of "public safety plans" to address "catastrophic risks," which are defined as foreseeable dangers that could lead to significant loss of life or property damage, such as aiding in the creation of weapons or enabling large-scale cyberattacks. Additionally, for "covered chatbots" (AI conversational services likely accessed by minors and with at least one million monthly users), developers must create and publish "child protection plans" to mitigate "child safety risks," defined as foreseeable harm or severe emotional distress to minors. The bill also requires developers to publish summaries of their risk assessments and mitigation efforts before deploying new or substantially modified AI models, prohibits making false or misleading statements about these risks and plans, and establishes a mechanism for reporting "safety incidents" (both catastrophic and child safety incidents) to a designated office, with immediate notification to law enforcement for imminent threats. Furthermore, it introduces whistleblower protections for employees who report potential violations of these safety and transparency requirements, preventing employers from taking "adverse action" (like firing or demoting) against them, and outlines remedies for employees who experience such retaliation, including reinstatement and damages, while also establishing civil penalties for violations by large frontier developers.
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Bill Summary: General Description: This bill enacts the AI Transparency Act relating to transparency and whistleblower protections for frontier artificial intelligence models.
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• Introduced: 01/19/2026
• Added: 01/20/2026
• Session: 2026 General Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Doug Fiefia (R)*, Mike McKell (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 01/27/2026
• Last Action: House/ filed in House file for bills not passed
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OR bill #HB4174 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Relating to public records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Department of Justice to conduct a study on public records, which are documents or information that are generally accessible to the public under state law. The department must then submit a report, potentially including legislative recommendations, to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly that deal with judicial matters by September 15, 2027. This requirement for the study and report will expire, or "sunset," on January 2, 2028.
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Bill Summary: The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: Tells DOJ to study and report on public records. (Flesch Readability Score: 75.5). Requires the Department of Justice to study public records. Directs the department to submit findings to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to the judiciary no later than September 15, 2027. Sunsets on January 2, 2028.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2026
• Added: 02/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Legislative Measures
• Sponsors: 0 : Rules
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: In committee upon adjournment.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OR bill #SB1555 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Relating to the constitutional requirements for public education appropriations; declaring an emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies how the state reports on public education funding by establishing new quality goals for public education, which include school districts complying with legal requirements, teachers being licensed and qualified, and meeting statewide performance targets. It directs the Joint Interim Committee on Ways and Means to use a cost model, developed through contracts with experts, to determine the amount of money needed to meet these quality goals and to publish a report detailing whether the legislative appropriations are sufficient or, if not, explaining the reasons and impact of the shortfall. The bill also abolishes the Quality Education Commission and a related joint committee, and it makes various changes to existing laws concerning school district standards, teacher training, student services, and reporting requirements, with most of these changes becoming effective on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: Changes the method that is used to prepare a report on the amount of state money that is used to fund public education. (Flesch Readability Score: 62.1). Directs the Joint Interim Committee on Ways and Means to use a cost model for the purpose of calculating the sum of moneys sufficient to meet the state’s system of public education quality goals. Modifies the public education quality goals for the purpose of the cost model and makes re- lated changes specifying when a school district is a standard school district. Abolishes a joint committee related to the appropriation of moneys for public education. Abolishes the Quality Education Commission. Declares an emergency, effective on passage.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2026 Legislative Measures
• Sponsors: 0
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: In committee upon adjournment.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OR bill #HB4095 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Relating to semi-independent state agencies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to how semi-independent state agencies operate, primarily by bringing them under more standard state financial and administrative processes. It removes exemptions for these agencies from certain laws related to budgets, fiscal matters, and state agency operations, meaning they will now generally follow the same rules as other state agencies regarding these areas. The bill also establishes new dedicated funds for several specific boards and commissions, such as the Appraiser Certification and Licensure Board and the State Board of Architect Examiners, into which their collected fees and revenues will be deposited and continuously appropriated for their specific purposes. Additionally, it repeals certain existing statutes related to how these agencies manage their funds and operations, and it makes conforming amendments to various other laws to reflect these changes, including those related to the Oregon Tourism Commission, Travel Information Council, and Oregon Film and Video Office, ensuring they also align with the new framework.
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Bill Summary: The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: The Act makes some state agencies do the LFO budget process. The Act makes the state agencies follow some other laws about money. (Flesch Readability Score: 73.7). Makes certain semi-independent state agencies subject to certain provisions regarding the budget process and fiscal matters.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2026 Legislative Measures
• Sponsors: 4 : David Gomberg (D)*, Tom Andersen (D), Ben Bowman (D), Sue Rieke Smith (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: In committee upon adjournment.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A10456 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Relates to the redaction of personally identifying information of private individuals contained in municipal land use applications and/or supporting materials in response to a FOIL request.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public Officers Law, which governs public access to government records in New York, to add a new provision that allows for the redaction of personally identifying information of private individuals from municipal land use applications and supporting materials when requested under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). FOIL is the state law that allows the public to request access to government records. The bill specifies that this redaction is permissible if the disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy or create a risk of fraud or identity theft, but it clarifies that information essential to understanding the application or the local land-use board's decision cannot be redacted.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to personally identifying information in municipal land use documents subject to FOIL
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• Introduced: 03/06/2026
• Added: 03/07/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Mary Beth Walsh (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/06/2026
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1686 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Public Records/Parkinson's Disease Registry
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to make certain records and personal identifying information submitted to the Parkinson's Disease Registry confidential and exempt from public records requirements, meaning they would not be accessible to the general public under Florida law (specifically, section 119.07(1) of Florida Statutes and Article I, Section 24(a) of the State Constitution). This exemption applies to information about individuals diagnosed with or treated for Parkinson's disease. However, there are exceptions: information can be released with the individual's written consent, the department or the consortium managing the registry can contact individuals for epidemiological investigation and monitoring without further disclosure of confidential information, and the department can share data with other governmental agencies or entities for medical or scientific research as long as those entities also do not further disclose the confidential information. The bill also states that this exemption is subject to future legislative review and will automatically be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature acts to extend it. The Legislature has declared this exemption a public necessity to protect patient privacy, comply with federal laws like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996), and ensure the effective operation of the Parkinson's Disease Registry for research and tracking purposes. The bill's effective date is contingent on the passage of similar legislation in the same legislative session.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 1004.4352, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain records and personal identifying information submitted to the Parkinson’s Disease Registry; providing for future legislative review and repeal; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Health Policy, Alexis Calatayud (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/HB 1445
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WY bill #SF0020 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Data privacy-government entities.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires government entities in Wyoming, excluding the judicial branch and law enforcement agencies, to adopt policies for the collection, access, security, and use of personal data, which is defined as information linked to an identifiable person or digital identity. Government entities are prohibited from buying, selling, trading, or transferring personal data without explicit written consent, with exceptions for transfers between government entities, to contractors providing government services (who must protect the data and destroy it when no longer needed), or for specific approved exceptions not exceeding two years. The bill also allows Wyoming residents to request copies of their personal data and object to its accuracy, completeness, or handling, requiring government entities to respond within sixty days. Furthermore, government entities must not collect or retain more personal data than is reasonably necessary for their lawful functions, and personal data generally cannot be kept for more than three years without a written policy justifying the extended retention. The state chief information officer will develop sample policies by January 1, 2027, and the provisions of the bill will become effective at different times for various government entities, with some provisions taking effect immediately.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT relating to the administration of the government; requiring government entities to adopt policies for the collection, access, security and use of personal data as specified; requiring specific personal data policies; providing definitions; specifying applicability; and providing for effective dates.
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• Introduced: 12/11/2025
• Added: 12/12/2025
• Session: 2026 Budget Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Blockchain, Financial Technology and Digital Innovation Technology
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 03/02/2026
• Last Action: Assigned Chapter Number 48
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OR bill #SB1600 • Last Action 03/06/2026
Relating to Legislative Equity Office operations; declaring an emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies how records related to investigations by the Legislative Equity Officer, who handles complaints about legislative branch personnel rules, are handled. Specifically, it changes what information can be made public during and after these investigations. The bill removes the role of an "offsite process counselor," which was an external individual involved in the investigation process. It also clarifies that final investigative reports concerning a member of the Legislative Assembly will be public once delivered to the relevant conduct committee, while reports about other individuals will be public if disciplinary action is determined. Additionally, any agreements resolving an investigation involving a legislator will be public, though identifying information about non-legislators can be removed. The bill also makes changes to when certain communications are not protected by privilege, particularly if they indicate a clear intent to commit a serious crime involving physical injury, threats, sexual abuse, or death, and it repeals certain existing statutes related to legislative equity and privilege. Finally, the bill declares an emergency, meaning it takes effect immediately upon being signed into law.
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Bill Summary: The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: The Act changes what can be made public during and after a Rule 27 investigation of charges of rule violations. The Act takes effect when it is signed. (Flesch Readability Score: 65.7). Modifies confidentiality and disclosure standards for records associated with investigations un- der legislative branch personnel rules. Eliminates the role of an offsite process counselor. Declares an emergency, effective on passage.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Legislative Measures
• Sponsors: 0 : Conduct
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/07/2026
• Last Action: In committee upon adjournment.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2158 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Relative to municipal light plants
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law regarding municipal light plants by expanding protections for confidential business information. Specifically, the bill allows municipal lighting plants and municipal aggregators to withhold certain documents and meeting records from public disclosure when they determine that revealing such information could adversely affect their business operations or customer interests. The bill creates exemptions to standard public record and open meeting requirements for trade secrets, competitively sensitive, and proprietary information related to electric power and energy activities. These exemptions apply when the municipal lighting plant or aggregator board determines that disclosure would harm their ability to conduct business effectively or compete with other energy entities. Importantly, the bill maintains that these exemptions do not completely shield public entities from disclosures that would be required of private licensed entities, ensuring a balance between transparency and business confidentiality. The changes are intended to provide municipal light plants and aggregators more flexibility in protecting sensitive business information while maintaining some level of public accountability.
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Bill Summary: For legislation relative to municipal light plants to expand protection for other plant services, telecommunications and cable services. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : John Keenan (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2986
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1821 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Exempting certain information collected from electronic ballot counting devices from right-to-know law restrictions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New Hampshire's election record-keeping and transparency laws, focusing on ballot images and cast vote records from electronic ballot counting devices. The legislation requires that ballot images and cast vote records be retained and made publicly available within 48 hours after an election, with specific provisions to ensure transparency and data integrity. Key requirements include backing up ballot images in at least two secure locations (state and municipal), creating a public website for uniform access, mandating certification of electronic ballot counting devices, and establishing an audit log to track record access. The bill introduces civil fines of $250 to $1,000 for election officials who fail to release records on time, with each day or unrelease record constituting a separate violation. Additionally, the bill clarifies write-in voting instructions, requiring voters to "clearly print" write-in names instead of just "writing in" candidates, and modifies the handling of write-in vote documentation. The legislation aims to increase election transparency while protecting voter privacy by ensuring that no identifying information can link a ballot image to a specific voter. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, and while it may require municipalities to upgrade ballot counting equipment, potentially incurring costs between $10,000 to $100,000, it represents a significant step towards more open and accountable election record-keeping.
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Bill Summary: This bill clarifies the retention period for ballot images and cast vote records and requires that such images and records be made publicly available within the 48 hours following each election and before the statutory recount request deadline.
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• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Julius Soti (R)*, Kelley Potenza (R), Teresa O'Rorke (D), Ellen Read (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 03/05/2026 House Journal 6 P. 15
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H668 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Relative to the training of school committee members
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires newly elected or appointed school committee members in Massachusetts to complete a mandatory 8-hour orientation within three months of taking office, at no personal cost. The orientation, to be developed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, must cover critical topics including school finance, Chapter 70 education funding, statewide educational goals and standards, open meeting law, public records law, conflict of interest law, special education regulations, collective bargaining, school leadership standards, and the specific roles and responsibilities of school committee members. The orientation can be provided by the Massachusetts Association of School Committees or other entities approved by the education commissioner, who must offer at least three orientation sessions annually at no cost. Upon completing the training, participants will receive a certificate that must be filed with their local city or town clerk. Importantly, school committee members who do not complete this orientation will be disqualified from participating in the committee's formal business, ensuring that all members are properly trained and informed about their governmental responsibilities.
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Bill Summary: Relative to the training of school committee members. Education.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 03/13/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Alice Peisch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5649 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Relating to confidentiality of certain records pertaining to adults and facility residents
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends West Virginia code section 9-6-8 to clarify and expand the circumstances under which records concerning vulnerable adults, particularly those related to reports of abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation, can be disclosed. It allows for broader disclosure to federal, state, and local governmental entities, including law-enforcement agencies and prosecuting attorneys, for investigations. The bill also establishes a procedure for the limited disclosure and use of these confidential records in administrative hearings, requiring a written motion and an order from a hearing officer after an in-camera review to ensure relevance, with strict limitations on how the information can be used and requiring its return after the hearing. Furthermore, it permits the use of these records in judicial review of administrative decisions, again with court-ordered limitations on disclosure. The bill also maintains provisions for disclosure to the victim, their legal representative, protection and advocacy agencies, and for research or auditing purposes, while continuing to protect the identity of reporters of abuse, neglect, or exploitation unless they consent to disclosure or are subpoenaed for specific reasons.
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Bill Summary: A BILL to amend and reenact §9-6-8 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to confidentiality of certain records pertaining to adults and facility residents; clarifying the permissible disclosures to other governmental entities; and setting forth a procedure for the limited disclosure and use of said records in proceedings before the Public Employee’s Grievance Board.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : James Akers (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 03/04/2026
• Last Action: To Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1634 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Public Records/Chief of Domestic Security
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for specific information related to the Chief of Domestic Security's designation of an organization as a domestic or foreign terrorist organization, meaning that certain details about these designations will not be publicly accessible. The Chief of Domestic Security is required to notify the Governor and Cabinet at least seven days before making such a designation, providing written findings to support the decision, and this bill adds that any part of this information that would reveal critical state or national security details will be kept confidential. This exemption is intended to protect sensitive information that the Chief of Domestic Security may receive from various law enforcement and national security agencies during the designation process, and it is subject to future legislative review, with a scheduled repeal date of October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature acts to extend it. The bill also states that this exemption is a public necessity for safeguarding state and national security and will take effect on the same date as another related bill, SB 1632, if that bill is enacted.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 943.03102, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain information relating to the designation of an organization as a domestic terrorist organization or a foreign terrorist organization by the Chief of Domestic Security; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Appropriations Committee on Criminal and Civil Justice, Judiciary, Erin Grall (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 02/26/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/CS/HB 1473
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3737 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Requires municipalities to accept complaints and provide certain municipal announcements by electronic means.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires municipalities to establish electronic systems for residents to submit complaints and receive important announcements, aiming to increase transparency and accessibility. Specifically, municipalities must provide an online form on their website for submitting complaints, and if a municipality lacks a website, the Department of Community Affairs will host a form for them. Additionally, municipalities must set up a system for residents to sign up for electronic notifications, such as emails or text messages, about various municipal matters including public meeting notices, budgets, emergencies, and traffic changes, with "municipal announcement" defined as information relevant to the municipality. Crucially, the implementation of these electronic systems is contingent upon funding being made available through state appropriations or grants, and any actions taken under this bill will not be considered a government function, thus exempting them from the "New Jersey Tort Claims Act," which governs lawsuits against government entities.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires municipalities to have electronic systems in place to receive complaints and to provide certain municipal announcements. The complaint system required by the bill would allow an individual to fill out and transmit a complaint form on the Internet website of the municipality. The notification system would allow an individual to sign up to receive electronic announcements of certain municipal information through e-mail, text messages, social media, or other electronic means. While many municipalities already have such systems in place, many do not. This bill would require all municipalities to have these systems in order to ensure that all residents of the State receive the benefits of these transparency measures. In light of the unfunded mandate provisions of the State Constitution, under which a State law may be declared unconstitutional if it does not authorize resources other than the property tax to offset the additional direct expenditures required for its implementation, this bill would only require the implementation of these electronic systems if funding is made available for those purposes through State appropriations, grants, or otherwise. Further, any action undertaken pursuant to the provisions of the bill would not be deemed to be an exercise of a government function and not be subject to the provisions of the "New Jersey Tort Claims Act," N.J.S.59:1-1 et seq.
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• Introduced: 03/02/2026
• Added: 03/07/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Tony Bucco (R)*, Raj Mukherji (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/06/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CO bill #SB107 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Modify Colorado Open Records Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) by excluding certain communication records generated by assistive devices for individuals with disabilities or language barriers from the definition of public records, and it requires public entities to post their CORA policies, including records retention policies, and instructions on how to make a request. The bill extends the standard response time for CORA requests from three to five working days, with a possible extension of up to ten additional working days for extenuating circumstances, which now include situations where the custodian or essential personnel are not scheduled to work. It also allows custodians to treat multiple requests for similar information from the same person within a 14-day period as a single request for fee calculation purposes and mandates that custodians provide a breakdown of fees upon request, while also clarifying that public entities must accept credit card or electronic payments for fees if they accept them for other services. Furthermore, the bill expands the protection of student information to include any data that could be used to directly contact a student, and it introduces a provision allowing custodians to designate requests made for the direct solicitation of business for pecuniary gain as a separate category with a 30-day response period and the ability to charge for direct response costs, though requesters can appeal this designation to the district court. Finally, the bill requires custodians who fail to respond within the required timeframe to provide an additional hour of free research and retrieval time for each day the response is late and clarifies that any fee prepayment requirements must align with the entity's adopted policies.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: The bill makes the following changes to the "Colorado Open Records Act" (CORA): ! Excludes from the definition of a "public record" a written document or electronic record that is produced by a device or application that is used to assist an individual with a disability or individuals with language barriers to facilitate communication if the written document or electronic record has been produced to facilitate communication in lieu of verbal communication; ! Requires a public entity to post any rules or policies adopted pursuant to CORA, including any records retention policy, and to post information for members of the public regarding how to make a public records request; ! Changes the reasonable time to respond to a CORA request from 3 to 5 working days and changes the extension of time for the response period if extenuating circumstances exist from not exceeding 7 additional days to not exceeding 10 additional days; ! Adds an extenuating circumstance that allows extension of the response period when the custodian is not scheduled to work within the response period; ! If public records are in the sole and exclusive custody and control of a person who is not scheduled to work within the response period, requires a custodian to provide all other available responsive public records within the response period and to notify the requester of the earliest date on which the person is expected to be available or that the person is not expected to return. The requester may make a subsequent request for additional responsive records, if any, on or after the date the custodian provides. ! Allows a custodian to determine that a request, other than a request for a contract or other information delivered using computer data extraction methods that require minimal human intervention for retrieval, is made for the direct solicitation of business for pecuniary gain and provides a 30-day response period for such request; requires the custodian to provide written notice of the custodian's determination to the requester and permits the requester to appeal the determination to the district court; and allows a custodian to charge the requester for the reasonable cost of directly responding to the request notwithstanding the allowance for the first hour of research and retrieval to be free of charge and notwithstanding the statutory cap on fees which otherwise would apply; ! In addition to the prohibition on disclosing public elementary or secondary school students' addresses and telephone numbers, prohibits disclosure of any other student information that could be used to directly contact, address, or send a message to a student through any means or method; ! Allows a requester to ask a custodian for a reasonable breakdown of costs that comprise the fee charged for the research and retrieval of requested public records and requires a custodian to provide such a breakdown upon request; ! Clarifies that the custodian of records for a public entity must allow a requester to pay any fee or deposit associated with a request for public records with a credit card or electronic payment if the public entity allows members of the public to pay in this manner for any other service or product provided by the public entity; ! Allows a custodian to treat a CORA request received within 14 calendar days of another CORA request for information pertaining to facially similar content and made by the same person as one request for purposes of calculating the fee that the custodian may charge the requester for research and retrieval of responsive public records; ! Requires a custodian who fails to respond to a request for inspection within the applicable time period to provide the requester with one additional hour of research and retrieval time without charge for each calendar day that the response is late; and ! Clarifies that if a custodian imposes any requirements concerning the prepayment or payment of a fee in connection with a request for inspection of public records, the requirements must be in accordance with the custodian's adopted rules or written policies and must not be inconsistent with the provisions of CORA.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 02/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Cathy Kipp (D)*, Janice Rich (R)*, Michael Carter (D)*, Matt Soper (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee on State, Veterans, & Military Affairs Postpone Indefinitely
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1181 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Relative to public hearing notice requirements for zoning board of adjustment appeals.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates the public hearing notice requirements for zoning board of adjustment (ZBA) appeals by changing the existing notification method. Instead of requiring municipalities to publish hearing notices in a newspaper of general circulation, the bill mandates that notices be posted on the municipality's public website for at least 5 days before the hearing date. If a municipality does not have a public website, the notice must be physically posted in at least two public places within the municipality for the same period. The notice must remain accessible to the public until the hearing concludes. The bill aims to modernize public notification processes and potentially reduce municipal advertising costs, with the New Hampshire Municipal Association estimating that most municipalities could save less than $10,000 in advertising expenses. The law will take effect 60 days after its passage, and the fiscal impact is expected to be minimal, with no significant changes to county or local revenues and expenditures.
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Bill Summary: This bill updates the public hearing requirement for zoning boards of adjustment by replacing the requirement that a notice be published in a newspaper of general circulation with a requirement that the notice be posted on the municipality’s public website for at least 5 days before the hearing.
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• Introduced: 11/25/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Melissa Litchfield (R)*, Glen Aldrich (R), Brian Cole (R), Lisa Mazur (R), Sherri Reinfurt (R), Bill Gannon (R), Keith Murphy (R), Tim McGough (R), Tim Lang (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 12/06/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 03/05/2026 House Journal 6 P. 27
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1420 • Last Action 03/05/2026
Open Meeting Act; permitting public bodies to provide opportunity for public comment. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, which requires public bodies to provide public notice of their meetings. Specifically, it allows public bodies to offer a reasonable opportunity for the public to comment on agenda items before any business is conducted, and they can establish written rules for the timing, manner, and order of these comments, including limiting the length of individual comments or requiring pre-registration, as long as these rules are applied fairly and help the meeting run efficiently. However, the bill clarifies that public bodies are not required to allow public comment. The bill also updates some statutory language and references and sets an effective date of November 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 311, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 60, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 311), which relates to notice; permitting public bodies to provide opportunity for public comment; authorizing certain limitations on public comment; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Mark Mann (D)*, Daniel Pae (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 03/04/2026
• Last Action: Placed on General Order
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IN bill #HB1360 • Last Action 03/04/2026
Access to public records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance the management and security of public records requests by allowing public agencies to implement electronic portals that require human verification through mechanisms like CAPTCHA, verify physical addresses, and identify out-of-state requestors. It also introduces provisions for agencies to automatically track and report suspicious submissions, such as those suspected of being automated, phishing, or data scraping, and to report these to the public access counselor. Furthermore, the bill permits agencies to charge supplemental fees to non-Indiana residents or out-of-state entities for processing requests and to prioritize requests from Indiana residents or for civic, journalistic, academic, or personal use. It also allows agencies to deny requests that are duplicative of discovery requests made by parties involved in pending litigation, and to decline responding to requests if there's a suspicion of data scraping, phishing, or if electronic response could compromise system security, with such denials also being reported to the public access counselor. The general assembly is also empowered to establish procedural safeguards to protect public agency resources. Finally, the public access counselor will be responsible for identifying excessive and suspect requests and will include relevant data and recommendations in their annual report.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Access to public records. Allows a public agency to establish and maintain an electronic portal for submission of public records requests that: (1) incorporates CAPTCHA or an equivalent mechanism for ensuring that a requestor is a human; (2) requires verification of a requestor's physical address; (3) indicates to the public agency whether the requestor is a resident of Indiana; and (4) automatically tracks and reports submissions suspected to be automated or to have originated from known sources of phishing or data scraping. Provides that a public agency may deny a public record request if the request: (1) is made by a person that is a party to pending or ongoing litigation; and (2) is duplicative of a discovery request made by the person in the pending or ongoing litigation. Provides that: (1) a public agency may decline to respond to a public records request if the public agency suspects: (A) the request to be data scraping or phishing activity; or (B) that responding to the request electronically may: (i) expose the public agency's electronic systems or data to unauthorized access or alteration; or (ii) otherwise jeopardize the security of the public agency's electronic systems or data; and (2) if the public agency declines to respond to the request, the public agency must report: (A) the request; and (B) the public agency's reason for declining to respond to the request; to the public access counselor. Allows a public agency to collect a supplemental fee for processing public records requests submitted by non-Indiana residents or out-of-state entities. Allows a public agency to give priority in fulfilling public records requests to: (1) Indiana residents; and (2) requests submitted for civic, journalistic, academic, or personal use. Requires public agencies to report to the public access counselor regarding public records requests suspected of being automated, data scraping activity, or phishing activity (suspect public records requests). Provides that the general assembly may establish reasonable and narrowly tailored procedural safeguards to preserve the integrity and availability of public agency resources. Requires the public access counselor to: (1) take specified actions with regard to identifying excessive and suspect public records requests; and (2) include in the public access counselor's annual report: (A) information regarding the volume and nature of public records requests received by public agencies, including information regarding suspect public records requests reported by public agencies; and (B) recommendations to the general assembly regarding statutory or administrative remedies to excessive and suspect public records requests.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Matthew Lehman (R)*, Martin Carbaugh (R), Gregory Porter (D), Doug Miller (R), Liz Brown (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Public Law 97
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2179 • Last Action 03/04/2026
Criminal procedure; acts committee by persons in a state of mental illness or defect; modifying definition; requiring recommendation for discharge or assessment. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the legal definition of "guilty with mental defect" and "not guilty by reason of mental illness" in Oklahoma criminal procedure, specifically addressing acts committed by individuals with mental illness or defect. It requires that any recommendation for discharge or conditional release of such individuals must now include a structured clinical violence risk assessment, which the Forensic Review Board must review before submission to the court. The bill also mandates that if a court orders substance use monitoring as a condition of release, the individual will be subject to random drug and alcohol screenings at least twice monthly, with results reported to the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. The bill also updates statutory language and sets an effective date of November 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to criminal procedure; amending 22 O.S. 2021, Section 1161, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 68, O.S.L. 2025 (22 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1161), which relates to acts committed by persons in a state of mental illness or defect; modifying definition; requiring recommendation for discharge or conditional release to include certain risk assessment; directing certain reviews of risk assessment; subjecting certain persons to random substance screenings upon order of the court; requiring certain completion and reporting of tests; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 03/03/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : John Haste (R)*, Mark Lawson (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 03/03/2026
• Last Action: Placed on General Order
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0864 • Last Action 03/04/2026
Public Records/Uterine Fibroid Research Database
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates an exemption from public records requirements for sensitive information submitted to the Florida Department of Health for its uterine fibroid research database, meaning this information will not be accessible to the public under current public records laws, such as section 119.07(1) of Florida Statutes and section 24(a) of Article I of the State Constitution. This exemption applies to records and personal identifying information about women diagnosed with or treated for uterine fibroids, and it is being enacted because the Legislature finds it a public necessity to protect patient privacy, especially given potential violations of federal privacy laws like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), and to ensure the effective operation of the research database. The exemption is temporary and will be repealed on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature actively votes to extend it, and the bill will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 381.9312, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain records and personal identifying information submitted to the Department of Health for inclusion in the uterine fibroid research database; providing for future legislative review and repeal; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/10/2025
• Added: 12/11/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Health Policy, Barbara Sharief (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 02/03/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to HB 1515
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF4079 • Last Action 03/04/2026
Public information list request expansion provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the types of individuals who can request a public information list, which contains voter registration data, by allowing the national chair of a major political party to obtain a copy in addition to registered voters. The existing law requires county auditors and the secretary of state to provide these lists within five business days of a written or electronic request and payment, and also mandates that a copy be available for public inspection without charge. The bill also reiterates that information from these lists must only be used for election-related, political, or law enforcement purposes and will take effect the day after it is officially enacted.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to elections; expanding who may request a public information list; amending Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, section 201.091, subdivision 5.
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• Introduced: 03/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark Koran (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/02/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Elections
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB973 • Last Action 03/04/2026
Open Meetings Act - Enhanced Requirements for Educational Entities and Retention Requirements
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the requirements of Maryland's Open Meetings Act, which ensures that public bodies conduct their business openly and transparently, to include the Maryland State Department of Education, the Accountability and Implementation Board (a board established to oversee educational accountability and implementation), and county boards of education. These educational entities will now be subject to enhanced requirements, such as making meeting agendas and supporting documents publicly available at least 48 hours in advance, and providing live video streaming of open sessions where practicable. Furthermore, these entities, along with other public bodies already under these enhanced requirements, will be mandated to retain copies of their meeting minutes and any recordings for a significant period of 15 years after the date of the session, ensuring long-term public access to records of their proceedings.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Making certain enhanced Open Meetings Act requirements applicable to the Maryland State Department of Education, Accountability and Implementation Board, and county boards of education; and requiring certain entities subject to enhanced Open Meetings Act requirements to retain certain meeting minutes and recordings for 15 years after the date of the session.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : April Fleming Miller (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: House Ways and Means Hearing (13:00:00 3/4/2026 )
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H5312 • Last Action 03/04/2026
Protect Contributors' Home Information
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect the privacy of individual campaign contributors by preventing the public disclosure of their street number and street name. It amends several sections of South Carolina law related to the filing of certified campaign reports and the reporting of contributions and expenditures, including those from legislative special interest caucuses. The South Carolina Freedom of Information Act, which generally allows public access to government records, will not apply to this specific information. Furthermore, the bill introduces penalties for violations, allowing individuals to recover a civil penalty of one thousand dollars for each report that improperly discloses their street information, and making intentional disclosure by state or local officials a misdemeanor punishable by fines or imprisonment.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Sections 8-13-1308 And 8-13-1309, Both Relating To Filing Of Certified Campaign Reports, So As To Prohibit Public Disclosure Of An Individual Contributor's Street Number And Name; By Amending Section 8-13-1333, Relating To Soliciting Contributions From The General Public, So As To Prohibit Public Disclosure Of An Individual Donor's Street Number And Name; By Amending Section 8-13-1360, Relating To Contribution And Expenditure Reporting Forms, So As To Prohibit Public Disclosure Of An Individual Contributor's Or Donor's Street Number And Name; And By Adding Section 8-13-1530 So As To Provide A Penalty For Public Disclosure Of An Individual Contributor's Or Donor's Street Number And Name In Violation Of Article 13, Chapter 13, Title 8.
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• Introduced: 03/04/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Brandon Newton (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/04/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S0332 • Last Action 03/04/2026
Public Records and Public Meetings/Private Property Rights
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section in Florida Statutes to allow government agencies to hold private meetings with their attorneys to discuss claims related to private property rights under the Bert J. Harris, Jr., Private Property Rights Protection Act, which allows property owners to seek compensation when government actions diminish the value of their property. These private meetings, which are normally required to be public under Florida's open government laws (sections 286.011 and 119.07 of Florida Statutes, and Article I, Section 24 of the State Constitution), can be closed to the public only if the agency's attorney announces at a public meeting that they need to discuss a claim, the discussion is limited to settlement negotiations or strategy, the entire session is recorded by a court reporter and transcribed, and the agency provides public notice of the meeting's time, date, and attendees. The transcripts of these private meetings will become public records once the property rights claim is settled or if the statute of limitations expires without litigation or settlement, and the transcripts, recordings, minutes, and other records generated during these exempt meetings will also be kept confidential until that time. This exemption is intended to encourage settlement and is subject to a legislative review and repeal in 2031.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records and public meetings; creating s. 70.90, F.S.; providing an exemption from public meetings requirements for meetings or portions of meetings between agencies and their attorneys to discuss certain claims concerning private property rights; specifying what may be discussed during such meetings; requiring that such meetings be transcribed; providing that such transcripts become public records at specified times; providing an exemption from public records requirements for transcripts, recordings, minutes, and records generated during the exempt meetings or portions of such meetings; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemptions; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/03/2025
• Added: 11/04/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability, Judiciary, Jennifer Bradley (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 02/12/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table, refer to CS/CS/HB 655
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #HB1468 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Public records; exempt personally identifiable information from disclosure requirements for.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983 to define and exempt "personally identifiable information" (PII) and "protected personally identifiable information" (protected PII) from public disclosure. PII is defined as any information that can be used to identify an individual, either on its own or when combined with other information, and this can include non-personally identifying details if they become linkable to a specific person. Protected PII is a more specific category that includes an individual's name combined with other sensitive details such as their Social Security number, home address, driver's license number, date of birth, personal phone number, financial account numbers, personnel records, tax information, passport number, mother's maiden name, criminal, medical, or financial records, and educational transcripts. The bill also clarifies that existing exemptions for law enforcement officers, judges, and their families, as well as investigative reports, remain in place, and adds these newly defined categories of PII and protected PII to the list of information that is exempt from public disclosure requirements.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Section 25-61-3, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Define Personally Identifiable Information And Protected Personally Identifiable Information As Used In The Mississippi Public Records Act Of 1983; To Amend Section 25-61-12, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Exempt Personally Identifiable Information And Protected Personally Identifiable Information From The Requirements Of The Mississippi Public Records Act Of 1983; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brent Anderson (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/16/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #S1298 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Public Records/Public Employees Relations Commission
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida Statute 447.308 to make "showing of interest" statements, which are signed by public employees indicating they no longer want to be represented by a certified bargaining agent (a union or similar group that negotiates on behalf of employees), confidential and exempt from public records requirements, meaning they cannot be accessed by the public. This exemption is intended to protect employees from potential negative consequences for expressing their desire to leave a union, similar to how existing law protects those who wish to join one. The bill also includes provisions for future legislative review of this exemption, with a scheduled repeal date of October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature acts to extend it, and specifies how the law will revert if the exemption is not saved. The Legislature has declared this confidentiality a public necessity, arguing that the harm from disclosure outweighs any public benefit.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 447.308, F.S.; providing an exemption from public records requirements for a showing of interest signed by the employees or the group of employees who no longer desire to be represented by a certified bargaining agent; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing for the reversion of specified statutory text under certain conditions; providing statements of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Governmental Oversight and Accountability, Jonathan Martin (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/13/2026
• Last Action: Laid on Table
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #HB1459 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Local government; allow governing authority of any county or municipal corporation to hold meetings by teleconference
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows the governing authority of any county or municipal corporation, which refers to the elected officials who run local governments, to hold meetings by teleconference, meaning they can meet remotely using technology like video conferencing. This change is made to existing law regarding open and public meetings, ensuring that these teleconference meetings are viewable by the public and allow for public commentary without requiring physical presence. Additionally, the bill permits the governing body of any agency composed entirely of nonelected members to also hold meetings by teleconference, with similar requirements for public viewing and commentary.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Chapter 14 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to open and public meetings, so as to allow the governing authority of any county or municipal corporation to hold meetings by teleconference; to require such meetings to be viewable by the public and to allow for commentary at such meetings without being physically present; to allow the governing body of any agency whose membership is composed wholly of nonelected members to hold meetings by teleconference; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/25/2026
• Added: 02/26/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Karen Lupton (D)*, Karla Drenner (D)*, Viola Davis (D)*, Long Tran (D)*, Mary Oliver (D)*, Marvin Lim (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/26/2026
• Last Action: House Second Readers
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2005 • Last Action 03/03/2026
School athletic associations; requiring association written policy to include certain provision. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that any school athletic association that public schools or school districts join must have a written policy that includes specific provisions, building upon existing requirements for open records and open meetings, as well as annual financial and compliance audits. The key new provision mandates that the association's committee responsible for reviewing hardship waivers, which are exceptions to athletic eligibility rules, must be composed of five parents or legal guardians of students in public high schools, appointed by various state leaders, and one parent or legal guardian of a student in a private high school, appointed by the Governor. This change aims to ensure broader representation and input in decisions regarding student athlete eligibility. The bill also specifies an effective date of July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency to allow for immediate implementation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to school athletic associations; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 27-103, which relates to requirements for school athletic association written policies; adding provision to be included in written policy; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ally Seifried (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Failed in Committee - Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #HB1660 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Public Records Act; exempt certain records related to roadway safety from.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983 to exempt certain records from public disclosure, specifically those reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data that are compiled or collected for the purpose of identifying, evaluating, or planning safety improvements for potential accident sites, hazardous road conditions, or railway-highway crossings, especially when these efforts are undertaken to comply with federal law or to develop highway safety construction projects that will use federal funding. The Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983 is the state law that generally requires government records to be accessible to the public. This exemption aims to protect information related to roadway safety enhancements, ensuring that the planning and implementation of such projects can proceed without premature public scrutiny that might hinder their effectiveness. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Exempt Certain Reports, Surveys, Schedules, Lists And Data Collected For Safety Enhancement Of Potential Accident Sites And Hazardous Roadway Conditions From The Mississippi Public Records Act Of 1983; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Steve Massengill (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/16/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2703 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Enacting the Kansas health insurance affordability transparency act to require a report specifying the financial impact to covered individuals resulting from the passage of certain health insurance legislation.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Kansas health insurance affordability transparency act, requires the Kansas Department of Insurance to create a report detailing the financial impact on individuals covered by health insurance if certain proposed health insurance legislation is passed. "Covered individuals" are broadly defined to include anyone with accident and health, dental, vision, or Medicare supplement insurance. "Health insurance legislation" refers to any bill introduced in the legislature that could change coverage requirements, cost-sharing (like deductibles or co-payments), fees, taxes, business practices, or mandates for health insurers or administrators. Upon a legislator's request, the Department of Insurance will gather data from health insurers and administrators about potential premium increases or decreases, the number of Kansans affected, and whether federal law might preempt the proposed legislation, and then compile this information into a report within a specified timeframe, ensuring that individual insurer names and trade secrets are kept confidential and the data is not subject to public records requests until July 1, 2031.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning insurance; relating to accident and health coverage; enacting the Kansas health insurance affordability transparency act; requiring the Kansas department of insurance to prepare a report upon the request of a legislator concerning the financial impact to covered individuals that would result from the passage of certain health insurance legislation.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2026
• Added: 02/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Insurance
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 03/18/2026
• Last Action: Senate Hearing: Tuesday, March 3, 2026, 9:30 AM Room 546-S
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #SB2372 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Filing fees; amend usage of monies in the Local Government Records Management Fund.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law in Mississippi to allow money collected in the Local Government Records Management Fund to be used by the Department of Archives and History to provide services to counties and municipalities. These services include assistance with records management, historic preservation, and museum services, expanding the fund's previous use which was limited to supporting the department's Local Government Records Office and a grant program. The Local Government Records Management Fund is generated from a $1.00 filing fee collected by county and municipal officials for each public record filed, with a portion of that fee being remitted to the state.
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Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Section 25-60-5, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Allow The Monies In The Local Government Records Management Fund To Be Expended To Support The Department Of Archives And History Services To Counties And Municipalities Related To Record Management, Historic Preservation And Museum Services; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/19/2026
• Added: 01/20/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Thompson (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2330 • Last Action 03/03/2026
A bill for an act relating to public records requests.(Formerly HSB 582.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to clarify and standardize the process for handling public records requests. It mandates that upon receiving a request for public records, the official responsible for those records, known as the "lawful custodian," must promptly acknowledge the request and provide the contact details of their authorized representative. Additionally, the custodian must give the requester an estimated timeframe for when they can expect a response and an approximation of any reasonable fees that might be associated with fulfilling the request. The bill also requires the custodian to inform the requester about any anticipated delays in providing the requested public records, ensuring greater transparency and predictability for those seeking information.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that upon receipt of a public records request, the lawful custodian shall (1) promptly, as defined in the bill, acknowledge the request and provide the contact information of the lawful custodian’s authorized designee, (2) provide an approximate date for a response and an estimate of any reasonable fees associated with the request, and (3) inform the requester of any expected delay in production of the public record.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Subcommittee: Rozenboom, Schultz, and Winckler. S.J. 456.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #HB481 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Allow public body executive session for employee performance
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends section 121.22 of the Ohio Revised Code to explicitly allow public bodies to hold an executive session to discuss the performance of a public employee or official. Specifically, the bill modifies existing language that previously implied restrictions on discussing employee performance in closed sessions. The bill maintains the existing framework for executive sessions, which require a majority vote of a quorum to enter the closed session and mandate that the meeting's purpose be clearly stated. The change provides public bodies with more flexibility in addressing employee performance matters privately, while still maintaining the general principle that public business should be conducted in open meetings. The bill continues to prohibit executive sessions for disciplining elected officials for conduct related to their official duties or for their removal from office. This modification is part of Ohio's broader open meetings law, which aims to balance transparency in government operations with the need for confidential discussions in certain sensitive personnel matters.
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Bill Summary: To amend section 121.22 of the Revised Code to allow a public body to meet in an executive session to discuss the performance of a public employee or official.
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• Introduced: 09/30/2025
• Added: 09/30/2025
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Sarah Fowler Arthur (R)*, Beryl Brown Piccolantonio (D)*, Sean Brennan (D), Mark Hiner (R), Mark Johnson (R), Roy Klopfenstein (R), Mark Sigrist (D), Josh Williams (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 09/30/2025
• Last Action: House Government Oversight Piccolantonio, 2nd Hearing, Proponent Testimony (14:45:00 3/3/2026 Room 018. Chair: Thomas Hall)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #SB2259 • Last Action 03/03/2026
"The Peoples Access Act"; require official meetings to be broadcast via video livestream applications, with exceptions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as "The Peoples Access Act," mandates that official meetings of Mississippi state agencies, with certain exceptions like executive sessions, must be broadcast live via video livestreaming applications on the front page of each agency's official website or a designated government channel. Public notices for these meetings must also be broadcast online and include a detailed agenda of topics to be discussed, along with the link to the livestream. State agencies are required to submit their livestreaming links to the Department of Finance and Administration, which will maintain a public list. If a state agency fails to diligently comply with these livestreaming or public notice requirements, it may face penalties outlined in Section 25-41-15 of the Mississippi Code. In cases of technological difficulties preventing livestreaming, agencies must record the meeting and post both the recording and minutes online as soon as possible, explaining why the livestream was not possible. This provision applies only to state agencies and not to the Legislature or the judiciary, with full compliance required by January 1, 2027, and meeting recordings to be archived for at least 24 months.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Section 25-41-5, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Require Official Meetings Of State Agencies, With Exceptions, To Be Broadcast Via Video Livestreaming Applications On The Front Page Of The Official Website Of Each Respective Agency; To Require Certain Information To Be Included In All Public Notices; To Provide That Any Action Taken By A State Agency Failing To Use Due Diligence To Comply With Livestreaming Requirements Is Subject To The Provisions And Penalties In Section 25-41-15; To Provide Backup Procedural Requirements If Technological Difficulties Make Livestreaming A Meeting Impracticable; To Provide A Deadline For Livestreaming Implementation; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Nicole Boyd (R)*, Tyler McCaughn (R)*, Bart Williams (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/13/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2940 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; creating the First Amendment Open Meetings Protection Act; public meeting recordings; Legislature; legislative committee meetings; monetary damages; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the First Amendment Open Meetings Protection Act, which amends Oklahoma's existing open meeting law to strengthen public recording rights at government meetings. Specifically, the bill prohibits public bodies, their staff, and security personnel from preventing individuals from recording meeting proceedings using video, audio, or other recording methods, as long as the recording does not disrupt the meeting. The bill notably extends recording permissions to include legislative committee meetings (with exceptions for confidential sessions) and the Oklahoma Legislature itself. Additionally, the bill provides a new legal remedy by allowing individuals who are unlawfully prevented from recording a public meeting to sue for monetary damages. The law will become effective on November 1, 2026, and aims to enhance transparency and public access to government proceedings by protecting citizens' rights to document official meetings.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; creating the First Amendment Open Meetings Protection Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 312, which relates to recording public meeting proceedings; clarifying that personal recordings shall not be prohibited unless they interfere with the public meeting; including the Legislature and legislative committee meetings in recording permissions; allowing monetary damages for unlawful prohibitions of recordings; providing for noncodification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/12/2025
• Added: 12/13/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Jim Olsen (R)*, Lisa Standridge (R)*, Jared Deck (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 12/12/2025
• Last Action: House Judiciary and Public Safety Oversight Hearing (10:30:00 3/3/2026 Room 4s5)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5641 • Last Action 03/03/2026
Trade: other; Michigan international trade commission; establish. Creates new act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Michigan International Trade Commission, a new body within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, to advise the state on international trade matters. The commission will be composed of nine members appointed by the governor, representing various sectors including agriculture, shipping, healthcare, automotive manufacturing, financial services, organized labor, and international trade policy experts. The commission's duties include analyzing international trade's impact on Michigan industries, informing the public about the state's competitiveness in global markets, providing quarterly reports to the legislature on the trade impact of tariffs, and making recommendations to the governor and legislature on how to enhance Michigan's global economic competitiveness. Members will not receive a salary but can be reimbursed for expenses, and the commission's operations will adhere to open meeting and freedom of information laws.
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Bill Summary: A bill to create the Michigan international trade commission and prescribe its powers and duties; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local governmental officers and entities.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2026
• Added: 02/27/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Noah Arbit (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/26/2026
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 02/26/2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #SB330 • Last Action 03/02/2026
AN ACT relating to data centers.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new rules for data centers in Kentucky, aiming to increase transparency and prevent public agencies from entering into agreements that hide information beyond what state law already allows. It defines "data center" as a facility for storing, managing, and processing digital data, and "nondisclosure or confidentiality agreement" as any contract that restricts discussing its terms beyond statutory limits. The bill explicitly states that any contract related to a data center that tries to bypass or expand upon Kentucky's Open Records Act (which governs public access to government documents) or Open Meetings Act (which governs public access to government meetings) is void. Furthermore, when certain actions are taken regarding a data center, such as signing a development agreement, issuing permits, or approving special utility rates, specific information must be made public, including the owner's identity, project location, financial incentives received, public infrastructure contributions, and projected or actual utility usage and environmental impacts, though trade secrets are still protected. Aggregated data about a data center's impact on utility rates, grid reliability, pollution, public infrastructure, and expenditures will not be considered confidential simply because it relates to a data center, but proprietary technical details will remain protected. Finally, the bill prohibits agreements from preventing local officials, utility boards, or regulatory agencies from discussing data center impacts or from restricting public participation in required hearings or proceedings.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Create a new section of KRS Chapter 61 to define "data center," "nondisclosure or confidentiality agreement," and "public agency"; prohibit public agencies from entering into a nondisclosure or confidentiality agreement relating to a data center that expands confidentiality beyond what is authorized by the Kentucky Revised Statutes; provide that contractual provisions relating to data centers that waive, supersede, or expand the requirements of the Kentucky Open Records Act or Kentucky Open Meetings Act are void; provide that certain information be made publicly available when certain data center-related actions are taken or documents are executed; provide that aggregated data concerning projected or actual impacts on public utilities and certain other public areas shall not be deemed confidential solely because the information relates to a data center project; prohibit a nondisclosure or confidentiality agreement from restricting the authority of a local public official to discuss data center impacts or public participation, hearings, or proceedings otherwise require by law.
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• Introduced: 03/02/2026
• Added: 03/03/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Keturah Herron (D)*, Gerald Neal (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/03/2026
• Last Action: to Committee on Committees (S)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #SB640 • Last Action 03/02/2026
Prohibiting release of certain personal information of contributors to political elections
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance the privacy of individuals involved in political campaigns by prohibiting the public release of certain personal information. Specifically, it prevents the disclosure of a campaign contributor's home address and employer information, as well as the address of treasurers, from public records, including government websites and responses to public information requests. This protection is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and applies to financial statements filed on or after that date. The bill also mandates that financial statements for local elections (city, county, or municipal) must be filed with the Secretary of State. Furthermore, it establishes penalties for violations, including a misdemeanor charge for state or local officials who knowingly and willfully disclose this protected information, and a civil penalty of $1,000 for government entities that fail to remove or redact the information within 10 business days after being notified of the violation. The bill also removes a previous prohibition on distinguishing between different types of entities in certain circumstances.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend and reenact §3-8-1a, §3-8-5a, and §3-8-11 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended; and to amend the code by adding a new section, designated §3-8-6a, relating to prohibiting the release of an individual campaign contributor’s address and employer information and the address of treasurers; defining terms; removing prohibition on distinguishing between entities in certain circumstances; requiring filing of financial statements with Secretary of State in local elections; creating misdemeanor criminal penalty; providing for monetary penalty if violation is not timely cured; and setting forth effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Mike Azinger (R)*, Anne Charnock (R), Brian Helton (R), Zachery Maynard (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 46
• Last Amended: 03/02/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 3/2/2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01689 • Last Action 03/02/2026
Defines "professional journalist"; provides press access to open meanings of an agency or authority; prohibits the adoption of policies or rules restricting such access; requires notice of such meetings to local governments.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to enhance press access and transparency in government meetings. It first defines a "professional journalist" as someone who gathers, prepares, or processes news for a media outlet as a regular employee or professional affiliate, ensuring a clear and broad definition of who qualifies for press access. The bill then mandates that open meetings of government agencies must be accessible to professional journalists and press members, explicitly prohibiting any policies that would restrict such access. Additionally, the bill modifies public meeting notice requirements by extending the advance notice period from 72 hours to 96 hours (or four business days) and requiring that local governments also receive meeting notifications. A new provision is added requiring agencies to post draft meeting agendas on their websites at least 24 hours before scheduled meetings, further increasing transparency. These changes aim to improve public access to government proceedings and ensure that journalists can effectively report on official meetings. The bill will take effect 30 days after becoming law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to providing press access to open meetings of an agency or authority
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rachel May (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/13/2025
• Last Action: RECOMMIT, ENACTING CLAUSE STRICKEN
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2061 • Last Action 03/02/2026
A bill for an act relating to the request for redaction of personally identifiable information from electronic documents displayed for public access by county assessors and county recorders.(See HF 2255.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the list of individuals whose names can be redacted, meaning removed, from public electronic documents maintained by county assessors and county recorders to include United States senators, representatives to Congress, statewide elected officials, and members of the general assembly, in addition to existing protections for peace officers, law enforcement employees, judicial officers, and prosecutors. The bill also requires the secretary of state to provide recommendations to the general assembly by November 1, 2026, on how to safeguard the personal residence information of candidates for election while still confirming their residency for eligibility purposes.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, a peace officer, a civilian employee of a law enforcement agency, a state or federal judicial officer, or state or federal prosecutor may request their name be redacted from documents made public by the county assessor or county recorder. This bill adds United States senators, representatives to Congress, statewide elected officials, and members of the general assembly to this list of people. The bill requires the secretary of the state to submit recommendations to the general assembly on how to protect information containing the personal residence of those seeking election while at the same time verifying the candidate’s place of residences for the purpose of meeting any applicable residency requirement. The recommendations are to be submitted before November 1, 2026.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Taylor Collins (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn. H.J. 484.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #SB491 • Last Action 03/02/2026
Enacting the Haylee Weissenbach protecting students act to establish the office of education inspector general, authorize the education inspector general to conduct audits, investigations and reviews of educational institutions, require reporting of suspected professional and criminal misconduct by school employees and agents, require certain individuals to register on an educator misconduct registry, require criminal history record checks of school employees and agents and provide for civil pen
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Haylee Weissenbach protecting students act, establishes the Office of Education Inspector General within the Attorney General's office to oversee educational institutions in Kansas, including public school districts and nonpublic schools. This new office will be led by an Education Inspector General, appointed by the Attorney General and confirmed by the Senate, who will be responsible for conducting audits, investigations, and performance reviews to ensure accountability and prevent professional misconduct, criminal misconduct, and systemic failures within these institutions. The act mandates that school employees and agents, defined as individuals providing services to schools who may have unsupervised contact with students, must undergo criminal history record checks and that certain individuals involved in professional or criminal misconduct must register on an educator misconduct registry. It also requires educational institutions to report suspected misconduct and provide annual training on whistleblower protections and reporting procedures, while offering protections for those who report wrongdoing. The bill further outlines procedures for investigating allegations, including the power to subpoena witnesses and documents, and establishes civil penalties of up to $25,000 for violations, alongside other potential sanctions. Finally, it amends existing laws regarding criminal history record checks to include educational institutions and expands the Attorney General's authority to prosecute crimes related to education.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning education; enacting the Haylee Weissenbach protecting students act; establishing the office of education inspector general; authorizing the education inspector general to conduct audits, investigations and reviews of educational institutions; requiring reporting of suspected professional and criminal misconduct by school employees and agents; requiring certain individuals to register on an educator misconduct registry established by the education inspector general; requiring school employees and agents to submit to a criminal history record check; providing for civil penalties for violations of the act; amending K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 22-4714 and 75-702 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Senate Hearing: Monday, March 2, 2026, 1:30 PM Room 144-S
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1888 • Last Action 03/02/2026
School athletic associations; adding provisions to be included in written policy; establishing legislative review process for rules. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires school athletic associations, which are organizations that govern interscholastic sports for public schools, to include specific provisions in their written policies to maintain their membership. These provisions mandate that association records must be accessible under the Oklahoma Open Records Act, meetings must comply with the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act (including notice, agenda, voting, and executive session rules), and the association must undergo annual financial and compliance audits, as well as performance audits every five years. Crucially, the bill introduces a legislative review process for any new rules or changes to existing rules governing interscholastic activities; these must be submitted to legislative leadership for approval or disapproval through a joint resolution, with specific timelines and procedures for adoption or rejection, and if disapproved, the association must resubmit new rules. The bill also clarifies that students transferring to a new school district under the Education Open Transfer Act are allowed to participate in interscholastic activities at their new school upon enrollment, and it repeals a previous law related to participation after a transfer. This act will become effective on July 1, 2026, with an emergency clause allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to school athletic associations; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 27-103, which relates to requirements for school athletic association written policies; adding provisions to be included in written policy; establishing legislative review process for rules or amendments to rules adopted by a school athletic association; repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 8-103.2, which relates to participation in certain competitions after certain transfer; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Casey Murdock (R)*, Tim Turner (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Turner (principal House author)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2294 • Last Action 03/02/2026
A bill for an act relating to the filing of complaints with the Iowa public information board.(Formerly HSB 580.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends the timeframe for filing complaints with the Iowa Public Information Board, which is the state agency responsible for overseeing open meetings and open records. Specifically, it increases the deadline from 60 days to 90 days after an alleged violation of either Code chapter 21 (open meetings) or Code chapter 22 (open records) occurs, or after the person filing the complaint could have reasonably discovered the violation. This change provides individuals with more time to formally report potential breaches of these transparency laws.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that a person has 90 days, rather than 60 days under current law, to file a complaint with the Iowa public information board after an alleged violation of Code chapter 21 (open meetings) or Code chapter 22 (open records) occurred or the complainant could have become aware of the alleged violation.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Subcommittee reassigned: Rozenboom, Schultz, and Staed. S.J. 436.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB601 • Last Action 03/02/2026
Death penalty; creating the Death Penalty Moratorium Act; staying the execution of judgments in all death penalty cases; creating Death Penalty Reform Task Force. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Death Penalty Moratorium Act, which implements a temporary stay on all death penalty executions in Oklahoma until June 1, 2027. The bill prohibits the Court of Criminal Appeals from setting or executing any death penalty sentences during this period, vacates all current execution dates, and suspends related death penalty statutes. Simultaneously, the bill creates a Death Penalty Reform Task Force composed of five members appointed by key legislative and executive leaders, including representatives from the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Governor's office. The task force's primary responsibility is to review and report on the implementation of recommendations from the 2017 Oklahoma Death Penalty Review Commission, with a focus on examining reforms to the state's death penalty system. Task force members will serve without compensation, and the Attorney General's office will provide administrative support. The task force is required to submit an electronic report of its findings by November 30, 2026, to the Senate President Pro Tempore, House Speaker, and Governor. Importantly, the bill does not prohibit future death penalty prosecutions and does not invalidate existing death penalty judgments. The legislation is declared an emergency measure, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the death penalty; creating the Death Penalty Moratorium Act; providing short title; staying the execution of judgments in all death penalty cases; prohibiting the Court of Criminal Appeals from ordering the execution of judgments in death penalty cases; prohibiting the setting of execution dates; vacating all current execution dates; suspending all statutes related to death penalty sentences; returning death penalty statutes to full force and effect upon repeal of the Death Penalty Moratorium Act; providing construing provisions; creating the Death Penalty Reform Task Force; providing purpose of the task force; providing for membership; establishing date for appointing members; setting organizational meetings; providing for the selection of a chair and vice chair; stating primary function of the task force; authorizing the task force to collaborate with other agencies, organizations, entities, and educational institutions; providing quorum requirements; making meetings of the task force subject to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; prohibiting compensation or travel reimbursement; directing the Attorney General to provide staffing and administrative support; requiring the submission of certain report to the Legislature and Governor; providing for codification; providing for noncodification; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Dave Rader (R)*, Danny Williams (R)*, Suzanne Schreiber (D), Ellyn Hefner (D), Mark Mann (D), Nikki Nice (D)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 03/05/2025
• Last Action: Coauthored by Senator Mann
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #SB331 • Last Action 03/02/2026
AN ACT relating to public meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill strengthens public access to government meetings by requiring presiding officers to announce the general nature and reason for closed sessions, and to identify any non-members present, with these closed sessions now needing to be recorded by video or audio and stored for 180 days, though these recordings are exempt from public inspection under the Open Records Act. Public agencies must now annually adopt a schedule of their regular meetings and provide at least 24 hours but no more than 7 days' notice of their agenda, which must include general discussion items and action items, and they cannot vote on items not on the agenda unless specific exceptions apply to recesses longer than 60 minutes, in which case the meeting must be adjourned. Both regular and special meetings must now include at least 15 minutes for public comment, and individuals will no longer be required to identify themselves, provide their address, or sign up to speak at meetings. Finally, if a person successfully sues a public agency for violating these open meeting laws, the court must award them $500 for each violation, paid by the individuals found responsible, in addition to potential costs and attorney fees.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 61.815 to require the presiding officer of a public meeting to provide notice before going into closed session of the general nature of business to be discussed, the reason for the closed session, and any persons not members of the board, commission, committee, authority, council, or governing body of the public agency who will be present; require the closed session to be recorded by video or audio and stored for 180 days; exempt the recording of the closed session from the Open Records Act; amend KRS 61.820 to require a public agency to adopt, on an annual basis, a schedule of its regular meetings; require a public agency to provide notice of its regular meeting by publishing its agenda at least 24 hours, but not more than 7 days before the meeting; provide agenda requirements; prohibit a public agency from recessing a meeting longer than 60 minutes unless exceptions apply; require the public agency to adjourn the meeting if a recess exceeds 60 minutes; prohibit a vote on any item discussed immediately prior to the recess until the next regular meeting; require each regular meeting to include public comment of at least 15 minutes; amend KRS 61.823 to require each special meeting to include public comment of at least 15 minutes; amend KRS 61.840 to prohibit a public agency from requiring a person to identify himself or herself, provide his or her address, or sign up to speak at a meeting; amend KRS 61.848 to require a court to award a person $500, instead of $100 who prevails against a public agency for violation of the Open Meetings Act, to be paid by the person or persons who are found to have violated the act.
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• Introduced: 03/02/2026
• Added: 03/03/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Lindsey Tichenor (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/03/2026
• Last Action: to Committee on Committees (S)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1890 • Last Action 03/02/2026
School activities; creating the Oklahoma Athletics and Activities Commission; providing for membership; providing duties. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Oklahoma Athletics and Activities Commission, a new body responsible for supervising, coordinating, and regulating secondary school activities for both public and private schools across the state. The Commission will be composed of a diverse group of individuals, including public school administrators and athletic directors from both larger and smaller districts, parents of students from various school sizes, and parents of students from private schools of different enrollment numbers, along with the Superintendent of Public Instruction or their designee. Members will be appointed by the Governor, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, with initial appointments due by August 1, 2026, and staggered terms of three, four, and five years. The Commission will hold an organizational meeting by September 1, 2026, to elect a chair and vice chair, and will meet monthly thereafter, with special meetings allowed. A quorum of ten members is required for business, and all actions must be approved by a majority vote. Members of the Legislature are prohibited from serving on the Commission while in office or for two years afterward. The Commission will be subject to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and the Oklahoma Open Records Act, and the State Department of Education will provide office space. Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, the Commission will be tasked with supervising and organizing all secondary school activities, including categorization of schools, scheduling competitions, hiring officials, and managing facility usage, and will have the authority to promulgate rules, hire staff, enter into agreements with private schools and national athletic associations, develop a comprehensive plan, set membership and participation fees, and cooperate with other states on program coordination. The bill also repeals an existing law related to participation in competitions after a transfer and will take effect on July 1, 2026, with an emergency clause for immediate implementation.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to school activities; creating the Oklahoma Athletics and Activities Commission; providing for appointment of members; requiring initial appointments to be made by certain date; providing for terms of members; requiring organizational meeting to be held by certain date; providing for election of chair and vice chair; providing term limit for chair; allowing members to be removed for cause; providing for filling of vacancies; prohibiting members of the Legislature from being appointed while serving and for certain time period thereafter; providing frequency of meetings; allowing special meetings to be called; providing for quorum; providing for travel reimbursement; subjecting the Commission to certain acts; directing the State Department of Education to provide office space; providing duties of the Commission; directing the Commission to supervise and organize certain activities beginning in certain school year; repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 8-103.2, which relates to participation in certain competitions after certain transfer; providing for codification; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Casey Murdock (R)*, Tim Turner (R)*, George Burns (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Turner (principal House author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1032 • Last Action 02/27/2026
Creating an exception to physical attendance and quorum requirements under the right-to-know law for individuals with disabilities and individuals caring for a household member with disabilities.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New Hampshire's right-to-know law (RSA 91-A:2) to create an exception for public body members with disabilities or those caring for a household member with a disability. Specifically, the bill allows such individuals to be counted as "present in person" for quorum purposes even when they cannot physically attend a meeting. The disability must be defined according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination. Currently, public body members can only participate remotely if physical attendance is not "reasonably practical" and must state the reason for remote participation in meeting minutes. The new provision ensures that members with disabilities or those caring for disabled household members are not penalized or prevented from participating in public meetings due to their disability status. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, providing a brief transition period for public bodies to understand and implement the new rules.
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Bill Summary: This bill creates an exception to physical attendance and quorum requirements under the right-to-know law for individuals with disabilities and individuals caring for household members with disabilities.
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• Introduced: 11/17/2025
• Added: 11/18/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Timothy Horrigan (D)*, Dick Thackston (R), Bill Gannon (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 11/17/2025
• Last Action: Minority Committee Report: Ought to Pass with Amendment # 2026-0495h
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
LA bill #HB768 • Last Action 02/27/2026
Provides relative to the release of police body camera footage
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new guidelines for the release of "recordings" (audio or video footage) of "critical incidents" by law enforcement agencies in Louisiana, aiming to balance transparency with privacy and ongoing investigations. A critical incident is defined as an event where an officer uses force resulting in hospitalization or death, intentionally fires their firearm at someone, strikes someone in the head with an impact weapon, a police vehicle pursuit leads to death or hospitalization, or an arrested or detained person dies in custody. Within 48 hours of such an incident, law enforcement agencies must provide access to the recording to "interested parties," which include district attorneys, state and federal law enforcement oversight bodies, and federal prosecutors. Following this, these interested parties will confer, and the state inspector general will make a written recommendation on whether to release the recording within seven days, considering factors like public interest, privacy of individuals involved, and the needs of ongoing investigations. The head of the law enforcement agency then has 48 hours to decide on release, with the possibility of court review. The bill also specifies that recordings of domestic violence or sex offenses, or those that could reveal confidential sources, will not be released to the public. Released recordings can be redacted or blurred to protect juveniles, privacy expectations, or safety, but must still adequately depict the incident. This legislation is intended to build public trust through transparency while respecting privacy and the integrity of criminal investigations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To enact R.S. 40:2551.1, relative to the release of recordings by law enforcement agencies; to establish guidelines regarding the decision whether to release recordings to the public; to provide for privacy considerations and priorities of ongoing criminal investigations regarding release of recordings; and to provide for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 02/28/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tehmi Chassion (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/27/2026
• Last Action: First appeared in the Interim Calendar on 2/27/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR7738 • Last Action 02/26/2026
Government Surveillance Transparency Act of 2026
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Government Surveillance Transparency Act of 2026," aims to increase transparency and accountability in government surveillance by establishing new rules for criminal surveillance orders, which are defined broadly to include various types of court orders authorizing surveillance or data collection. Key provisions include requiring that targets of these orders eventually receive notice, reforming the use of non-disclosure orders that prevent providers from informing customers about government requests for their information, and prohibiting the indefinite sealing of these surveillance orders and related documents. The bill also mandates that public dockets for criminal surveillance cases be made available as open data, detailing information like the type of order, duration, and investigating agency, while allowing for limited redactions to prevent specific harms. Furthermore, it introduces reporting requirements for judges and the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to track the issuance and denial of surveillance orders and extensions, and provides grants to state and tribal courts to help them implement these new transparency measures.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To amend title 18, United States Code, to require that notice of criminal surveillance orders be eventually provided to targets, to reform the use of non-disclosure orders to providers, to prohibit indefinite sealing of criminal surveillance orders, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 2 : Ted Lieu (D)*, Warren Davidson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/12/2026
• Last Action: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB6164 • Last Action 02/26/2026
Concerning individual privacy by Washington technology solutions through an exemption from public inspection and copying.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance individual privacy by creating an exemption from public inspection and copying for certain information submitted to Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech), a state agency that provides centralized information technology (IT) services to other state agencies. Specifically, it amends existing laws to add a new provision stating that information submitted to WaTech for the purpose of providing IT services related to "digital experience platform" services—which refers to the agency's online systems, applications, or websites used for accessing government services—is exempt from public disclosure. This exemption is intended to protect personal information while allowing WaTech to continue its mission of improving government efficiency and service delivery through technology.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to protecting individual privacy by Washington 2 technology solutions through an exemption from public inspection and 3 copying; amending RCW 43.105.020 and 43.105.365; reenacting and 4 amending RCW 42.56.230; and creating a new section. 5
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jeff Wilson (R)*, T'wina Nobles (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Senate Rules "X" file.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3736 • Last Action 02/25/2026
Interactive technology meetings allowed in certain cases.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows certain state government boards and councils to hold meetings using interactive technology, such as video conferencing, under specific circumstances. The Executive Council, the State Board (which is composed of the governor, state auditor, secretary of state, and attorney general), and the Minnesota Land Exchange Board (also composed of the governor, attorney general, and state auditor) are all mentioned as bodies that can utilize this technology. This provision is intended to help these groups expedite their work or respond to security threats. When using interactive technology, these bodies must ensure all participants can hear each other and all discussions, and they must also broadcast the meeting live for public viewing. The bill amends existing Minnesota Statutes related to these boards and councils.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to state government; allowing meetings by interactive technology for certain meetings; naming a state board created by the Minnesota Constitution; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 9.021; 11A.03; 94.341.
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• Introduced: 02/25/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Freiberg (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to State Government Finance and Policy
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB159 • Last Action 02/25/2026
Va. Freedom of Information Act; proceedings for enforcement, petition for mandamus or injunction.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to streamline the process for individuals seeking to enforce their rights to access public information. Specifically, it clarifies that when someone files a petition for a writ of mandamus (a court order compelling a government official to perform a duty) or an injunction (a court order preventing a party from taking a certain action) to enforce their FOIA rights, they are not required to formally serve legal documents like a summons or process through a sheriff or private process server. This change aims to make it easier and potentially faster for citizens to challenge denials of public records or violations of open meeting laws, as the act of filing the petition itself serves as notice to the relevant parties.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; proceedings for enforcement; petition for mandamus or injunction. Specifies that service of process or a summons for a hearing shall not be required when a petition for mandamus or injunction to enforce rights granted under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act has been filed.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 02/25/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Marcus Simon (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 02/24/2026
• Last Action: Continued to next session in General Laws and Technology (13-Y 1-N)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB2914 • Last Action 02/25/2026
Relating To Lawmaker Safety.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Protecting Legislators' Safety Act, aims to enhance the safety of state lawmakers by limiting the public disclosure of their personal contact information. It amends existing laws to ensure that the residence addresses and telephone numbers of legislators, whether elected or appointed, are kept confidential in their voter registration affidavits and any related lists or registers, without requiring them to prove a life-threatening circumstance, though they can opt out of this confidentiality. Additionally, the bill mandates that while campaign finance reports will remain public records, the residence address of a legislator will be removed from the searchable online database unless the legislator chooses to make it public. It also modifies the requirements for nomination papers, ensuring that while residence addresses are necessary for the collection and verification of signatures, they must be redacted when posted online for general public inspection, though unredacted copies will be retained by election officials for lawful requests and official purposes.
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Bill Summary: Prohibits the public disclosure of legislators' personal contact information in a voter's affidavit of registration, nomination papers, and electronic database for campaign committees.
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• Introduced: 01/24/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Glenn Wakai (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Brandon Elefante (D)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Les Ihara (D), Angus McKelvey (D), Tim Richards (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/23/2026
• Last Action: The committee on JDC deferred the measure.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3677 • Last Action 02/24/2026
Prohibits disclosure of body worn camera recordings under certain circumstances.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to prevent the exploitation of individuals, particularly young women, who appear in body-worn camera recordings obtained through the state's open public records law, which allows public access to government documents. Specifically, it prohibits anyone who obtains a body-worn camera recording through this law, and who is not personally involved in the recording (meaning they are not a suspect, victim, detainee, or similarly situated person captured on camera, excluding those who appear incidentally), from disclosing that recording without the written consent of everyone featured in it, unless the disclosure serves a legitimate public health or safety purpose or a compelling public interest. Violating this rule is considered a disorderly persons offense, a minor criminal offense, and the offender can also face civil lawsuits from those recorded. In such civil cases, courts can award actual damages (at least $1,000 per violation), punitive damages for willful misconduct, attorney fees, and other appropriate legal remedies. A body-worn camera is defined as a mobile audio and video recording device worn by a law enforcement officer.
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Bill Summary: This bill prohibits the disclosure of body worn camera recordings obtained pursuant to the State's open public records law under certain circumstances. It has come to the sponsor's attention that bad actors have been taking advantage of the State's open public records law in order to exploit on social media young women who have been recorded on body worn cameras during law enforcement encounters. It is the sponsor's intent to prevent such exploitation without limiting legitimate access to public records by the press or others. Under the provisions of this bill, a person who has obtained a body worn camera recording pursuant to the open public records act and who is not a subject of the body worn camera recording is prohibited from disclosing the recording without the prior written consent of each subject of the body worn camera recording, unless the disclosure is for a legitimate public health or safety purpose or a compelling public interest. A person who knowingly violates this provision is guilty of a disorderly persons offense. In addition to any other right of action or recovery available under the laws of this State, a person who knowingly violates this provision is also liable to a subject of the body worn camera recording, who may bring an action in Superior Court. The court may award: 1) actual damages, but not less than liquidated damages computed at the rate of $1,000 for each violation; 2) punitive damages upon proof of willful or reckless disregard of the law; 3) reasonable attorney's fees and other litigation costs reasonably incurred; and 4) any other preliminary and equitable relief as the court determines to be appropriate. Under the bill, "body worn camera" is defined as a mobile audio and video recording system worn by a law enforcement officer. The bill defines "subject of the body worn camera recording" as a suspect, victim, detainee, conversant, injured party, or other similarly situated person who appears on the body worn camera recording and does not include a person who only incidentally appears on the recording.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 02/26/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Tony Bucco (R)*, Brian Stack (D)*, Kristin Corrado (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/25/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF389 • Last Action 02/24/2026
Minnesota Historical Society meetings required to be open to the public and the Minnesota Historical Society's data required to be public data as to state-owned properties.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that meetings of the Minnesota Historical Society's executive council involving discussions about state-owned historic sites, historic places, or National Register of Historic Places sites must be open to the public under Minnesota's open meeting laws (chapter 13D). Additionally, the bill mandates that all data maintained by the Minnesota Historical Society related to these state-owned historic properties must be classified as public data, which means the information can be accessed and reviewed by the general public. The bill introduces these transparency requirements by adding a new section to Minnesota Statutes, chapter 138, specifically addressing how the Minnesota Historical Society handles information and conducts meetings about state-owned historic properties. This legislation aims to increase public access to information about historically significant state-owned sites and ensure that discussions about these properties are conducted with transparency.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to state government; requiring meetings of the Minnesota Historical Society to be open to the public and the Minnesota Historical Society's data to be public data as to state-owned properties; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 138.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Peggy Scott (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/11/2025
• Last Action: House State Government Finance and Policy (08:15:00 2/24/2026 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #S1225 • Last Action 02/23/2026
Amends existing law to establish provisions regarding public university president searches and to revise provisions regarding certain records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new procedures for selecting presidents at Idaho's public universities and revises rules about what records are kept private. Specifically, it mandates that when the Idaho State Board of Education searches for a new university president, they must conduct a thorough public search with regular updates and form a search committee composed of board members, university employees, alumni, foundation members, and community representatives. This committee will protect candidate confidentiality and make recommendations in private sessions, but the name of the final candidate must be released to the public at least ten business days before a hiring decision is made, which must occur in an open meeting. Additionally, the bill amends existing law to state that only the *sole finalist* for a position, rather than the top five finalists, will have their name publicly disclosed, aligning with the new presidential search process. The bill also declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO EDUCATION; AMENDING CHAPTER 37, TITLE 33, IDAHO CODE, BY THE AD- DITION OF A NEW SECTION 33-3734, IDAHO CODE, TO ESTABLISH PROVISIONS RE- GARDING PRESIDENT SEARCHES FOR STATE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION; AMENDING SECTION 74-106, IDAHO CODE, TO REVISE PROVISIONS REGARDING CERTAIN RECORDS EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education Committee
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 35
• Last Amended: 01/28/2026
• Last Action: Session Law Chapter 3 Effective: 02/23/2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF1567 • Last Action 02/23/2026
Personal information protections provided to public safety officers.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective August 1, 2026, aims to protect the personal information of public safety officers, which includes peace officers and correctional officers, by making their personal details, such as home addresses, non-employer-issued phone numbers and emails, and information about their children, classified as private data. This means government entities must keep this information confidential, with exceptions for certain publicly available records like property deeds and tax liens. The bill also amends existing law to prohibit the knowing public dissemination of such personal information if it poses an imminent threat to the officer or their family, with penalties escalating for more severe violations, and allows public safety officers to request the removal of their personal information from the internet, with legal recourse available if the information is not removed within 30 days.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government data practices; providing personal information protections to public safety officers; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.5151; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 13; 626.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 9 : Bidal Duran (R)*, Paul Novotny (R), Terry Stier (R), Elliott Engen (R), Jim Joy (R), Matt Bliss (R), Walter Hudson (R), Josh Heintzeman (R), Krista Knudsen (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/23/2026
• Last Action: Second reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CT bill #SB00224 • Last Action 02/23/2026
An Act Exempting Ballots Cast At Elections, Primaries And Referenda From Disclosure Under The Freedom Of Information Act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective July 1, 2026, amends existing law to exempt ballots cast in elections, primaries, and referenda from being disclosed under the Freedom of Information Act, which is a law that generally gives the public the right to access government records. This means that once a ballot has been submitted, it cannot be requested and viewed by the public. The bill clarifies that this exemption does not prevent officials from conducting recanvasses or audits, which are processes to re-examine or verify election results. The bill also updates the definition of "referendum" to include questions or proposals submitted to voters through various municipal mechanisms, including those governed by home rule ordinances or special acts.
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Bill Summary: To exempt ballots cast at elections, primaries and referenda from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 02/18/2026
• Session: 2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Government Administration and Elections Committee, Josh Elliott (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/17/2026
• Last Action: Government Administration and Elections Public Hearing (00:00:00 2/23/2026 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0748 • Last Action 02/23/2026
Amends existing law to provide for the filing of a complaint by a person aggrieved and to revise provisions regarding denial of a request for disclosure.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Idaho's Public Records Act to create a new, expedited process for individuals who believe their request for public records has been improperly denied or that the charges for disclosure are unfair. Under this new process, an aggrieved person can file a complaint in magistrate court within 90 days of the agency's response, providing the original request, the agency's response, and all related communications, along with the legal basis for their challenge, and paying a $100 filing fee. The agency then has 14 days to respond, and the judge must issue a decision within 14 days of receiving the agency's response, with no discovery or witnesses allowed for this initial complaint. The bill also revises existing provisions for appealing denial of disclosure requests, including a shorter timeframe for appeals related to trade secret claims made to the Department of Environmental Quality, and clarifies a code reference within the existing law. Finally, the bill declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO THE PUBLIC RECORDS ACT; AMENDING SECTION 74-115, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE FILING OF A COMPLAINT BY A PERSON AGGRIEVED AND TO RE- VISE PROVISIONS REGARDING DENIAL OF A REQUEST FOR DISCLOSURE; AMENDING SECTION 74-114, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE A CORRECT CODE REFERENCE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Ways and Means Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Reported Printed and Referred to Local Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB2184 • Last Action 02/20/2026
Relating To Lawmaker Safety.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Protecting Legislators' Safety Act, aims to enhance the safety of state lawmakers by limiting the public disclosure of their personal contact information. Specifically, it amends existing laws to ensure that legislators' residence addresses and telephone numbers are kept confidential in voter registration affidavits, nomination papers, and electronic databases for campaign committees, without requiring them to prove a life-threatening circumstance. While this information will still be collected and used by election officials for administrative and verification purposes, it will be redacted from any nomination papers made available to the general public online. The bill also clarifies that this confidentiality does not prevent disclosure when legally required for election challenges or to determine a legislator's qualifications.
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Bill Summary: Prohibits the public disclosure of legislators' personal contact information in a voter's affidavit of registration, nomination papers, and electronic database for campaign committees. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
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• Introduced: 01/26/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 19 : Trish La Chica (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*, Greggor Ilagan (D)*, Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Susan Keohokapu-Lee Loy (D)*, Darius Kila (D)*, Matthias Kusch (D)*, Nicole Lowen (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Scot Matayoshi (D)*, Dee Morikawa (D)*, Ikaika Olds (D)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Jenna Takenouchi (D)*, David Tarnas (D)*, Shirley Ann Templo (D)*, Justin Woodson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Quinlan excused (1).
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB3015 • Last Action 02/20/2026
Relating To Personal Information.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits government entities from making personal information, which includes names combined with sensitive data like social security numbers, driver's license numbers, medical information, or financial account details, publicly accessible through systems like websites or searchable databases, unless a specific law requires it. Individuals who believe their personal information is improperly public can notify the government entity, which then has a limited time to correct the issue by removing or obscuring the data. If a government entity intentionally fails to comply, individuals can sue to force compliance and may be awarded damages and legal fees. The bill also mandates that government entities implement policies and security measures to protect personal information, notify individuals of data breaches, and submit annual reports to the Legislature on their compliance, with these provisions taking effect on January 1, 2525.
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Bill Summary: Prohibits government entities from making personal information publicly accessible through a publicly accessible information system or publicly accessible source of information, except under certain conditions. Allows individuals who reasonably believe their personal information is publicly accessible through a government entity's publicly accessible information system or publicly accessible source of information to submit a written notice to the entity to require corrective action. Establishes a cause of action to compel compliance. Establishes statutory penalties for intentional noncompliance. Requires government entities to adopt and implement policies and procedures to prevent personal information from being publicly accessible. Requires government entities that own, license, maintain, use, collect, or possess personal information to implement and maintain certain reasonable security procedures and practices to protect the personal information. Requires government entities to provide notice to individuals in the case of a breach of a security system protecting personal information. Requires government entities to submit an annual report to the Legislature. Effective 1/1/2525. (SD1)
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• Introduced: 01/24/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Chris Lee (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Rachele Fernandez Lamosao (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Sharon Moriwaki (D)*, Tim Richards (D)*, Joy San Buenaventura (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to JDC.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB633 • Last Action 02/20/2026
AN ACT relating to data privacy.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Kentucky Kid's Code, amends existing Kentucky law to establish new data privacy protections specifically for minors. It defines various terms related to online services and data, such as "algorithmic feed" (how online services present content based on user data), "dark pattern" (deceptive user interface designs), and "covered online service" (businesses operating online that handle significant amounts of consumer data). The core provisions require covered online services to set all default privacy settings for minors to the highest level of privacy, provide tools for minors and their parents to control data usage, limit targeted advertising for certain products to minors, and restrict the use of notifications and push alerts during specific hours. The bill also introduces new sections to KRS Chapter 367, creating the Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act, and mandates that online services offer minors tools to manage their online experience, including opting out of personalized recommendations, controlling in-game purchases, and limiting screen time, while also requiring parents to have oversight over their child's account settings and online activity.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 367.3611 to define "actual knowledge," "algorithmic feed," "algorithmic recommendation system," "covered design feature," "covered minor," "covered online service," "dark pattern," "knows to be a child," "knows to be a minor," "minor," "online service," "parent," "personalized recommendation system," "publicly available information," and "user"; create a new section of KRS 367.3611 to 367.3629, the Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act, to require a covered online service to configure all default privacy settings provided to a covered minor through its online service, product, or feature to the highest level of privacy; provide a covered minor and his or her parents with certain default settings and tools to protect the minor from profiling, targeted advertising for prohibited products, or the use of dark patterns to impair a covered minor's choice; prohibit the use of notifications and push alerts to a covered minor between certain days and times; amend KRS 367.3613 to conform; provide that Section 2 of the Act may be cited as the Kentucky Kid's Code.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Vanessa Grossl (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/13/2026
• Last Action: to Small Business & Information Technology (H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB1935 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Relating To Personal Information.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires government agencies to protect the home addresses of "covered public servants" (which now broadly includes state and county employees, elected officials, judicial officers, and certain federal judges residing in or formerly serving in Hawaii) and candidates for public office by ensuring these addresses are not publicly accessible and are removed from websites, databases, and public documents. While the bill aims to enhance safety by preventing easy access to personal information that could be used for harassment or violence, it also establishes a process for individuals to request disclosure of a home address under specific circumstances, provided the agency first notifies the public servant or candidate and shares the requester's contact information. The public servant or candidate then has a defined period to object to the disclosure if they believe it would put them, a household member, or their property in imminent danger.
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Bill Summary: Requires every government agency that maintains, uses, collects or processes the home address of a covered public servant or candidate, to ensure that their home address is not publicly accessible. Requires every government agency to redact or otherwise remove home addresses from certain websites, databases, and printed documents or publications. Authorizes an individual to request disclosure of the home address, under certain circumstances. Allows a covered public servant or candidate to object to the disclosure of their home address.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Adrian Tam (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Greggor Ilagan (D)*, Susan Keohokapu-Lee Loy (D)*, Darius Kila (D)*, Matthias Kusch (D)*, Michael Lee (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Scot Matayoshi (D)*, Julie Reyes Oda (R)*, Kanani Souza (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/23/2026
• Last Action: The committee(s) on LAB recommend(s) that the measure be deferred.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4083 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal information concerning court administrators and deputy court administrators.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," a law designed to protect the personal information of public servants, to include municipal court administrators and their immediate family members. The law, which currently prohibits the disclosure of home addresses and unlisted phone numbers for certain judicial officers, law enforcement, and child protective investigators, will now also protect this information for municipal court administrators. This means that government entities and private parties will be prohibited from publishing or otherwise making available the personal information of these individuals, with penalties including criminal prosecution and civil action for violations. The bill defines a municipal court administrator as someone employed by a county or municipality in that role, including acting or deputy administrators.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," P.L.2020, c.125 (C.56:8-166.2 et al.), to prohibit the disclosure of personal information of municipal court administrators. The bill defines a municipal court administrator as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes an employee designated as an acting or deputy administrator in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. Currently, Daniel's Law: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home address of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, or child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families; (2) prohibits disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers, child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors; and (3) permits criminal prosecution and statutory civil action concerning prohibited disclosures. The bill expands the scope of Daniel's Law to also include municipal court administrators and deputy administrators.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Annette Quijano (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #SB215 • Last Action 02/19/2026
AN ACT relating to school districts.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to how Kentucky school districts are managed and governed, including ensuring that school curriculum, textbooks, and digital learning materials are subject to the Open Records Act, which allows the public to access government records, and that residents' rights to "fair use" of these materials are protected. It also modifies the process for appointing and removing school superintendents, requiring those with compensation exceeding the state's education commissioner to be confirmed by the Senate, lowering the vote threshold for removal from four-fifths to a majority of the local board, and removing the need for state commissioner approval for removal while adding an appeal process for the superintendent. Additionally, the bill establishes one-year terms for the chair and vice-chair of local school boards, mandates that superintendents report on closed personnel investigations to the board for oversight, and makes candidates ineligible for school board membership if they represent district employees in disputes against the district. It also requires school board members to undergo training on the Open Records and Open Meetings Acts, allows for the hiring of relatives of board members, and prohibits individuals convicted of certain crimes from being employed by a superintendent, while also requiring superintendents to report on past closed personnel investigations to the board.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 160.290 to ensure public school curriculum, textbooks, and instructional materials, including digital learning materials, remain subject to the Open Records Act and that districts protect a resident's fair use rights; amend KRS 160.350 to require a superintendent with total annual compensation greater than the commissioner of education to be subject to confirmation by the Senate; require a majority vote instead of a four-fifths vote of local board of education members to remove a superintendent; delete requirements for approval from the commissioner of education to remove a superintendent; provide an appeal process for the superintendent; amend KRS 160.160 to establish a 1 year term for chair and vice chair of a local board of education; require superintendents to submit reports on closed personnel investigations to the local board of education for the purposes of policy oversight and evaluation of the superintendent's performance; amend KRS 160.180 to make ineligible a candidate for membership on a board of education who engages or serves as an officer or director of an organization that represents district employees in employment or legal matters against the district; require Open Records Act and Open Meetings Act training for local board of education members; make conforming changes; permit the hiring of relatives of a local board of education member; amend KRS 160.380 to prohibit a person convicted of certain specified crimes from being employed by a superintendent; require superintendents to submit reports on previous personnel investigations closed during the superintendent's contract to the local board of education within 30 days of the effective date of this Act.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 02/20/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Lindsey Tichenor (R)*, Gary Boswell (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: to Committee on Committees (S)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4110 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Requires municipalities and boards of education record public meetings and post recordings on Internet.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act" to require all municipalities and boards of education to video record their public meetings, including any emergency meetings. These video recordings must then be posted on the official Internet site of the respective municipality or board of education. The bill also specifies that these video recordings will be considered part of the official meeting minutes and will be made available to the public in the same manner as other minutes, accessible online. Importantly, any portions of the recordings that correspond to minutes that are legally accessible to the public will be released and posted online at the same time the minutes themselves can be legally released, ensuring greater transparency in local government proceedings.
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Bill Summary: This bill revises the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act" to require municipalities and boards of education to video record each meeting and to post the recordings on their Internet sites. The bill also provides that the minutes of a meeting of a municipality or board of education will include the video recording of the meeting. Portions of the recordings that correspond to the minutes that are accessible to the public shall be released to the public at the time the meeting minutes, or portions thereof, may legally be released to the public, and posted on the official Internet site of the municipality or board of education.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/22/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Carol Murphy (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4436 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" protections; requires Office of Information Privacy to establish portal for prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities and establishes penalties for failure to comply.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," which protects the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials, to include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. It also mandates the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) to create a secure online portal where private entities, referred to as "covered entities," must register and comply with procedures to prevent the disclosure of personal information of these protected individuals, known as "covered persons." Covered entities will be required to access this portal regularly to check for approved requests to withhold personal information and must certify their compliance. Failure to adhere to these requirements will result in civil penalties, with a notice and opportunity to correct violations before enforcement actions are taken, and individuals harmed by non-compliance can pursue civil action. The bill also defines new terms like "covered entity" and "covered information" and introduces penalties for private entities that fail to comply with the established procedures.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands protections provided under "Daniel's Law," which shields the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials and employees, to include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. The bill also requires the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) in the Department of Community Affairs to establish a secure portal for the purpose of prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities. In addition, the bill establishes civil penalties for a private entity's failure to comply with the procedures and requirements established under the bill. Covered Persons Under Daniel's Law New Jersey's "Daniel's Law," P.L.2021, c.371, was enacted to prevent harm by limiting public access to personal information of certain public officials who request protection under the law. Currently, the protections are afforded to active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators, and immediate family members residing in the same household as these individuals. This bill would extend those protections to members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. Expanded Definitions The bill expands the meaning of certain terms under Daniel's law and establishes and defines several new terms. The new definitions include "covered entity," "covered information," "hashed," "hashed data," "hashed query," "hashing data," "hashed registry," "member of the Legislature," and "municipal court administrator." "Covered entity" is defined under the bill to mean a person, business, or association that discloses or re-discloses on the Internet the covered information of a covered person. "Covered information" means the home address or home telephone number of a covered person. "Municipal court administrator" is defined as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes a deputy administrator and acting administrator designated as such in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. "Hashed" means the type of value produced by hashing data. "Hashed data" means data that has been hashed. Hashed data also may be referred to as "hash values," "hash codes," or "hashes." "Hashing data" means to input data into a cryptographic, one-way, collision-resistant formula or function that maps a bit string of arbitrary length to a fixed-length bit string to produce a cryptographically secure value. "Hashed query" means a query submitted to a hashed registry. "Hashed registry" means a table or index of hashed data. Under the bill, the definition of "authorized person" is expanded to include, with the covered person's written consent, (1) the covered person's employer; (2) any union, benevolent association, or other labor association in which the covered person is a member or to which the covered person pays dues; (3) or a person designated, in writing, by the covered person to serve as the covered person's agent. Establishment of New Secure Portal Binding on Private Actors Daniel's Law established the OIP, and required the director of the OIP to establish a secure portal for these public servants to apply for redaction protections. This bill requires the director of OIP to establish a separate secure portal for prohibiting the disclosure of personal information by private, covered entities. Specifically, the bill requires the director of OIP to establish:· a process for verifying and authenticating a request submitted by an authorized person for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings, as provided under current law;· a standard form through which an authorized person may submit or revoke a request for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings. The form is must:o require an authorized person to submit the covered information;o allow an authorized person to submit or revoke request for the redaction or nondisclosure of the covered information of a single person, or multiple persons on a single form;· reasonable security procedures and practices necessary to protect the information contained in the secure portal from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, destruction, or modification. The director is required to annually evaluate the security procedures and practices, and revise them as the director deems appropriate; and· an initial fee and, thereafter, an annual fee, for a covered entity to access the portal; · and implement procedures for maintaining on the portal independent, searchable registries of each type of covered information; and· a process for a covered entity to certify to the director each date that the covered entity has accessed the registry; the covered information for each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request; and each request to protect the covered information for a covered person that was approved by the director and received by the covered entity, but was unable to be processed by the covered entity and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. Required Certifications and Penalties The bill requires a covered entity to access the secure portal at least once during each 45-day period to determine whether a request to prevent disclosure of a covered person's covered information has been approved by the director. The bill further requires a covered entity to certify to the director not less than once during each 45-day period:· each date that the covered entity accessed the secure portal;· each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request approved by the director; and· each request on behalf of a covered person that was received by a covered entity and approved by the director, but that the covered entity was unable to process and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a covered entity that fails to access the secure portal as required under the bill is be subject to a civil penalty in the amount of $200 for each 45-day period that the entity fails to access the portal. Prior to initiating an enforcement action, the Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs is required to issue a notice to the covered entity of the violation, and provide the covered entity an opportunity to cure the violation within 30 days of the notice. If the covered entity fails to cure the violation within the 30-day period, the commissioner shall initiate an enforcement action. The bill further provides that a covered entity that fails to comply with the requirements established under the bill will be liable to a covered person who is aggrieved by the entity's failure to comply. The covered person may bring a civil action in the Superior Court related to the violation.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Lou Greenwald (D)*, Rosaura Bagolie (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3605 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" protections; requires Office of Information Privacy to establish portal for prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities and establishes penalties for failure to comply.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," which protects the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials and employees, to now include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. It also mandates the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) to create a secure online portal where private entities, referred to as "covered entities," must register and comply with procedures to prevent the disclosure of "covered information" (home addresses and home telephone numbers) of "covered persons." These covered entities will be required to access the portal regularly to check for approved requests to withhold personal information and must certify their compliance. Failure to adhere to these requirements will result in civil penalties, with a $200 fine for each 45-day period a covered entity fails to access the portal, and the possibility of civil action by an aggrieved individual. The bill also defines new terms like "covered entity" and "covered information" and outlines the responsibilities of the OIP director in establishing and maintaining the portal, including setting fees for covered entities to access it and implementing security measures.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill expands protections provided under "Daniel's Law," which shields the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials and employees, to include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. The bill also requires the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) in the Department of Community Affairs to establish a secure portal for the purpose of prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities. In addition, the bill establishes civil penalties for a private entity's failure to comply with the procedures and requirements established under the bill. Covered Persons Under Daniel's Law New Jersey's "Daniel's Law," P.L.2021, c.371, was enacted to prevent harm by limiting public access to personal information of certain public officials who request protection under the law. Currently, the protections are afforded to active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators, and immediate family members residing in the same household as these individuals. This bill would extend those protections to members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. Expanded Definitions The bill expands the meaning of certain terms under Daniel's law and establishes and defines several new terms. The new definitions include "covered entity," "covered information," "hashed," "hashed data," "hashed query," "hashing data," "hashed registry," "member of the Legislature," and "municipal court administrator." "Covered entity" is defined under the bill to mean a person, business, or association that discloses or re-discloses on the Internet the covered information of a covered person. "Covered information" means the home address or home telephone number of a covered person. "Municipal court administrator" is defined as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes a deputy administrator and acting administrator designated as such in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. "Hashed" means the type of value produced by hashing data. "Hashed data" means data that has been hashed. Hashed data also may be referred to as "hash values," "hash codes," or "hashes." "Hashing data" means to input data into a cryptographic, one-way, collision-resistant formula or function that maps a bit string of arbitrary length to a fixed-length bit string to produce a cryptographically secure value. "Hashed query" means a query submitted to a hashed registry. "Hashed registry" means a table or index of hashed data. Under the bill, the definition of "authorized person" is expanded to include, with the covered person's written consent, (1) the covered person's employer; (2) any union, benevolent association, or other labor association in which the covered person is a member or to which the covered person pays dues; (3) or a person designated, in writing, by the covered person to serve as the covered person's agent. Establishment of New Secure Portal Binding on Private Actors Daniel's Law established the OIP, and required the director of the OIP to establish a secure portal for these public servants to apply for redaction protections. This bill requires the director of OIP to establish a separate secure portal for prohibiting the disclosure of personal information by private, covered entities. Specifically, the bill requires the director of OIP to establish:· a process for verifying and authenticating a request submitted by an authorized person for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings, as provided under current law;· a standard form through which an authorized person may submit or revoke a request for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings. The form is must:o require an authorized person to submit the covered information;o allow an authorized person to submit or revoke request for the redaction or nondisclosure of the covered information of a single person, or multiple persons on a single form;· reasonable security procedures and practices necessary to protect the information contained in the secure portal from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, destruction, or modification. The director is required to annually evaluate the security procedures and practices, and revise them as the director deems appropriate; and· an initial fee and, thereafter, an annual fee, for a covered entity to access the portal; · and implement procedures for maintaining on the portal independent, searchable registries of each type of covered information; and· a process for a covered entity to certify to the director each date that the covered entity has accessed the registry; the covered information for each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request; and each request to protect the covered information for a covered person that was approved by the director and received by the covered entity, but was unable to be processed by the covered entity and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. Required Certifications and Penalties The bill requires a covered entity to access the secure portal at least once during each 45-day period to determine whether a request to prevent disclosure of a covered person's covered information has been approved by the director. The bill further requires a covered entity to certify to the director not less than once during each 45-day period:· each date that the covered entity accessed the secure portal;· each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request approved by the director; and· each request on behalf of a covered person that was received by a covered entity and approved by the director, but that the covered entity was unable to process and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a covered entity that fails to access the secure portal as required under the bill is be subject to a civil penalty in the amount of $200 for each 45-day period that the entity fails to access the portal. Prior to initiating an enforcement action, the Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs is required to issue a notice to the covered entity of the violation, and provide the covered entity an opportunity to cure the violation within 30 days of the notice. If the covered entity fails to cure the violation within the 30-day period, the commissioner shall initiate an enforcement action. The bill further provides that a covered entity that fails to comply with the requirements established under the bill will be liable to a covered person who is aggrieved by the entity's failure to comply. The covered person may bring a civil action in the Superior Court related to the violation.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Gordon Johnson (D)*, Patrick Diegnan (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H5131 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Empowering municipalities and local governments
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to empower municipalities and local governments by making several changes to existing laws. Key provisions include defining "remote participation" to allow for virtual attendance at public meetings, clarifying the term "select board" to include city mayors, and establishing a "Double Pole Municipal Fund" to support municipalities in utility pole replacement projects. The bill also updates procurement thresholds for governmental bodies, allows for more flexible use of grant funds by municipalities, and requires cities and towns to report cybersecurity incidents. Additionally, it introduces new rules for remote participation in town meetings, allows for the combination of town treasurer and tax collector positions, and enables the formation of regional boards of assessors. The bill also modifies regulations regarding the financing of municipal projects, the management of regional school district funds, and the use of fentanyl test strips, while also adjusting rules for unemployment benefits and alcoholic beverage sales hours.
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Bill Summary: Empowering municipalities and local governments
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 02/20/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3531 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Prohibits disclosure of certain information of probation officers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections under "Daniel's Law" to include probation officers and their immediate family members, meaning their personal identifying information, such as home addresses, will be prohibited from public disclosure. "Daniel's Law" already protects judicial officers, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers, and their families, by preventing governmental entities and private parties from releasing their home addresses and other sensitive personal information. This bill defines a "probation officer" broadly to encompass various roles involved in supervising individuals convicted or charged with crimes, and it extends these privacy protections to currently active, formerly active, and retired probation officers, as well as their spouses, children, and parents residing in the same household. The bill also clarifies that these protections apply to information that could lead to harassment or risk of harm, and it allows for civil action and damages in cases of prohibited disclosure.
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Bill Summary: This bill would prohibit the disclosure of various personal identifying information about currently active, formerly active or retired probation officers and their immediate family members (including spouses, children, and parents residing in the same household). Currently, various public officials who provide services in the criminal and civil justice system for this State, the federal government, and other governmental entities, as well as their immediate family members, are afforded protections under "Daniel's Law," P.L.2020, c.125 (C.56:8-166.2 et al.), which: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home addresses of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officer, prosecutor, or law enforcement officer, and their immediate family members; (2) expanded an existing crime, section 1 of P.L.2015, c.226 (C.2C:20-31.1), concerning the unlawful disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers so that the information on formerly active law enforcement officers, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors, and their immediate family members is also covered; and (3) permits civil actions, under section 3 of P.L.2015, c.226 (C.56:8-166.1), concerning any prohibited disclosure, which could result in an award of damages, including punitive damages, attorney's fees and costs, and equitable relief. This bill would further expand the scope of "Daniel's Law" to protect the above described personal identifying information about currently active, former active, and retired probation officers and their immediate family members. A "probation officer" is defined in the bill as "a person whose public duties include the supervision of persons convicted or charged with crimes and offenses in this State, as defined by law or contract between the Judiciary and the Probation Association of New Jersey or its successor and shall include, but not be limited to those employees who are in the following titles referred to in those contracts: Probation Officer, Senior Probation Officer, Master Probation Officer, Substance Abuse Evaluator, Family Court Coordinator, Assistant Child Placement Review Coordinator, or Bilingual Community Outreach Worker. The term also shall include all titles covered by Appendix A of the Professional Supervisory Union Agreement between Judiciary and the Probation Association of New Jersey, including but not limited to the informal title of Team Leader, Court Service Supervisor 1, Court Service Supervisor 2, and Court Service Supervisor 3."
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/12/2026
• Added: 02/21/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Linda Greenstein (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/20/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3551 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Portable recording system data on certain elected official public made.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Minnesota law to make certain data collected by portable recording systems, such as body cameras, public under specific circumstances. Previously, this data was generally considered private or nonpublic, with exceptions for incidents involving the discharge of a firearm or use of force resulting in substantial bodily harm, or if the subject of the data requested its release. The key change introduced by this bill is that portable recording system data on an elected official who is charged with a felony will become public data 14 days after a criminal complaint is filed against them. This provision aims to increase transparency regarding elected officials facing serious criminal charges. The bill also makes technical adjustments to existing language regarding redaction and court challenges to data disclosure.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; making portable recording system data on certain elected officials public; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.825, subdivision 2.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Terry Stier (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/19/2026
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Judiciary Finance and Civil Law
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2661 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Establishing the legislative task force on public records act modernization consisting of eight voting members and four nonvoting legislators.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a legislative task force to modernize the state's public records act, which is a law ensuring public access to government information. The task force will examine how frivolous, retaliatory, or harassing public records requests, particularly those impacting school districts, can be deterred while maintaining transparency and broad public access. The joint legislative audit and review committee will lead this examination, potentially forming a work group with representatives from various government and media organizations, and will report its findings and recommendations by October 1, 2027, after which this section of the bill will expire.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to establishing the legislative task force on 2 public records act modernization consisting of eight voting members 3 and four nonvoting legislators; creating new sections; and providing 4 an expiration date. 5
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Skyler Rude (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2026
• Last Action: House Rules "X" file.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB2063 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Legislative information system: bill position letters.
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Legislative Counsel, starting with bills introduced in the 2027-28 Regular Session, to make all letters submitted through the Legislature's internet portal regarding each bill publicly available in electronic form, in addition to existing requirements to provide access to bill text, history, status, and analyses. The intent is to ensure that these letters do not contain confidential information or infringe on individual privacy. This change aims to increase transparency by making more information about the legislative process accessible to the public through the state's legislative information system.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 10248 of the Government Code, relating to the Legislature.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Greg Wallis (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/18/2026
• Last Action: From printer. May be heard in committee March 21.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NM bill #HJM2 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Ipra Implementation Study Task Force
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This Joint Memorial directs the Attorney General to establish a task force to examine how the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) is being put into practice. IPRA is a law that gives the public the right to access government records, promoting transparency and accountability. The task force will consult with various groups and individuals, including representatives from government agencies, legal professionals, and organizations focused on open government, to assess IPRA's effectiveness and identify any necessary improvements. If the task force determines that changes are needed, it will propose new legislation for the legislature to consider during its upcoming session. The task force is also required to hold public meetings and allow public input throughout its study.
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Bill Summary: A JOINT MEMORIAL REQUESTING THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO CONVENE A TASK FORCE TO STUDY THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INSPECTION OF PUBLIC RECORDS ACT AND FOR THAT TASK FORCE TO GATHER INPUT FROM RELEVANT STAKEHOLDERS TO DETERMINE WHETHER LEGISLATIVE CHANGES ARE NECESSARY AND, IF SO, TO PROPOSE SUCH LEGISLATION FOR CONSIDERATION DURING THE FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-EIGHTH LEGISLATURE.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Cathrynn Brown (R)*, Natalie Figueroa (D)*, Matthew McQueen (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Signed by one or both houses (for legislation not requiring Governor's signature)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2176 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Exempting information in collaborative drug therapy agreements from disclosure under the public records act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the state's public records act to add a new exemption for collaborative drug therapy agreements (CDTAs), which are legal documents that outline how pharmacists can work with other healthcare providers to manage patient medications. Specifically, the bill makes CDTAs and their attachments confidential and not subject to public disclosure, with one key exception: if a CDTA becomes the basis for a disciplinary action against a licensed healthcare professional, it can be disclosed. However, even in such cases, any personally identifiable information about individuals other than the disciplined professional must remain confidential. The bill defines personally identifiable information as including names, mailing addresses, credential numbers, email addresses, and practice site facility addresses and phone numbers. This exemption is designed to protect the privacy of healthcare providers and patients involved in collaborative medication management while still allowing transparency in cases of professional misconduct. The provision falls under the broader category of health care information exemptions in the state's public records law and is governed by rules established by the pharmacy quality assurance commission.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to exempting information in collaborative drug 2 therapy agreements from disclosure under the public records act; and 3 amending RCW 42.56.360. 4
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• Introduced: 12/19/2025
• Added: 12/20/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : My-Linh Thai (D)*, Lisa Parshley (D), Cindy Ryu (D), Julia Reed (D), Janice Zahn (D), Mia Gregerson (D), Kristine Reeves (D), Mary Fosse (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 12/19/2025
• Last Action: House Rules "X" file.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2152 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation; modifying certain season dates. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Oklahoma law concerning wildlife conservation, specifically by updating the authority of the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission regarding open hunting seasons. The key change is that any open season declared for black bears must now include a muzzleloader period and an archery period that begins no earlier than September 1st of each year. The bill also makes a minor technical correction by replacing the pronoun "they" with "the Commission" in a section detailing how the Commission can adjust hunting seasons and limits based on wildlife populations and their impact on agriculture. Finally, the bill declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission; amending 29 O.S. 2021, Section 5-401, which relates to authority to declare open seasons on wildlife; requiring certain periods to begin after certain date; conforming statutory reference; updating statutory language; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Spencer Kern (R)*, Scott Fetgatter (R)*, Casey Murdock (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/17/2026
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Fetgatter (principal House author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1587 • Last Action 02/19/2026
Requiring police body-worn camera footage be subject to the right-to-know law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires police body-worn camera footage to be subject to the right-to-know law, which means these recordings will now be considered public records that can be requested by citizens. When such a request is made, public bodies or agencies must respond within 5 business days, either by providing the requested footage, explaining why it cannot be released, or stating the time needed to redact sensitive information. Before releasing any body-worn camera footage, agencies must carefully remove personal identifying information like social security numbers, addresses, and phone numbers, as well as imagery of minors, sexual assault victims, and private locations where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy. The bill allows agencies to charge actual costs for redacting and processing these requests, and it repeals a previous exemption that prevented body-worn camera footage from being disclosed. The legislation will take effect on January 1, 2027, and is expected to have fiscal impacts on state, county, and local agencies, potentially requiring additional staffing and technological resources to manage the new public disclosure requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires police body-worn camera footage be subject to the right-to-know law and requires a public body or agency to respond to requests for body camera footage within 5 business days.
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• Introduced: 12/09/2025
• Added: 12/10/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Matt Sabourin (R)*, Travis Corcoran (R), Henry Giasson (R), Michael Granger (R), Tim Mannion (R), Tom Mannion (R), Jeremy Slottje (R), Jim Spillane (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Refer for Interim Study: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 02/19/2026 House Journal 5 P. 9
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0625 • Last Action 02/18/2026
Amends existing law to provide for the filing of a complaint by a person aggrieved and to revise provisions regarding denial of a request for disclosure.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Idaho's Public Records Act to provide a new process for individuals who believe their request for public records has been improperly denied or that the charges for disclosure are unfair. Specifically, a person aggrieved by such a denial or charge can now file a complaint in magistrate court within ninety days of the agency's response, initiating a mandamus action, which is a court order compelling an action. This complaint must include the original request, the agency's response, all related communications, and the legal reason for contesting the denial, along with a $100 filing fee. The bill also revises existing provisions regarding appeals of disclosure denials, allowing for a judicial decision in an initial public records complaint to be a trigger for the appeal period, and it corrects a code reference in another section related to environmental records and trade secrets. The bill declares an emergency and sets an effective date of July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO THE PUBLIC RECORDS ACT; AMENDING SECTION 74-115, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE FILING OF A COMPLAINT BY A PERSON AGGRIEVED AND TO RE- VISE PROVISIONS REGARDING DENIAL OF A REQUEST FOR DISCLOSURE; AMENDING SECTION 74-114, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE A CORRECT CODE REFERENCE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 02/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: House Local Government Committee (13:30:00 2/18/2026 Room EW05)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB313 • Last Action 02/18/2026
Virginia FOIA; public records to be open to inspection, non-citizen property owners.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand the definition of who is entitled to access public records. Previously, only citizens of the Commonwealth, along with representatives of newspapers, magazines, and radio and television stations, could inspect public records. This bill adds "non-citizens owning property within the Commonwealth" to this list, meaning individuals who do not hold U.S. citizenship but own land in Virginia will now have the same rights to access public records as citizens under FOIA. The rest of the bill outlines the procedures for requesting and responding to public records requests, including timelines, charges for copies, and how to handle requests for electronic data, none of which are changed by this amendment.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; public records to be open to inspection; non-citizen property owners. Includes non-citizens owning property within the Commonwealth among the list of persons to whom all public records shall be open under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 01/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Howard Wachsmann (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Left in Committee General Laws
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #SB980 • Last Action 02/18/2026
Clarifying office of Prosecuting Attorney exemption from Freedom of Information Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends West Virginia's Freedom of Information Act to clarify that records and materials related to the detection and investigation of crime that are received and maintained by a prosecuting attorney are exempt from public disclosure. The Freedom of Information Act, often abbreviated as FOIA, is a law that grants the public the right to request access to records from any federal agency, and similar state laws exist to provide access to state and local government records. By adding this provision, the bill ensures that the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney is not considered a custodian of records for the purposes of FOIA requests concerning these specific investigative materials, thereby protecting the integrity of ongoing or potential criminal investigations.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to clarify that the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney is not a custodian of records and is exempt from the Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2026
• Added: 02/19/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Charles Clements (R)*, Mike Woelfel (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/18/2026
• Last Action: To Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB1068 • Last Action 02/18/2026
Higher educational institutions, livestreaming, etc., boards of visitors meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that all public universities in Virginia offering bachelor's degrees must livestream, record, and archive their Boards of Visitors meetings, which are governing bodies for each university. These livestreamed meetings must be accessible to the public in real-time, and recordings must be made available online within five business days, remain accessible for at least five years, and include closed captioning to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The bill clarifies that these requirements do not alter existing rules regarding closed sessions, which are typically for sensitive discussions. To help universities meet these new obligations, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia will develop guidelines covering technology and accessibility. Furthermore, each university's Board of Visitors will be required to report on its compliance with these new provisions in its annual executive summary. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: Baccalaureate public institutions of higher education; livestreaming, recording, and archiving of boards of visitors meetings; closed sessions; guidelines. Requires each baccalaureate public institution of higher education in the Commonwealth to (i) provide for the livestreaming of each meeting of its full board of visitors in a manner that is accessible to the public in real time and (ii) ensure that recordings of such meetings (a) are made, archived, and made available to the public within five business days following the conclusion of the meeting; (b) remain accessible on the institution's official website for no less than five years from the date of the meeting; and (c) include closed captioning for accessibility and are presented in a format compliant with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The bill requires the board of visitors of each such institution to include a report on the institution's compliance with the foregoing requirements in its statutorily required annual executive summary. The bill also requires the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia to develop and provide to each baccalaureate public institution of higher education guidelines to assist such institutions with complying with the foregoing requirements, including recommendations for technology standards and accessibility features. The bill has a delayed effective date of July 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : M. Keith Hodges (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Left in Education
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB709 • Last Action 02/18/2026
Virginia Freedom of Information Act; exclusions of general application to public bodies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to exempt certain personal contact information of public officials and employees from mandatory public disclosure. Specifically, it adds home addresses, personal email addresses, and home and personal phone numbers of any officer, official, or employee of a public body to the list of information that can be withheld from public view, while still allowing the individual to waive this protection and ensuring that the subject of the information can still access it. The Virginia Freedom of Information Act, often referred to as FOIA, is a state law that guarantees the public's right to access government records and attend government meetings.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; exclusions of general application to public bodies; personnel contact information. Exempts personnel information such as the home address, personal email address, and home and personal phone numbers of any officer, official, or employee of a public body from the mandatory disclosure provisions of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : C.E. Hayes (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Left in Committee General Laws
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2142 • Last Action 02/18/2026
FOIA-RESPONSE PERIODS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify response time frames for public records requests. Specifically, the bill extends the standard response period for public bodies from 5 to 15 business days, meaning government agencies now have 15 business days to either comply with or deny a public records request after receiving it. The bill also increases the potential extension period from 5 to 10 business days, allowing agencies more time to gather, review, and process complex requests. Reasons for extending the response time include storing records in multiple locations, requiring collection of a substantial number of records, needing extensive search efforts, consulting with other agencies, or requiring personnel to evaluate record exemptions. Additionally, the bill changes the response time for commercial requests from 21 to 30 business days. These changes aim to provide public bodies with more flexibility in handling public records requests while maintaining the fundamental transparency goals of FOIA. The modifications recognize that some records requests can be complex and may require more time to process thoroughly and appropriately.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that each public body shall, promptly, either comply with or deny a request for public records within 15 business days (rather than 5 business days) after its receipt of the request, unless extended for an additional 10 business days (rather than 5 business days) for specified reasons. Provides that commercial requests must be responded to within 30 business days (rather than 21 working days).
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*, Linda Holmes (D), Seth Lewis (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Added as Chief Co-Sponsor Sen. Linda Holmes
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2567 • Last Action 02/17/2026
A bill for an act creating the Iowa state archives and records authority, providing penalties, and making appropriations.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Iowa State Archives and Records Authority (Authority) to manage and preserve the state's historical records, replacing the previous State Records and Archives Act. The Authority will be overseen by the Iowa Archives and Heritage Board, composed of the State Archivist, public appointees, legislative members, and an academic historian or archival professional. The bill transfers responsibilities from the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) to the Authority, including oversight of research centers in Des Moines and Iowa City, which cannot be closed or reduced without legislative approval. It also mandates the creation of a digital memory library for electronic archiving and expands the definition of a "record" to include electronic mail of senior officials, policy documents, reports, and agency website content. Penalties are established for unauthorized relocation (simple misdemeanor) or destruction (serious misdemeanor) of state records, with provisions for civil action to prevent destruction. The bill also creates a fund for digital preservation efforts and appropriates funds for the construction of an Iowa Archives and Heritage Center.
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Bill Summary: This bill creates the Iowa state archives and records authority (authority) and vests the powers of the authority in the Iowa archives and heritage board, consisting of the state archivist, three members of the public appointed by the governor, two state representatives, two state senators, and one academic historian or archival professional appointed by the state board of regents. The bill repeals Code chapter 8A, subchapter VI, the state records and archives Act, adopts replacement provisions in new Code chapter 7I, and transfers the duties currently performed by the department of administrative services (DAS) under Code chapter 8A, subchapter VI, to the authority. The bill further provides that the state archivist shall be appointed by the secretary of state instead of by DAS. The bill transfers authority over the historical resource research centers in Des Moines and Iowa City from DAS to the authority and prohibits the authority from closing, relocating, selling, or materially reducing the operations of or public access to a research center without approval from the general assembly. The authority must also maintain a state archival facility, which shall house industrial and business archives, the Iowa digital memory library, and state records collections and related manuscripts. The bill requires the authority to establish a digital memory library for the purpose of digital archiving. The bill expands the definition of a record to include all electronic mail of a senior official, rulemaking and policy development documents, reports, and content posted on an agency’s internet site. The bill provides that a person who relocates a state record without authorization commits a simple misdemeanor and a person who destroys a state record without authorization commits a serious misdemeanor. Any person may bring a civil action for injunctive relief to prevent the unauthorized destruction of a public record. A simple misdemeanor is punishable by confinement for no more than 30 days and a fine of at least $105 but not more than $855. A serious misdemeanor is punishable by confinement for no more than one year and a fine of at least $430 but not more than $2,560. The bill creates a fund under the control of the authority for the purpose of hiring one full-time equivalent position to assist with the preservation of digital state records and the implementation of the Iowa digital memory library. The bill also appropriates moneys to the authority from the rebuild Iowa infrastructure fund for the construction of the Iowa archives and heritage center.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 02/18/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Charley Thomson (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/17/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, referred to Appropriations. H.J. 316.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5066 • Last Action 02/17/2026
Relating to prohibiting the release of addresses and names of employers of persons who make contributions to political elections
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect the privacy of individuals who contribute to political elections by prohibiting the public release of their home addresses, employer names, and major business affiliations. Currently, financial statements filed in relation to political contributions require this information, but this legislation seeks to prevent it from being made public, including through government websites or public records requests under the West Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The bill also introduces penalties for violations, stating that any contributor whose protected information is improperly disclosed can recover a civil penalty of $1,000 from the responsible agency, and any state or local officer or employee who knowingly discloses this information in violation of the law is guilty of a misdemeanor, facing fines or jail time.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to prohibit the release of addresses and names of employers of persons who make contributions to political elections and providing misdemeanor criminal penalty.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Daniel Linville (R)*, Josh Holstein (R), Jonathan Pinson (R), Mike Hornby (R), Jordan Maynor (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 02/03/2026
• Last Action: Standing Committee on the Judiciary Meeting (09:00:00 2/17/2026 House Judiciary Committee Room 410)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #SB965 • Last Action 02/17/2026
Providing protection of personal information of certain attorneys
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes "limited access to personal information for protected individuals," defining a protected individual as a current or retired district attorney, assistant district attorney, or district attorney investigator. It allows these protected individuals, or the judicial administrator's office acting on their behalf, to request that public bodies or third parties withhold their personal information from public disclosure, provided sufficient information is given to confirm their status as a protected individual. The bill also grants protected individuals or the judicial administrator's office the right to file a mandamus action, a type of court order, against any public body or third party that violates these provisions. However, it clarifies that individuals recognized as protected individuals are not exempt from the publication or removal of their personal information from records publicly posted by the office of the Secretary of State, and the bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill relates to the personal information of protected individuals. The bill provides for the protection of the personal information of district attorneys, assistant district attorneys, and district attorney investigators. The bill provides for records of the office of the Secretary of State. The bill provides for an effective date. Finally, the bill provides for related matters.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tom Willis (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/17/2026
• Last Action: To Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SD bill #SB48 • Last Action 02/17/2026
Clarify that an official open meeting agenda must be posted online at least seventy-two hours before the scheduled start of the meeting.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that an official agenda for a public meeting must be posted online at least seventy-two hours before the meeting is scheduled to begin, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. This requirement is in addition to existing provisions that mandate posting the agenda at the principal office of the governing body and ensuring it is visible, readable, and accessible to the public, including its date, time, and location. The bill also reiterates that for special or rescheduled meetings, notice must be delivered in person or by mail, email, or telephone to news media that have requested it, and that other requirements of the section should be met as circumstances allow, with violations still considered a Class 2 misdemeanor.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT ENTITLED An Act to clarify that an official open meeting agenda must be posted online at least seventy-two hours before the scheduled start of the meeting.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Signed by the Governor on February 17, 2026 S.J. 266
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SD bill #SB46 • Last Action 02/17/2026
Modify the requirements for open meeting agendas and provide a penalty therefor.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled "Modify the requirements for open meeting agendas and provide a penalty therefor," proposes adding a new section to South Dakota's existing laws regarding open meetings. The key provision is that any proposed agenda for a public body's official meeting must list all items to be discussed and describe them in enough detail to reasonably inform the public about the official business or public policy that will be considered. This aims to increase transparency in government proceedings. Importantly, the bill establishes a penalty for violating this new requirement: it will be considered a Class 2 misdemeanor, which is a minor criminal offense.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT ENTITLED An Act to modify the requirements for open meeting agendas and provide a penalty therefor.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: Signed by the Governor on February 17, 2026 S.J. 266
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0093 • Last Action 02/17/2026
An act relating to the creation and maintenance of a database of veterans in Vermont
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs to create and maintain a comprehensive database of veterans residing in Vermont. The Director of the Office of Veterans Affairs will collaborate with various state agencies and departments to collect veteran information, with all agencies obligated to provide veteran data to the extent permitted by state and federal law. A critical aspect of the bill is that any personally identifying information collected for the database will be completely exempt from public records disclosure and will be kept strictly confidential. The bill specifically notes that this confidentiality exemption will remain in effect and cannot be automatically repealed through standard sunset provisions. The database aims to centralize veteran information while protecting individual veterans' privacy, and the provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025. By ensuring data confidentiality, the bill seeks to encourage veterans to participate in the database without fear of their personal information being publicly disclosed.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs to develop and maintain a database of veterans in Vermont with any information that is collected to be exempt from public inspection and copying.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 26 : Bob Hooper (D)*, Sarita Austin (D), Tiff Bluemle (D), Lucy Boyden (D), Carolyn Branagan (R), Gregory Burtt (R), Bill Canfield (R), Conor Casey (D), Voranus Coffin (R), Wendy Critchlow (D), Abbey Duke (D), William Greer (D), Lisa Hango (R), James Harrison (R), Mark Higley (R), Mary Howard (D), Eric Maguire (R), Kate McCann (D), Mike Morgan (R), Mary Morrissey (R), Mike Mrowicki (D), Todd Nielsen (R), Carol Ode (D), Woody Page (R), Sandra Pinsonault (R), Larry Satcowitz (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: House Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs Hearing (15:00:00 2/17/2026 Room M106)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB578 • Last Action 02/16/2026
A bill for an act relating to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body.(See HF 2490.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill mandates updated public notice requirements for meetings of governmental bodies, ensuring greater transparency. Specifically, it requires that when a governmental body announces a meeting, they must not only inform news media that have requested such notices but also post the announcement in a prominent and easily visible location designated annually by the body, and on any relevant government-maintained internet site. If a meeting's agenda is changed after it's initially posted, the amended agenda must be clearly marked as "AMENDED," with the changes identified, and a new notice must be issued. These updated rules also apply to notices for public appointments and employment, as well as agreements for sharing entire school grades between districts.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body. The bill requires the act of giving notice of a meeting of a governmental body to include (1) S.F. _____ H.F. _____ advising the news media who have filed a request for notice with the governmental body as provided under current law, (2) posting the notice in a prominent and conspicuous place that is designated annually by the governmental body, in a manner such that the notice is visible at all times, and (3) posting the notice on any associated internet site as specified in the bill. If a tentative agenda has been posted and is amended, the amended agenda shall be marked “AMENDED”, the amended provisions identified, and a new notice provided. By operation of law, notice for electronic meetings of governmental bodies as provided in Code section 21.8 (electronic meetings) shall comply with the notice requirements in Code section 21.4 (public notice). In addition, the bill applies to notices for public appointment and employment under Code section 35C.1 (veterans preference —— appointments and employment —— applications) and notices for whole grade sharing agreements under Code section 282.11 (procedure for whole grade sharing agreements).
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/20/2026
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 2490.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF2238 • Last Action 02/16/2026
A bill for an act relating to public records, including the duties of lawful custodians.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies public records laws by introducing new definitions for "original government body," which is the entity that created or is primarily responsible for a public record, and "secondary lawful custodian," which is any other government body holding that record. When a request for a public record is made to a secondary lawful custodian, they can now defer the decision on whether to release the record to the original government body, promptly informing the requester of this deferral and the identity of the original body. This means the secondary lawful custodian doesn't have to independently decide if the record is confidential or should be disclosed. The bill also clarifies that a reasonable delay for this deferral process won't be considered a violation, and a secondary lawful custodian acting based on the original government body's decision is considered to be acting in good faith, protecting them from legal penalties like damages or attorney fees if they follow that decision.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to public records, including the duties of lawful custodians. Under current law, a person may request to examine, copy, publish, or otherwise disseminate a public record from the government body currently in physical possession of the public record (lawful custodian). The bill defines “original government body” as the government body that created or originated a public record, or that has primary responsibility for the maintenance, classification, or confidentiality of the public record. The bill also defines “secondary lawful custodian” as a lawful custodian in physical possession of a public record provided by an original government body. Under the bill, if a public records request is made to a secondary lawful custodian, the secondary lawful custodian may defer the determination of whether the public record is subject to examination and copying to the original government body. The bill requires the secondary lawful custodian to promptly notify the requester of the deferral and the identity of the original government body. The secondary lawful custodian is not required to independently determine whether a record is confidential or subject to disclosure. The bill provides that a good-faith, reasonable delay in responding to a public records request does not constitute a violation when the delay is for the purpose of allowing a secondary lawful custodian to defer to the original government body for a determination. A secondary lawful custodian acting in reasonable reliance on the determination of the original government body is deemed to be acting in good faith. The bill further provides that a secondary lawful custodian is not subject to injunctive relief, damages, attorney fees, or costs for failing to disclose or for disclosing a public record when the secondary lawful custodian acted in reasonable reliance on the determination of the original government body to comply with or refuse the public records request.
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• Introduced: 02/09/2026
• Added: 02/10/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Charlie McClintock (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/09/2026
• Last Action: Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2080 • Last Action 02/16/2026
Government administration; requiring entities that issue building permits to provide weekly notification of issuances to the county assessor. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires entities that issue building permits in counties with a population of 450,000 or more to electronically submit copies of these permits and certificates to the county assessor on a weekly basis, aiming to improve property tax assessment accuracy. It also makes several changes to existing laws related to local development and ad valorem taxes, including authorizing counties to administer fees for certain costs associated with project plans, adding county assessors as non-voting members to specific review committees, and prescribing requirements for district boundaries to prevent the division of individual properties. The bill further mandates that governing bodies submit fiscal impact reports to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, which will then compile and submit its own report, and ensures county assessors are notified upon approval of certain project plans. Additionally, it allows for various government notifications, applications, letters, and transactional statements to be issued via electronic mail, updates statutory language, and establishes an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to government administration; requiring entities that issue building permits to provide weekly notification of issuances to the county assessor; amending 62 O.S. 2021, Sections 854, 855, 856, 860, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 145, O.S.L. 2023, and 862 (62 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 860), which relate to the Local Development Act; authorizing the county to administer fees for certain costs; adding certain county assessors to certain membership review committees in a nonvoting capacity; prescribing requirements for district boundaries; requiring certain governing bodies to submit fiscal impact reports to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce; requiring the Department to submit certain report; requiring county assessor to be notified upon approval of certain project plans; amending 68 O.S. 2021, Sections 2813, as amended by Section 238, Chapter 282, O.S.L. 2022, 2817.3, 2882, and 2893 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 2813), which relate to the Ad Valorem Tax Code; authorizing certain notifications, applications, letters, and transactional statements to be issued by electronic mail; updating statutory language; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jerry Alvord (R)*, Mark Lepak (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Lepak (principal House author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1598 • Last Action 02/16/2026
State government; removing certain prohibition on use of funds; removing certain requirement on nonsectarian charter schools. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to Oklahoma law, primarily by removing prohibitions on the use of state funds for religious purposes and by modifying requirements for nonsectarian charter schools. Specifically, it amends laws concerning the Oklahoma Historical Society, the Oklahoma Arts Council, and the J.M. Davis Memorial Commission to remove language that prevented funds from being used for the benefit of any sect, church, denomination, or religious institution, or for religious teachers or dignitaries. Additionally, the bill amends the law regarding charter schools to remove the explicit requirement that charter schools be nonsectarian in their programs, admission policies, and employment practices, and that sponsors not authorize charter schools affiliated with nonpublic sectarian schools or religious institutions. The bill also updates statutory references and provides an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to state government; amending 53 O.S. 2021, Sections 1.18, 171, and 201C, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 213, O.S.L. 2022 (53 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 201C), which relate to the dispensation of funds; removing certain prohibition on use of funds; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 3-136, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 3-136), which relates to charter schools; removing certain requirement on nonsectarian charter schools; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Julie McIntosh (R)*, Denise Crosswhite Hader (R)*, Dana Prieto (R), Randy Grellner (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative CrosswhiteHader (principal House author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5621 • Last Action 02/16/2026
Prosecutor FOIA Bill
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends West Virginia law to explicitly exempt records and materials related to the detection and investigation of crime that are received and maintained by a prosecuting attorney from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, which generally presumes public access to government records. This means that while most public records are accessible, the specific information gathered and held by a prosecutor's office during criminal investigations will now be protected from public view, aligning with existing exemptions for law-enforcement agencies' investigative records.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to clarify that the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney is not a custodian of records and is exempt from the Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 02/16/2026
• Added: 02/17/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jonathan Pinson (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/16/2026
• Last Action: To House Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5541 • Last Action 02/16/2026
Relating to the protection of personal information for elected officials
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as Daniel's Law, expands protections for personal information to include elected officials, in addition to judicial officers, prosecutors, and law-enforcement officers. It defines an "elected official" as anyone who has won an election for a state or local office in West Virginia, even if they haven't yet taken office. The bill prohibits government agencies and private entities from knowingly disclosing the home address or unpublished personal phone number of these officials and their immediate family members, unless they have obtained written permission. This prohibition applies if such disclosure could reasonably lead to harassment or harm. The law also establishes civil penalties for violations, including actual damages of at least $1,000, punitive damages, and attorney's fees, and creates a misdemeanor offense for willfully refusing to remove such information after a written request. The purpose of this legislation is to enhance the safety and security of these public servants and their families, allowing them to perform their duties without fear of reprisal.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to provide that protection of personal information applies to elected officials.
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• Introduced: 02/16/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Josh Holstein (R)*, Kayla Young (D), Roger Hanshaw (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/16/2026
• Last Action: To House Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5613 • Last Action 02/13/2026
OMA&FOIA-NGO
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act to expand the definition of a "public body" to include certain nongovernmental organizations. Specifically, any private organization that receives either $10,000 or less, or less than 20% of its total funding from the State will now be considered a public body under these laws. This change means that these organizations will be subject to the same transparency requirements as government entities, including holding open meetings and responding to public records requests, which are governed by the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) respectively.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Changes the definitions of "public body" in the Acts to include a nongovernmental organization that receives the lesser of $10,000 or 20% of its funding from the State.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : David Friess (R)*, Brad Halbrook (R), Chris Miller (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Chris Miller
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WY bill #HB0151 • Last Action 02/13/2026
Open records act-limitation on copy and production fees.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Wyoming Public Records Act to establish clearer limits on the fees government entities can charge for providing copies of public records, defines a "public records request" as a single inquiry for related records, expands the duties of the ombudsman to include investigating complaints, conducting in-camera reviews of denied records, and issuing compliance orders, and increases penalties for violations of the act, including authorizing attorneys' fees and court costs for prevailing parties in legal challenges and imposing daily penalties for non-compliance with court orders, with specific fee caps for electronic and paper copies, and a prohibition on charging for the time and labor involved in locating or preparing records unless it involves programming and computer services to construct electronic records, all of which will apply to requests made on or after July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT relating to public records; defining terms; amending the duties of the ombudsman; imposing limits on copy and production costs for responding to requests for inspection and production of public records; increasing penalties; authorizing attorneys' fees; making conforming amendments; specifying applicability; and providing for effective dates.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 2026 Budget Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Marlene Brady (R)*, Joel Guggenmos (R), Paul Hoeft (R), Joseph Webb (R), Nina Webber (R), Laura Taliaferro Pearson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Did not Consider for Introduction
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5564 • Last Action 02/13/2026
LEGISLATIVE AUDIT-TRANSFER
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Illinois law to allow the Legislative Audit Commission (LAC), which oversees the Auditor General and reviews audit reports, to refer matters for investigation to the Executive Ethics Commission (EEC), an independent body that investigates ethics violations by state officials and employees. Specifically, the bill allows the LAC to refer investigative authority to the EEC by a majority vote if the LAC believes it's appropriate, and the Auditor General can offer advice on this referral process. The bill also makes conforming changes to ensure that the EEC's investigative powers and reporting requirements align with these new referral procedures, including provisions for the EEC to notify the LAC when an investigation originates from a referral and for the Auditor General to advise the LAC on such referrals.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Legislative Audit Commission Act. Provides that, if the Legislative Audit Commission, in its discretion, believes that investigative authority over a matter should be referred to the Executive Ethics Commission to investigate a State agency or executive office, it shall be referred by a majority vote by the Commission. Provides that the Auditor General may provide advice to the Commission on transferring investigative authority to the Executive Ethics Commission. Amends the Illinois State Auditing Act and the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act to make conforming changes.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Kyle Moore (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WY bill #HB0191 • Last Action 02/13/2026
School board meeting requirements.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that, starting July 1, 2026, all meetings of school district boards of trustees where official actions are taken must be broadcast live over the internet, with exceptions only if an internet connection is unavailable or due to unforeseen circumstances preventing the broadcast. The bill also clarifies that recordings of these internet broadcasts will be considered public records, alongside the existing requirement to keep minutes and records of official actions and warrants issued by the school district.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT relating to school districts; requiring meetings of school district boards of trustees to be broadcast over the internet as specified; providing that recordings of the broadcasts are public records; and providing for an effective date.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Budget Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Michael Schmid (R)*, Marlene Brady (R), J.T. Larson (R), Darin McCann (R), Joseph Webb (R), Lynn Hutchings (R), Laura Taliaferro Pearson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Did not Consider for Introduction
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2600 • Last Action 02/13/2026
Directs the administrator of the public records management program to adopt a uniform statewide access to public records request form.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that the administrator of the public records management program, a state office responsible for overseeing how government agencies handle their documents, must create and implement a single, standardized form that anyone can use to request public records from any government entity across the state. This new form will be used by all "public bodies," which refers to any state or local government agency, and the administrator will also establish consistent rules for how this form should be used, ensuring a uniform process for accessing public information, in line with existing laws about public access to records. The bill will become effective immediately upon its approval.
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Bill Summary: This act would direct the administrator of the public records management program to adopt a uniform statewide access to public records request form, and to promulgate consistent standards for the use of this form that is applicable to all public bodies. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2026
• Added: 02/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Linda Ujifusa (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/13/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB5608 • Last Action 02/13/2026
OMA&FOIA-NGO
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act to expand the definition of a "public body" to include certain nongovernmental organizations. Specifically, any private organization that receives either less than $10,000 or less than 20% of its total funding from the State will now be considered a public body under these laws. This change means these organizations will be subject to the same transparency requirements as government entities, including holding open meetings and responding to public records requests, thereby increasing accountability for organizations that receive state funding.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Changes the definitions of "public body" in the Acts to include a nongovernmental organization that receives the lesser of $10,000 or 20% of its funding from the State.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Miller (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3486 • Last Action 02/12/2026
Establishes database containing information on traffic stops by certain law enforcement officers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates the Attorney General to create and maintain a publicly accessible, searchable online database containing detailed information about traffic stops made by State and local law enforcement officers. This database will include driver characteristics like race or ethnicity, approximate age, and gender, and will record every traffic stop, even those resulting only in an oral warning. The information collected will cover the alleged violation, whether a search was conducted (including its basis and any findings), if a citation or warning was issued, any arrests or property seizures, any resistance or use of force by officers, resulting injuries, and the geographic location of the stop. This comprehensive data collection aims to provide greater public oversight of traffic enforcement practices and help prevent discriminatory practices such as racial or gender profiling, with the collected information being subject to disclosure under the open public records act.
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Bill Summary: This bill would require the Attorney General to establish a public, searchable database of information pertaining to traffic law enforcement by State and local law enforcement officers. The information entered in the database will include the driver's identifying characteristics, such as race or ethnicity, approximate age, and gender, and will pertain to all interactions with traffic law enforcement, even those stops that result only in an oral warning. The wide range of specific information in this database will enable greater public oversight of traffic law enforcement practices by providing a tool to prevent pernicious enforcement of these laws, including racial and gender profiling.
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• Introduced: 02/09/2026
• Added: 02/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Beach (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/13/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB121 • Last Action 02/12/2026
Personal Information - Public Servant Protections
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes protections for public servants and their families by creating a Public Servant Address Confidentiality Program, administered by the Secretary of State, which allows eligible individuals to use a substitute address for official purposes and shield their actual home address from public records. "Protected individuals" include various law enforcement officials, prosecutors, elected officials, and their immediate family members, and the bill outlines procedures for requesting the non-publication or removal of their personal information, defined broadly to include home addresses, phone numbers, Social Security numbers, and other sensitive data, from public view on the internet or social media. Governmental entities and private individuals are required to comply with these removal requests within 72 hours, and violations can lead to legal action, including injunctions and damages, with criminal penalties for knowingly publishing personal information that results in harm. The bill also amends existing law to include this new Public Servant Address Confidentiality Program alongside other address confidentiality programs for victims of domestic violence and judicial personnel, and it specifies that while substitute addresses can be used for most purposes, actual addresses must still be used for voter registration, candidacy filings, and campaign finance reporting, with limited exceptions for disclosure to law enforcement or by court order.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing a certain protected individual or the agency, entity, or office that the protected individual serves or served to request that a governmental entity or person not publish personal information on the Internet, social media, or social networks or that the governmental entity or person remove the information from any existing publication; etc.
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• Introduced: 01/11/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Katie Hester (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/10/2026
• Last Action: Senate Education, Energy, and the Environment Hearing (14:00:00 2/12/2026 )
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB4046 • Last Action 02/11/2026
Campaign finance; lobbyists; election funding
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill repeals a section of Arizona law related to campaign finance and amends another section concerning campaign finance reports. Specifically, it modifies the requirements for what must be included in campaign finance reports filed by committees. The key change is the addition of a requirement for candidate committees to report contributions from lobbyists, including specific types of lobbyists such as authorized and designated public lobbyists, and to include the term "lobbyist" alongside the contributor's occupation and employer. This amendment aims to increase transparency in campaign funding by specifically identifying contributions from individuals who are registered to influence legislation.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT repealing section 16-407.01, Arizona Revised Statutes; amending section 16-926, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to elections.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 2 : Brian Garcia (D)*, Lauren Kuby (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: House read second time
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H4725 • Last Action 02/11/2026
Mandatory recording of public school instruction
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all K-12 public schools in South Carolina to record all special education classroom instruction, including lectures, discussions, and instructional activities, using both video and audio technology. Schools must notify students and guardians about recordings and obtain written consent, with recordings to be stored securely and made accessible to the public for five years in compliance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The bill mandates privacy protections, including redacting or anonymizing recordings to protect student and educator identities, and establishes that the State Department of Education will oversee compliance and provide guidance. Schools must submit annual reports detailing their recording practices and promptly report any interruptions in recording capabilities. The bill prohibits commercial use of these recordings, with violations punishable by a fine up to $100 or imprisonment for up to 30 days. The legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in special education classrooms while balancing the need to protect student privacy, with implementation set to begin on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 59-33-130 So As To Provide All K-12 Public Schools Shall Record All Special Education Classroom Instruction, To Provide For The Retention And Disclosure Of Recordings, To Provide Consent And Privacy Requirements, To Provide Related Requirements Of The State Department Of Education, To Provide Reporting Requirements Of Schools, And To Prohibit The Commercial Use Of Recordings, Among Other Things.
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• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Mike Burns (R)*, Fawn Pedalino (R), John McCravy (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 12/17/2025
• Last Action: Member(s) request name added as sponsor: McCravy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1616 • Last Action 02/11/2026
School athletic associations; requiring that certain hearings be subject to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that any school athletic association that a public school or school district in Oklahoma joins must adhere to specific transparency requirements, building upon existing laws. Specifically, it mandates that these associations must make their records accessible according to the Oklahoma Open Records Act, and their meetings must be conducted openly and follow the procedures outlined in the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, which governs public access to government proceedings, including notice, agendas, voting, and executive sessions. Crucially, this bill adds a new requirement that all hearings conducted by these athletic associations, such as those for rule violations, eligibility decisions, or hardship waiver requests, must also be subject to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, ensuring these important proceedings are open to the public. The bill also requires annual financial and compliance audits, as well as periodic performance audits, and will take effect on July 1, 2026, with an emergency clause allowing it to be enacted immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to school athletic associations; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 27-103, which relates to requirements for school athletic association written policies; adding requirement that certain hearings be subject to certain act; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Avery Frix (R)*, Nicole Miller (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Miller (principal House author)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2401 • Last Action 02/11/2026
A bill for an act relating to exceptions to member education course requirements for official meetings open to the public.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Iowa Code chapter 21, which governs official meetings open to the public, by creating an exception to the requirement that newly elected or appointed public officials complete a training course on their responsibilities. Specifically, members of boards, councils, or committees that exist solely to offer advice or recommendations, and who are appointed by a school board, city council, or board of supervisors, will no longer need to complete this training. This change aims to streamline the process for individuals serving in these advisory roles.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Current law requires a newly elected or appointed public official who is a member of a governmental body to complete a training course relating to the responsibilities of the governmental body and its members under Code chapter 21 (official meetings open to public). This bill provides that a member of a board, council, or committee that is established solely to provide advice or recommendations, and who is appointed by a school board, city council, or board of supervisors, is exempt from this training requirement.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chad Ingels (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/11/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, referred to State Government. H.J. 257.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SD bill #SB166 • Last Action 02/11/2026
Require boards of county commissioners and county planning and zoning commissions to hold meetings after certain times or provide recordings of meetings to the public for later viewing.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires boards of county commissioners and county planning and zoning commissions to make their meetings more accessible to the public. Specifically, for regular meetings held on weekdays, they must either start no earlier than 6:00 p.m. or provide a recording of the meeting, which must be made available for free online within 24 hours. This aims to allow more residents to participate in or view meetings of these important local government bodies, which are responsible for county business and land-use planning, respectively. The bill amends existing laws to implement these changes, ensuring that these public meetings are either held at more convenient times or are recorded for later viewing.
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Bill Summary: An Act to require boards of county commissioners and county planning and zoning commissions to hold meetings after certain times or provide recordings of meetings to the public for later viewing.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Heather Baxter (R)*, Lauren Nelson (R)*, Julie Auch (R), Travis Ismay (R), Phil Jensen (R), Tom Pischke (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Local Government Deferred to the 41st legislative day, Passed, YEAS 5, NAYS 2.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB1036 • Last Action 02/11/2026
Consolidating the First Class Township Code; and making a repeal.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill consolidates the First Class Township Code into the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, creating two new parts (Part I and Part II) that will replace the existing First Class Township Code. The bill comprehensively reorganizes and updates the legal framework governing townships of the first class in Pennsylvania, covering a wide range of municipal functions and powers. The bill establishes detailed provisions for various aspects of township governance, including: 1. Township classification and creation procedures 2. Powers and duties of township commissioners 3. Election and appointment of township officers 4. Financial management and budgeting 5. Contracting and purchasing 6. Public improvements and assessments 7. Utilities and infrastructure 8. Parks and recreation 9. Public health and safety 10. Zoning and land use 11. Ordinance creation and enforcement The legislation maintains most of the existing legal framework of the First Class Township Code while updating language, consolidating provisions, and making some technical improvements to the statutory structure. It ensures continuity of existing township operations by preserving ongoing activities, contracts, and regulations from the previous code. Key changes include more detailed provisions on topics like civil service, ordinance publication, and administrative procedures. The bill also includes specific sections on new or expanded powers for townships, such as more flexible investment options, enhanced property maintenance regulations, and clearer procedures for various municipal functions. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, with provisions to ensure a smooth transition from the existing First Class Township Code to the new consolidated statutes.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 73 (Townships) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, consolidating the First Class Township Code; and making a repeal.
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• Introduced: 10/03/2025
• Added: 10/03/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Dawn Keefer (R)*, Scott Hutchinson (R), Cris Dush (R), Tim Kearney (D), Patty Kim (D), Wayne Fontana (D), Rosemary Brown (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 12/08/2025
• Last Action: Act No. 7 of 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7208 • Last Action 02/11/2026
Requires law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Electronic Information and Data Privacy Act," mandates that law enforcement agencies must obtain a search warrant based on probable cause before accessing electronic information, data, or location information belonging to subscribers or customers, with specific exceptions. The act defines key terms such as "electronic communication service" (services allowing users to send or receive electronic messages), "electronic device" (any device used to access these services), "electronic information or data" (including location, stored, or transmitted data, but excluding certain oral or wire communications and financial transaction data), "law enforcement agency" (entities primarily focused on preventing, detecting, or prosecuting crime), "location information" (data about an electronic device's whereabouts), and "remote computing service" (providers of online storage or processing). Generally, law enforcement needs a warrant to obtain an electronic device's location, stored, or transmitted data, or data sent to a remote computing service provider. However, warrants are not required for location information if the device is reported stolen, the owner consents, there's a judicially recognized exception, the information is publicly disclosed, or in emergency situations involving imminent harm or the discovery of certain crimes by a remote computing service provider. Similarly, stored or transmitted data can be obtained without a warrant with owner consent, judicially recognized exceptions, reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, or under emergency circumstances or if inadvertently discovered by a provider and appearing to relate to a felony or serious misdemeanor. Prosecutors can also obtain a judicial order for subscriber and customer information like names, addresses, and service records from providers, consistent with federal law. The bill also outlines notification requirements for warrant execution, generally requiring law enforcement to inform the owner within fourteen days, though this notification can be delayed for up to thirty days, with possible extensions, if it would jeopardize an investigation or endanger individuals. Finally, it establishes that any electronic information or data obtained in violation of this act will be excluded from evidence, similar to violations of constitutional rights.
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Bill Summary: This act would require law enforcement agencies to obtain search warrants for electronic information, data, location information and other identifying information of subscribers and customers, except in specified circumstances. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Leo Felix (D)*, David Place (R), Carol McEntee (D), David Morales (D), John Lombardi (D), Teresa Tanzi (D), Rebecca Kislak (D), Brandon Potter (D), Cherie Cruz (D), Joshua Giraldo (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WY bill #HB0135 • Last Action 02/11/2026
Public officials-nondisclosure agreements.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits public officials, defined as any officer, employee, agent, or servant of a government entity (including elected or appointed officials) in Wyoming, from entering into nondisclosure agreements that would prevent them from revealing information about the use of public funds, financial obligations, or impacts on land, infrastructure, water, or power related to public-funded projects, which are any activities using or committing public funds or creating ongoing obligations for the government. The bill also prevents public officials from pursuing public-funded projects if nondisclosure is a condition of discussion or due diligence, and any agreement violating these provisions will be void and unenforceable. Violators face misdemeanor charges with fines up to $1,000, and such violations can be grounds for termination or removal from office, with any Wyoming resident having the right to seek legal action to void such agreements. This act applies to agreements made after its effective date and does not affect existing contracts.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT relating to city, county, state and local powers; prohibiting public officials from entering into nondisclosure agreements as specified; providing definitions; specifying penalties; specifying remedies for violations; specifying applicability; and providing for an effective date.
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• Introduced: 02/09/2026
• Added: 02/10/2026
• Session: 2026 Budget Session
• Sponsors: 19 : Clarence Styvar (R)*, Abby Angelos (R), Gary Brown (R), Kevin Campbell (R), McKay Erickson (R), Scott Heiner (R), Chip Neiman (R), Ken Pendergraft (R), Justin Riggins (R), Michael Schmid (R), Daniel Singh (R), Joseph Webb (R), Nina Webber (R), Robert Wharff (R), Larry Hicks (R), Bob Ide (R), Dan Laursen (R), Laura Taliaferro Pearson (R), Tim Salazar (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Failed Introduction 36-25-1-0-0
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0510 • Last Action 02/10/2026
Amends and adds to existing law to establish provisions to protect public employees from certain adverse actions, to provide certain remedies for violations, and to provide special procedures for public record requests by the Legislature and legislative staff.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect public employees from certain negative actions and improve transparency in government by establishing new provisions and amending existing laws. Specifically, it revises remedies available to employees who allege violations of certain chapters, clarifying the proof required to win such cases and adding protections for employees who communicate with the Legislature or legislative staff, even if their communication isn't about reporting abuse or waste, as long as it's done in good faith. The bill also creates a new process for public records requests made by the Legislature and its staff, requiring government agencies to respond within specific timeframes, generally acknowledging requests within three working days and providing a substantive response within fifteen working days, with provisions for delays under certain circumstances. Importantly, it clarifies that these protections do not apply to knowingly false statements or unlawful disclosure of confidential information, and it also renumbers a section related to the severability of the act's provisions, declaring an emergency and setting an effective date of July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY AND ETHICS; AMENDING SECTION 6-2105, IDAHO CODE, TO REVISE A PROVISION REGARDING REMEDIES FOR EMPLOYEE AC- TIONS AND PROOF REQUIRED; AMENDING CHAPTER 21, TITLE 6, IDAHO CODE, BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION 6-2110, IDAHO CODE, TO ESTABLISH PROVI- SIONS REGARDING PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATIONS WITH THE LEGISLATURE AND TO PROVIDE PROTECTIONS FOR SUCH COMMUNICATIONS; AMENDING CHAPTER 1, TITLE 74, IDAHO CODE, BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION 74-127, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR LEGISLATIVE PUBLIC RECORDS REQUESTS AND AGENCY DUTY TO RESPOND; AMENDING SECTION 74-127, IDAHO CODE, TO REDESIGNATE THE SECTION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : State Affairs Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: House State Affairs Committee (09:00:00 2/10/2026 Room EW40)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5427 • Last Action 02/10/2026
To prohibit the malicious publication of personally identifiable information with intent to harass, intimidate, threaten, stalk, or facilitate harm.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Anti-Doxxing and Privacy Protection Act," aims to criminalize the malicious publication of personally identifiable information (PII), which is any data that can identify an individual, with the intent to harass, intimidate, threaten, stalk, or facilitate harm. The bill defines "doxxing" as knowingly and intentionally sharing someone's PII without their consent to intimidate them, incite harassment by others, or place them or their family in fear of harm. PII includes sensitive details like home addresses, phone numbers, financial information, and even images of private residences. The legislation establishes criminal penalties, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies for repeat offenses or when the victim is a public servant or their family, and also provides civil remedies for victims to seek damages and legal protection. Importantly, the bill includes exclusions for legitimate activities like reporting under freedom of information laws, court proceedings, and good-faith journalism or research, provided these actions are not intended to cause harm. It also mandates government agencies to create procedures for redacting PII from public records when there's a credible safety risk, prioritizing those in sensitive professions.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to create the "Anti-Doxxing and Privacy Protection Act."
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• Introduced: 02/10/2026
• Added: 02/11/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Bill Ridenour (R)*, Jim Butler (R), Ian Masters (R), Chris Phillips (R), Robbie Martin (R), Joe Funkhouser (R), Laura Kimble (R), Phil Mallow (R), Bryan Ward (R), Buck Jennings (R), Josh Holstein (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: To House Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1922 • Last Action 02/10/2026
Department of Corrections; requiring certain inmate information be available to the public. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Oklahoma Department of Corrections to make certain information about inmates publicly available, specifically detailing any work, education, or other programs an inmate has participated in, as well as any disciplinary actions they have received. The Department of Corrections is also authorized to create rules to implement these requirements, and this new law will take effect on November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Department of Corrections; requiring certain inmate information be available to the public; authorizing promulgation of rules; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Casey Murdock (R)*, Carl Newton (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Newton (principal House author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB4489 • Last Action 02/10/2026
Corporation Commission; Open Meeting Act exemptions; sunset; effective date; emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends the sunset date for certain exemptions to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act for the Corporation Commission from July 1, 2026, to July 1, 2031, meaning these exemptions will remain in effect for an additional five years. The Oklahoma Open Meeting Act generally requires public bodies to conduct their business in public meetings, but this bill allows Corporation Commissioners to discuss specific administrative, operational, and procedural matters, attend certain events, and participate in legislative proceedings without strictly adhering to the Act's public meeting requirements, provided no official action is taken and certain documentation and notice requirements are met. The bill also specifies an effective date of July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Corporation Commission; amending Section 1, Chapter 188, O.S.L. 2024 (17 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 180.13), which relates to Open Meeting Act exemptions; extending exemptions sunset date; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Tammy Townley (R)*, Dave Rader (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: House Administrative Rules Hearing (12:30:00 2/10/2026 Room 206)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LB384 • Last Action 02/10/2026
Require the county assessor and one voting member of the governing bodies of participating political subdivisions to attend joint public hearings under the Property Tax Request Act
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Property Tax Request Act to require that a voting member of the governing body of each participating political subdivision, which includes counties, cities, or school districts, and the county assessor of the county hosting the hearing, must attend joint public hearings when these political subdivisions seek to increase their property tax request by more than the allowable growth percentage. This change modifies existing law by replacing the previous requirement for an "elected official" from each participating political subdivision to attend with the mandate for a "voting member of the governing body" and adds the county assessor as a mandatory attendee. The purpose of these hearings is to discuss each political subdivision's intent to increase property taxes beyond a certain threshold, with specific notice and presentation requirements to inform the public about proposed tax increases and their impact on budgets.
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Bill Summary: A BILL FOR AN ACT relating to the Property Tax Request Act; to amend section 77-1633, Revised Statutes Supplement, 2025; to change provisions relating to the individuals attending joint public hearings; and to repeal the original section.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Tanya Storer (NP)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Approved by Governor on February 9, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1790 • Last Action 02/10/2026
Personal data collection; business; requirements
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Arizona Consumer Data Protection Act," establishes new regulations for "data brokers," which are defined as businesses that collect, process, or transfer personal data they did not obtain directly from the individual. The bill outlines what constitutes "personal data," including sensitive information like biometric data, genetic data, precise geolocation data, and certain government-issued identifiers, while excluding deidentified data, employee data, and publicly available information. It applies to data brokers that generate a significant portion of their revenue from processing or transferring personal data or that process data from a large number of individuals. Key provisions require data brokers to post a clear notice on their website or mobile application identifying themselves as a data broker and explaining how consumers can exercise their rights. Furthermore, data brokers must register with the Secretary of State, providing details about their data practices, and maintain a comprehensive information security plan with administrative, technical, and physical safeguards to protect the personal data they hold. Violations of these requirements can result in civil penalties, and a violation of data protection measures is considered an unfair trade practice.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending title 44, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding chapter 42; relating to commerce.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/03/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 4 : Lauren Kuby (D)*, Theresa Hatathlie (D), Brian Garcia (D), Aaron Márquez (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2205 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Updating the Open Meeting Law to support remote participation
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates the Open Meeting Law to provide clear guidelines for remote participation in public meetings across Massachusetts. It removes an existing paragraph in Chapter 30A and adds a new section (Section 20A) that comprehensively defines and regulates remote meeting participation for public bodies. The bill allows public body members to participate remotely in meetings, with such remote participants being considered fully present, able to vote, and counted toward quorum requirements. It mandates that all remote participants must be clearly audible to each other and that public bodies must provide transparent, accessible means for the public to observe and potentially participate in these virtual meetings. Such alternative access methods could include telephone, internet, or video conferencing technologies, and must be offered free of charge. The bill also requires that meeting documents be made available to the public before or during the meeting, and stipulates that municipalities must develop their own standards and guidelines for remote participation before conducting such meetings. This legislation aims to modernize public meeting procedures, making government proceedings more accessible and flexible, especially in contexts like post-pandemic work environments.
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Bill Summary: For legislation relative to update the Open Meeting Law to support remote participation. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 03/11/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Becca Rausch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 03/10/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0600 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Amends existing law to provide for the filing of a complaint by a person aggrieved and to revise provisions regarding denial of a request for disclosure.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Idaho's Public Records Act to establish a new process for individuals who believe their request for public records has been improperly denied or that the charges for disclosure are unfair. Specifically, it allows an "aggrieved person" (someone whose request was denied or unfairly charged) to file a complaint in district court within 90 days of the agency's response, outlining the original request, the response, all communications, and the legal basis for their challenge, and paying a $100 filing fee. This new process aims to expedite the resolution of public records disputes by limiting discovery, witness testimony, and oral arguments, with a judge expected to issue a decision within 10 working days. The bill also revises existing provisions regarding the denial of disclosure requests, including extending the timeframe for appeals in certain circumstances and clarifying the process for handling claims of trade secrets within environmental records, ensuring that such claims are properly substantiated and that appeals are handled promptly. The bill also includes an emergency clause, making its provisions effective on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO THE PUBLIC RECORDS ACT; AMENDING SECTION 74-115, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR THE FILING OF A COMPLAINT BY A PERSON AGGRIEVED AND TO RE- VISE PROVISIONS REGARDING DENIAL OF A REQUEST FOR DISCLOSURE; AMENDING SECTION 74-114, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE A CORRECT CODE REFERENCE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2026
• Added: 02/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Reported Printed and Referred to Local Government
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2210 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Extending the public records law to the Governor and the Legislature
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to extend the public records law to include the Governor and the Legislature in Massachusetts, making several key amendments to existing law. The bill modifies Chapter 4 and Chapter 66 of the General Laws to explicitly include the General Court (state legislature) and the Governor's office in public records provisions. Specifically, it creates new exemptions for certain types of legislative and gubernatorial communications, such as constituent service requests and policy development documents. The bill protects communications between legislators and their constituents when those communications reasonably relate to obtaining government benefits or services, and it shields documents related to developing policy positions. Additionally, the bill makes technical changes to various sections of the law to reference the General Court and Governor alongside existing references to agencies and municipalities. These modifications will effectively bring the Governor's office and Legislature under the same public records requirements as other government entities, while also providing some specific protections for sensitive communications. The changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving government entities time to prepare for the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to extend the public records law to the Governor and the Legislature. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Becca Rausch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 03/10/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied S2099
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2105 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Making records in the office of the Governor public
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Massachusetts state law to make records from the Governor's office subject to public disclosure requirements. Specifically, the bill amends Chapter 4 of the General Laws by adding language that explicitly includes the "office of the governor" in existing public records provisions, effectively removing previous exemptions that may have shielded gubernatorial records from public view. The bill establishes that these new transparency requirements will apply only to records created or received after January 6, 2025, which suggests a prospective implementation approach that allows for a transition period. By inserting these specific phrases into the existing legal text, the bill aims to increase governmental transparency by ensuring that records from the Governor's office can be accessed and reviewed by the public, similar to records from other state government offices.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to make records in the office of the Governor public. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Michael Brady (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied S2099
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2099 • Last Action 02/09/2026
To provide sunlight to state government
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase transparency in Massachusetts state government by implementing several key provisions. First, it requires that legislative committee hearing notices be published 2 weeks before the hearing date. The bill mandates that when public testimony is solicited, legislative committees must provide electronic and physical mailing addresses for submission, and these addresses must be published on the official state government website. Public testimony will be made available upon request, with allowances for redacting sensitive personal information. The bill also requires legislative committees to make reasonable efforts to promote diversity in expert witness panels. Additionally, the bill requires the senate and house clerks to post all recorded votes of legislative committee members on the general court website within 48 hours of the vote, with more urgent posting requirements during the final two weeks of legislative sessions. Furthermore, the bill expands public records access by including the office of the governor in existing public records provisions, though this specific change will only apply to records created after January 5, 2026. These provisions collectively seek to enhance government transparency and public access to legislative information.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to provide sunlight to state government. Rules of the two branches, acting concurrently.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jamie Eldridge (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1722 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Homeowners' associations; meetings; quorum
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that casual discussions about association issues at informal gatherings, even if a quorum of the board of directors is present, do not need to follow the open meeting and notice requirements, as long as the directors are acting as individual members and not in their official capacity. This applies to both condominiums (unit owners' associations) and planned communities (members' associations) after the developer's control has ended. The bill amends existing Arizona Revised Statutes sections 33-1248 and 33-1804, which govern open meetings for these types of homeowner associations, ensuring that informal discussions among board members acting as individuals are not subject to the same strict rules as official board meetings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 33-1248 and 33-1804, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to condominiums and planned communities.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/03/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : J.D. Mesnard (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2129 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Relative to remote access for public bodies and town meeting
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law to provide comprehensive guidelines for remote and hybrid public meetings and town meetings. The legislation allows public bodies to conduct meetings remotely or in a hybrid format, ensuring that all participants can hear each other clearly and that the public has adequate access to the proceedings. For public body meetings, the bill requires that remote participation be structured so that all members can vote, and the public can follow proceedings in real-time through alternative means of access. For town meetings specifically, the bill establishes a process where a town moderator can request a remote or hybrid meeting, subject to approval by the select board, with specific technological requirements to ensure transparency and accessibility. The bill mandates that such meetings must be recorded and made publicly available, and provides detailed guidelines about voter participation, voting procedures, and notification requirements. Additionally, the bill requires that within two weeks of taking office, all public body members must certify their understanding of open meeting law, and directs the attorney general to develop standards and guidelines for remote participation. The overall aim of the bill is to modernize public meeting procedures, especially in light of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing flexible options for municipal governance while maintaining principles of transparency and public access.
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Bill Summary: For legislation relative to remote access for public bodies and town meetings. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 03/11/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Peter Durant (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2143 • Last Action 02/09/2026
To permit enhanced public access to deliberations of public bodies and to permit improved efficiency of public bodies
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes modifications to Massachusetts public meeting laws to enhance transparency and provide new mechanisms for public body deliberations. Specifically, the bill introduces the concept of a "Public Internet Discussion," which allows members of public bodies to engage in online discussions that the public can monitor. The bill amends definitions in Chapter 30A to include these internet discussions as a form of meeting, requiring that such discussions be publicly accessible, authenticated, and archived. Public bodies would be required to post notices at least 48 hours in advance for both traditional meetings and internet discussions, detailing the topics to be discussed, and specifying access methods. The bill mandates that no votes or formal actions can be taken during these internet discussions, and all exchanges must be captured and made freely accessible online, with each message attributed to its sender. The goal is to improve public access to government deliberations by creating a new, flexible platform for communication while maintaining transparency and accountability. Key provisions ensure that these discussions are open, monitored, and documented, allowing the public to follow governmental decision-making processes more closely.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to permit enhanced public access to deliberations of public bodies and to permit improved efficiency of public bodies. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Paul Feeney (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2195 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Relative to the executive session interview process
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Section 21 of Chapter 30A of the Massachusetts General Laws to provide clearer guidelines for conducting executive sessions (closed meetings) during hiring processes. Specifically, the bill allows a public body to hold an executive session to consider or interview job applicants if the chair determines that an open meeting would negatively impact the ability to attract qualified candidates. The key change is that this executive session provision now explicitly applies to preliminary screening committees, with the important caveat that it cannot be used for interviewing applicants who have already passed an initial screening. The bill also clarifies that all members of municipal governing bodies like school committees, city councils, town councils, select boards, and boards of aldermen can participate in these preliminary screening executive sessions. This modification aims to provide more flexibility for public bodies in their initial stages of recruitment while maintaining transparency in the hiring process.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to consider or interview applicants for executive sessions. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 03/11/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jake Oliveira (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 03/10/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H1766 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Relative to judicial security
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Judicial Security Act, which aims to protect the personal information of judges, justices, and their immediate family members. The legislation defines "personal information" as including Social Security numbers, home addresses, phone numbers, and personal email addresses, and applies to current and retired judges from state and federal courts. The bill requires state, county, and municipal agencies to remove a protected individual's personal information from public internet sites within 72 hours of receiving a written request. Additionally, the bill prohibits data brokers, businesses, and other entities from selling, trading, or publicly displaying the personal information of protected individuals or their immediate family members. If such information is disclosed, the affected individual can seek legal action, and the responsible party may be required to pay the individual's legal costs and fees. The law provides protection for judges and their families by giving them the ability to request confidentiality of their personal information and prevents its unauthorized dissemination. The act will take effect 120 days after its enactment, providing time for agencies and organizations to implement the necessary privacy protections.
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Bill Summary: Relative to the public posting or displaying of the personal information of certain protected judicial officials and their family members. The Judiciary.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Hunt (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H5059
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2206 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Promoting governmental efficiency
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Massachusetts open meeting law regulations by updating complaint procedures and public records request rules. Specifically, the bill establishes more detailed guidelines for filing complaints against public bodies regarding potential open meeting law violations. The new provisions require complaints to include specific details like contact information, be filed within 20 business days of an alleged violation, and be signed by the complainant. Public bodies must now review and respond to complaints within 14 business days, confirming receipt and identifying any remedial actions. The bill also provides a mechanism for public bodies to seek relief from the attorney general if a complainant files an excessive number of complaints or if the complaints are unduly burdensome. Additionally, the bill removes language that previously limited public records requests intended for broad dissemination of information about government activity, potentially making it easier for individuals to access public records. These changes aim to streamline government transparency processes while providing some protections for public bodies against potential harassment or overwhelming complaint volumes.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to promote governmental efficiency. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 03/11/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Becca Rausch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 03/10/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1694 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Charter schools; meeting; reporting; audits
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Charter School Transparency and Accountability Act," makes several changes to Arizona's charter school laws to enhance transparency, reporting, and accountability. Key provisions include requiring charter schools to comply with open meeting and public records laws, similar to other public entities, and mandating that notices and minutes be posted online. It also introduces stricter requirements for charter school audits, including specific formatting and the use of auditors located in Arizona who are on a list maintained by the State Board for Charter Schools. The bill also clarifies procurement policies for charter schools, requiring them to adopt policies that prohibit conflicts of interest and ensure competitive bidding for purchases over a certain amount, with exceptions for specific circumstances. Furthermore, it mandates that charter schools provide more detailed financial and operational information to their sponsors, which must then be made publicly available on the sponsor's website, and requires charter schools to report withdrawals or transfers of students to the Department of Education. Finally, the bill addresses emergency response plans by updating requirements for their development and content.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 15-154.02, 15-181 and 15-183, Arizona Revised Statutes; amending title 15, chapter 1, article 8, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 15-183.02; amending sections 15-184, 15-189.02 and 15-189.03, Arizona Revised Statutes; amending title 15, chapter 1, article 8, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 15-189.08; amending sections 15-213, 15-914.02, 41-1279.03 and 41-1279.04, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to charter schools.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/03/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 8 : Eva Diaz (D)*, Brian Fernandez (D), Sally Ann Gonzales (D), Theresa Hatathlie (D), Lauren Kuby (D), Catherine Miranda (D), Analise Ortiz (D), Kiana Sears (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WY bill #SF0049 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Public records act revisions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill revises Wyoming's Public Records Act by expanding the definition of "official public records" to include plea agreements and non-confidential portions of sentencing memoranda, requiring governmental entities to acknowledge receipt of public records requests within three business days, and shortening the general timeframe for releasing public records from thirty to ten calendar days from the date of acknowledged receipt. It also allows for extensions to release records if the government entity requests an extension from the ombudsman, who is the designated official overseeing public records, and can grant an additional thirty days or another mutually agreed-upon date, and empowers the ombudsman to refer matters of non-compliance to the attorney general or district attorney for enforcement. Furthermore, the bill mandates that all governmental entities, not just state agencies, must adhere to uniform fees for copies and production of public records unless they charge lower fees or receive approval from the ombudsman to charge higher fees for good cause, increases the penalty for knowingly or intentionally violating the act from $750 to $2,000, and allows courts to award attorney fees to prevailing applicants in civil actions, with these changes taking effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT relating to public records; revising documents that constitute official public records; revising time periods for acknowledgement of public records requests and release of public records; providing for an extension of time to release public records; authorizing the ombudsman to refer a matter to the attorney general or district attorney; specifying fees for public records; increasing a penalty; authorizing attorney fees; and providing for an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 01/17/2026
• Session: 2026 Budget Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Failed Introduction 15-16-0-0-0
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB2500 • Last Action 02/09/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6 and Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5, relative to public record fees.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill revises how Tennessee government entities handle requests for public records by clarifying that a written request is generally not required to view a public record, and requests can be made in person, by phone, fax, mail, email, or through an online portal if the entity uses these methods for official business. It also states that if a public record contains confidential information that must be removed (redacted), the person requesting the record will be responsible for the costs associated with this redaction, including staff time and copying fees, and that these costs must be assessed according to a schedule established by the office of open records counsel. The bill also clarifies that a records custodian can charge reasonable costs for producing and copying public records, and that the office of open records counsel will provide guidelines for these charges.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, revises provisions relating to the assessment and collection of fees for the inspection and copying of public records. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6 and Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Becky Jo Alexander (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/09/2026
• Last Action: Sponsor change.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5337 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Relating to protection of personal information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as Daniel's Law, expands protections for personal information to include members of the Legislature, in addition to existing protections for judicial officers, prosecutors, and law-enforcement officers. The law aims to enhance the safety and security of these public officials and their immediate family members, defined as spouses, children, parents, or other blood or legal relatives residing in the same household, by preventing the disclosure of their home addresses or unpublished home or personal telephone numbers. This prohibition applies to both government agencies and private individuals or businesses, especially when such disclosure could reasonably lead to harassment or risk of harm. Violations can result in civil lawsuits with potential damages, attorney fees, and other relief, and willful refusal to remove disclosed information after a written request can lead to misdemeanor charges. The law does not apply to disclosures required by state or federal law.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to provide that protection of personal information applies to members of the Legislature.
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• Introduced: 02/09/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kayla Young (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/09/2026
• Last Action: To House Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SD bill #SB94 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Revise provisions pertaining to open records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing South Dakota law to clarify which records are not subject to open records requests, meaning they can be kept private. It makes several changes to the list of exemptions, including specifying that "student" records refer to those maintained by a public entity, clarifying that medical records exemptions do not change existing laws on birth and death records, and refining the definition of trade secrets and proprietary information that can be withheld. The bill also updates language regarding attorney work product and privileges, modifies exemptions for law enforcement records to include specific exceptions for alcohol/drug testing and 911 recordings, and clarifies exemptions for property purchase negotiations and personnel information. It expands exemptions for public safety and security by including specific details about vulnerability assessments, emergency plans, cybersecurity information, and guard schedules, and updates the exemption for records of the South Dakota Commission on Gaming to include entities with contractual relationships, while still requiring disclosure of payment amounts and prize winner information. The bill also clarifies exemptions for library patron records, personal records of public officials, and records related to archaeological or historical sites, including specific federal acts. It further refines exemptions for employment applications, personally identifying numbers, emergency response plans, test data, and internal agency records, with specific conditions for when these internal records can be withheld. Finally, it adds new exemptions for records related to children committed to the Department of Corrections, inmate disciplinary matters, settlement agreements for investment or bankruptcy involving state retirement systems, and settlement agreements for medical services involving county or municipal hospitals.
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Bill Summary: An Act to revise provisions pertaining to open records.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : John Carley (R)*, Aaron Aylward (R), Heather Baxter (R), Phil Jensen (R), Dylan Jordan (R), Kathy Rice (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: State Affairs Deferred to the 41st legislative day, Passed, YEAS 8, NAYS 1. S.J. 21
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB638 • Last Action 02/09/2026
Data brokers; regulation, civil penalties.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, effective July 1, 2027, establishes regulations for "data brokers," which are defined as businesses that knowingly collect and sell personally identifiable information (PII) of consumers with whom they have no direct relationship, and whose primary revenue comes from such sales. The bill prohibits acquiring PII through fraudulent means or using it for stalking, harassment, fraud (like identity theft), or unlawful discrimination. It mandates that data brokers implement a comprehensive information security program, including administrative, technical, and physical safeguards, and requires them to register annually with the Secretary of the Commonwealth starting December 1, 2027, by paying a $1,000 fee and providing specific information about their data practices. Violations of these provisions are considered prohibited practices under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, with the Attorney General having exclusive enforcement authority and the ability to seek injunctions and civil penalties of up to $7,500 per violation.
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Bill Summary: Regulation of data brokers; civil penalties. Prohibits a person from acquiring personally identifiable information, defined in the bill, through fraudulent means or acquiring and using such information for the purpose of (i) stalking or harassing another person; (ii) committing a fraud, including identity theft, financial fraud, or email fraud; or (iii) engaging in unlawful discrimination, including employment discrimination or housing discrimination. The bill requires a data broker, defined in the bill, to develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive information security program that includes certain features and technical elements. The bill also requires a data broker operating in the Commonwealth, beginning on December 1, 2027, and annually thereafter, to register with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The bill provides that a violation of its provisions constitutes a prohibited practice under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act. The bill has a delayed effective date of July 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Michelle Lopes-Maldonado (D)*, Bonita Anthony (D), J.R. Henson (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Continued to next session in Communications, Technology and Innovation (Voice Vote)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB582 • Last Action 02/06/2026
A bill for an act relating to public records requests.(See HF 2330.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill, building upon existing Iowa law regarding public records, mandates specific actions for the "lawful custodian" (the official responsible for maintaining public records) upon receiving a request for a copy of such a record. The bill requires the custodian to "promptly" acknowledge the request, which is defined as using reasonable, good-faith efforts to respond considering the circumstances, and to provide the contact information of their authorized representative. Additionally, the custodian must offer an estimated timeframe for when a response or the requested record will be provided, along with an estimate of any "reasonable fees" that might be associated with fulfilling the request, and inform the requester of any anticipated delays in producing the record.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that upon receipt of a public records request, the lawful custodian shall (1) promptly, as defined in the bill, acknowledge the request and provide the contact information of the lawful custodian’s authorized designee, (2) provide an approximate date for a response and an estimate of any reasonable fees associated with the request, and (3) inform the requester of any expected delay in production of the public record.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 01/21/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/20/2026
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 2330.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2483 • Last Action 02/06/2026
Creating a data broker registry.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a registry for data brokers, which are defined as business entities that collect and sell or license "brokered personal data" to others. Brokered personal data includes information like names, addresses, dates of birth, social security numbers, and biometric information (such as fingerprints or voiceprints) about Washington residents, when this data is categorized and organized for sale or licensing. Starting May 1, 2028, any data broker operating in Washington must register annually with the Department of Licensing, providing details about the types of data they collect, how it's processed, who it's sold to, their security measures, and whether individuals can opt out of data use. This registration information, including a declaration about their data practices, will be made publicly available on the Department of Licensing's website. The bill also outlines specific exemptions from registration, such as for businesses that only provide publicly available information related to a person's profession or that are involved in selling business assets as part of a one-time transfer. Failure to register can result in a daily fine of $1,000. The bill also amends existing law to include data brokers under the uniform regulation of business and professions act, which governs unregistered practice and disciplinary actions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to creating a data broker registry; amending RCW 2 18.235.020; adding a new chapter to Title 19 RCW; and creating a new 3 section. 4
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 17 : Shelley Kloba (D)*, Brandy Donaghy (D), Mary Fosse (D), Cindy Ryu (D), Janice Zahn (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Darya Farivar (D), Alex Ramel (D), Mia Gregerson (D), Dan Bronoske (D), Julio Cortes (D), Edwin Obras (D), Gerry Pollet (D), Nicole Macri (D), Greg Nance (D), Brianna Thomas (D), Lisa Callan (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 02/06/2026
• Last Action: Public hearing in the House Committee on Appropriations at 10:30 AM.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2883 • Last Action 02/05/2026
FOIA-PUBLIC INFORMATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to change how public bodies must make certain information available to the public. Specifically, the bill requires each public body to post a brief description of itself on its website, instead of displaying this information at its administrative or regional offices. The description must include details such as the body's purpose, organizational structure, total operating budget, number and location of offices, approximate number of employees, and information about any advisory boards, commissions, or committees that guide or oversee its operations. If a public body does not have a website, it must continue to display this information at its administrative or regional offices. The goal of this amendment appears to be increasing public access to information about government entities by leveraging online platforms, making it easier for citizens to learn about the structure and function of various public bodies.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides the each public body shall post a brief description of itself and other specified information on its website (rather than at each of its administrative or regional offices). Provides that, if a public body does not maintain a website, it shall also post that information at each of its administrative or regional offices.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Margaret DeLaRosa (D)*, Martha Deuter (D), Harry Benton (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Chief Sponsor Changed to Rep. Margaret A. DeLaRosa
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB2540 • Last Action 02/05/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6 and Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5, relative to public record fees.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill revises how Tennessee government entities handle requests for public records and the fees associated with them. It clarifies that a written request is generally not required to view public records, and requests can be made in person, by phone, fax, mail, email, or through an internet portal if the government entity uses these methods for official business. The bill also states that if a public record contains confidential information that must be removed (redacted), the cost of redacting and copying these records will be the responsibility of the person requesting them, and this redaction does not create a new record. Furthermore, it allows government entities to charge reasonable costs for producing records for inspection and for making copies, with these costs to be determined according to guidelines established by the office of open records counsel, which will create a schedule of reasonable charges for citizens requesting public records.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, revises provisions relating to the assessment and collection of fees for the inspection and copying of public records. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6 and Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Tom Hatcher (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/09/2026
• Last Action: Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1518 • Last Action 02/05/2026
Permitting remote participation at county delegation meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing law to require county commission and delegation meetings to allow remote participation under specific conditions. Specifically, members can participate electronically when attending in person is not reasonably practical, and they must explain why in the meeting minutes. While a quorum must typically be physically present at the meeting location, an exception is made for emergencies where immediate action is required and physical presence is impractical. The bill mandates that remote participants must be able to simultaneously hear and speak to each other, be audible to the public, and identify who is present in their remote location. All electronic meeting formats must allow the public to hear or discern the discussion in real-time, and electronic mail is explicitly prohibited as a meeting format. Roll call votes are required for any meetings with remote participants, and each remote participant is considered present for voting purposes. The bill aims to provide flexibility for meeting attendance while maintaining transparency and public access, and will take effect 60 days after passage.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires that county commission or delegation meetings open to the public allow members of the commission or delegation to participate remotely where attendance in person is not reasonably practical.
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• Introduced: 12/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Hope Damon (D)*, Brian Sullivan (D), Dale Girard (D), Janet Lucas (D), John Cloutier (D), Lucy Weber (D), Teresa O'Rorke (D), Thomas Oppel (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 02/05/2026 House Journal 3 P. 17
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB1746 • Last Action 02/05/2026
Subjecting taxpayer funded investigations to the right-to-know law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Right-to-Know law to require that any investigation funded wholly or partially by public money must be subject to public disclosure, with some important limitations. Specifically, public bodies can only redact portions of investigation records that are strictly necessary to comply with existing privacy protection laws like FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). The bill emphasizes that redactions must be narrowly tailored, meaning only the specific information legally required to be withheld can be removed. Importantly, the bill mandates that overall findings, conclusions, recommendations, and factual summaries cannot be entirely withheld just because some parts might need redaction. The bill also explicitly states that public officials and employees have no right to personal privacy protections when being investigated in their official capacities. The underlying rationale, as stated in the bill's findings, is that taxpayer-funded investigations fundamentally belong to the public, and excessive secrecy undermines governmental accountability and public trust. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, and while it does not provide additional funding, it is expected to create some administrative costs for government agencies in implementing the new disclosure requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires certain information from investigations funded using public money to be subject to the right-to-know-law.
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• Introduced: 12/16/2025
• Added: 12/17/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Matt Sabourin (R)*, Keith Ammon (R), Glenn Bailey (R), Travis Corcoran (R), Michael Granger (R), Tim Mannion (R), Tom Mannion (R), Jim Spillane (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Refer for Interim Study: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 02/05/2026 House Journal 3 P. 12
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1575 • Last Action 02/05/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1, relative to public meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows a governmental entity, such as a city or county government, to post notices for public meetings on its secure website instead of solely relying on traditional methods like newspaper advertisements, provided the website is available. Additionally, if a governmental body sends out electronic newsletters or other notices online, it must create a system allowing individuals to request to receive these updates via email or, if they prefer, a physical copy through regular mail, ensuring broader accessibility to public information.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, authorizes a governmental entity to publish notices of public meetings on a secure website of the governmental body; authorizes a person to request an electronic or hard copy of an e-newsletter or notice published by the governmental body if the governmental body provides such documents electronically. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 44, Part 1.
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Adam Lowe (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/12/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2721 • Last Action 02/05/2026
Modifying an exception to the Kansas Open Records Act concerning software programs for electronic data processing.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies an exception to the Kansas Open Records Act, which is a law that generally requires public agencies to make their records available to the public. Specifically, the bill removes the requirement for public agencies to maintain a public register that details the information they store on computer facilities and how that information can be accessed using existing computer programs, while still allowing them to keep software programs and their documentation confidential.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning the open records act; relating to permissible exceptions to disclosure; modifying an exception to the open records act for software programs for electronic data processing and documentation thereof; eliminating a requirement that a public agency maintain a register accessible to the public that describes information such agency maintains on computer facilities and the form that such information can be made available using existing computer programs; amending K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 45-221 and repealing the existing section.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: House Referred to Committee on Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #SB1418 • Last Action 02/05/2026
Provides exemptions for records of certain criminal offenses from public access on statewide court automation systems
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Missouri state law to restrict public access to court records involving certain criminal offenses through statewide court automation systems. Specifically, the bill prevents official court records for cases involving offenses reportable under section 43.506 from being publicly accessible online. However, the bill provides exceptions to this restriction: such records can be viewed in person at a courthouse, and they remain accessible to specific groups including court personnel, law enforcement agencies, judges, prosecutors, defendants' attorneys, and other individuals deemed by the court to require access. The primary intent appears to be protecting the privacy of individuals involved in certain criminal cases by limiting remote digital access to their court records, while still maintaining access for official and legal purposes. The bill adds a new section (476.1020) to Chapter 476 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, creating this new limitation on public record accessibility.
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Bill Summary: Provides exemptions for records of certain criminal offenses from public access on statewide court automation systems
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• Introduced: 12/08/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Curtis Trent (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Second Read and Referred S Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S09131 • Last Action 02/05/2026
Relates to data broker regulation; prohibits the acquisition of personally identifiable information through fraudulent means; requires a data broker to develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive information security program; requires data brokers operating in the state of New York to register with the attorney general.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new regulations for "data brokers," which are defined as businesses that knowingly collect and sell "personally identifiable information" (PII) to third parties, with some exceptions for businesses that primarily provide directory assistance or public safety alerts. The bill prohibits acquiring PII through fraudulent means or for purposes like stalking, harassment, fraud, or unlawful discrimination. It mandates that data brokers develop and maintain a comprehensive information security program with administrative, technical, and physical safeguards appropriate to their business size and the data they handle, including employee training, risk assessments, and measures to prevent unauthorized access. Furthermore, any data broker operating in New York must register annually with the Attorney General, paying a $100,000 fee and providing detailed information about their data collection, sale, and opt-out practices, including specific categories of sensitive data collected and whether data has been shared with foreign entities, governments, or AI developers. Violations of these provisions will be subject to enforcement and civil penalties under existing New York consumer protection laws, and the act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to data broker regulation
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• Introduced: 02/05/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Kristen Gonzalez (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/05/2026
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB580 • Last Action 02/05/2026
A bill for an act relating to the filing of complaints with the Iowa public information board.(See HF 2294.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill, which amends Section 23.7 of the Iowa Code, extends the timeframe for filing complaints with the Iowa Public Information Board from 60 days to 90 days. This board is responsible for handling alleged violations of Iowa's open meetings law (Code chapter 21) and open records law (Code chapter 22), which ensure that government bodies conduct their business publicly and that citizens have access to public records. The change means that individuals, taxpayers, the Attorney General, or county attorneys now have a longer period, 90 days instead of 60, to report a suspected violation after it happened or after they reasonably could have discovered it.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that a person has 90 days, rather than 60 days under current law, to file a complaint with the Iowa public information board after an alleged violation of Code chapter 21 (open meetings) or Code chapter 22 (open records) occurred or the complainant could have become aware of the alleged violation.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/20/2026
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 2294.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2885 • Last Action 02/05/2026
FOIA-EMPLOYEE LIABILITY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand liability protection for public bodies and their employees when disclosing records. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 9.5 of the existing law to clarify that not only public bodies, but also individual officers and employees of public bodies, are immune from legal liabilities when they disclose records in accordance with an opinion issued by the Attorney General's Public Access Counselor. This provision means that if a public body or its staff release documents following a formal opinion from the Attorney General about the appropriateness of disclosure, they cannot be sued or penalized for that disclosure. The bill provides additional protection for government employees who might otherwise be hesitant to release public records due to potential personal legal risks. The change reinforces the Act's goal of promoting transparency by reducing potential personal legal barriers to information disclosure while ensuring that such disclosures are guided by official legal interpretations.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a public body and any officer or employee of a public body (rather than only a public body) that discloses records in accordance with an opinion of the Attorney General is immune from all liabilities by reason thereof and shall not be liable for penalties under the Act.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Margaret DeLaRosa (D)*, Martha Deuter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Chief Sponsor Changed to Rep. Margaret A. DeLaRosa
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2146 • Last Action 02/04/2026
In open meetings, further providing for notification of agency business required and exceptions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania law regarding public meetings to clarify when an agency can take official action on matters not previously listed on its public notice or agenda. Specifically, it expands the exceptions to the requirement of prior notification for agency business, allowing agencies to act on certain matters that arise within 24 hours of a meeting if they are de minimis and do not involve significant financial commitments. It also introduces a new category for "minor administrative approvals," which can be acted upon if they would cause hardship if delayed and fall into specific categories such as certain personnel actions after an executive session, time-sensitive legal filings, small purchasing and bill approvals below a certain threshold for property damage mitigation or auction purchases, grant applications with imminent deadlines, small borrowing or tax anticipation note paperwork previously approved, and minor permit approvals for sewer modules. Before taking action on these minor administrative approvals, the agency must obtain a written opinion from its solicitor or chief legal counsel confirming the item falls under this exception, and this opinion must be publicly disclosed at the meeting. The bill also requires that any changes to an agenda, including adding items under these new exceptions, must be announced at the meeting before a vote is taken, and the amended agenda must be posted online or at the agency's office by the next business day.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 65 (Public Officers) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in open meetings, further providing for notification of agency business required and exceptions.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 02/06/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 30 : Bob Freeman (D)*, Brett Miller (R), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Greg Vitali (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Keith Greiner (R), Nikki Rivera (D), Chris Pielli (D), James Walsh (R), Dane Watro (R), Christina Sappey (D), Pat Harkins (D), Brad Roae (R), Charity Grimm Krupa (R), Ed Neilson (D), Ben Waxman (D), Danielle Otten (D), Gregory Scott (D), Jeanne McNeill (D), Carol Kazeem (D), Kyle Donahue (D), Jared Solomon (D), John Inglis (D), Lisa Borowski (D), Lee James (R), Dave Zimmerman (R), Maureen Madden (D), Brandon Markosek (D), Mark Gillen (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Laid on the table
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HR398 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Designating the week of March 15 through 21, 2026, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This resolution designates the week of March 15 through 21, 2026, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania, urging all residents to observe this time to highlight the fundamental principles of open government and public access to government records and meetings. This initiative, which began in 2005 and is supported by organizations like the American Society of News Editors and the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association (representing various news publications), aims to foster discussion about the importance of transparency in government, aligning with the constitutional guarantees of freedom of speech and the press.
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Bill Summary: A Resolution designating the week of March 15 through 21, 2026, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 01/26/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Rob Matzie (D)*, Arvind Venkat (D), Bob Freeman (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Maureen Madden (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Dan Williams (D), Jeremy Shaffer (R), Joe Ciresi (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/26/2026
• Last Action: Adopted (194-4)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #SB232 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Consumer Data Protection Act; prohibitions and duties relating to minors.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Consumer Data Protection Act; prohibitions and duties relating to minors, aims to enhance protections for minors' data online. It prohibits companies, referred to as "controllers," from entering into agreements with a known minor for online services, products, or features unless they obtain verified consent from the minor's parent. The bill also imposes specific duties on controllers regarding advertising to minors, the use of algorithms that affect minors, and exercising reasonable care to prevent harm to minors online, such as self-harm, substance abuse, bullying, and sexual exploitation. Furthermore, it expands the consumer rights of parents, allowing them to obtain a copy of all data associated with their minor child, including details about who that data was shared with and how it is being used. The bill defines a "minor" as anyone under 18 years old and clarifies that a "controller" is the entity that determines the purpose and means of processing personal data. This legislation will take effect on January 1, 2027.
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Bill Summary: Consumer Data Protection Act; prohibitions and duties relating to minors. Prohibits a controller of an online service, product, or feature from entering into certain agreements with a known minor, unless such controller obtains verified consent from the minor's parent as specified in the bill. The bill imposes certain duties on a controller of an online service, product, or feature related to advertising, algorithm use, and reasonable care toward known minors. The bill expands the consumer rights of a parent to minors and adds a provision allowing a parent to obtain a copy of the minor's data. Current law offers certain consumer rights to the parents of children younger than age 13. The bill has a delayed effective date of January 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Head (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 01/12/2026
• Last Action: Continued to next session in General Laws and Technology (15-Y 0-N)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4808 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Civil rights: open meetings; the children trust Michigan state board; allow to meet remotely under the open meetings act. Amends sec. 3a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263a). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4807'25
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow the Children Trust Michigan Board, a state board responsible for preventing child abuse and neglect, to hold meetings remotely under certain circumstances, similar to how other public bodies can meet electronically. This means that the Children Trust Michigan Board can now conduct meetings via telephonic or video conferencing, provided they follow the act's requirements for public access and two-way communication, and can do so for any reason, including accommodating absent members, just as agricultural commodity groups and certain retirement system boards can. The bill also clarifies that for meetings where members are absent due to military duty or a medical condition, only those specific members can participate remotely, unless the meeting falls under the broader remote meeting provisions for agricultural groups, retirement boards, joint energy agencies, or the Children Trust Michigan Board.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending section 3a (MCL 15.263a), as amended by 2023 PA 214.
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• Introduced: 08/26/2025
• Added: 08/27/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 8 : Bryan Posthumus (R)*, Nancy DeBoer (R), John Fitzgerald (D), Angela Rigas (R), Tom Kunse (R), Ken Borton (R), Matthew Bierlein (R), Steve Frisbie (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Placed On Order Of Third Reading With Substitute (s-2)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SSB3029 • Last Action 02/04/2026
A bill for an act relating to parties responsible for the confidentiality of information of participants in the address confidentiality program.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill expands the responsibility for protecting the privacy of individuals participating in an address confidentiality program, which allows them to use a substitute address for safety reasons. Previously, only assessors (officials who determine property values) and their staff were required to remove a participant's real name from public online documents upon request. This bill now extends that requirement to recorders, who are typically responsible for maintaining public land records, and mandates that both assessors and recorders establish and maintain a system to handle these redaction requests without charging a fee. The bill also removes the specific mention of "assessor's staff" to clarify that the primary responsibility now lies with the assessor and the recorder themselves.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, an assessor or the assessor’s staff must redact the name of a participant in the address confidentiality program from documents displayed for public access on an internet site, upon the participant’s request. This bill extends this requirement to recorders and requires recorders to implement and maintain a process to facilitate such requests. The bill also strikes the reference to the assessor’s staff for purposes of the requirement.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Senate State Government Subcommittee (10:00:00 2/4/2026 Room 315)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB431 • Last Action 02/04/2026
In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in procedure, providing for acceptable denials.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law by adding definitions for "artificial intelligence" (AI) and "generative artificial intelligence" and establishing new rules for handling electronic records requests. The bill defines AI as a machine-based system capable of making predictions, content recommendations, or decisions by perceiving environments, analyzing those perceptions, and using model inference to generate options. Generative AI is specifically described as models that can create synthetic content like images, videos, audio, or text using algorithmic processes. The bill introduces a provision allowing agencies to deny electronic records requests under specific circumstances, such as when the agency's open-records officer believes that downloading attachments could pose a cybersecurity risk or suspects the request was automatically generated by a computer program, AI, or generative AI. However, this denial rule does not apply to requests from journalists, media organizations, or nonprofit organizations conducting educational research. Requesters who are denied under these new provisions can appeal through existing legal channels. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, providing time for agencies to understand and implement the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in procedure, providing for acceptable denials.
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Tracy Pennycuick (R)*, Rosemary Brown (R), Camera Bartolotta (R), Lynda Schlegel-Culver (R), Tim Kearney (D), Lisa Baker (R), Nick Miller (D), Pat Stefano (R), Cris Dush (R), Michele Brooks (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 10/28/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table (Pursuant to Senate Rule 9)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #S1238 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Amends existing law to provide for public comment and reporting requirements.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Idaho law concerning the Idaho Fish and Game Commission's authority to set seasons and limits for taking fish and wildlife. Specifically, it requires the commission to provide a minimum 30-day public comment period before adopting, repealing, or amending any proclamation that sets seasons for game animals, game birds, furbearers, migratory birds, salmon, steelhead, and resident fish, with an exception for emergency proclamations. The bill also makes technical corrections to the language used in the existing law and declares an emergency, making its provisions effective on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO FISH AND GAME; AMENDING SECTION 36-105, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE FOR PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PRIOR TO THE IDAHO FISH AND GAME COMMISSION SETTING OF ANY SEASON OR LIMIT ON THE TAKING OF FISH AND WILDLIFE AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Resources and Environment Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Senate Resources & Environment Committee (13:30:00 2/4/2026 Room WW55)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0775 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Civil rights: open meetings; audio recordings; require for all public body meetings. Amends sec. 9a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.269a).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the requirement for audio recordings of public meetings to all public bodies, not just specific state licensing, commission, panel, or rule-making boards. The "Open Meetings Act" (1976 PA 267) is being amended to ensure that every meeting of a public body, unless held in closed session, must be recorded in a way that captures sound, such as a sound-only recording, a video recording with sound, or a broadcast that can be recorded. These recordings must be kept for at least one year from the meeting date and be available for reproduction if requested under the "Freedom of Information Act" (1976 PA 442), which allows the public to access government records.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending section 9a (MCL 15.269a), as added by 2022 PA 63.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2026
• Added: 02/05/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Bellino (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/04/2026
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Regulatory Affairs
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2520 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Concerning emergency meetings of public agencies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows public agencies to hold special meetings outside of their usual locations or remotely when necessary to take expedited action to address an emergency, provided that proper notice is given according to existing laws, unless such notice is waived under specific emergency circumstances, and that minutes are recorded and made public. It clarifies that governing bodies of public agencies can take action during such emergency meetings, even if they are held remotely or with limited public attendance, as long as options are provided for the public to listen to proceedings in real-time without additional cost, and these meetings are still considered open and public. The bill amends existing laws to permit these emergency meeting procedures, ensuring that actions taken during emergencies are valid while maintaining public access and transparency.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to emergency meetings of public agencies; and 2 amending RCW 36.32.090, 42.30.060, and 42.30.230. 3
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Debra Lekanoff (D)*, Carolyn Eslick (R), Lisa Parshley (D), Gerry Pollet (D), Brandy Donaghy (D), Alex Ramel (D), Shaun Scott (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules 2 Review.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1532 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Oklahoma Open Records Act; authorizing public bodies to require the full name and contact information of requestors. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act to allow public bodies to require requesters to provide their full name and contact information when requesting public records, and also permits public bodies to keep timekeeping and badge entrance information confidential. The Oklahoma Open Records Act is the state law that generally grants the public the right to access government records. This change aims to provide public bodies with more information about who is requesting records and for what purpose, while also expanding the types of personnel information that can be kept private. The bill also updates statutory references and makes language gender-neutral, with an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Sections 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 404, O.S.L. 2025, and 24A.7, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 307, O.S.L. 2022 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 24A.5 and 24A.7), which relate to inspection and reproduction of records and personnel records; authorizing public bodies to require the full name and contact information of requestors; authorizing public bodies to keep timekeeping and badge entrance information confidential; updating statutory reference; updating statutory language; making language gender neutral; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kelly Hines (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/12/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee Committee Amendment 1 - Committee Amendment 1
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #HB619 • Last Action 02/04/2026
Authorize board of elections to meet by video conference
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends section 3501.09 of the Ohio Revised Code to allow boards of elections to conduct meetings using video conference or similar electronic technology. Specifically, the bill creates a new subsection (C) that permits boards of elections to meet virtually, provided they follow the existing rules outlined in section 121.221 of the Revised Code. The bill also makes some minor grammatical updates, such as replacing gendered language like "he" with more neutral terms like "the officer" and changing "chairman" to "chairperson". Additionally, the bill maintains the existing provisions about board organization, including requirements that the director and deputy director be from opposite political parties and selected through a specific voting process. The legislation provides flexibility for election boards to meet remotely while ensuring transparency and adherence to established procedural guidelines.
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Bill Summary: To amend section 3501.09 of the Revised Code to authorize a board of elections to conduct meetings by video conference or any other similar electronic technology.
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• Introduced: 12/03/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Brian Lorenz (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 12/03/2025
• Last Action: Referred to committee: General Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0572 • Last Action 02/04/2026
An act relating to permitting public access to electronic criminal case records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to repeal the existing law that prohibits public access to electronic criminal case records, meaning that these records would become publicly available.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to repeal the law prohibiting public access to electronic criminal case records.
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Martin LaLonde (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: House Committee on Judiciary Hearing (00:00:00 2/4/2026 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1620 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Counties and county officers; allowing for publication of certain notices on a website maintained by the county. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows counties to publish certain official notices on a website maintained by the county, in addition to or instead of traditional newspaper publications, modernizing how public information is disseminated. It amends numerous existing laws related to counties and county officers, updating statutory language, making it gender-neutral in places, and ensuring that important legal notices, such as those for public hearings, property sales, budget proposals, and tax delinquencies, are accessible online. This change aims to improve transparency and public access to county government information.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to counties and county officers; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Sections 174.1, 326, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 369, O.S.L. 2025, 339, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 157, O.S.L. 2025, 339.6, 343, 345, 351, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 212, O.S.L. 2022, 360, 383, 421.1, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 337, O.S.L. 2023, 444, 445, 731, 733, 736, 740, 765, 782, 788, 794, 863.26, 865.66, 866.29, 868.3, 868.5, 872, 872.1, 876, 880, 881, 884, 888, 893, 896, 901.2, 901.3, 901.15, 901.17, 901.42, 902.3, 902.4, 902.12, 902.14, 902.21, 904.1, 956, 1205, 1234, 1242, 1250, 1264, 1276, 1412, 1505, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 85, O.S.L. 2025, and 1714 (19 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 326, 339, 351, 421.1, and 1505), which relate to counties and county officers; allowing for publication of certain notices on a website maintained by the county; granting county commissioners the option to maintain certain website; updating statutory language; making certain language gender neutral; amending 26 O.S. 2021, Section 13A- 109, which relates to school district and technology center school district elections; allowing for publication of certain legal notices on a website maintained by the county; allowing for the digital publication of certain news releases; amending 68 O.S. 2021, Sections 2819.1, 2836, 2882, 3002, 3007, 3013, 3021, 3022, 3030, 3102, 3106, 3127, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 179, O.S.L. 2025, and 3134.1 (68 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 3127), which relate to county business; allowing for publication of certain notice on a website maintained by the county; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Julie McIntosh (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Local and County Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1215 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Nondisclosure agreements; prohibiting state and local government entities from entering certain agreements. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits state governmental entities and public trusts with the state as a beneficiary from entering into agreements that would prevent disclosure of the terms of any financial incentives, tax credits, payments, grants, or similar benefits provided through state taxes. Specifically, the bill requires transparency around economic development agreements by mandating that such entities can reveal the details of these financial arrangements. However, the bill also includes an important exemption that protects sensitive business information, allowing government entities to withhold proprietary details such as trade secrets, input costs, labor costs, and profit margins that are provided by for-profit businesses. The purpose appears to be increasing public accountability for how state resources are used to attract or support businesses, while still protecting legitimate confidential business information. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2026, giving state agencies and businesses time to adjust to the new disclosure requirements.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to nondisclosure agreements; prohibiting state government entities from entering into certain agreements; providing certain propriety information not subject to disclosure; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/04/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kendal Sacchieri (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/04/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Economic Development, Workforce and Tourism
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1411 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Charter schools; adding requirements to charter school application; requiring annual oversight and performance review. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's Charter Schools Act by adding several new requirements for charter school applications and oversight. Starting July 1, 2024, charter school applicants must complete a 10-hour training program provided by the Statewide Charter School Board, and sponsors must also complete training on their oversight duties. The bill expands application requirements to include more detailed information about school operations, governance, academic programs, and financial plans. It mandates that charter school governing boards meet at least 10 months per year, include public comment periods in meetings, post open records request procedures online, and submit annual compliance reports. The bill also strengthens sponsor oversight by requiring annual performance reviews that evaluate academic, operational, and financial performance, include an administrator performance evaluation, and conduct parent satisfaction surveys. Additionally, the bill introduces mechanisms for sponsors to address charter school deficiencies, potentially suspending a sponsor's ability to establish new charter schools if they fail to conduct proper oversight. The legislation aims to improve transparency, accountability, and quality in Oklahoma's charter school system by establishing more rigorous application, governance, and review processes.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to charter schools; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Sections 3-134, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023, and 3-137, as amended by Section 8, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 3-134 and 3-137), which relate to the Oklahoma Charter Schools Act; adding requirements to charter school application; requiring certain review to be provided to certain governing board and posted on certain sponsor’s website; providing contents of annual oversight and performance review; requiring a sponsor’s performance report to include certain information; allowing the Statewide Charter School Board to suspend certain sponsor authority if a sponsor fails to take certain actions; requiring certain determination to identify certain deficiencies; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 12/31/2025
• Added: 01/01/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Dana Prieto (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/31/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4624 • Last Action 02/03/2026
BODY CAMERA FOOTAGE-DISCLOSURE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act to establish new rules for disclosing body camera footage under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which is a law that grants the public the right to request access to government records. Under these changes, requesters must certify their identity, contact information, and that the footage will not be used for commercial exploitation, mass distribution, artificial intelligence training, or to harass or identify individuals, among other prohibited purposes. The bill also exempts footage from disclosure if it reveals sensitive information like an officer's home address or family members, depicts victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, shows minors, individuals in mental health or medical crises, or individuals inside private homes. Furthermore, footage is exempt if it involves an active investigation, relates to pending criminal charges, could prejudice a jury, or compromise a prosecution. Law enforcement agencies must provide footage that is not exempt, and they are protected from civil liability if they deny or limit access based on a reasonable interpretation of the law. These new provisions will be repealed five years after the bill's effective date.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. Makes changes concerning the circumstances under which officer-worn body camera footage may be disclosed under the Freedom of Information Act. Requires a requester of officer-worn body camera footage under the Freedom of Information Act to certify specified information with the request. Exempts officer-worn body camera footage from disclosure if it reveals certain information, depicts certain information, involves an active investigation, relates to pending criminal charges, would prejudice a jury or compromise prosecution, will be used for a listed forbidden purpose, or is otherwise exempt. Requires a law enforcement agency to make available for inspection and copying officer-worn body camera footage that is not exempt from disclosure. Allows a law enforcement agency to deny a request that violates certain provisions or standards established under certain provisions. Provides that a public body, law enforcement agency, or employee acting in good faith reliance is not subject to civil liability solely for denying or limiting access to a body-worn camera recording, as long as the denial or limitation is based on a reasonable interpretation of applicable law. Repeals the provisions added to the Officer-Worn Body Camera Act by the amendatory Act 5 years after the amendatory Act's effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/27/2026
• Added: 01/28/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jed Davis (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/27/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2070 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Charter schools; adding requirements to charter school application; requiring annual oversight and performance review. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, concerning charter schools in Oklahoma, introduces new requirements for charter school applications and mandates annual oversight and performance reviews. Key provisions include requiring applicants and sponsors to complete specific training, detailing extensive information that must be included in charter school applications such as financial plans, academic programs, and student services, and establishing new procedures for application submission and review by school districts and the Statewide Charter School Board. Furthermore, it mandates that sponsors conduct annual oversight and performance reviews of charter schools, which must evaluate academic, operational, and financial performance, assess the school's administrator, and include an anonymous survey for parents; the results of these reviews must be shared with the school's governing board and posted online by the sponsor. The bill also allows the Statewide Charter School Board to suspend a sponsor's authority if they fail to conduct these reviews or ensure compliance with open meeting and records laws, and it clarifies the process for charter contract renewal, including the content of performance reports and the criteria for renewal decisions. Finally, it sets an effective date of July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to charter schools; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Sections 3-134, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023, and 3-137, as amended by Section 8, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 3-134 and 3-137), which relate to the Oklahoma Charter Schools Act; adding requirements to charter school application; requiring certain review to be provided to certain governing board and posted on certain sponsor’s website; providing contents of annual oversight and performance review; requiring a sponsor’s performance report to include certain information; allowing the Statewide Charter School Board to suspend certain sponsor authority if a sponsor fails to take certain actions; requiring certain determination to identify certain deficiencies; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Adam Pugh (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #SB2651 • Last Action 02/03/2026
MS Public Records Act; exempt data from development of certain highway projects from disclosure under.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new section within Mississippi law to exempt certain information related to highway safety projects from public disclosure under the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983. Specifically, any reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data that are compiled or collected for the purpose of identifying, evaluating, or planning safety improvements for accident sites, dangerous road conditions, or railway-highway crossings, especially when done in accordance with federal law or for projects that will use Federal-aid Highway Funds (money provided by the federal government for highway construction and maintenance), will not be accessible to the public. This exemption aims to protect the planning and development process for these crucial safety initiatives.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Create New Section 25-61-11.3, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Exempt From The Mississippi Public Records Act Of 1983 Certain Information Compiled Or Collected For The Purpose Of Identifying, Evaluating Or Planning The Safety Enhancement Of Potential Accident Sites, Hazardous Roadway Conditions Or Railway Highway Crossings, Pursuant To Federal Law Or For The Purpose Of Developing Any Highway Safety Construction Improvement Project Which May Be Implemented Utilizing Federal-aid Highway Funds; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/23/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Chuck Younger (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/22/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #SB2633 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Personally Identifiable Informatioin (PII); define and provide exemptions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983 to define and exempt Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and Protected Personally Identifiable Information (Protected PII) from public disclosure. PII is defined as any information that can be used to identify an individual, either alone or when combined with other information, and its status as PII depends on the risk of identification. Protected PII includes specific types of information when combined with an individual's name or initial and last name, such as Social Security numbers, home addresses, driver's license numbers, dates of birth, financial account numbers, and personnel or medical records. The bill exempts both PII and Protected PII from public access, building upon existing exemptions for certain information related to law enforcement officers, judges, and victims.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Amend The Mississippi Public Records Act Of 1983 To Provide Exemptions For Personally Identifiable Information (pii); To Amend Section 25-61-3, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Define Personally Identifiable Information And Protected Personally Identifiable Information; To Amend Section 25-61-12, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Exempt Personally Identifiable Information; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/23/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Scott DeLano (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/22/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2103 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Charter schools; modifying definition; modifying certain restriction on private schools. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Oklahoma Charter Schools Act by updating the definition of a "charter school" to mean a "publicly funded school created and operated" rather than just a "public school established," and it also clarifies that the Statewide Charter School Board, rather than the State Board of Education, will be the sponsor for virtual charter schools starting July 1, 2024. Additionally, the bill makes several technical amendments, such as updating statutory references and correcting minor wording, including changing "time lines" to "timelines" in application requirements and specifying that student discipline policies must cover students "with disabilities" instead of "special education students." It also clarifies that an "operating private school" is not eligible to contract for a charter school or virtual charter school. The bill also includes an effective date of July 1, 2026, and declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to charter schools; amending Sections 2, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023, and 3-134, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023, (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 3-132.2 and 3-134), which relate to the Oklahoma Charter Schools Act; modifying definition; modifying certain restriction on private schools; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : David Bullard (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #SB2280 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Open meetings; revise accessibility to information on meeting times, agendas and minutes.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to improve public access to information about meetings of government bodies in Mississippi by requiring these "public bodies" – which are defined broadly to include various state and local government entities, including municipalities, counties, school districts, and university officials – to create and maintain a "public notice list" of email addresses for residents who wish to be informed about meeting schedules. Public bodies will be mandated to email meeting times, dates, places, and agendas to this list at least 72 hours in advance or within one business day of setting the meeting, whichever is sooner. Additionally, the bill shortens the timeframe for keeping and making public the minutes of meetings from 30 days to 48 hours after adjournment, requiring them to be emailed to the public notice list and posted online within that same 48-hour period. It also mandates that public bodies provide contact information on their websites for individuals to join the public notice list.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Section 25-41-3, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Revise The Definition Of Public Body; To Create New Section 25-41-4, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Require Public Bodies To Create And Maintain A Public Notice List; To Amend Section 25-41-5, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Require Notice By Email Of Meeting Times To Those On The Public Notice List; To Amend Section 25-41-11, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Revise Requirements Relating To The Availability Of Minutes Of The Meetings Of Public Bodies; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sollie Norwood (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2008 • Last Action 02/03/2026
School athletic associations; adding provision to be included in certain association written policy. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that any school athletic association that a public school or school district joins must have a written policy that includes four key provisions: all association records must be accessible under the Oklahoma Open Records Act, all meetings must follow the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act regarding notice, agendas, voting, and executive sessions, the association must undergo annual financial and compliance audits according to the Oklahoma Public School Audit Law, and importantly, a student who transfers to a public school in a district where they do not reside, as allowed by the Education Open Transfer Act, must be permitted to participate in interscholastic activities offered by that new school district upon enrollment. Additionally, this bill repeals a previous law concerning participation in competitions after a transfer and will become effective on July 1, 2026, with an emergency clause allowing it to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to school athletic associations; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 27-103, which relates to requirements for school athletic association written policies; adding provision to be included in written policy; repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 8- 103.2, which relates to participation in certain competitions after certain transfer; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ally Seifried (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #SB2127 • Last Action 02/03/2026
MS Public Records Act; prohibit confidentiality of settlement agreement.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Mississippi Public Records Act to prohibit confidentiality in settlement agreements involving public bodies, meaning that the terms of any settlement reached between a government entity (a "public body," which includes state departments, agencies, and political subdivisions) and any other party cannot be kept secret. Furthermore, courts will be prevented from issuing orders that would make these settlement terms confidential or seal any related court records or documents. The bill also brings forward an existing section of the Mississippi Code that defines "public body" and "public records" for clarity, ensuring these definitions remain in place as the new provision is added.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Create A New Section Within Title 25, Chapter 61, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Provide That The Terms Of Any Settlement Of Any Civil Proceeding Between A Public Body And Any Other Party May Not Be Made Confidential By The Parties To The Settlement; To Bring Forward Section 25-61-3, Mississippi Code Of 1972, For The Purpose Of Possible Amendment; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Angela Hill (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1504 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Oklahoma Health Care Authority; modifying appointing authority of the Administrator of the Authority. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies how the Administrator of the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) is appointed and managed. Previously, the Administrator was appointed by the Governor with Senate approval, but this bill transfers that appointment power to the OHCA Board, which is composed of members appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and President Pro Tempore of the Senate. The Board will now also determine the Administrator's compensation and can remove them without cause. Additionally, the bill requires the OHCA to submit its annual administrative policies and business plan electronically to state leadership by January 1st each year, and it clarifies that the Board has the power to establish the Authority's policies and appoint its Administrator.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Health Care Authority; amending 63 O.S. 2021, Sections 5007 and 5008, which relate to governance of the Authority; providing certain power and duty to the Oklahoma Health Care Authority Board; requiring electronic submission of certain report; modifying appointing authority of the Administrator; conforming language; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 01/12/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Carri Hicks (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Health and Human Services
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1971 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Charter schools; adding requirements to charter school application; requiring annual oversight and performance review. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, concerning charter schools in Oklahoma, introduces new requirements for charter school applications and strengthens oversight and performance reviews. It mandates that applicants and sponsors complete specific training, and applications must now include more detailed information about the school's operations, finances, and student support plans. A key provision requires annual oversight and performance reviews for each charter school, which must evaluate academic, operational, and financial performance, assess the school's administrator, and administer an anonymous survey to parents and guardians. The results of these reviews must be shared with the school's governing board and posted online by the sponsor. Furthermore, the bill clarifies procedures for charter contract renewals and terminations, including requirements for sponsors to provide detailed performance reports and for charter schools to address any identified deficiencies. It also establishes consequences for sponsors who fail to conduct these reviews or address compliance issues, potentially leading to the suspension of their authority to sponsor new charter schools, and mandates that such deficiencies be clearly identified. The bill also updates language regarding student discipline policies for students with disabilities and ensures charter schools and virtual charter schools adhere to open meeting and open records laws, including a public comment period and posting their response procedures for open records requests.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to charter schools; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Sections 3-134, as last amended by Section 6, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023, and 3-137, as amended by Section 8, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023 (70 O.S. Supp. 2025, Sections 3-134 and 3-137), which relate to the Oklahoma Charter Schools Act; adding requirements to charter school application; requiring certain review to be provided to certain governing board and posted on certain sponsor’s website; providing contents of annual oversight and performance review; requiring certain survey to be administered according to certain requirements; requiring a sponsor’s performance report to include certain information; directing the Statewide Charter School Board to suspend certain sponsor authority if a sponsor fails to take certain actions; requiring certain determination to identify certain deficiencies; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kendal Sacchieri (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1478 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Cities and towns; creating the Oklahoma Land Bank Act. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Oklahoma Land Bank Act," establishes a framework for municipalities in Oklahoma to create land banks, which are entities designed to acquire, hold, and transfer vacant or underutilized real property for redevelopment. These land banks will be governed by a board of directors and can hire employees and consultants. The act outlines procedures for the creation of land banks, including the possibility of intergovernmental cooperation between multiple municipalities or with school districts. Land bank property is exempt from taxation, and the act details how land banks can acquire property through various means, including foreclosure sales, and how they can dispose of it, with provisions for prioritizing certain uses like public spaces and affordable housing. The bill also addresses the financing of land bank operations through grants, loans, and the issuance of bonds, and requires compliance with open meeting and open records laws. Importantly, it allows for the sale of tax-delinquent properties to land banks for less than market value under specific conditions, particularly when the property is unimproved and has a significant history of tax delinquency, and provides a process for land banks to quiet title to properties they acquire. The act also includes provisions for the creation of land banks in response to natural disasters and clarifies conflict of interest rules for board members and employees.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to cities and towns; creating the Oklahoma Land Bank Act; providing short title; defining terms; permitting municipalities to create a land bank program; providing terms for the creation of a board; permitting terms for hiring employees; providing powers to facilitate land banks; providing certain exemptions against taxation of land bank property; providing certain terms of acquisition of property; clarifying terms of disposition of property; providing qualification of the financing of land bank operations; providing terms for the borrowing and issuance of bonds; requiring compliance with the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and the Oklahoma Open Records Act; clarifying conflict of interest terms; providing procedure for the creation of land banks due to natural disasters; providing intent; providing terms for enforcement of delinquent property tax; permitting taxing units to sell property for less than market value; requiring the sale of property be in accordance with certain procedures; clarifying the deed of conveyance; clarifying bulk tax foreclosure terms; providing terms for quiet title proceedings; providing for codification; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Julia Kirt (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Local and County Government
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1883 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; requiring the Legislature to allow audio and video recording of public meetings. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, specifically Section 309 of Title 25 of the Oklahoma Statutes, to require the Oklahoma Legislature to allow any person to audio or video record public meetings, meaning meetings that are open to the public. This change ensures greater transparency by preventing the Legislature from prohibiting such recordings, and it will take effect on November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 309, which relates to the Legislature; requiring the Legislature to allow audio and video recording of public meetings; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Shane Jett (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1440 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; mandating certain election to approve certain route; removing ability of Authority to acquire property by condemnation. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) must hold a public meeting to approve the design of any new turnpike route and then submit a report with project details to the Governor, legislators, and local officials in affected municipalities and counties. Following this, any municipality or county where a new route is planned must hold a special election for its registered voters to approve or reject the route, with the OTA required to revise the design if a majority votes against it. Additionally, the bill removes the OTA's ability to acquire property through condemnation, which is the process of taking private property for public use with just compensation, and requires the OTA to notify real property owners within one mile of a proposed bonded project route via certified mail, in addition to the existing newspaper publication requirement. The bill also repeals a section related to property or facilities of public utilities or common carriers and sets an effective date of November 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; amending 69 O.S. 2021, Sections 1705, as amended by Section 572, Chapter 486, O.S.L. 2025, and 1718 (69 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 1705), which relate to the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; requiring certain notice; mandating certain election to approve certain route; providing for Authority to redesign certain route upon certain election result; removing ability of Authority to acquire property by condemnation; requiring certain notice to be sent to certain real property owners; repealing 69 O.S. 2021, Section 1722, which relates to property or facilities of public utilities or common carriers; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Mary Boren (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Aeronautics and Transportation
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1509 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Campaign finance; lobbyists; reporting
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law to require candidate committees to report contributions from lobbyists, including authorized and designated public lobbyists, by including the term "lobbyist" alongside the contributor's occupation and employer on campaign finance reports. This change is part of a broader update to the reporting requirements for campaign finance, which detail the contents of reports filed by committees, including information on cash on hand, itemized receipts and disbursements, and total sums of money. The bill also clarifies definitions for when contributions and disbursements are considered received or made, and specifies how in-kind contributions and independent expenditures should be reported.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending section 16-926, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to elections.
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• Introduced: 01/27/2026
• Added: 01/28/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 2 : Lauren Kuby (D)*, Brian Garcia (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/27/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1252 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; requiring public bodies to provide opportunity for public comment. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to require public bodies to provide a reasonable opportunity for public comment on each agenda item before taking official action. The bill allows public bodies to establish written rules governing public comments, such as limiting the duration of individual comments or total comment time for an agenda item, and requiring individuals to sign up before speaking. These rules must be applied uniformly and be reasonably related to the efficient conduct of the meeting. The bill clarifies that public bodies are not required to permit comments on matters not appearing on the agenda. Additionally, the bill makes minor technical changes to the existing law, such as updating statutory references and making small linguistic modifications (like changing "areawide" to "area-wide"). The provisions will take effect on November 1, 2026, and aim to increase transparency and public participation in government meetings by ensuring citizens have a structured opportunity to provide input on agenda items before decisions are made.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 311, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 60, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 311), which relates to notice; requiring public bodies to provide opportunity for public comment; authorizing certain limitations on public comment; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/15/2025
• Added: 12/16/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Brian Guthrie (R)*, Derrick Hildebrant (R)*, Gabe Woolley (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 12/15/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1206 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Open Meetings Act; modifying requirements for public comment at meetings of a public body. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Oklahoma Open Meetings Act to clarify and enhance public participation rights at public meetings. The legislation requires public bodies to maintain an email distribution system for meeting notices and allows members of the public to address the body during designated comment periods on any agenda item, new business, or relevant non-agenda item. The bill explicitly prohibits public bodies from preventing criticism of their acts, policies, or services, while allowing them to maintain orderly conduct during meetings. Public bodies can establish reasonable guidelines for public comment, such as time limits, but cannot entirely prevent public input. The bill also reinforces existing requirements for public notice of meetings, including posting meeting information prominently and online at least 24 hours in advance, with specific provisions for regularly scheduled, special, and emergency meetings. Notably, the bill adds a provision that no action can be taken on a matter raised during public comment until it has been specifically added to a future meeting's agenda. The changes aim to increase transparency and public engagement in governmental decision-making processes, with the modifications set to take effect on November 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to public participation at public meetings; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 311, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 60, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 311), which relates to notice of meetings of public bodies; prohibiting public body from taking action on certain matters; clarifying right of members of the public to provide public comment at meetings of a public body; allowing certain rules or policies regarding public comment; construing provisions; providing exceptions to certain requirements; updating statutory references; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/01/2025
• Added: 12/02/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Dana Prieto (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/01/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1792 • Last Action 02/03/2026
School district boards of education; allowing certain instruction; requiring the maintenance of certain records by schools districts. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies requirements for school district board of education members regarding training and record-keeping. It changes the mandatory instruction for new board members from a written pledge to complete a minimum of twelve hours of training within fifteen months to an optional completion of three hours of training within six months, focusing on school finance, the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, school law, and ethics, with the school district now responsible for covering the costs of this training upon completion. The bill also shifts the responsibility for maintaining attendance records from the State Board of Education to individual school districts, requiring these records to be posted on the district's website, and repeals existing provisions related to continuing education requirements for board members, with the changes taking effect on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to school district boards of education; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 5-110, which relates to instruction for board of education members; removing outdated language; removing language requiring certain member to agree in writing to education requirements; allowing rather than requiring certain instruction; changing time period in which member may complete certain training; reducing number of hours of instruction; removing requirement for training in certain topics; removing ability for certain type of organization to offer certain training; removing education requirements for certain incumbent board members; directing board members to represent certain interests; removing language regarding penalties for failing to complete certain instruction; allowing a board member’s district to be charged for certain attendance upon completion; updating statutory references; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 5-110.2, which relates to attendance records of school board members; directing school districts to maintain records rather than the State Board of Education; requiring records to be posted on certain website; removing language regarding certain notification; repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 5-110.1, which relates to continuing education requirements for board members; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Shane Jett (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MS bill #HB1482 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Public Records Act; exempt certain documents in which an agency deliberates new policy from.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983 to exempt certain documents from public disclosure, specifically those containing preliminary drafts, notes, recommendations, and internal or interagency communications where opinions are expressed or policies are formulated during the pre-decisional and deliberative process of creating new policies. This exemption applies only if the information is considered "pre-decisional and deliberative," meaning it's part of the internal discussions before a final decision is made, and any purely factual material within these documents is only protected if it's inseparable from the deliberative content, would reveal the nature of those deliberations, or would otherwise intrude upon the agency's decision-making process. The bill also makes conforming changes to existing law regarding public access to records, ensuring this new exemption is recognized.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act To Create New Section 25-61-11.3, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Exempt From The Mississippi Public Records Act Of 1983 Certain Documents In Which Opinions Are Expressed Or Policies Formulated In An Agency's Deliberative Process To Formulate New Policy; To Amend Section 25-61-5, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Conform To The Provisions Of This Act; And For Related Purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 01/22/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Clay Mansell (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Died In Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1757 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; creating the First Amendment Open Meeting Protection Act. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "First Amendment Open Meeting Protection Act," aims to strengthen the public's right to record government meetings in Oklahoma. It amends the existing Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, specifically Section 312, which deals with the recording of public meetings. The key change is that it explicitly states that no public body, its members, officers, staff, or any security personnel can prohibit any attendee from recording proceedings by video, audio, or any other method, as long as the recording does not disrupt the meeting. The bill also introduces a new provision allowing individuals who are unlawfully prevented from recording a public meeting to file a civil lawsuit for monetary damages. The bill also updates a statutory reference to clarify that notice requirements for meetings are governed by Section 301 et seq. of the title, and declares an emergency, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; creating the First Amendment Open Meeting Protection Act; providing short title; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 312, which relates to recording of open meetings; updating statutory reference; clarifying when recordings may be prohibited; providing for civil action; updating statutory language; providing for noncodification; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Shane Jett (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3843 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Waters and water rights; modifying list of records to be entered; requiring board maintain records in accordance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies how water districts in Oklahoma manage their records and operations. Specifically, it requires water district boards to include meeting agendas in the records they maintain, in addition to their existing minutes, decisions, and orders. Furthermore, the bill mandates that these records be kept in compliance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act, which ensures public access to government documents, with exceptions for private or confidential information, and requires that these records be posted on the district's website if one exists. The bill also directs the chairman of the board, when performing duties related to maintaining and operating district works, to follow guidelines established by the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, a state agency that manages government operations. These changes are intended to increase transparency and standardize operational procedures for water districts.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to waters and water rights; amending 82 O.S. 2021, Section 1324.9, which relates to board as governing body; modifying list of records to be entered; requiring board maintain records in accordance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act; requiring certain website posting; amending 82 O.S. 2021, Section 1324.18, which relates to duty of chairman; requiring certain guidelines be followed; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tom Gann (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Energy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB5123 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Consumer Data Protection Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the Consumer Data Protection Act, aims to enhance consumer privacy by granting individuals several rights regarding their personal information collected by businesses. Consumers will have the right to request a copy of their personal data, ask for their information to be deleted or corrected, and inquire about what personal data has been sold or shared. Crucially, consumers can opt out of the sale or sharing of their personal information with third parties, and businesses are prohibited from discriminating against consumers who exercise these rights. The bill also establishes procedures for handling these requests, including a specific form for opting out of data sales or sharing, and creates a private right for consumers to sue for violations. The West Virginia Division of Consumer Protection is empowered to create rules for enforcing this act and to bring legal action against businesses that violate its provisions, with penalties for unintentional and intentional violations, and increased penalties for violations involving minors.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to protect consumer data privacy by establishing a consumer right to request copy of personal data collected; establishing a consumer right to have personal information deleted or corrected; establishing a consumer right to request personal data sold or shared; establishing a consumer right to opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information to third parties; prohibiting discrimination against consumers who exercise their right under this article; establishing procedures for requests for personal information under this article; establish a form to opt out of sale or sharing of personal information; creating a private cause of action; empowering the West Virginia Division of Consumer Protection to establish rules under this article for enforcement; and empowering the West Virginia Division of Consumer Protection to bring suit for violation of this article.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 02/04/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kayla Young (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/03/2026
• Last Action: To House Environment, Infrastructure, and Technology
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB576 • Last Action 02/03/2026
A bill for an act relating to parties responsible for the confidentiality of information of participants in the address confidentiality program.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill expands protections for individuals participating in the address confidentiality program, which allows them to use a substitute address to keep their actual location private, often for safety reasons. Currently, assessors (officials responsible for property valuation) and their staff are required to remove a participant's name from public online documents upon request. This bill extends that requirement to recorders, who are officials responsible for maintaining public land records, and mandates that both assessors and recorders establish and maintain a system to handle these requests without charging a fee. The bill also removes the specific mention of "assessor's staff" from this requirement, focusing the responsibility on the assessor and the recorder themselves.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, an assessor or the assessor’s staff must redact the name of a participant in the address confidentiality program from documents displayed for public access on an internet site, upon the participant’s request. This bill extends this requirement to recorders and requires recorders to implement and maintain a process to facilitate such requests. The bill also strikes the reference to the assessor’s staff for purposes of the requirement.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/20/2026
• Last Action: House State Government Subcommittee (12:30:00 2/3/2026 RM 304)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3093 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Open Meeting Act; executive sessions; public bodies; individual officers and employees; supervision, employ, or appointment; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that public bodies, which are governmental entities like committees or boards, can only discuss individual officers and employees in executive sessions if those individuals are directly under the supervision, employment, or appointment of that specific public body. Executive sessions are private meetings that public bodies can hold for specific, legally defined reasons, as outlined in the Open Meeting Act, to discuss sensitive matters without public scrutiny. This amendment aims to prevent public bodies from discussing individuals outside of their direct purview during these closed-door meetings.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 307, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 249, O.S.L. 2025 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 307), which relates to executive sessions; clarifying that public bodies may only discuss individual officers and employees under their supervision, employ, or appointment in executive sessions; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Molly Jenkins (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Civil Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2660 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Making and concerning appropriations for the state board of regents for the Kansas blueprint for literacy, expanding the every child can read act reporting requirements and amending the Kansas blueprint for literacy to provide certain requirements for the state board of education, the state board of regents and school districts with regard to literacy education and reporting.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allocates $8.6 million to the State Board of Regents for the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy, a plan to improve reading education. It expands reporting requirements under the Every Child Can Read Act to include more data on students at risk of literacy deficits and requires the State Department of Education to report to the governor, legislature, and State Board of Education by October 1st annually. The bill also mandates that members of the Literacy Advisory Committee possess specific expertise in areas like evidence-based literacy practices and the science of reading, and it aligns literacy fluency goals with the State Board of Education's assessment cut scores. Furthermore, school districts will be required to employ reading specialists in elementary schools starting in the 2029-2030 school year and develop individual student literacy plans for students in kindergarten through third grade identified as high-risk, with these plans including at least 90 minutes of targeted intervention per week. The State Board of Education is tasked with designating best literacy practices based on the science of reading, prohibiting discredited methods like the three-cueing system, and incorporating a literacy practicum into teacher licensure requirements, including specific clock hours for general education and reading specialist candidates. Educator preparation programs will need to demonstrate that teacher candidates master literacy assessment tools and evidence-based practices, and the State Board of Regents and State Board of Education will jointly oversee the development of a comprehensive literacy implementation plan for all grade levels, including educator preparation, professional learning, instructional materials, and family resources. Finally, the bill repeals existing sections related to the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy and expands the definition of terms like "literacy practicum" and "science of reading" to reflect current understanding and best practices in literacy education.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning education; relating to the Kansas blueprint for literacy; making and concerning appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, for the state board of regents; expanding reporting requirements in the every child can read act; requiring members of the literacy advisory committee to have certain expertise; aligning literacy fluency goals with the state board of education's assessment cut scores; requiring school districts to employ reading specialists and develop individual student literacy plans for certain high-risk students; requiring the state board of education to designate best literacy practices and include a literacy practicum in the requirements for teacher licensure; requiring the development of a comprehensive literacy implementation plan; providing requirements for educator preparation programs; amending K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 72- 3262, 74-32,290, 74-32,291, 74-32,292, 74-32,293, 74-32,294 and 74- 32,295 and repealing the existing sections; also repealing K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 74-32,296.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2026
• Added: 02/04/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/03/2026
• Last Action: House Referred to Committee on Higher Education Budget
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SJR42 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Constitutional amendment; vesting the power of redistricting with the Citizens' Independent Redistricting Commission.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to transfer the power of redistricting, which is the process of drawing new electoral district boundaries, from the Legislature to a newly established Citizens' Independent Redistricting Commission. This commission would be responsible for drawing districts for both state legislative seats (48 for the Senate and 101 for the House of Representatives) and federal congressional seats. The commission would consist of nine members, with representation from the two largest political parties and unaffiliated voters, selected through a process overseen by the Administrative Office of the Courts, involving retired judges to review applications and select candidates. Commissioners would have specific qualifications, including residency and a prohibition on holding partisan office or being a registered lobbyist in the years prior to their appointment. The resolution outlines procedures for commissioner selection, removal, and filling vacancies, requires commissioners to waive their right to run for office in the districts they draw, and provides for their compensation. It mandates that commission votes be public, taken by roll call, and published, with public notice of all meetings and livestreaming of proceedings, while prohibiting private discussions about redistricting matters outside of public meetings. The commission would be tasked with developing preliminary and final redistricting plans, considering factors like racial and ethnic fairness, communities of interest, political subdivisions, and compactness, and ensuring plans do not provide a disproportionate advantage to any political party. If the commission fails to approve a plan within a specified timeframe, a fallback mechanism involving the Oklahoma Supreme Court would be activated. The resolution also grants the Supreme Court original jurisdiction over challenges to the commission's actions and plans, and establishes a revolving fund for the commission's operations, which would be dissolved after its work is completed. Finally, it repeals existing constitutional provisions related to legislative redistricting and includes a ballot title for the proposed amendment to be voted on by the people.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A Joint Resolution directing the Secretary of State to refer to the people for their approval or rejection a proposed amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution by adding new Sections 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 to Article III; dividing the state into certain Senate and House districts; vesting the power of redistricting with the Citizens’ Independent Redistricting Commission; defining terms; requiring Commissioners to possess certain qualifications; authorizing removal in certain circumstances; requiring the Administrative Office of the Courts to oversee Commissioner applications; providing application requirements; providing process of approval for applications; providing conditions for removal and filling of vacancies; requiring the waiving of certain rights; providing for compensation of Commissioners; requiring Commission votes to be taken by roll call and published; requiring public notice of Commission meetings; defining powers and duties of the Citizens’ Independent Redistricting Commission; requiring Commissioners to appoint certain officer; establishing certain duties of the Secretary; requiring the Commission to take certain actions; directing the Commission to conduct certain processes while satisfying certain conditions; establishing guidelines for approval of plans; requiring Commission to develop preliminary plan; requiring Administrator to submit approved plan to certain officers; establishing fallback mechanism; granting the Supreme Court original jurisdiction over the Commission; authorizing aggrieved parties to petition the Supreme Court; granting the Commission standing in all legal proceedings; prohibiting assertions of legislative privilege for certain communications; creating the Citizens’ Independent Redistricting Commission Revolving Fund; providing for dissolution of the Commission; authorizing the people to override the Citizens’ Independent Redistricting Commission; construing provisions; repealing Sections 9A, 10A, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, and 11E of Article V of the Oklahoma Constitution, which relate to the Legislature; providing ballot title; and directing filing.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Julia Kirt (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3125 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Open Records Act; Open Records Reform Act of 2026; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This is a shell bill in the Oklahoma Legislature. It creates a named act (e.g., "Education Reform Act of 2025") that contains no substantive provisions -- just a short title and an effective date, explicitly designated as "not to be codified." It was filed to reserve a bill number and topic area before the language-filing deadline. It may later be amended via a committee or conference substitute to carry real legislation. Shell bills are sometimes called "zombie bills" when used to revive legislation that failed in another bill.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Open Records Act; creating the Open Records Reform Act of 2026; providing for noncodification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Justin Humphrey (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1375 • Last Action 02/03/2026
In administration and miscellaneous provisions, further providing for administrative duties of the Public School Employees' Retirement Board; and, in administration, funds, accounts and general provisions, further providing for administrative duties of the State Employees' Retirement Board.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies administrative requirements for the Public School Employees' Retirement Board and the State Employees' Retirement Board, focusing on increased transparency and public access to information. The bill mandates that both boards livestream all public meetings and post unedited video and written records of proceedings on their websites for at least three years, with permanent retention according to records management schedules. It establishes new rules regarding the public accessibility of investment-related records under the Right-to-Know Law, allowing certain sensitive financial information to remain confidential if its disclosure could harm competitive interests or investment values. The bill also requires detailed additional reporting, including performance metrics for investments over various time periods, itemized listings of fees and expenses paid to investment managers, and disclosure of any travel or expenses incurred by staff and paid for by external investment managers, funds, or consultants. These new reporting requirements must be published on the boards' websites and electronically submitted to all General Assembly members within six months of the system's fiscal year-end. The bill defines key terms like "carried interest" and references the Institutional Limited Partners Association Fee Transparency Initiative as a benchmark for reporting standards. The changes will be implemented gradually, with different effective dates for meeting recordings, reporting requirements, and contract provisions.
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Bill Summary: Amending Titles 24 (Education) and 71 (State Government) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in administration and miscellaneous provisions, further providing for administrative duties of the Public School Employees' Retirement Board; and, in administration, funds, accounts and general provisions, further providing for administrative duties of the State Employees' Retirement Board.
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• Introduced: 05/02/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 42 : Brett Miller (R)*, Andrew Kuzma (R), Keith Greiner (R), Rob Kauffman (R), Barb Gleim (R), Mike Jones (R), Tina Pickett (R), Scott Barger (R), Joe Hamm (R), Steve Mentzer (R), Dave Zimmerman (R), Mark Gillen (R), Joe D'Orsie (R), Russ Diamond (R), Mindy Fee (R), Perry Stambaugh (R), Lee James (R), Brad Roae (R), Jake Banta (R), John Schlegel (R), Jack Rader (R), Clint Owlett (R), Lou Schmitt (R), Parke Wentling (R), Kate Klunk (R), Tim Bonner (R), Tom Jones (R), Dan Moul (R), Craig Staats (R), Jill Cooper (R), David Rowe (R), Tim Twardzik (R), Stephenie Scialabba (R), Bob Freeman (D), Justin Fleming (D), Jared Solomon (D), Valerie Gaydos (R), Jonathan Fritz (R), Torren Ecker (R), Robert Leadbeter (R), Dan Frankel (D), Ben Sanchez (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 05/02/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3398 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Open Meeting Act; Open Meeting Reform Act of 2026; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This is a shell bill in the Oklahoma Legislature. It creates a named act (e.g., "Education Reform Act of 2025") that contains no substantive provisions -- just a short title and an effective date, explicitly designated as "not to be codified." It was filed to reserve a bill number and topic area before the language-filing deadline. It may later be amended via a committee or conference substitute to carry real legislation. Shell bills are sometimes called "zombie bills" when used to revive legislation that failed in another bill.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to open meetings; creating the Open Meeting Reform Act of 2026; providing for noncodification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Amanda Clinton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB6000 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Concerning gatherings of a majority of members of a governing body and action taken by a governing body during a state or federally declared emergency in response to a natural disaster.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing laws concerning public meetings during declared emergencies, specifically natural disasters. It clarifies that during a state or federally declared emergency due to a natural disaster, it is not a violation of open meeting laws for a majority of a governing body (like a city council or county board) to attend briefings, conduct visual inspections of damage by various means, or hold press conferences related to the disaster, as long as they do not take any final official actions. Additionally, the bill allows governing bodies to travel together or gather for purposes other than formal meetings without violating these laws, provided no official action is taken. It also permits local governments within an emergency area to take action on items directly related to the disaster at remote or limited-attendance meetings, including authorizing emergency measures, approving emergency ordinances, and approving spending or contracts for disaster response and recovery. The term "action" in this context refers to any official decision or vote taken by the governing body.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to gatherings of a majority of members of a 2 governing body and action taken by a governing body during a state or 3 federally declared emergency in response to a natural disaster; and 4 amending RCW 42.30.070 and 42.30.230. 5
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Keith Wagoner (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Senate Committee on State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections Executive Session (13:30:00 2/3/2026 Senate Committee on State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1788 • Last Action 02/03/2026
An Act to Strengthen the Freedom of Access Act by Categorizing Commercial Requesters
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Maine's Freedom of Access Act by introducing specific definitions and new requirements for public records requests. The bill defines several key terms, including "commercial request" (a request that furthers a commercial, trade, or profit interest), "noncommercial request" (a request from educational institutions, scientific institutions, news media, or other non-commercial entities), "educational institution" (a school conducting scholarly research), and "representative of news media" (an entity actively gathering and disseminating information of public interest). The bill prohibits agencies from charging fees for the first two hours of staff time for noncommercial requests, while allowing them to establish a fee structure for commercial requests. Additionally, the bill requires requesters to certify whether their request is commercial or noncommercial and whether the requested information is likely to be part of an ongoing judicial proceeding. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for public record requests and fee structures, ensuring transparency while protecting agencies from excessive administrative burdens.
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Bill Summary: This bill prohibits an agency or official from charging a fee to cover the actual cost of searching for, retrieving and compiling a noncommercial request of a public record for the first 2 hours of staff time. The bill allows an agency or official to establish a fee structure and charge a fee for a commercial request of a public record. The bill also requires a person or entity to certify whether a request for a public record is a commercial request or a noncommercial request and whether the public information subject to the request is likely to be produced pursuant to an ongoing judicial proceeding and to provide additional information, as necessary, to the agency or official having custody or control of a public record subject to the request.
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• Introduced: 04/23/2025
• Added: 04/24/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Rachel Henderson (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 04/23/2025
• Last Action: Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S05551 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Requires certain public hearings held by the New York state urban development corporation to be recorded and such recordings be posted to the corporation's website within forty-eight hours.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York State Urban Development Corporation Act to require that certain public hearings held by the corporation be recorded and posted on the corporation's public website within 48 hours of the hearing. Specifically, the bill applies to public hearings related to: (1) sales or leases of land use improvement project areas, (2) sales or leases of substantial parts of projects, (3) municipal property conveyances to the corporation, and (4) community board notifications for projects in cities with populations over one million. The bill ensures greater transparency by mandating that these recordings be made quickly available online, allowing the public to access and review the details of these important hearings even if they could not attend in person. The changes are part of a broader effort to increase public access to information about urban development decisions and provide more opportunities for community oversight of corporate and governmental actions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the New York state urban development corporation act, in relation to recording and posting of certain public hearings
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• Introduced: 02/24/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Cordell Cleare (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 02/24/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3879 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Waters and water rights; modifying list of records to be entered; requiring board maintain records in accordance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing laws concerning water districts by requiring their governing boards to include meeting agendas in the records they maintain, in addition to their minutes, decisions, and orders. Furthermore, it mandates that these records be kept in compliance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act, which ensures public access to government documents, with exceptions for private or confidential information, and requires that such records be posted on the water district's website if one exists. The bill also updates the duties of the chairman of the board, stipulating that they and the board must follow guidelines set by the Office of Management and Enterprise Services when performing their duties, such as preparing budgets and adjusting water rates. This legislation is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to waters and water rights; amending 82 O.S. 2021, Section 1324.9, which relates to board as governing body; modifying list of records to be entered; requiring board maintain records in accordance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act; requiring certain website posting; amending 82 O.S. 2021, Section 1324.18, which relates to duty of chairman; requiring certain guidelines be followed; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tom Gann (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3639 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Open Meeting Act; Open Meeting Reform Act of 2026; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This is a shell bill in the Oklahoma Legislature. It creates a named act (e.g., "Education Reform Act of 2025") that contains no substantive provisions -- just a short title and an effective date, explicitly designated as "not to be codified." It was filed to reserve a bill number and topic area before the language-filing deadline. It may later be amended via a committee or conference substitute to carry real legislation. Shell bills are sometimes called "zombie bills" when used to revive legislation that failed in another bill.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Open Meeting Act; creating the Open Meeting Reform Act of 2026; providing for noncodification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark Lawson (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2162 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; modifying definition. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act by changing the definition of a "public body" to explicitly include the Legislature, which was previously excluded from this definition. The Act requires public bodies to conduct their business in open meetings, ensuring transparency for citizens. By adding the Legislature to the list of entities considered "public bodies," this bill aims to subject legislative sessions and committee meetings to the same open meeting requirements as other governmental entities. Additionally, the bill repeals a section of existing law related to the Legislature, likely to avoid redundancy or conflict with the updated definition. This change will take effect on November 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 369, O.S.L. 2025 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 304), which relates to definitions; modifying definition; repealing 25 O.S. 2021, Section 309, which relates to the Legislature; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Lisa Standridge (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3842 • Last Action 02/03/2026
State government; Legislative Transparency, Accountability, and Open Meetings Act of 2026; open meetings; nondisclosure agreements; reports; effective date; emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Legislative Transparency, Accountability, and Open Meetings Act of 2026," aims to increase transparency in state government by making the Oklahoma Legislature and its various committees, task forces, and working groups subject to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, which requires advance public notice, agendas, public observation and recording, and timely posting of minutes or records for all meetings, with invalidation of any action taken in violation unless it's a constitutionally authorized caucus meeting where no official action is taken. It also mandates that legislators who receive campaign contributions, gifts, travel, or anything of value from registered lobbyists or their principals that materially relate to a bill they are involved with must file a "Lobbyist Impact Statement" (LIS) detailing the lobbyist, the benefit received, and its connection to the bill, with failure to do so resulting in an ethics violation, potential removal from committee assignments, and a misdemeanor penalty. Furthermore, the bill requires legislators to file a "Nondisclosure Agreement (NDA) Disclosure Statement" within five business days of signing any such agreement, detailing the entity requesting it, its basis, the associated subject matter, and duration, with these disclosures becoming public records, and it prohibits NDAs from restricting a legislator's ability to communicate with constituents, disclose information for legislative deliberation, vote, or inform other officials, declaring any such restrictive NDA void and imposing penalties for non-disclosure. Additionally, the bill prohibits state agencies, public trusts, and contractors from requiring legislators to sign NDAs, confidentiality agreements, or waivers of rights unless expressly authorized by statute, deeming such attempts void and an obstruction of legislative oversight, with penalties for violations including referral to the Attorney General and audits. Finally, any existing statutes, rules, policies, or legislative orders that conflict with this act are repealed to the extent of the conflict, and the act is declared an emergency measure to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, with its provisions becoming effective July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to state government; enacting the Legislative Transparency, Accountability, and Open Meetings Act of 2026; requiring Legislature and certain legislative entities to be subject to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; prescribing procedures for meeting notices; imposing requirements related to observation and recording; prescribing procedures related to receipt of things of value from lobbyists; requiring Lobbyist Impact Statement; prescribing content of statement; providing for penalties for failure to file statement; imposing requirements related to certain nondisclosure agreements; prescribing requirements for disclosure; prohibiting certain effects of nondisclosure agreements; prescribing penalties; prohibiting requirements imposed by certain governmental entities; providing for penalties; providing for nullification of statutes, rules, policies or legislative order; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 369, O.S.L. 2025 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 304), which relates to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; modifying definitions; providing for codification; providing for noncodification; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tom Gann (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB2161 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; modifying definition. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the definition of a "meeting" under the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, which requires public bodies to conduct their business openly. Specifically, it clarifies that any task force, working group, advisory group, study group, committee, subcommittee, or similar group created by a public body to discuss and make recommendations, regardless of how many members are present, will now be considered a meeting of that public body. This change aims to ensure greater transparency in the deliberative processes that inform decisions made by public entities. The bill also specifies an effective date of November 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 369, O.S.L. 2025 (25 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 304), which relates to definitions; modifying definition; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brian Guthrie (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB3854 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Confidential records; prescribing right of victims to confidentiality of crime scene and autopsy photographs; codification; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new protections for victims and their families by granting them the right to keep certain crime scene and autopsy photographs confidential during clemency hearings, which are proceedings where individuals can request a pardon or commutation of their sentence. Specifically, these sensitive photographs, when submitted to the Pardon and Parole Board, will no longer be accessible to the public. To facilitate this, parties involved in clemency hearings will be required to submit two separate packets of information: one for public viewing that excludes the confidential photographs, and another for the Pardon and Parole Board that includes all materials. The bill also amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act, which generally requires public bodies to make records available to the public, by adding these specific victim photographs to the list of confidential records. The Pardon and Parole Board will have the authority to seal any submissions that would compromise a victim's privacy, and the Governor's office will receive the complete packet containing all evidence, including the sensitive photographs.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to confidential records; prescribing right of victims to confidentiality of certain crime scene and autopsy photographs; prohibiting public access to certain photographs submitted to the Pardon and Parole Board; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 404, O.S.L. 2025 (51 O.S. Supp. 2025, Section 24A.5), which relates to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; adding certain victim photographs to list of confidential records; prohibiting certain victim photographs submitted to the Board from being presented to the public; requiring parties to submit two separate clemency hearing packets to the Board; clarifying contents for each packet; allowing Board to seal certain records; clarifying which packet the Governor shall receive; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Eric Roberts (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NM bill #HB201 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Ipra Task Force Funding
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill appropriates $500,000 from the state's general fund to the attorney general for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to hire staff who will help a task force study the Inspection of Public Records Act, which is a law that governs how the public can access government documents. Any money not spent by the end of fiscal year 2027 will be returned to the general fund.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT MAKING AN APPROPRIATION TO THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO HIRE STAFF TO ASSIST A TASK FORCE CONVENED BY THE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO STUDY THE INSPECTION OF PUBLIC RECORDS ACT.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Cathrynn Brown (R)*, Natalie Figueroa (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/28/2026
• Last Action: Action Postponed Indefinitely
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB6123 • Last Action 02/03/2026
Concerning the protection of voluntary supplied personal information of local government employees.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to protect certain voluntarily supplied personal information of local government employees, specifically by expanding exemptions from public disclosure under the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). The key change is that information voluntarily submitted by an employee to an agency that identifies their personal demographic details, such as race or ethnicity, sexual orientation, immigration status, national origin, or disability status, will now be exempt from public inspection and copying, provided it is submitted to an agency rather than just a state agency or higher education institution. This exemption applies to "personal demographic details" as defined in the bill and does not prevent the release of such information in a deidentified or aggregate format. The bill also includes provisions for the expiration of one section and the effective date of another, indicating a phased implementation.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to the protection of voluntary supplied personal 2 information of local government employees; amending RCW 42.56.250; 3 reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.250; providing an effective date; 4 and providing an expiration date. 5
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Steve Conway (D)*, T'wina Nobles (D), Rebecca Saldaña (D), Javier Valdez (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Executive session scheduled, but no action was taken in the Senate Committee on State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections at 1:30 PM.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1355 • Last Action 02/02/2026
Location privacy.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the California Location Privacy Act, which significantly restricts how businesses and entities can collect, process, and use individuals' location information within California. The bill prohibits covered entities from collecting or processing location information unless it is necessary to provide goods or services specifically requested by an individual, and imposes strict limitations on data usage, including banning the sale, trading, or leasing of location data to third parties. Covered entities must prominently display a notice at the point of location information collection, providing details about who is collecting the data and how to get more information, and must maintain a comprehensive location privacy policy that explains data usage, retention, and management practices. The bill defines "location information" broadly, including GPS coordinates, cell-site data, license plate recognition data, and other precise geographical tracking methods. Violations can result in significant legal consequences, including potential damages of $25,000 per incident, with enforcement powers granted to the California Privacy Protection Agency, the Attorney General, and local prosecutors. The bill also prohibits state and local agencies from monetizing location information and includes specific protections for medical and research-related location data. Importantly, the legislation builds upon and complements existing California privacy laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020, aiming to provide stronger protections for individuals' location privacy.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 1798.100 and 1798.121 of, to add Section 1798.14.5 to, and to add Title 1.81.24 (commencing with Section 1798.90.75) to Part 4 of Division 3 of, the Civil Code, relating to privacy.
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• Introduced: 02/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Chris Ward (D)*, Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D)*, Mark González (D), Liz Ortega (D), Scott Wiener (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 05/01/2025
• Last Action: From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB905 • Last Action 02/02/2026
State general obligation bonds: disclosure requirements.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces new transparency requirements for state general obligation bonds approved by voters on or after January 1, 2026. The legislation mandates that public bodies and state agencies must develop and publicly disclose detailed information about bond expenditures within 90 days of voter approval, including specific goals, performance indicators, and data collection requirements. Public bodies must create comprehensive online notifications that provide an overview of authorized programs and projects, explain accountability criteria, and offer detailed information about bond usage. Additionally, these agencies must submit annual written reports to key government entities like the Department of Finance and Legislative Analyst, which will assess whether bond-funded projects have been completed efficiently, achieved their intended purposes, and complied with statutory requirements. The bill aims to increase transparency and public trust by ensuring voters can easily track how bond funds are being used and whether they are meeting established objectives. By requiring clear performance metrics and regular reporting, the legislation seeks to enhance accountability in public infrastructure investments and provide Californians with readily accessible information about how bond proceeds are being spent.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Section 16724.2 to the Government Code, relating to public finance.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Blanca Pacheco (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 03/28/2025
• Last Action: From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB3218 • Last Action 02/02/2026
FOIA-LAW ENFORCEMENT RECORDS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to clarify that it does not override court processes for determining public access to law enforcement records like arrest details, mug shots, body camera footage, and crime scene photos, unless those records are relevant to a requester's current or potential legal case. It also increases the maximum fee for black and white copies from 15 to 25 cents per page and modifies how public bodies can charge for the time spent searching for, retrieving, and reviewing records, particularly for commercial requests. Additionally, the bill exempts certain law enforcement records from disclosure, again with the exception that they may be released if relevant to a requester's legal matter.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Specifies that the Act is not intended to circumvent the process used by the courts to address whether arrest and booking records, mug shots, body-worn camera footage, in-car camera footage, 9-1-1 audio files, crime scene photographs, or other similar law enforcement records are to be made publicly available, except when those records may be relevant to a current or potential case or claim by the requester. Increases the cap on the fee that may be imposed for black and white copies from 15 cents per page to 25 cents per page. Makes changes to the fees public bodies may charge for time spent by personnel in searching for and retrieving a requested record or examining the record for necessary redactions. Exempts from disclosure under the Act specified law enforcement records, except when those records may be relevant to a current or potential case or claim by the requester.
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/03/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Don DeWitte (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1300 • Last Action 02/02/2026
State and local government: data protection and privacy: immigration.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the California Data Protection and Privacy for All Communities Act, which aims to protect the personally identifiable information (PII) of vulnerable populations, particularly immigrants, from unauthorized access by federal immigration enforcement agencies. The bill prohibits state and local government agencies from collecting immigration-related PII unless explicitly required by law and justified by a legitimate government purpose, and from sharing such information with federal agencies like ICE and CBP without a judicial warrant or court order. It mandates that any data-sharing agreements between government agencies and federal immigration enforcement authorities must comply with strict oversight mechanisms and be subject to review by the State Auditor, who will conduct audits every two years to ensure compliance with privacy and civil rights laws. Additionally, the bill requires the Attorney General's Office to establish an oversight task force to review complaints and violations related to unauthorized data collection and sharing, with an annual report to the Legislature on data privacy trends, risks, and policy recommendations. The bill allows for enforcement through administrative actions or civil penalties imposed by the Attorney General, and includes provisions for reimbursing local agencies if the Commission on State Mandates determines the act imposes state-mandated costs.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Chapter 17.26 (commencing with Section 7284.3) to Division 7 of Title 1 of the Government Code, relating to privacy.
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• Introduced: 02/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jessica Caloza (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 03/28/2025
• Last Action: From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3277 • Last Action 02/02/2026
Requires food manufacturers to disclose new food additives not reported to FDA.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires food manufacturers selling in the state to report new uses of food additives that they have determined to be "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) to the Commissioner of Health. GRAS is a designation indicating that a substance added to food is considered safe by qualified experts based on scientific evidence or, for substances used before 1958, based on scientific evidence or prolonged use. Manufacturers must submit an annual report detailing the additive's identity, how it's made, its intended use, and the basis for its GRAS determination, including any safety data. The Department of Health will then review and publish this information on its website within six months, with exceptions for certain substances already approved or widely consumed, and for cottage food operators. The bill also establishes penalties for violations, with fines up to $1,000 for a first offense and up to $5,000 for subsequent offenses, and allows for legal action to prevent violations. The law takes effect one year after enactment, but the Commissioner can take preparatory steps sooner.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires manufacturers of food and nonalcoholic beverages for sale in this State to disclose certain additive information to the Commissioner of the Department of Health to be made publicly available. Under the bill, every manufacturer of food and nonalcoholic beverages for sale in this State is required to disclose when a new additive has been deemed "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) by that entity, and is planned for use in food and non-alcoholic beverages. Under sections 201(s) and 409 of the federal "Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act," any substance that is intentionally added to food is a food additive, subject to premarket review and approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), unless the substance is generally recognized among qualified experts as having been adequately shown to be safe under the conditions of its intended use, or unless the use of the substance is otherwise excepted from the definition of a food additive. This bill requires industry to provide the Commissioner of Health with the premarket review rendering an additive GRAS, in the form of an annual report with certain requirements, for publication on the Department of Health Internet website. The department is to review and publish the report within six months of receipt. The commissioner may refuse to publish an incomplete report, after the submitting entity has been given an opportunity to correct any insufficiency within a reasonable time, to be determined by the commissioner. The bill requires the commissioner to promulgate rules and regulations for the collection of these reports and the publication of the data on the department's Internet website. It is the sponsor's view that the publication of a manufacturer's food additive assessment will enable the public to make an informed decision regarding their consumption choices. Finally, the bill provides for the use of the "Penalty Enforcement Law of 1999", P.L.1999 ,c.274 (C.2A:58-10 et seq.), in carrying out the bill's provisions and makes available to the Commissioner of Health the assistance of the Attorney General in recovering penalties, including enforcing an injunction to protect the public interest. The penalties are up to $1,000 for a first offense and up to $5,000 for each subsequent offense. For a violation of a continuing nature, each day constitutes an additional, separate and distinct offense. The bill becomes effective one year after enactment, but permits the Commissioner of Health to take anticipatory action.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 02/04/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Testa (R)*, Owen Henry (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/03/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2712 • Last Action 02/02/2026
Making collective bargaining for school districts subject to the open public meetings act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to make collective bargaining sessions for school districts subject to the Open Public Meetings Act, which generally requires that meetings of public agencies be open to the public. Specifically, it removes an exemption that previously allowed collective bargaining sessions, including contract negotiations, grievance meetings, and discussions about labor agreements, to be held in private. The bill adds a new section requiring school districts to conduct all collective bargaining contract negotiations openly, allowing for public observation in person and through video streaming or playback, and to provide public notice of these negotiations. It also mandates that school districts publish all notes, documentation, and proposals related to collective bargaining on their official websites within two business days of transmission, and to keep final agreements online for their duration. While negotiations must be open, the bill clarifies that this does not require public comment opportunities during negotiations, and it excludes post-negotiation activities like grievance proceedings for individual employees from this open meeting requirement.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to making collective bargaining for school 2 districts subject to the open public meetings act; amending RCW 3 42.30.140; and adding a new section to chapter 41.59 RCW. 4
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• Introduced: 02/02/2026
• Added: 02/03/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Matt Marshall (R)*, Michael Keaton (R), Jeremie Dufault (R), Stephanie McClintock (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/02/2026
• Last Action: First reading, referred to Labor & Workplace Standards.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB541 • Last Action 02/02/2026
California Public Records Act Ombudsperson.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Office of the California Public Records Act Ombudsperson, a new state government position designed to help improve transparency and access to public records. The ombudsperson, who must be a licensed attorney with at least five years of experience and expertise in the California Public Records Act, will be appointed by the Governor and will have the power to review and investigate situations where state agencies have denied public records requests. When a member of the public believes a state agency has improperly denied their original public records request, they can submit a request for review to the ombudsperson, who must then investigate and make a determination within 30 days. If the ombudsperson finds that the agency improperly withheld records, the agency will be required to provide those records. The bill also includes provisions to protect the privacy of individuals whose information might be contained in the reviewed records, and requires the ombudsperson to submit annual reports to the Legislature detailing their activities, the number of review requests, and recommendations for improving government transparency. This office is established on a temporary basis, set to expire on January 1, 2029, and its implementation is subject to legislative appropriation. The overall goal is to provide an additional mechanism for ensuring public access to government records while maintaining necessary confidentiality protections.
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Bill Summary: An act to add and repeal Chapter 6.6 (commencing with Section 8549) of Division 1 of Title 2 of the Government Code, relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Carl DeMaio (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 03/28/2025
• Last Action: From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2161 • Last Action 02/02/2026
To update disability commission chair requirements
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates the rules for local commissions on disability meetings by modifying existing law to allow for more flexible remote participation. Specifically, the legislation changes the requirements for meeting attendance, stating that while a physical quorum (majority) of commissioners is no longer mandatory at the meeting location, at least one commissioner must be physically present. This modification appears designed to provide local disability commissions with greater flexibility in conducting meetings, potentially making it easier for commissioners to participate remotely while still maintaining some in-person presence. The change is being made to section 20(e) of chapter 30A of the Massachusetts General Laws, which governs public meeting procedures, and reflects a broader trend of adapting governmental meeting protocols to accommodate remote work and participation technologies.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to update disability commission chair requirements to reflect that at least one commissioner shall be physically present at the meeting location. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jason Lewis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB684 • Last Action 02/02/2026
University of California: meetings of the Regents.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the definition of "Regents of the University of California" under the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act to include the Academic Senate of the University of California and the Board of Admissions and Relations with Schools. Currently, existing law requires all meetings of the University of California Regents to be open to the public under the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act, which mandates transparency for governmental bodies. By adding the Academic Senate and the Board of Admissions and Relations with Schools to the definition of Regents, the bill ensures that meetings of these bodies will also be subject to the same open meeting requirements. This means that these bodies will need to provide public notice of their meetings, allow public attendance, and maintain minutes, thereby increasing transparency in the decision-making processes of these important University of California advisory and governance groups.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 92030 of the Education Code, relating to the University of California.
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• Introduced: 02/14/2025
• Added: 02/15/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Darshana Patel (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 02/14/2025
• Last Action: From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2491 • Last Action 01/30/2026
Concerning individual privacy by Washington technology solutions through an exemption from public inspection and copying.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance individual privacy by exempting certain information submitted to Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech), a state agency that provides centralized IT services to other government entities, from public inspection and copying. Specifically, it adds a new provision to existing law stating that information submitted to WaTech for the purpose of providing IT services related to "digital experience platform" services—which refers to the agency's online systems, applications, or websites used by the public to access government services—will be exempt from public disclosure. This exemption is intended to protect personal information while allowing WaTech to continue innovating and improving government technology services. The bill also makes conforming amendments to other sections of law, including adding "digital experience platform" to the definitions section of RCW 43.105.020 and explicitly listing this exemption in RCW 42.56.230, which details what types of personal information are already exempt from public records requests.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to protecting individual privacy by Washington 2 technology solutions through an exemption from public inspection and 3 copying; amending RCW 43.105.020 and 43.105.365; reenacting and 4 amending RCW 42.56.230; and creating a new section. 5
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Beth Doglio (D)*, Lisa Parshley (D), Kristine Reeves (D), Julia Reed (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules 2 Review.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00834 • Last Action 01/30/2026
Creates the fundamental right of the people to have access to public information and to be provided notice of and to attend public meetings.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes adding a new constitutional section that establishes a fundamental right of people to access public information and participate in government transparency. Specifically, the bill would create a constitutional guarantee that citizens have the right to inspect and copy government records, as well as be notified about and attend public meetings, with the stipulation that these rights cannot be "unreasonably restricted". The proposed amendment frames access to public information as a critical component of democratic processes and public deliberation. The bill also includes a procedural requirement that the proposed constitutional amendment must be referred to the first regular legislative session after the next general election of assembly members, and must be publicly published for three months prior to that election, in accordance with existing constitutional procedures for amending the state constitution.
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Bill Summary: CONCURRENT RESOLUTION OF THE SENATE AND ASSEMBLY proposing the addition of a new section 20 to article 1 of the constitution in relation to the fundamental right of the people to have access to public information
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Phil Steck (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D), David Weprin (D), Noah Burroughs (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: opinion referred to judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2742 • Last Action 01/29/2026
Enhancing safety and security for candidates and professionals
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance safety and security for candidates, elected officials, and professionals by modifying various sections of Massachusetts state law to protect personal information. The legislation broadly defines "protected persons" as elected officials, political candidates, judges, law enforcement personnel, public prosecutors, public defenders, and state-licensed professionals who may face elevated safety risks. The bill introduces a comprehensive mechanism to prevent the public disclosure of personal information, including residential addresses, home telephone numbers, personal email addresses, and other identifying details. It establishes a process by which individuals can petition to have their personal information protected, with provisions for redacting such information from public records. The bill also creates significant legal consequences for unauthorized disclosure, including potential fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment for up to two and a half years for intentional violations. Additionally, the legislation requires government agencies to remove protected personal information from public listings within 120 days, mandates training for government employees on privacy protection, and requires the creation of educational resources for potential protected persons. The bill is designed as an emergency measure to immediately address safety concerns for individuals in public-facing and potentially high-risk professional roles, with a specific focus on preventing potential harassment, stalking, or other safety threats through the unauthorized sharing of personal contact information.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to enhance safety and security for candidates and professionals. Election Laws.
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• Introduced: 11/20/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Becca Rausch (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 06/23/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see S2918
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2133 • Last Action 01/29/2026
Protecting the privacy of library user data
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Chapter 78 of the Massachusetts General Laws to enhance the privacy protections for library user data. Specifically, the bill adds a new section that explicitly states that library records revealing a user's identity and intellectual interests are not considered public records, which means they cannot be freely accessed by the general public. The only circumstances under which these private library records can be accessed are with a proper judicial warrant issued through chapter 276 or during urgent, legally defined "exigent circumstances" that would justify immediate review. By removing an existing sentence in the original law and inserting this new provision, the bill aims to safeguard the confidentiality of library patrons' research and reading habits, protecting their intellectual privacy from unwarranted scrutiny or disclosure.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to protect the privacy of library user data. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jamie Eldridge (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0812 • Last Action 01/29/2026
An act relating to data loyalty
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Vermont Duty of Data Loyalty Act," establishes new privacy and data security regulations for businesses that collect, process, or transfer personal data of Vermont consumers, referred to as "covered entities" and "trusting parties" respectively. The act defines key terms such as "covered data" (information linked to an individual or device), "sensitive covered data" (including health information, financial accounts, and biometric data), and "cross-context behavioral advertising" (targeting ads based on activity across different websites or apps). It mandates that covered entities owe a "duty of loyalty" to trusting parties, meaning they must not collect or process data in ways that conflict with the best interests of consumers, ensuring a balanced allocation of benefits and risks. The bill requires data minimization, meaning data collection should be limited to what is strictly necessary for a requested product or service or a legitimate business interest. It prohibits cross-context behavioral advertising and deceptive marketing practices, while allowing first-party advertising (advertising by the entity that collected the data directly from the consumer). Furthermore, covered entities must implement reasonable security practices, obtain consent for transferring data to third parties, and provide consumers with rights to access, correct, delete, and export their data, with specific timelines and exceptions for "large data holders" (businesses with significant revenue and data processing). The bill also addresses algorithmic accountability by requiring assessments for algorithms that pose a consequential risk of harm and prohibits retaliation against consumers for exercising their data rights. Finally, it sets an effective date of January 1, 2027, and grants the Attorney General rulemaking authority to implement and enforce these provisions.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to increase privacy protections and data security by regulating how certain businesses store, share, and sell the personal data of Vermont consumers.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Monique Priestley (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/28/2026
• Last Action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Commerce and Economic Development
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H2274 • Last Action 01/29/2026
Authorizing remote participation at town meeting
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Massachusetts law to allow towns with representative or open town meeting forms of government to hold meetings through remote participation or a hybrid of in-person and remote participation. The town moderator (or select board, if there's no moderator) can authorize such meetings in consultation with public safety or health officials. The bill requires a detailed notice explaining the decision, including the technological platform to be used and confirmation of disability and accessibility considerations. The remote participation platform must meet specific requirements, such as: strictly limiting voting to eligible participants, enabling clear audio and visual communication, allowing participants to be recognized by the moderator, facilitating roll call votes, and providing public access. Registered voters must request remote participation at least 48 hours in advance and receive appropriate credentials. Before conducting business, the meeting must vote to confirm the remote or hybrid format. All such meetings must be recorded and the recordings preserved on the town's website for at least 90 days. This legislation aims to provide flexibility for town meetings, particularly in circumstances that might make traditional in-person gatherings challenging, while ensuring transparency, accessibility, and democratic participation.
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Bill Summary: Relative to authorizing any town meeting to be held through remote participation or a hybrid of in-person and remote participation. Municipalities and Regional Government.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Carmine Gentile (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a study order, see H4970
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0836 • Last Action 01/29/2026
An act relating to publicly accessible meetings of hospital boards
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that meetings of hospital boards, which are the governing bodies of hospitals, must be open to the public, allowing for public comment, with specific exceptions for sensitive matters such as contract negotiations, litigation, personnel issues, trade secrets, attorney-client communications, and legally protected confidential information like that covered by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996). Hospital boards are required to provide public notice of meeting schedules and agendas online at least one week and 48 hours in advance, respectively, though emergency meetings allow for notice as soon as possible. All open portions of meetings must be recorded or have minutes taken, with these records posted online within five business days, and minutes must detail attendees, public comments, and actions taken. Board members can participate remotely, but non-unanimous votes must be by roll call, and if a quorum attends remotely, at least one physical location must be provided for public attendance and participation. This act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require hospital board meetings to be open to the public.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Daisy Berbeco (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Health Care
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0820 • Last Action 01/29/2026
An act relating to environmental appeals and enforcement cases
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to transfer the authority for hearing appeals and enforcement cases related to state environmental permits from the Environmental Division of the Superior Court to the Land Use Review Board and the Secretary of Natural Resources, effectively dissolving the Environmental Division's role in these matters. The bill also makes changes to the composition and appointment process of the Land Use Review Board, establishes new procedures for how the Board and the Secretary will handle appeals, including the use of hearing officers, and clarifies the standards for reviewing decisions. Additionally, it outlines a phased transfer of jurisdiction, with the Land Use Review Board taking over Act 250 (a Vermont land use law) appeals by July 1, 2027, and municipal zoning appeals by July 1, 2028, while the Secretary of Natural Resources will assume jurisdiction over agency permit, license, certification, and enforcement appeals by July 1, 2028.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to transfer the authority of the Environmental Division of the Superior Court to hear appeals and enforcement cases related to State environmental permits to the Land Use Review Board and the Secretary of Natural Resources.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Marc Mihaly (D)*, Ashley Bartley (R), Ela Chapin (D), Emilie Krasnow (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Environment
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB463 • Last Action 01/29/2026
Virginia Freedom of Information Act; definitions, meetings, quorum and electronic communication.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to broaden the definition of a "meeting" for public bodies, meaning that any gathering of a quorum, which is the minimum number of members required to conduct official business, of a public body's membership now constitutes a meeting, regardless of whether they are physically present or participating through electronic communication. This change clarifies that even if members are not all in the same physical location, their gathering for the purpose of discussing or transacting public business will be subject to FOIA's transparency requirements. Additionally, the bill allows members of a public body to participate in meetings remotely through electronic communication and still be counted towards a quorum, even if other members are present in person, provided their absence from the physical meeting is due to an approved reason such as a disability, family medical needs, significant distance from the meeting location, or a limited number of personal matters.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; definitions; meetings; quorum and electronic communication. Amends the definition of "meeting" for purposes of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act such that any assemblage of a quorum of the constituent membership of a public body constitutes a meeting. Under current law, as many as three members or a quorum, if less than three, of the constituent membership of a public body constitutes a meeting. The bill additionally authorizes members of a public body participating through electronic communication in a meeting in which other members are participating in person to count toward the quorum as if the individual were physically present, should such member's physical absence be due to an approved cause of absence.
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Laura Jane Cohen (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/12/2026
• Last Action: Continued to next session in General Laws (Voice Vote)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0813 • Last Action 01/29/2026
An act relating to ensuring the same accountability, transparency, and education standards for all schools receiving public funding
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to ensure that all schools receiving public funding, including approved independent schools, are held to the same standards of accountability, transparency, and education. Specifically, it requires these independent schools to comply with existing education quality standards, maintain an open enrollment policy for publicly funded students, and adhere to Vermont's Open Meeting Law and public records access laws. Furthermore, they must establish a proper accounting system, distribute annual budgets to the Agency of Education and local school districts, ensure their buildings are safe and well-maintained, and regulate weapons on school grounds. The bill also mandates the adoption of a truancy policy, the employment of licensed special educators and school nurses, and prohibits charging publicly funded students additional fees beyond what is paid by their sending school districts. Finally, approved independent schools will be required to recognize and bargain in good faith with teacher and administrator organizations, mirroring requirements for public schools.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require approved independent schools to (1) comply with the education quality standards under 16 V.S.A. § 165; (2) maintain an open enrollment policy for publicly tuitioned students; (3) hold meetings of their governing bodies in accordance with Vermont’s Open Meeting Law; (4) agree to comply with access to public records under 1 V.S.A. chapter 5, subchapter 3; (5) establish and maintain an accounting system that meets criteria established by the State H.813 Board; (6) prepare and distribute an annual budget to the Agency of Education and sending school districts; (7) keep school buildings and grounds safe and in good repair; (8) regulate or prohibit firearms or other weapons on school premises; (9) adopt a truancy policy; (10) employ or contract with licensed special educators to meet the needs of enrolled students; (11) employ or contract with a school nurse consistent with the requirements contained in State Board of Education rules; (12) agree not to charge publicly tuitioned students fees or additional tuition above the amount received pursuant to 16 V.S.A. chapter 21 from sending school districts; and (13) recognize and bargain in good faith with teachers’ and administrators’ organizations by complying with the provisions of 16 V.S.A. chapter 57.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 21 : Conor Casey (D)*, Angela Arsenault (D), Sarita Austin (D), Erin Brady (D), Elizabeth Burrows (D), Ela Chapin (D), Edye Graning (D), Jay Hooper (D), Saudia Lamont (D), Kate Logan (D), Jim Masland (D), Jubilee McGill (D), Brian Minier (D), Monique Priestley (D), Barbara Rachelson (D), Laura Sibilia (I), Tom Stevens (D), Mary-Katherine Stone (D), Dara Torre (D), Edward Waszazak (D), David Yacovone (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/28/2026
• Last Action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Education
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NM bill #HB229 • Last Action 01/29/2026
Transparency In Government Contracting
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Transparency in Government Contracting Act, aims to increase public access to information about government contracts. It requires government agencies to make solicitations for bids, proposals, and information publicly available online within a week of issuing them, and to regularly update their websites with contract-related information, including details on emergency or sole-source contracts, while protecting sensitive information like trade secrets. The bill also mandates that government agencies provide a link to their Transparency in Government Contracting Act webpage to the Department of Information Technology. Furthermore, it amends existing law to ensure that the "sunshine portal," a state-run website for financial transparency, will include a directory of links to these government agency webpages. If a government agency knowingly violates these transparency requirements, the contract in question is presumed invalid, and enforcement can be sought through the Attorney General, district attorneys, or directly in district court.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT RELATING TO GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY; ENACTING THE TRANSPARENCY IN GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING ACT; REQUIRING CERTAIN PROCEDURES FOR PROVIDING THE PUBLIC WITH INFORMATION ON GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS; PROVIDING FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF THE TRANSPARENCY IN GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING ACT; PROVIDING FOR A DIRECTORY OF INFORMATION WITHIN THE SUNSHINE PORTAL.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2026
• Added: 01/30/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Randy Pettigrew (R)*, Jimmy Mason (R), John Block (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Action Postponed Indefinitely
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB1999 • Last Action 01/28/2026
Relating To Public Meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to improve public access to information about government meetings by requiring that important details appear at the very beginning of meeting notices. Currently, lengthy procedural information often precedes the actual agenda items, making it difficult for the public, especially individuals with disabilities who may use assistive technologies, to quickly find out what will be discussed. The bill mandates that meeting notices must now prominently display the agenda, the date, time, and location of the meeting, information on where to view the board packet (a collection of documents related to the meeting), contact details for submitting testimony, and clear instructions on how to request accommodations for disabilities, including any deadlines for such requests. This change is intended to ensure that essential information is immediately accessible, promoting transparency and equitable participation in public meetings.
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Bill Summary: Requires certain information to appear at the beginning of notices for public meetings.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Jenna Takenouchi (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Ikaika Olds (D)*, Gregg Takayama (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/23/2026
• Last Action: Referred to JHA, referral sheet 3
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB4864 • Last Action 01/28/2026
Providing for election reform and protections
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to reform election processes and enhance protections by defining "Public Election Related Information and Data" to include all data within election management systems, such as cast vote records (CVRs), and making it publicly accessible through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), with specific exemptions from FOIA being declared inapplicable for this data. It mandates the maintenance of this election data, including CVRs, without alteration and requires its preservation for at least five years, and also introduces restrictions on electronic voting systems that are owned or produced by foreign entities or manufactured abroad, mandating hand counting of paper ballots if such systems are disapproved. Furthermore, the bill requires random annual physical and internal code inspections of all electronic voting equipment to ensure they lack wireless connectivity, do not contain vote-manipulating algorithms, and only count votes in whole numbers, and establishes procedures for investigating allegations of election fraud, including the involvement of county sheriffs and potential forensic investigations.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to provide for election reform. The bill defines "Public Election Related Information and Data." The bill allows for the public disclosure of this data through the Freedom of Information Act. The bill provides for the maintenance of Public Election Related Information and Data including cast vote records. The bill provides for restrictions of certain electronic software voting systems and contingent hand counting procedures. Finally, the bill provides for the random physical inspection of electronic voting systems.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Jim Butler (R)*, Margitta Mazzocchi (R), Geno Chiarelli (R), Scot Heckert (R), Mark Dean (R), Bill Ridenour (R), Larry Kump (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/28/2026
• Last Action: To House Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3205 • Last Action 01/28/2026
Establishes Open Public Records Act Study Commission.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes an 11-member Open Public Records Act Study Commission, tasked with examining how the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), a law designed to give citizens access to government records, is currently being used and implemented. The commission will review OPRA's effectiveness, consider how technology, court decisions, and administrative rulings have affected it, and analyze the balance between public access and individual privacy rights, as well as its use for commercial purposes. It will also research how other states handle public records requests and make recommendations for improving OPRA. The commission, composed of members appointed by the Senate President, Speaker of the General Assembly, and the Governor, will include individuals with expertise in government records, law enforcement, municipal administration, and privacy. The commission must report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature and the Governor within one year of its first meeting and will dissolve 30 days after submitting its report.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes an 11 member commission, to be known as the Open Public Records Act Study Commission. The study commission will examine how the open public records act, OPRA, is implemented and utilized in actual day-to-day situations. At a minimum, the commission will: review OPRA and examine how the statute compares with actual operation and use; evaluate how advancements in technology, administrative decisions, and court rulings have impacted OPRA; analyze how OPRA requests are balanced with the public's right to privacy; examine how OPRA has been used for commercial, marketing, business, and research purposes; research public records statutes and their operation and use, both positive and negative, of other states; consider such other matters relating to OPRA as the members of the commission may deem appropriate; and make recommendations for legislation or such other action as it deems appropriate with regard to improving, expanding, and facilitating OPRA. The commission will report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature and the Governor within one year of its initial organizational meeting. The commission will expire 30 days after submission of its findings and recommendations to the Legislature and the Governor. This bill is a recommendation of the League of Municipalities 2018 Conference.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Kristin Corrado (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/29/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1340 • Last Action 01/28/2026
Public records; digital media; copies
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona Revised Statutes section 39-101 to allow permanent public records to be kept on digital media in addition to paper or other durable materials, provided the digital medium meets standards set by the director of the Arizona state library, archives, and public records, which will be considered of durable or permanent quality. It also clarifies that permanent public records transcribed or kept in these formats must be stored according to established standards. Furthermore, the bill permits public officers to destroy original paper records after creating a certified compliant digital copy and completing any necessary notification procedures. Violating these provisions remains a class 2 misdemeanor.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending section 39-101, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2026
• Added: 01/23/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : T.J. Shope (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/22/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1106 • Last Action 01/28/2026
ADVISORY COMMITTEE SPECIAL ED
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Local Advisory Committees on Special Education Act, which requires school districts or regional cooperative programs to create local advisory committees on special education when requested by more than three parents or guardians of students receiving special education services. The committees will primarily consist of parents or guardians of students with disabilities (with at least 50% directly selected by these parents), and must also include at least one individual with a disability, a public school administrator, a special education teacher, and other community members. These committees will have key responsibilities including providing recommendations about unmet needs of students with disabilities, reviewing school improvement plans, monitoring compliance with state and federal special education laws, offering input on funding applications, and serving as advocates for students with disabilities. School districts must provide logistical and technical support to these committees, including access to training and relevant records, and must notify parents about the committee's existence and purpose. The committees must meet at least four times annually, with meetings that are publicly announced and open to the public, and official minutes must be maintained. Committee members will serve without pay but may be reimbursed for necessary expenses. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to enhance parental involvement and oversight in special education services.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Local Advisory Committees on Special Education Act. Allows each school district or regional cooperative program providing special education services to establish and appoint a local advisory committee on special education if a local advisory committee is requested by more than 3 parents or guardians of the students receiving the services. Establishes the membership and responsibilities of a local advisory committee and the duties of the school district or regional cooperative program. Provides that members of a local advisory committee shall serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. Makes other changes. Effective July 1, 2026.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Jed Davis (R)*, Nicole La Ha (R), Jennifer Sanalitro (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Jennifer Sanalitro
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ID bill #H0537 • Last Action 01/28/2026
Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding requirements for open public meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Idaho's Open Meetings Law to ensure that all public meetings held by governing bodies allow for public comment, either in person or through various communication technologies like telephone, video conferencing, or the internet. It requires that when a meeting's time or agenda is announced, the methods for public access and comment must also be provided, and the agenda should include opportunities for remote participation. If technical issues prevent remote access or comment, the governing body must make reasonable efforts to fix them before proceeding. Public comments cannot be required in advance, and if a timed comment period is offered, it cannot be closed early. For meetings without timed comment periods, a reasonable amount of time must be allocated per agenda item for public input. These new provisions do not apply to special meetings called under a specific section of the law. The bill also declares an emergency, making these changes effective on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: RELATING TO THE OPEN MEETINGS LAW; AMENDING SECTION 74-203, IDAHO CODE, TO PROVIDE THAT ALL OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS SHALL ALLOW FOR PUBLIC COMMENT, TO PROVIDE CERTAIN REQUIREMENTS, AND TO PROVIDE AN EXCEPTION; AND DECLAR- ING AN EMERGENCY AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
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• Introduced: 01/27/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government Committee
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/27/2026
• Last Action: Reported Printed and Referred to State Affairs
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #SB615 • Last Action 01/28/2026
Consumer Data Protection Act; online device pricing, prohibition.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Consumer Data Protection Act, prohibits companies from using certain information from a consumer's online device to determine the price offered for a product or service. Specifically, it prevents businesses (referred to as "controllers" or "processors" in data protection terms) from setting prices based on the device's hardware or its current condition (its "hardware state"), whether certain software is installed or not, or precise location data if it's used to make assumptions about the consumer. The bill defines "online device" as any internet-connected object like a laptop, tablet, or phone, and "consumer transaction" as any exchange involving a consumer and a business. However, there are exceptions, such as when pricing is based on the device's hardware for repairs or trade-in value, or when precise location data is used to reflect real-time demand in an area or legitimate cost differences like taxes. Additionally, general discounts, coupons, or promotions offered to the public on the same terms are not affected, as long as they don't incorporate the prohibited data points.
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Bill Summary: Consumer Data Protection Act; online device pricing; prohibition. Provides that no controller or processor shall, in connection with a consumer transaction, generate, in whole or in part, a price offered to a consumer through the consumer's online device based on (i) the hardware or hardware state of the online device, as those terms are defined in the bill, (ii) the presence or absence of any software on the online device, or (iii) precise geolocation data of the online device when used to set a price based on inferences about the consumer made from such data. The bill provides for exemptions in certain instances.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 01/20/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Stella Pekarsky (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Continued to next session in General Laws and Technology (15-Y 0-N)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0791 • Last Action 01/28/2026
An act relating to State government and information privacy
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Vermont Government Data Practices Act," establishes new standards for how State government agencies handle personal information of Vermonters, defining "personal information" broadly to include identifiers like names and addresses, sensitive data like health and genetic information, and even "neural data" (information derived from nervous system activity). Agencies are required to collect personal information directly from individuals whenever possible, maintain its accuracy, and only store what is relevant and necessary for legitimate purposes or as required by law. The bill outlines specific circumstances under which agencies can disclose personal information, generally requiring individual consent or a clear legal basis, and prohibits the commercial sale of personal information. It grants individuals the right to access and request amendments to their own records, with provisions for appeals and exemptions for certain law enforcement or investigative information. The bill also mandates agencies to implement safeguards for data security, report data breaches, and establishes penalties for violations, including civil actions for damages and potential disciplinary action or criminal charges for employees. The Agency of Administration is tasked with creating rules to implement these provisions by March 1, 2027, with the act taking effect on July 1, 2027, except for rulemaking provisions which take effect upon passage.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to set privacy standards for the State government in regard to the storage of, access to, and disclosure of personal information of Vermonters.
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• Introduced: 01/27/2026
• Added: 01/27/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 21 : Monique Priestley (D)*, Daisy Berbeco (D), Elizabeth Burrows (D), Esme Cole (D), Anne Donahue (I), Edye Graning (D), Troy Headrick (D), Rebecca Holcombe (D), Bram Kleppner (D), Kate McCann (D), Jubilee McGill (D), Mike Mrowicki (D), Kate Nugent (D), Carol Ode (D), Phil Pouech (D), Barbara Rachelson (D), Robin Scheu (D), Laura Sibilia (I), Shawn Sweeney (D), Chloe Tomlinson (D), Dara Torre (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/27/2026
• Last Action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Energy and Digital Infrastructure
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2356 • Last Action 01/28/2026
Concerning public records concerning homicide cases.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law regarding public records, specifically concerning homicide cases. It allows for the examination of public records to be temporarily blocked, or "enjoined," if a court finds that releasing the record would not be in the public interest and would cause significant and irreparable harm to an individual or vital government functions. The bill introduces a new provision that permits the victim's next of kin, or their legal guardian if the victim is a minor, to request such an injunction for public records related to a homicide investigation. "Next of kin" is defined to include a victim's spouse, state-registered domestic partner, parents, siblings, or children, provided they are not the perpetrator of the crime. This change provides a mechanism for families to potentially protect their privacy and prevent further distress in the aftermath of a homicide.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to public records concerning homicide cases; and 2 amending RCW 42.56.540. 3
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Dave Paul (D)*, Brian Burnett (R), Clyde Shavers (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: Public hearing in the House Committee on State Government & Tribal Relations at 1:30 PM.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2138 • Last Action 01/27/2026
Makes changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to the state's Access to Public Records Act, aiming to increase transparency and accountability. It clarifies existing provisions, strengthens penalties for knowing and willful violations of the law by increasing civil fines for public officials from $2,000 to $4,000 for knowing violations and from $1,000 to $2,000 for reckless violations, and makes certain previously restricted information publicly accessible. Specifically, traffic accident data, which was previously protected under federal law from discovery in damages actions, will now be considered public records, though its use for those prohibited purposes remains restricted. Additionally, information about individuals who obtain preferred license plates, defined as plates with one to four digits or a combination of letters and digits approved by the governor's office, will also be made public, provided it doesn't violate federal privacy laws. The bill also expands public access to police records, including reports of incidents that do not lead to an arrest, final internal affairs investigation reports (with personal identifiers redacted if they constitute an unwarranted invasion of privacy), and all police-worn body camera footage, which must be made available within 30 days of a request. The timeframe for making arrest logs public has been extended from five to thirty days after an arrest. The bill also introduces provisions to address "vexatious requests" filed with the intent to disrupt government operations, allowing public bodies to seek court orders to be relieved of fulfilling such requests under specific circumstances, and establishes a process for fee waivers for public interest requests. Finally, it amends the 911 Emergency Telephone Number Act to allow for the release of call recordings to the caller, individuals heard on the call, or the subject of the call or their next of kin, under certain conditions.
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Bill Summary: This act would make numerous changes to the access to public records act, including clarifying various provisions, increasing the sanctions for knowing and willful violations of the law, and making certain traffic accident data and preferred license plate information public. Additionally, this act would include a police report of an incident that does not lead to an arrest as accessible to public records request. Any final reports of investigations conducted by internal affairs would be accessible to public records request. All police worn body camera footage would be accessible to public records request and would be made available within thirty (30) days. Arrest logs made within thirty (30) days of arrest, changed from five (5) days previously, would be accessible to public records request. A civil fine for public officials who knowingly violate this chapter would increase from two thousand dollars ($2,000) to four thousand dollars ($4,000), and if a public official recklessly violates this chapter a fine of two thousand dollars ($2,000) this is a change from one thousand dollars ($1,000) previously. There would also be relief in the case of a person filing frivolous request with the intent to disrupt government operations. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 01/17/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Meghan Kallman (D)*, Lou DiPalma (D), Bob Britto (D), Ryan Pearson (D), Mark McKenney (D), Pam Lauria (D), Alana DiMario (D), Bridget Valverde (D), Dawn Euer (D), Victoria Gu (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn at sponsor's request
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7304 • Last Action 01/27/2026
Allows a pregnant member or member that has given birth in the past six (6) months to appear remotely and permits any member that participates in a meeting remotely to vote at that meeting, provided that the meeting is held in person.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law regarding open meetings to allow any member of a public body who is pregnant or has given birth within the past six months to participate in meetings remotely using electronic or telephone communication, following a specific process. Furthermore, it permits any member participating remotely in an in-person meeting to cast their vote through electronic or telephone means, with these changes taking effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would allow a pregnant member or a member that has given birth in the past six (6) months to appear remotely to participate in a public body meeting. This act would further permit any member that participates in a meeting remotely to also vote remotely at that meeting, provided that the meeting is held in person. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2026
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Katie Kazarian (D)*, Jennifer Stewart (D), Karen Alzate (D), Julie Casimiro (D), Brandon Voas (D), Brandon Potter (D), Matthew Dawson (D), Jennifer Boylan (D), Jenni Azanero Furtado (D), Joseph Solomon (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/23/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #H7136 • Last Action 01/27/2026
Allows school committees to add item(s) not appearing in the published notice to their agendas for the purposes of discussion only and not for the purpose of voting upon the item(s).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Rhode Island's Open Meetings law to allow school committees to add new items to their meeting agendas for discussion only, even if those items were not included in the original published notice. Previously, school committees could only add items for informational purposes if requested by a member of the public during a public comment session, and these items could not be voted on unless they were posted according to specific rules or were necessary to address an unexpected, urgent situation. This bill simplifies that process by permitting school committees to add items for discussion without a prior public request, as long as the added items are strictly for discussion and not for voting, and it will take effect immediately upon being passed.
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Bill Summary: This act would allow school committees to add item(s) not appearing in the published notice to their agendas for the purposes of discussion only and not for the purpose of voting upon the item(s). This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Jay Edwards (D)*, David Bennett (D), Terri Cortvriend (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #HB989 • Last Action 01/27/2026
Education; public comment periods during meetings of local boards of education; provide
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that local boards of education in Georgia must provide a public comment period during their regular monthly meetings, and may offer them at other meetings as well. These public comment periods must be recorded or broadcast in the same way as the rest of the public portions of the meetings, including visual and sound recording and broadcasting, such as webcasting. The bill also clarifies that individuals do not need to provide more than 24 hours' notice to speak during these comment periods, though the chairperson can limit the length of individual comments and the number of speakers on a particular issue. Public comment periods for regular monthly meetings must be included on the meeting agenda, which is required to be posted publicly beforehand. The bill also updates rules regarding the removal of disruptive individuals from meetings and requires boards to adopt and publish rules of conduct for their public meetings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Article 3 of Chapter 2 of Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to local boards of education, so as to provide for public comment periods during meetings of local boards of education; to provide for public broadcasts of such meetings and public comment periods; to require local boards of education to record or broadcast public comment periods in the same manner and to the same extent as the remainder of the public portions of meetings; to provide for notice; to provide for limitations; to provide for agenda; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : David Wilkerson (D)*, Mekyah McQueen (D)*, Solomon Adesanya (D)*, Mary Frances Williams (D)*, Jordan Ridley (R)*, Lisa Campbell (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: House Second Readers
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H4858 • Last Action 01/27/2026
To update expungement
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates Massachusetts law regarding the confidentiality and accessibility of sealed and expunged criminal records. The legislation modifies Chapter 276 of the General Laws to clarify that records sealed under sections 100A, 100B, or 100C, and records expunged under sections 100F, 100G, 100H, or 100K, cannot be made available for inspection by any person. However, the bill maintains an important exception that allows for the maintenance of statistical or research-related information about an offense, provided that the information cannot be used to identify the specific individual involved. Additionally, the bill makes a technical amendment to section 100T to include section 100C alongside sections 100A and 100B, which likely ensures consistent legal treatment across these record-sealing provisions. These changes aim to protect individuals' privacy by strictly limiting access to sealed and expunged criminal records while still allowing for broader statistical research purposes.
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Bill Summary: To update expungement
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• Introduced: 12/31/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : Joint Committee on the Judiciary
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 12/31/2025
• Last Action: Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IN bill #HB1311 • Last Action 01/27/2026
Obtaining copies of recorded documents.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Indiana law to clarify the process for obtaining copies of recorded documents, specifically by prohibiting individuals from using their own equipment to copy documents recorded in the office of the county recorder. It also mandates that a county recorder must charge the fees for copying documents as outlined in the county recorder's statutes. These changes aim to standardize and regulate the copying of official records, ensuring that fees are collected according to established legal guidelines and preventing unauthorized duplication of sensitive documents.
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Bill Summary: Obtaining copies of recorded documents. Prohibits a person from using the person's own equipment to copy a recorded document. Specifies that a county recorder is required to charge the fees in the county recorder's statutes for copying documents.
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Jenny Meltzer (R)*, Alex Zimmerman (R), Jean Leising (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: First reading: referred to Committee on Local Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB2391 • Last Action 01/27/2026
Concerning disclosure of lists of individuals under the public records act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56.070) to clarify restrictions on the disclosure of lists of individuals. Specifically, it prohibits agencies, the secretary of the senate, and the chief clerk of the house of representatives from providing, selling, or giving access to lists of individuals for commercial, solicitation, or fundraising purposes, unless a law specifically authorizes it. The bill defines "solicitation" as requesting or seeking something, but clarifies that this definition does not include efforts by a labor organization to contact public employees for the purpose of collective bargaining representation. However, lists of applicants for professional licenses and of professional licensees will still be available to recognized professional associations or educational organizations upon payment of a reasonable charge, with refusal of recognition only allowed for good cause after a hearing under the administrative procedure act (chapter 34.05 RCW).
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to disclosure of lists of individuals under the 2 public records act; and amending RCW 42.56.070. 3
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Beth Doglio (D)*, Lisa Parshley (D), Alex Ramel (D), Mary Fosse (D), Gerry Pollet (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: House Committee on State Government & Tribal Relations Public Hearing (13:30:00 1/27/2026 House Committee on State Government & Tribal Relations)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #HB304 • Last Action 01/27/2026
Public Information Act - Data Manipulation
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that when a government entity, referred to as a "custodian," responds to a request for public information under the Public Information Act, performing certain data manipulation tasks like data compilation, extraction, querying, or statistical aggregation does not create a new public record. This is important because existing law generally requires custodians to provide public records, and this bill ensures that routine data processing to fulfill a request, even if it involves organizing or summarizing data, is not considered the creation of a new record that would then be subject to separate disclosure requirements. The bill also specifies that this clarification applies if the requested data manipulation is something the government's records database is capable of performing.
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Bill Summary: Establishing that a new public record is not created if, in responding to a certain request under the Public Information Act, a custodian conducts certain data manipulation.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Robin Grammer (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: House Government, Labor, and Elections Hearing (14:00:00 1/27/2026 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2630 • Last Action 01/26/2026
Election officers; privacy protections
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands privacy protections for election officers by redefining "election officer" to include any individual assigned official election duties by the state or a political subdivision, regardless of whether they hold a specific certificate. This change impacts laws concerning the confidentiality of records maintained by county recorders, assessors, and treasurers, as well as the prohibition of making personal information of certain officials available online, and the sealing of voter registration records. The bill also creates a new law making it a misdemeanor to knowingly and without consent release an election officer's personal information if it poses an imminent threat to their safety or that of their family or household members. These provisions aim to protect individuals performing election duties from potential harm due to the public release of their personal information.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 11-483, 11-484, 13-2401 and 16-153, Arizona Revised Statutes; amending title 16, chapter 7, article 1, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 16-1025; amending sections 28-454, 39-123 and 39-124, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to election officers.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 9 : Lorena Austin (D)*, Anna Abeytia (D), Cesar Aguilar (D), Junelle Cavero (D), Quantá Crews (D), Brian Garcia (D), Nancy Gutierrez (D), Sarah Liguori (D), Betty Villegas (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: House read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03451 • Last Action 01/23/2026
Relates to the establishment of a wage data clearinghouse to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of workforce development and education programs in the state.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a wage data clearinghouse, which will use existing unemployment insurance data and other labor, education, and workforce development information to assess how well workforce development and education programs are working in the long term, and to identify any gaps in training that don't meet job needs. The clearinghouse will be managed by an academic institution with expertise in labor data analysis, selected through a competitive process, and will receive up to $600,000 annually for operations, with any unused funds carrying over. The Department of Labor will provide the clearinghouse with all available unemployment insurance and wage data, and all employees working with this data must adhere to strict privacy requirements. A statewide advisory board, composed of representatives from various state agencies, educational institutions, and the public, will set the clearinghouse's research priorities. The clearinghouse will safeguard private information and only use data to improve workforce development efforts, releasing reports and aggregated data that will be publicly posted. The Department of Labor will also submit an evaluation of the program every four years, starting one year after the academic institution is selected.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the labor law, in relation to the establishment of a wage data clearinghouse
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• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 01/24/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Harry Bronson (D)*, William Colton (D), Stefani Zinerman (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/27/2025
• Last Action: print number 3451a
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF2136 • Last Action 01/22/2026
A bill for an act relating to the confidentiality of library records of a minor.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to clarify the confidentiality of library records, specifically concerning minors. Previously, library records that could identify a patron were kept confidential unless a court, the library custodian, or an authorized person released them, and law enforcement could access them for investigations if there was a strong, compelling need and a rational connection to a crime. This bill adds a provision allowing library records to be released to the parent or guardian of a minor child upon their request, while maintaining the existing protections for criminal or juvenile justice investigations.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to the confidentiality of library records of a minor. Under Code section 22.7 (confidential records), library records which, by themselves or when examined with other public records, would reveal the identity of the library patron checking out or requesting an item or information from the library shall be kept confidential unless otherwise allowed by a court, by the lawful custodian of the records, or by another person duly authorized to release such information. However, library records may be released to a criminal or juvenile justice agency only pursuant to an investigation of a particular person or organization suspected of committing a known crime and only upon a judicial determination that a rational connection exists between the requested release of information and a legitimate end and that the need for the information is cogent and compelling. The bill also provides for the release of library records to the parent or guardian of a library patron who is a minor child upon the request of the parent or guardian.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dean Fisher (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/21/2026
• Last Action: Subcommittee: Wheeler, Henderson and McBurney. H.J. 146.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB963 • Last Action 01/22/2026
Public works: prevailing wages: access to records.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill adds a new section to California labor law that requires owners or developers of public works projects to make certain records available upon request to the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement, Taft-Hartley trust funds (multi-employer pension and benefit plans), and joint labor-management committees. The records that must be provided include bid requests, bid lists, executed construction contracts, contractor and subcontractor names and license numbers, payroll records, and monthly reports about skilled workforce commitments. The bill establishes a 30-day timeline for owners or developers to respond to record requests, with potential penalties for non-compliance. These penalties can range from $100 to $500 per calendar day for each worker, depending on the type of records not provided. The records must be redacted only to protect social security numbers, and pricing or proprietary information can be withheld, but contractor names and wage-related contract terms cannot be redacted. Requests for records must be made within three years of project completion, and the Director of Industrial Relations is required to create rules governing record release. The law applies to projects first advertised for bid or executed on or after January 1, 2026, and is designed to increase transparency and enforcement of prevailing wage requirements in public works projects.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Section 1776.1 to the Labor Code, relating to public works.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Cottie Petrie-Norris (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 9 • Actions: 40
• Last Amended: 09/16/2025
• Last Action: Consideration of Governor's veto stricken from file.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VA bill #HB160 • Last Action 01/22/2026
FOIA; officers, employees, or members of a public body, alleged willful and knowing violations.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to clarify when civil penalties can be imposed on individuals within public bodies for alleged willful and knowing violations of the Act. Specifically, it states that civil penalties can only be applied to officers, employees, or members of a public body when they are sued in their individual capacity for certain FOIA violations. Furthermore, when a court is deciding if such an individual willfully and knowingly violated FOIA, it must consider mitigating factors, such as whether the person acted in good faith reliance on opinions from the Attorney General, court cases that support their actions, advisory opinions from the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council, or advice from the public body's legal counsel. This aims to provide a defense for individuals who made reasonable efforts to comply with FOIA but may have inadvertently made a mistake.
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Bill Summary: Virginia Freedom of Information Act; officers, employees, or members of a public body; alleged willful and knowing violations; mitigating factors to be considered. Specifies that civil penalties may only be imposed on officers, employees, or members of a public body in actions brought against them in their individual capacity for certain violations of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The bill further requires a court, when determining whether an officer, an employee, or a member of a public body has committed certain violations of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act willfully and knowingly, to consider certain mitigating factors, including good faith reliance on (i) opinions of the Attorney General; (ii) court cases substantially supporting such officer's, employee's, or member's actions; (iii) advisory opinions of the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council; and (iv) advice of counsel for the public body, as evidence that such officer, employee, or member did not willfully and knowingly commit such violation. Current law provides any officer, employee, or member of a public body the right to introduce at any proceeding regarding such willful and knowing violation a copy of a relevant advisory opinion issued by the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council. This bill is a recommendation of the Boyd-Graves Conference.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Marcus Simon (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Continued to next session in General Laws (Voice Vote)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1689 • Last Action 01/21/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5; Title 12; Title 37, Chapter 2, Part 4; Title 39; Title 47, Chapter 18, Part 33; Title 49, Chapter 7, Part 8; Title 55, Chapter 25; Title 62, Chapter 36; Title 63, Chapter 10, Part 4; Title 66, Chapter 29, Part 1 and Title 68, Chapter 18, Part 2, relative to public records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new offense in Tennessee law that prohibits individuals from using or selling personal identifying information, such as home and work addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers, that they obtain from a governmental entity for commercial purposes. A governmental entity is defined as the state or any of its political subdivisions like counties or cities. Before obtaining such information, individuals must sign an affidavit, prescribed by the office of open records counsel, affirming that they will not use or sell the information for commercial use. Violating this provision is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of $500, and each individual whose information is misused constitutes a separate offense. This law does not apply if the individual whose information is being used expressly authorizes its commercial use. The bill also references existing protections under the Tennessee Information Protection Act.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, creates an offense for using or selling an individual's personal identifying information obtained from a governmental entity for commercial use, punishable as a Class B misdemeanor.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Richard Briggs (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/10/2026
• Last Action: Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1185 • Last Action 01/21/2026
Public notices; publication; errors; omissions
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill, by adding section 9-500.54 to Arizona Revised Statutes, clarifies that minor errors or omissions in legally required public notices will not invalidate those notices, allowing the relevant "public body" (defined as a governmental entity like a city or county) to proceed with the matter if a corrected notice is posted on the public body's official website at least five days before any scheduled hearing. Importantly, the bill states that once a corrected notice is posted online, it does not need to be re-published in its entirety, aiming to streamline the process for public bodies while still ensuring public awareness.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending title 9, chapter 4, article 8, arizona revised statutes, by adding section 9-500.54; relating to public notices.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/31/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : John Kavanagh (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2613 • Last Action 01/21/2026
Homeowners' association; virtual meetings; proxies
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows homeowners' associations (HOAs) in Arizona to conduct meetings, including those of the board of directors and general member meetings, using online or virtual platforms, provided they still adhere to existing notice and open meeting requirements. It also modifies rules regarding voting by proxy and absentee ballots for planned communities, clarifying that after a developer's control period ends, votes generally cannot be cast by proxy, but must be in person, by absentee ballot, or by written ballot for virtual meetings, with specific requirements for ballot content and delivery. Additionally, the bill clarifies that for planned communities, the quorum for an annual meeting is one-tenth of the total votes unless the community documents specify a lower amount, and it permits the use of written consent for certain actions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 33-1248, 33-1250, 33-1804 and 33-1812, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to property.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2026
• Added: 01/16/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Walt Blackman (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2026
• Last Action: House read second time
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AL bill #SB157 • Last Action 01/21/2026
Public records; footage from law enforcement body-worn cameras or dashboard cameras, designated as public record
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Alabama law to designate footage from law enforcement body-worn cameras and dashboard cameras as public records, meaning they are generally available for public inspection. The bill clarifies definitions for terms like "body-worn camera," "custodial law enforcement agency" (the agency that owns or operates the recording equipment), and "recording" (which now broadly includes visual, audio, or both captured by law enforcement during their duties, excluding internal investigations or suspect interviews). Importantly, the bill removes previous restrictions that limited disclosure only to individuals directly involved in the recording or their representatives, and instead states that such recordings are public records subject to inspection under existing public records laws, specifically referencing Section 36-12-40. While recordings are now public records, law enforcement agencies can deny release if it would "substantially interfere" with an ongoing investigation or prosecution, such as endangering a witness. Individuals whose requests are denied can seek judicial review. The bill also establishes a 30-day timeframe for agencies to respond to requests for recordings and allows them to charge a reasonable fee for production and redaction, with the effective date set for October 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Public records; footage from law enforcement body-worn cameras or dashboard cameras, designated as public record
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Merika Coleman (D)*, Vivian Figures (D), Rob Stewart (D), Rodger Smitherman (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Senate Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Safety Hearing (14:00:00 1/21/2026 Finance and Taxation)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H4728 • Last Action 01/20/2026
FOIA fees
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to clarify that members of the General Assembly must receive copies of records or documents at no charge when their request is related to their legislative duties. The bill modifies existing provisions about public body record fees, maintaining the current guidelines that fees cannot exceed the actual cost of search, retrieval, and redaction, with fees based on the prorated hourly salary of the lowest-paid employee capable of fulfilling the request. The amendment specifically changes the language from "may receive" to "must receive" copies at no charge for legislative-related requests, ensuring that state legislators can access documents necessary for their official work without incurring costs. The bill preserves other existing provisions about fee structures, such as uniform copy charges, electronic format considerations, and the ability to waive fees when the request primarily benefits the public. The legislation will take effect upon the Governor's approval.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Section 30-4-30, Relating To Fees For Records That Public Bodies May Establish And Collect Under The Freedom Of Information Act, So As To Provide Members Of The General Assembly Must Receive Copies Of Records Or Documents At No Charge For Requests Relating To Their Legislative Duties.
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• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Stephen Frank (R)*, Sarita Edgerton (R), Joe White (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 12/17/2025
• Last Action: Member(s) request name added as sponsor: White
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB4598 • Last Action 01/20/2026
Change Audit Log for annual subscription with Secretary of State
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Secretary of State to include "change audit data," which refers to any recorded modifications, updates, or revisions to a voter's record, as part of the information provided through their annual $1,000 subscription service for voter registration data, starting January 1, 2027. This change aims to enhance transparency and accountability by giving subscribers comprehensive access to government records, including the reason for and date of any changes made to voter registration information, and clarifies that this subscription service will provide 12 months of monthly data files.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to update the voter list information for noncommercial use by requiring the inclusion of change audit data as part of the information provided in the voter lists for the election cycle subscription service.
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• Introduced: 01/20/2026
• Added: 01/20/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Tresa Howell (R)*, Buck Jennings (R), Rick Hillenbrand (R), Dana Ferrell (R), Laura Kimble (R), Margitta Mazzocchi (R), Lisa White (R), Kathie Crouse (R), Marshall Clay (R), Eric Brooks (R), Josh Holstein (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/20/2026
• Last Action: To House Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1151 • Last Action 01/20/2026
Homeowners' associations; open meetings
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill, concerning condominiums and planned communities in Arizona, aims to enhance transparency and participation in homeowners' associations (HOAs) by updating regulations on meetings and board responsibilities. Key provisions include defining "meeting" to encompass in-person and technological gatherings where association business is discussed or acted upon, and mandating that all formal meetings of the HOA board, committees, and unit owners be open to all members or their designated representatives after the period of declarant control (when the original developer no longer controls the association). The bill also clarifies rules for recording meetings, allows for closed sessions only for specific matters like legal advice or personnel issues, and requires advance notice and agendas for open board and committee meetings. Furthermore, it modifies procedures for calling special meetings to remove board members and introduces new sections detailing quorum requirements for association and board meetings, ensuring that meetings are conducted in a manner that promotes informed participation and accountability.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 33-1202, 33-1243, 33-1248, 33-1249, 33-1802 and 33-1804, Arizona Revised Statutes; amending title 33, chapter 16, article 1, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 33-1804.01; amending section 33-1813, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to condominiums and planned communities.
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 2 : Wendy Rogers (R)*, Mark Finchem (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/12/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SD bill #SB13 • Last Action 01/16/2026
Clarify application of the seventy-two hour notice requirement to website posting.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies and updates the requirements for public notice of government meetings in South Dakota by modifying existing law to explicitly require that meeting agendas be posted both at the principal office of the board, commission, or department and on a state website designated by the Bureau of Finance and Management. The bill mandates that proposed agendas must include the date, time, and location of the meeting, and must be posted at least 72 hours before the meeting starts, excluding weekends and legal holidays. For special or rescheduled meetings, the bill requires that notice be delivered to local news media via in-person communication, mail, email, or telephone, and that public notice be provided as circumstances allow. The bill also maintains the existing penalty of a Class 2 misdemeanor for violations of these notice requirements, while making the language more precise by replacing words like "shall" with "must" and adding clarity about the specific notification methods and locations.
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Bill Summary: An Act to clarify application of the seventy-two hour notice requirement to website posting.
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• Introduced: 12/26/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 20 : Mary Fitzgerald (R)*, Tim Reed (R)*, Heather Baxter (R), John Carley (R), Casey Crabtree (R), Roger Degroot (R), Eric Emery (D), Tim Goodwin (R), Mellissa Heermann (R), Kevin Jensen (R), David Kull (R), Liz Larson (D), Scott Moore (R), Erik Muckey (D), Rebecca Reimer (R), Nicole Uhre-Balk (D), Matt Roby (R), Michael Rohl (R), Jamie Smith (D), Glen Vilhauer (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 12/26/2025
• Last Action: Withdrawn at the Request of the Prime Sponsor S.J. 60
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
RI bill #S2152 • Last Action 01/16/2026
Requires public bodies to offer translation services for all open meetings of said bodies.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all public bodies, which are government entities that conduct official business, to create and implement a plan to provide translation and interpretation services for their open meetings, ensuring that proceedings are accessible to individuals in a language they understand, upon request, with the plan needing to be in place by September 1, 2027, and the act itself taking effect immediately upon its passage.
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Bill Summary: This act would require public bodies to offer translation services for all open meetings of said bodies. This act would take effect upon passage.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Jacob Bissaillon (D)*, Sam Bell (D), Alana DiMario (D), Lori Urso (D), Stefano Famiglietti (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/16/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1836 • Last Action 01/16/2026
EAVESDROP-STATEWIDE GRAND JURY
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Clean Slate Act, which creates an automatic record sealing system for certain criminal records in Illinois. The bill amends the Criminal Identification Act and the Juvenile Court Act to automatically seal criminal records without requiring individuals to file a petition. Beginning January 1, 2029, the Illinois State Police will identify and automatically seal eligible records, including those for arrests resulting in release without charging, acquittals, dismissals, certain supervision orders, and some misdemeanor and felony convictions. The bill creates specific timelines for sealing records based on their creation date and establishes eligibility criteria, with some exceptions for serious violent offenses and crimes requiring public registration. The bill also creates an Illinois Clean Slate Task Force to monitor the implementation of the automated sealing process, composed of representatives from various state agencies, legal organizations, and advocacy groups. The task force will review best practices, examine communication processes between agencies, and submit annual reports to the General Assembly. Additionally, the bill removes previous requirements for drug testing and modifies language around record sealing and expungement, aiming to reduce barriers for individuals with criminal records seeking employment and opportunities for rehabilitation.
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Bill Summary: Provides that the Act may be referred to as the Clean Slate Act. Amends the Criminal Identification Act. Authorizes the Illinois State Police to provide reports of cases with missing disposition information to the clerk of the circuit court. Requires any entity required to report information concerning criminal arrests, charges, and dispositions under specified provisions of the Act to respond to any notice advising the entity of missing or incomplete information or an error in the reporting of the information. Modifies the definition of "seal". Makes changes to the categories of records eligible for sealing. Replaces references to "offender" with "petitioner". Modifies provisions relating to when records are eligible to be sealed. Removes provisions preventing subsequent felony conviction records from being sealed under specified circumstances. Removes provisions requiring a petitioner to attach a negative drug test to a petition for sealing and concerning the denial of a petition to expunge or seal because the petitioner has submitted a drug test taken within 30 days before filing of the petition to expunge or seal that indicates a positive test for the presence of cannabis. Establishes procedures for automatic sealing of records and sealing of municipal ordinance violations and Class C misdemeanors. Makes other changes. Amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987. Requires, upon request, the circuit court clerk to provide the disposition information for any case or record required to be reported to the Illinois State Police. Allows the Illinois State Police to provide reports of cases with missing disposition information to the clerk of the circuit court. Makes other changes.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 01/29/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 57 : Jehan Gordon-Booth (D)*, Mary Beth Canty (D)*, Elgie Sims (D)*, Margaret Croke (D), Camille Lilly (D), Matt Hanson (D), La Shawn Ford (D), Justin Slaughter (D), Lisa Hernandez (D), Rita Mayfield (D), Nick Smith (D), Kam Buckner (D), William Davis (D), Debbie Meyers-Martin (D), Michael Crawford (D), Yolonda Morris (D), Maurice West (D), Lisa Davis (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Will Guzzardi (D), Kimberly du Buclet (D), Jaime Andrade (D), Aarón Ortíz (D), Theresa Mah (D), Margaret DeLaRosa (D), Carol Ammons (D), Gregg Johnson (D), Anne Stava-Murray (D), Barbara Hernandez (D), Abdelnasser Rashid (D), Norma Hernandez (D), Tracy Katz Muhl (D), Harry Benton (D), Curtis Tarver (D), Kelly Cassidy (D), Kevin Olickal (D), Laura Faver Dias (D), Edgar González (D), Ann Williams (D), Dave Koehler (D), Robert Peters (D), Lakesia Collins (D), Mattie Hunter (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Napoleon Harris (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Christopher Belt (D), Kimberly Lightford (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Karina Villa (D), Willie Preston (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Bill Cunningham (D), Emil Jones (D), Mark Walker (D), Mike Simmons (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 162
• Last Amended: 10/30/2025
• Last Action: Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0459
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S1665 • Last Action 01/15/2026
Regulating access to the disclosure of certain police reports
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 41, Section 97D to establish stricter confidentiality protections for police reports involving sensitive crimes such as rape, sexual assault, and domestic abuse. The bill specifies that these reports and related communications shall not be considered public records and must be maintained confidentially by police departments. However, the reports can be accessed under specific circumstances by certain authorized individuals, including: the victim, the victim's attorney, individuals specifically authorized by the victim, prosecutors, victim-witness advocates, domestic violence counselors, and sexual assault counselors, when such access is necessary for their professional duties. Law enforcement officers, district attorneys, assistant district attorneys, and officials authorized to set bail can also request these reports through written, telephonic, facsimile, or electronic mail requests. If an advocate or counselor not known to be authorized requests such information, the police department must make a reasonable effort to notify the victim. The bill includes penalties for violating these confidentiality provisions, with potential consequences of up to one year of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
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Bill Summary: For legislation relative to the disclosure of certain police reports. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Sal DiDomenico (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB278 • Last Action 01/15/2026
AN ACT relating to hospital price transparency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires hospitals in Kentucky to make their standard charges for all facility items and services publicly available in a machine-readable digital format and a consumer-friendly list for "shoppable services" (services that can be scheduled in advance). Hospitals must maintain a "chargemaster," which is a list of all standard charges, including gross charges, discounted cash prices, and negotiated rates with different insurance providers (payor-specific negotiated charges), and this list must be updated at least annually and accessible on their website without requiring registration. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (the "Cabinet") will create a template for these chargemasters, monitor hospital compliance, and can impose administrative penalties, which vary based on hospital size and the duration of non-compliance, for violations. Furthermore, hospitals that are not in compliance with federal hospital price transparency laws when providing services cannot pursue debt collection actions against patients for those services, and if found out of compliance, they may have to refund payments, pay penalties to patients, and remove negative credit reports.
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Bill Summary: Create new sections of KRS Chapter 216B to define terms; require hospitals to maintain a publicly available chargemaster of all standard charges, in dollar amounts, and descriptions for all standard facility items or services; require the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to promulgate administrative regulations to establish a template for each facility to use to create the chargemaster, monitor each facility's compliance, and provide administrative penalties; prohibit collective action of debt for noncompliant facilities.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 01/09/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Steven Doan (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: to Health Services (H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1490 • Last Action 01/15/2026
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to confidential records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to make the addresses of individuals who sign nominating petitions for certain judicial and prosecutorial offices confidential, meaning they will no longer be publicly accessible. Specifically, this applies to petitions for candidates running for judge, chancellor, district attorney general, and public defender. The bill references existing Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) sections, including § 10-7-503, which generally governs public access to records, but carves out an exception for these specific addresses to protect them from public inspection. This change is intended to take effect immediately upon becoming law due to public welfare concerns.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, makes the addresses on a nominating petition for the office of judge, chancellor, district attorney general, and public defender confidential. - Amends TCA Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jerome Moon (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB83 • Last Action 01/14/2026
AN ACT relating to open meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Kentucky Revised Statute (KRS) 61.848 to state that any formal action taken by a public agency, such as a rule or resolution, can be declared void by a court if the agency did not substantially follow the laws related to open meetings. These laws cover requirements for video teleconferencing, keeping accurate meeting minutes, and ensuring public attendance. The bill specifically adds KRS 61.826, 61.835, and 61.840 to the list of statutes that must be substantially complied with for an action to be valid, meaning that if these rules are not followed, a court can invalidate the agency's decision.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 61.848 to establish that any formal action of a public agency is voidable by a court if there was not substantial compliance with statutes regarding video teleconferencing of meetings, recording of minutes, and conditions for attendance.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : T.J. Roberts (R)*, John Hodgson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: to Local Government (H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0248 • Last Action 01/14/2026
An act relating to genetic data privacy
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the "Genetic Information Privacy Act," establishes new protections for the genetic data of Vermont residents collected by direct-to-consumer genetic testing companies. It mandates that these companies must obtain "express consent," which means a consumer's clear and affirmative agreement, before collecting, using, or sharing their genetic data, and requires separate consent for various actions like storing biological samples or transferring data to third parties. The bill defines "genetic data" broadly to include DNA, RNA, and any derived or inferred information, but excludes de-identified data and certain research or medical contexts. Companies must provide plain-language privacy notices, implement robust data security measures, and allow consumers to easily access, delete, or request the destruction of their genetic data and biological samples. Consumers also gain the right to revoke consent, which companies must honor promptly, and are protected from discrimination for exercising their privacy rights. Furthermore, contracts with service providers will prohibit them from using genetic data for their own commercial purposes or combining it with other data. The bill also explicitly prevents the disclosure of genetic data to entities involved in health insurance, life insurance, long-term care insurance, disability insurance, or employment decisions, and sets restrictions on storing or transferring genetic data outside the United States. The Attorney General will be responsible for enforcement, and the provisions will take effect on July 1, 2026, with the law aiming to provide the greatest protection for consumer privacy in case of conflicts with other laws.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require direct- to-consumer genetic testing companies and related providers to protect the genetic data information of Vermonters. The bill requires companies to limit data sharing, allows consumers to access their own data, and otherwise provides other genetic data privacy protections to consumers.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Wendy Harrison (D)*, Robert Plunkett (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB230 • Last Action 01/14/2026
AN ACT relating to health care price transparency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates increased health care price transparency by requiring hospitals to publicly disclose their standard charges for all items and services in a machine-readable digital format, including gross charges, negotiated rates with insurers (both minimum and maximum, and specific to each insurer), and discounted cash prices. Hospitals must also provide a consumer-friendly list of charges for at least 300 "shoppable services" – those that can be scheduled in advance – detailing descriptions, negotiated rates, discounted cash prices, and billing codes. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (the "Cabinet") will establish templates for these disclosures, monitor hospital compliance, and can impose administrative penalties for violations, with penalties varying based on hospital size. Additionally, except in emergencies, healthcare providers must give patients a written pricing sheet outlining the services, total expected payment, and how much is expected from the patient versus their insurer. The Cabinet will also create a template for these written pricing sheets. The bill also includes provisions for seeking federal approval if necessary to implement these requirements and avoid loss of federal funds.
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Bill Summary: Create new sections of KRS Chapter 216B to define terms; require hospitals to disclose prices for certain items and services provided by hospitals; require hospitals to make public a digital list of all standard charges and a consumer-friendly list of charges for a set of shoppable services; require hospitals to provide descriptions of different services and standard charges of those services; require the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to promulgate administrative regulations to establish a template for each hospital; require the cabinet to monitor each facility's compliance; provide for administrative penalties; require health care providers to provide patients with written pricing sheets for health care services provided except in an emergency; require the cabinet to promulgate administrative regulations to establish a template for the written pricing sheets; require the cabinet or the Department for Medicaid Services to seek federal approval if they determine that such approval is necessary to comply with KRS 205.5372(1).
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• Introduced: 01/07/2026
• Added: 01/08/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Matt Lockett (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: to Health Services (H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0253 • Last Action 01/14/2026
An act relating to adding transparency to Vermont’s tuitioning system
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase transparency in Vermont's tuitioning system by requiring school districts to disclose in their budgets the names of schools where they pay tuition, the number of students attending each school, and the total tuition amounts paid to each. Additionally, it establishes new requirements for independent schools to be approved to receive public tuition, including agreeing to enroll students needing special education services, reporting enrollment changes promptly, prohibiting discriminatory admissions practices for publicly tuitioned students, making their budgets public, and providing student assessment results to the Agency of Education. These changes are intended to provide greater oversight and accountability in how public funds are used for student education at non-public schools, with an effective date of July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require (1) school district budgets to show the name of schools the district pays tuition to, the number of students tuitioned to each school, and the amount of tuition paid to each school; and (2) approved independent schools to meet specific requirements in order to be approved as eligible to receive public tuition.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Wendy Harrison (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IN bill #HB1283 • Last Action 01/14/2026
Public notices.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates the creation of a state public notice website by the Indiana Office of Technology by July 1, 2028, which will be free to use for both publishing and viewing notices. It also allows individuals and entities to fulfill legal requirements for publishing public notices by using newspapers (print or electronic), locality newspapers (print or electronic), the new state public notice website, political subdivision websites, or the Hoosier State Press Association's public notice website. Additionally, the Indiana Archives and Records Administration will establish standards for transferring and preserving these public notices from the state website for historical purposes, and will enter into agreements with agencies to facilitate this process.
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Bill Summary: Public notices. Requires the Indiana office of technology (office) to establish a state public notice website not later than July 1, 2028. Prohibits the office from charging a fee for publishing or viewing notices. Allows a person to satisfy any notice statute by publishing notice in any of the following forms of media: (1) Newspaper, including print edition or electronic edition. (2) Locality newspaper, including print edition or electronic edition. (3) The state public notice website. (4) Political subdivision website. (5) The Hoosier State Press Association public notice website. Requires the Indiana archives and records administration (administration) to establish standards and guidelines and enter into memoranda of understanding with agencies for the transfer and preservation of public notices from the state public notice website to the administration to preserve public notices for historical purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/06/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Alex Zimmerman (R)*, Jenny Meltzer (R), Doug Miller (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Recommitted to Committee on Ways and Means pursuant to House Rule 126.3
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1028 • Last Action 01/14/2026
RESTORES PRE-P.A. 101-652
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: Here is a summary of the bill: This bill aims to restore and modify various Illinois statutes to their form prior to the amendments made by Public Acts 101-652, 102-28, and 102-1104. The bill repeals several acts and makes technical changes across multiple areas of law, with a particular focus on criminal justice and legal procedures. Key provisions include repealing the Statewide Use of Force Standardization Act, the No Representation Without Population Act, and the Reporting of Deaths in Custody Act. The bill also makes changes to various laws related to bail, pretrial release, arrest reporting, and victims' rights. Specifically, it modifies sections of the Freedom of Information Act, State Records Act, Illinois Public Labor Relations Act, and creates a new Article 110B on Peace Bonds. The bill introduces more detailed provisions around bail, including how bail is set, secured, and forfeited, and establishes new procedures for handling bail-related matters. Additionally, it makes technical amendments to laws concerning law enforcement, criminal proceedings, and victim rights, with the overall goal of clarifying and standardizing legal processes.
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Bill Summary: Amends, repeals, and reenacts various Acts. Restores the statutes to the form in which they existed before their amendment by Public Acts 101-652, 102-28, and 102-1104. Makes other technical changes. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : John Cabello (R)*, Jennifer Sanalitro (R), Kevin Schmidt (R), Tom Weber (R), Tony McCombie (R), Mike Coffey (R), Wayne Rosenthal (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Wayne A. Rosenthal
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4395 • Last Action 01/14/2026
FOIA-JUDICIAL BRANCH
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to include the judicial branch and its components as "public bodies" subject to its provisions, meaning their records are generally accessible to the public. However, it creates an exemption for records related to the preparation of judicial opinions and orders, meaning these specific documents will not be subject to public disclosure. Additionally, the bill removes the jurisdiction of the Public Access Counselor, an official who reviews FOIA disputes, for any denials of records requests made to the judicial branch or its components, meaning individuals seeking such records and being denied will have to pursue other legal avenues.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, for purposes of the Act, "public body" includes the judicial branch and components of the judicial branch of the State. Exempts records that pertain to the preparation of judicial opinions and orders. Excludes denials of requests of records from the judicial branch or components of the judicial branch from the jurisdiction of the Public Access Counselor.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Curtis Tarver (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1085 • Last Action 01/14/2026
Public records; hiring process documents
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law to create an exception to public records disclosure requirements for documents related to the hiring process of candidates applying for employment with a public body, meaning any government entity. Specifically, it states that documents such as resumes, applications, reference letters, and background checks submitted or obtained during the evaluation of a candidate are not considered public records and therefore do not need to be disclosed. However, once the hiring process is complete, the name, job title, and salary of the selected candidate can be disclosed, provided it complies with other relevant laws. This exception does not apply to senior-level public officials or officers, who are defined as individuals in senior leadership or appointed positions, elected or appointed officeholders, chief administrative officers, superintendents, or cabinet-level members.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending title 39, chapter 1, article 2, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 39-130; relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 01/05/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark Finchem (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Senate read second time
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WV bill #HB4163 • Last Action 01/14/2026
FOIA Database
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, concerning the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), mandates that custodians of public records protect the identity of individuals making FOIA requests by treating their names and personally identifying details as confidential and exempt from public disclosure, with limited exceptions for government officials, cases where public interest outweighs privacy, or when the requester explicitly consents to disclosure. It also requires that any publicly accessible FOIA logs or databases maintained by the Secretary of State, including those updated within 90 days of the bill's enactment, must not include the requester's name or personally identifiable information, and that names of original requesters must be redacted from copies of previous FOIA requests or logs. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that failure to redact a requester's identity is a violation subject to penalties, and affected requesters may seek injunctive relief and damages up to $5,000 per violation if their personal information is unlawfully disclosed.
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Bill Summary: The purpose of this bill is to require custodians of any public records to maintain a public accessible database; protect the identity of persons with FOIA requests; and requiring updates of public online data bases.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/15/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Tresa Howell (R)*, Laura Kimble (R), Lisa White (R), Margitta Mazzocchi (R), Sarah Drennan (R), Kathie Crouse (R), Marshall Clay (R), Dana Ferrell (R), Eric Brooks (R), Bryan Smith (R), Dave Foggin (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: To House Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3609 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands protections under "Daniel's Law"; requires Office of Information Privacy to establish portal for prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities and establishes penalties for failure to comply.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections under "Daniel's Law," which currently shields the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials and employees, to now include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. It also mandates that the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) establish a secure online portal where private entities, referred to as "covered entities," must register and comply with procedures to prevent the disclosure of personal information of these protected individuals, known as "covered persons." Covered entities are defined as businesses or associations that share personal information online. The bill introduces new terms like "covered information" (home address or unpublished home telephone number) and "hashed data" (encrypted information for security). Private entities failing to adhere to these new requirements will face civil penalties, with a $200 fine for each 45-day period they fail to access the portal to check for disclosure prohibitions, though they will receive a notice and an opportunity to correct violations before enforcement actions are taken. The OIP will also establish a process for verifying requests, a standard form for submitting or revoking requests, and implement security measures for the portal, which will involve fees for covered entities to access.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands protections provided under "Daniel's Law," which shields the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials and employees, to include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. The bill also requires the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) in the Department of Community Affairs to establish a secure portal for the purpose of prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities. In addition, the bill establishes civil penalties for a private entity's failure to comply with the procedures and requirements established under the bill. Covered Persons Under Daniel's Law New Jersey's "Daniel's Law," P.L.2021, c.371, was enacted to prevent harm by limiting public access to personal information of certain public officials who request protection under the law. Currently, the protections are afforded to active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators, and immediate family members residing in the same household as these individuals. This bill would extend those protections to members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. Expanded Definitions The bill expands the meaning of certain terms under Daniel's law and establishes and defines several new terms. The new definitions include "covered entity," "covered information," "hashed," "hashed data," "hashed query," "hashing data," "hashed registry," "member of the Legislature," and "municipal court administrator." "Covered entity" is defined under the bill to mean a person, business, or association that discloses or re-discloses on the Internet the covered information of a covered person. "Covered information" means the home address or home telephone number of a covered person. "Municipal court administrator" is defined as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes a deputy administrator and acting administrator designated as such in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. "Hashed" means the type of value produced by hashing data. "Hashed data" means data that has been hashed. Hashed data also may be referred to as "hash values," "hash codes," or "hashes." "Hashing data" means to input data into a cryptographic, one-way, collision-resistant formula or function that maps a bit string of arbitrary length to a fixed-length bit string to produce a cryptographically secure value. "Hashed query" means a query submitted to a hashed registry. "Hashed registry" means a table or index of hashed data. Under the bill, the definition of "authorized person" is expanded to include, with the covered person's written consent, (1) the covered person's employer; (2) any union, benevolent association, or other labor association in which the covered person is a member or to which the covered person pays dues; (3) or a person designated, in writing, by the covered person to serve as the covered person's agent.Establishment of New Secure Portal Binding on Private Actors Daniel's Law established the OIP, and required the director of the OIP to establish a secure portal for these public servants to apply for redaction protections. This bill requires the director of OIP to establish a separate secure portal for prohibiting the disclosure of personal information by private, covered entities. Specifically, the bill requires the director of OIP to establish:· a process for verifying and authenticating a request submitted by an authorized person for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings, as provided under current law;· a standard form through which an authorized person may submit or revoke a request for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings. The form is must:o require an authorized person to submit the covered information;o allow an authorized person to submit or revoke request for the redaction or nondisclosure of the covered information of a single person, or multiple persons on a single form;· reasonable security procedures and practices necessary to protect the information contained in the secure portal from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, destruction, or modification. The director is required to annually evaluate the security procedures and practices, and revise them as the director deems appropriate; and· an initial fee and, thereafter, an annual fee, for a covered entity to access the portal; · and implement procedures for maintaining on the portal independent, searchable registries of each type of covered information; and· a process for a covered entity to certify to the director each date that the covered entity has accessed the registry; the covered information for each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request; and each request to protect the covered information for a covered person that was approved by the director and received by the covered entity, but was unable to be processed by the covered entity and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. Required Certifications and Penalties The bill requires a covered entity to access the secure portal at least once during each 45-day period to determine whether a request to prevent disclosure of a covered person's covered information has been approved by the director. The bill further requires a covered entity to certify to the director not less than once during each 45-day period:· each date that the covered entity accessed the secure portal;· each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request approved by the director; and· each request on behalf of a covered person that was received by a covered entity and approved by the director, but that the covered entity was unable to process and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a covered entity that fails to access the secure portal as required under the bill is be subject to a civil penalty in the amount of $200 for each 45-day period that the entity fails to access the portal. Prior to initiating an enforcement action, the Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs is required to issue a notice to the covered entity of the violation, and provide the covered entity an opportunity to cure the violation within 30 days of the notice. If the covered entity fails to cure the violation within the 30-day period, the commissioner shall initiate an enforcement action.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Lou Greenwald (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A956 • Last Action 01/13/2026
The "Uniform Criminal Records Accuracy Act."
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, the "Uniform Criminal Records Accuracy Act," aims to improve the reliability of criminal history record information, which is increasingly used for purposes beyond criminal justice, such as employment and licensing. It mandates that all contributing justice agencies (government entities involved in criminal justice) and the Division of State Police must maintain a log for every request and dissemination of criminal history information, detailing who requested it, when, and for what purpose. Agencies are required to collect and submit information on specific "reportable events" (like arrests, court proceedings, and sentencing) to the State Police within five days, adhering to State Police guidelines for accuracy, storage, and maintenance, including biometric data like fingerprints. If an agency discovers inaccurate information, it must correct its records, notify the State Police, and inform any other agency that received the incorrect data within a year. The State Police will store and disseminate this information, with a 14-day limit for responding to individual requests for their own records, and will also remove notations of arrests or proceedings if certain conditions are met after 18 months with no disposition. The bill also establishes a "mistaken identity prevention registry" to help prevent errors when individuals have similar names or identifying characteristics, and outlines procedures for individuals to request corrections to their criminal history records, with the Attorney General overseeing confidentiality, security, and conducting audits. Enforcement mechanisms include legal actions to compel compliance or prevent violations, with potential for awarding fees, costs, and civil fines.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes the Uniform Criminal Records Accuracy Act to ensure the integrity of the State's criminal history record information, which increasingly is being used for non-criminal justice purposes. Under the act, contributing justice agencies and the Division of State Police are required to create, store, and maintain a dissemination log for every request for criminal history record information. A criminal justice agency is defined in the act as a governmental entity of the State, any other state, or the federal government which performs functions pertaining to the administration of criminal justice pursuant to statute, ordinance, resolution, or regulation, and which allocates a substantial portion of its budget to the administration of criminal justice. Each dissemination log is to include: the name of the subject about whom the information is requested; the name and address of the person making the request; the name of the person disseminating the information; the date of the request; the date of dissemination; and a statement of whether the information was disseminated for a purpose other than the administration of criminal justice. Information is to be included in the log within 14 days of dissemination. The bill requires contributing justice agencies with control, authority, or jurisdiction over a person to conform to certain standards in collecting, storing, and maintaining criminal history record information for certain reportable events. A reportable event is defined in the bill as any of the following relating to a crime or offense: 1) an arrest resulting in a person being detained in a police station, lock up, or other place maintained by a municipality for the detention of offenders or the county jail or collection of biometric information; 2) disposition after an arrest without initiation of a criminal proceeding; 3) initiation of a criminal proceeding; 4) disposition of a criminal proceeding, including diversion, dismissal, indefinite postponement, acquittal, guilty plea, conviction, sentencing, and modification, reversal, and revocation of the disposition; 5) commitment to or release from a place of detention or custodial supervision; 6) commencement or conclusion of noncustodial supervision; 7) completion of a sentence; 8) expungement, sealing, or setting aside of criminal history record information; 9) grant of clemency, including pardon or commutation, or restoration of rights; and 10) finding of mental incompetence by a court at any stage of a criminal proceeding. The agency is required to submit information on a reportable event to the State Police within five days of collecting it and to otherwise conform to State Police guidelines concerning collection, storage, maintenance, submission, and dissemination of accurate criminal history record information, including biometric information, such as fingerprints. If an agency discovers inaccurate criminal history record information, it is required to correct its records, notify the State Police of the inaccuracy and correction, and within one year of discovery, notify each agency that received the information of the inaccuracy and correction. The State Police are required by the act to receive, store, maintain, and disseminate accurate criminal history record information in compliance with procedures adopted by the Attorney General. The State Police have 14 days after a person requests his or her criminal history record information to search its records and disseminate that information to the requester. The requester is to receive conspicuous notification that the information is provided for the requester's review only and may not be relied on or considered current for use by any other person. If one person authorizes another person to receive the person's criminal history record information, the State Police are to determine whether the information contains a disposition after an arrest without initiation of a criminal proceeding or a disposition of a criminal proceeding. If a disposition is not found, the State Police are to try to determine if there was a disposition and if so, include it in the relevant records. The State Police are to remove the notation of an arrest or initiation of criminal proceedings if 18 months have elapsed since the date of the arrest or initiation of criminal proceedings, whichever is later; no disposition has been identified; there is no outstanding warrant; and there is no pending proceeding that may result in a conviction. The State Police have five days to disseminate the information to the person and the requester and 14 days to correct inaccurate records. The bill also requires the State Police to inform the public of the existence and accessibility of criminal history record information collected, stored, maintained, and disseminated by contributing justice agencies and the superintendent and to provide agencies with appropriate training. The bill further requires the State Police to create and maintain a mistaken identity prevention registry consisting of information voluntarily provided by a victim of mistaken identity or a person whose name or other identifying characteristic is similar to that of another person who is the subject of criminal history record information. The purpose of the registry is to prevent inaccurate criminal history record information, inaccurate modification of criminal history record information, mistaken arrest, and confusion of one person with another person when criminal history record information is searched. The act sets forth procedures for a person to follow to have criminal history record information corrected by an agency or the State Police. The State Police are required to approve or deny a request for correction within 40 days. Upon approval of a request, the State Police have 14 days to correct its records and give notice of the inaccuracy. The person is to be provided a free certified, corrected copy of the accurate information. If the request is denied, the person has the right to appeal. The Attorney General is responsible under the bill to establish procedures to protect the confidentiality and security of criminal history record information and to conduct annual audits of a sample of contributing justice agencies and a triennial audit of the State Police. The Attorney General, the State Police, or a person may commence an action to compel compliance with or enjoin a violation of the provisions of the bill. Reasonable fees, attorneys' fees, and court costs may be awarded. Civil fines also may be imposed. According to the National Conference of Commissioners on State Laws, there have been numerous developments concerning criminal records over the past 20 years, including the creation of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) in 1993, the establishment of criminal history repositories in all states, and the increasing use of criminal record checks in connection with eligibility for employment, professional and occupational licenses, credit worthiness, and other non-criminal justice purposes. Recent studies have demonstrated that criminal records accessed for these purposes may be inaccurate or incomplete which may be attributable to lack of information concerning dispositions after an arrest or other charge that has been entered in a database; data entry errors resulting in an incorrect listing of the offense; multiple listings of the same offense; attribution of an offense to a wrong person; criminal identity theft; and searches for criminal record information resulting in one person's criminal record information appearing in search results initiated for a different person. This bill is modeled on the conference's recommendations to improve the accuracy of criminal history record information.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Carol Murphy (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/12/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3402 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits release of home addresses of certain public safety employees by governmental entities.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to prohibit government entities from releasing the home addresses of certain public safety employees, including corrections officers, parole officers, probation officers, and both current and retired law enforcement officers. Previously, under the Open Public Records Act (P.L.1963, c.73), such addresses were considered public government records. This legislation specifically excludes these home addresses from the definition of a "government record" and requires custodians of government records to redact them before making records public, with exceptions for use by government agencies in their official duties or by private individuals seeking to enforce child support orders.
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Bill Summary: This bill prohibits government entities from releasing the home addresses of corrections officers, parole officers, probation officers, as well as current and retired law enforcement officers. Under the Open Public Records Act, P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.), this information is considered a government record and is available to the public. The bill excludes the home addresses of these public safety employees from the definition of "government record." The bill also requires custodians of government records to redact the addresses from any records prior to granting public access, unless the information is sought for use by a governmental agency in carrying out its functions, or a private person seeking to enforce a child support order.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Rosaura Bagolie (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1999 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal information concerning certain court administrators.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," a law designed to protect the personal information of individuals in the justice system, to include municipal court administrators and their immediate family members. Previously, Daniel's Law prohibited the disclosure of home addresses and unlisted phone numbers for active, retired, or formerly active judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and child protective investigators. This bill adds municipal court administrators, defined as individuals employed by a county or municipality to manage court operations, including acting or deputy administrators, to the list of protected individuals. The expansion aims to enhance the safety and security of these officials, allowing them to perform their duties without fear of reprisal.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," P.L.2020, c.125, to prohibit the disclosure of personal information of municipal court administrators. The bill defines a municipal court administrator as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes an employee designated as an acting or deputy administrator in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. Currently, Daniel's Law: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home address of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, or child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families; (2) prohibits disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers, child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors; and (3) permits criminal prosecution and statutory civil action concerning prohibited disclosures. The bill expands the scope of Daniel's Law to also include municipal court administrators and deputy administrators.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Annette Quijano (D)*, Rosaura Bagolie (D)*, William Sampson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2774 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits agreements intended to conceal certain information concerning development of data centers under MLUL.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits agreements, commonly known as non-disclosure agreements, that are intended to hide details or prevent public review of data center development plans. A data center is defined as a facility primarily for storing, managing, and processing digital data, housing computer systems and related infrastructure. Applicants seeking to develop a data center, including their agents, are forbidden from entering into such agreements with approving authorities, municipal agencies, or property sellers, and any such agreements are declared against public policy and unenforceable. Applicants must also attest that no such concealing agreements were made with the seller during the real estate transaction. If an applicant violates these provisions, approving authorities and municipal agencies are barred from granting necessary approvals for the development, such as site plans or subdivisions. This bill clarifies that it does not permit the concealment of development plans for structures other than data centers if other laws, like the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act," already prohibit such practices.
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Bill Summary: This bill expressly prohibits applicants, including any agent of an applicant, for the development of a data center, as defined in the bill, from entering into agreements, commonly known as non-disclosure agreements, with approving authorities, municipal agencies, and property sellers. The bill provides that these agreements are against public policy and unenforceable. The bill also provides that an applicant is to attest that at no time did the buyer, or any agent of the buyer, of the real property proposed for development, the developer, or any other party involved in the real estate transaction, enter into any agreement, including a non-disclosure agreement, with the seller that had the purpose or effect of concealing the details, or preventing public review, of the development plans for the property if the applicant is developing a data center. An approving authority or municipal agency is not to approve a minor site plan, minor subdivision, site plan, or subdivision, or grant any other approval required by an approving authority, municipal agency, or enforcing agency, if the applicant violates a provision of this bill. Nothing in this bill is to construed to implicitly permit an applicant from entering into any agreement, including a non-disclosure agreement, that has the purpose or effect of concealing the details, or preventing public review, for the development of any structure other than a data center, to the extent that the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act," P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6 et seq.), or any other law, prohibits these practices.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Andrea Katz (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3022 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires State Board of Education meetings to be accessible virtually and in person.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that all public meetings of the State Board of Education, which is the governing body for public education in New Jersey, must be accessible to the public both in person and through virtual means, ensuring broader participation. It mandates that a link for virtual access to these meetings be prominently displayed on the State Board of Education's website, making it easy for the public to find. Furthermore, for any meeting where the State Board of Education allows public comment, individuals will have the option to provide their input remotely, meaning they can participate in discussions without being physically present.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires all public meetings of the State Board of Education to be accessible to the public both in person and virtually. The bill also requires that a link providing virtual access to meetings be publicly available on the State Board of Education's website. Finally, for any meeting in which the State Board of Education accepts public comment, the bill stipulates that members of the public will be able to provide comments by means of remote communication.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Erik Peterson (R)*, Gerry Scharfenberger (R)*, Vicky Flynn (R), Greg McGuckin (R), Alex Sauickie (R), Sean Kean (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Education Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S973 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Provides for public comment period at certain sessions of each house of Legislature.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill would amend the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act," which is a law (P.L.1975, c.231) that ensures public bodies conduct their meetings openly. Currently, this act requires municipal governing bodies and school boards to allow public comment at every meeting, but it does not mandate this for the state Senate and General Assembly. This bill would change that by requiring both the Senate and the General Assembly to set aside time for public comment during at least four sessions each year. To manage these sessions, each legislative house would need to create reasonable rules, which could include how to choose which session will have public comment, how long each person can speak, how many people can speak, how to maintain order, and prohibiting personal attacks on named individuals. The bill also clarifies that this new requirement for public comment in the legislature is an addition to the existing requirements for local government bodies.
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Bill Summary: This bill would amend the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act," P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6 et seq.) to require the Senate and General Assembly to each set aside a portion of a session of that house at least four times a year for public comment. Currently, the law requires municipal governing bodies and boards of education, but not other public bodies, to allow a period for public comment at each public meeting. The bill would require that each house adopt reasonable rules governing the order and conduct of the public comment period, including, but not limited to, rules for designating the session at which public comment will be taken, the maximum time allotted to each speaker, the number of speakers per comment period, maintaining order and decorum, and prohibiting personal comments concerning named individuals.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jon Bramnick (R)*, Paul Sarlo (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/22/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S847 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal information of members of NJ Legislature.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," a New Jersey law that protects the personal information of certain public officials, to include members of the New Jersey Legislature. The law, originally enacted to safeguard judicial officers, law enforcement officers, and child protective investigators, will now also prohibit the disclosure of the home addresses and unpublished telephone numbers of state legislators and their immediate family members. This expansion is a response to recent violent attacks against lawmakers in another state, aiming to enhance the safety and security of legislators so they can perform their duties without fear of reprisal. The bill clarifies that "member of the legislature" refers to anyone elected or selected to serve in the New Jersey Senate or General Assembly.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," P.L.2020, c.125, to prohibit the disclosure of personal information of members of the New Jersey Legislature. Under the bill, "member of the legislature" means any person elected or selected to serve in the New Jersey Senate or General Assembly. Currently, Daniel's Law: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home address of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, or child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families; (2) prohibits disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers, child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors; and (3) permits criminal prosecution and statutory civil action concerning prohibited disclosures. The bill expands the scope of Daniel's Law to also include members of the legislature. This bill is in response to the violent attacks, on June 13, 2025, against two Minnesota state lawmakers, Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman, and their immediately family members, at their home.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Bob Singer (R)*, Joe Cryan (D)*, Renee Burgess (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S633 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Allows public bodies to conduct meetings by electronic means.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows public bodies, which are defined as groups of two or more people organized to perform a public governmental function or spend public funds, to conduct meetings, vote, and receive public comment using electronic means, removing the previous restriction that such remote activities were only permitted during declared emergencies like a state of emergency or public health emergency. The bill ensures that any meeting conducted electronically must still be open to the public in a way that complies with existing open meeting laws, specifically N.J.S.A.10:4-12, which outlines requirements for public access to meetings.
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Bill Summary: This bill permits a public body to conduct a meeting and public business, cause a meeting to be open to the public, vote, and receive public comment by means of communication or other electronic equipment. Under current law, remote meetings, voting, and public comment are only permitted during a state of emergency, public health emergency, or state of local disaster emergency. This bill removes that restriction. Under the bill, any meeting conducted by means of communication or other electronic equipment must be open to the public in a manner consistent with N.J.S.A.10:4-12. "Public body" is defined under the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act" to be a commission, authority, board, council, committee, or any other group of two or more persons organized under the laws of this State, and collectively empowered as a voting body to perform a public governmental function affecting the rights, duties, obligations, privileges, benefits, or other legal relations of any person, or collectively authorized to spend public funds including the Legislature, but does not mean or include the judicial branch of the government, any grand or petit jury, any parole board or any agency or body acting in a parole capacity, the State Commission of Investigation, the Apportionment Commission established under Article IV, Section III, of the Constitution, or any political party committee organized under Title 19 of the Revised Statutes.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Bob Smith (D)*, Patrick Diegnan (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S581 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits open public records requests for commercial purposes.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to prohibit individuals from requesting government records for commercial purposes, defining "commercial purpose" as using information for sale, resale, solicitation, or any use where profit is expected. It requires requesters to certify that their requests are not for commercial purposes and imposes fines for intentionally failing to do so: $500 for a first offense, $1,000 for a second, and $2,000 for subsequent offenses. These penalties can be enforced by courts or the Government Records Council. The bill also clarifies that the news media, and certain other organizations, are exempt from this commercial purpose restriction.
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Bill Summary: This bill prohibits requests for access to government records for commercial purposes. The bill also requires a requestor to certify that the information requested will not be used for a commercial purpose, and a requestor who is found to have intentionally failed to certify that a records request is for commercial purposes will be subject to a fine of $500 for the first offense, $1,000 for the second offense, and $2,000 for each subsequent offense.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Beach (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/15/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S562 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections for elected officials and candidates by requiring the redaction and nondisclosure of their home addresses from public records, aligning their privacy rights with those already afforded to judicial officers and law enforcement officers. An "elected official" is defined as someone holding a state or local government office filled by voters, including appointed officials, but excluding political party officials. The bill amends existing laws to include elected officials and their immediate family members in the process for redacting and withholding home addresses, ensuring consistency with current procedures for other protected individuals. This means that requests for redaction will be handled through a secure portal managed by the Office of Information Privacy, and public agencies will be required to comply with approved redaction requests within 30 days. The bill also clarifies that immediate family members who no longer reside with an elected official must submit a revocation request for their own address redaction.
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Bill Summary: This bill prohibits the disclosure of the home address of a person seeking election to a public office, a current elected official, a former elected official, and any person seeking election to a public office. Under the bill, as amended, "elected official" means any person holding a State or local government office which, under the State Constitution or by law, is filled by the registered voters of a jurisdiction at an election, including a person appointed, selected or otherwise designated to fill a vacancy in such office, but does not mean an official of a political party. Elected official also includes any person seeking election to a public office. A amended, the bill makes the redaction requirements and process for elected officials and their immediate family members consistent with that process being implemented under current law for other covered persons and their immediate family members.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jim Beach (D)*, Bob Singer (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/15/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S554 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits release of personal identifying information of violent crime victims and witnesses under State's open public records law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, amending the state's open public records law (P.L.1963, c.73), aims to protect the privacy and safety of victims and witnesses of violent crimes by prohibiting the release of their personal identifying information. Previously, under current law, certain information about crime victims, such as their name, address, and age, was considered public record. This bill introduces a new provision that explicitly defines "violent crime" as any crime involving force or the threat of force and clarifies that "personal identifying information" includes details like identity, name, home and work addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, driver's license numbers, email addresses, and social media addresses. By making this information confidential for public records requests, the bill seeks to prevent potential harm or intimidation to those who have experienced or witnessed violent acts.
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Bill Summary: This bill would prohibit the release of any personal identifying information of violent crime victims and witnesses under P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.), commonly known as the open public records act. Current law specifically provides that the name, address, and age of any victims of crime are public record. This bill would delete that provision and clarify that all manner of personal identifying information of violent crime victims and witnesses are confidential for purposes of public records requests to bolster the safety and privacy of violent crime victims and witnesses.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jim Beach (D)*, Angela Mcknight (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/15/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1310 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands audit powers of State Auditor; requires online publication of certain materials; requires performance review audits of certain business incentive programs.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the powers of the State Auditor, requiring them to conduct performance review audits of business incentive programs offered by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) at least every two years, covering any financial assistance like grants, loans, or tax credits provided to businesses. The bill also grants the State Auditor the authority to audit entities receiving funds from local governments, not just state funds, and mandates that all audit reports and their results be prominently published online on the Legislature's homepage for at least 14 days, as well as on a dedicated webpage maintained by the State Auditor, ensuring greater transparency in how public funds are used and audited.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to the powers and duties of the State Auditor. Under the bill, the State Auditor is granted the authority to audit certain entities that receive funds from political subdivisions of the State and is required to conduct certain performance review audits. The bill requires the State Auditor to prominently publish on the Legislature's Internet homepage, for a period of at least 14 calendar days, each report and the results of each audit and performance review audit prepared by the State Auditor. The State Auditor is also required to publish these documents on an Internet webpage maintained by the State Auditor. The bill requires the State Auditor to conduct a performance review audit of New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) business assistance or incentive programs, at least once every two years. The bill requires the State Auditor to transmit a copy of the report to the Legislature. The bill specifies that performance review audits are required to be conducted for any program or incentive administered or provided by the EDA that provides monetary or financial assistance in any form including, but not limited to, a grant, loan, loan guarantee, tax credit, tax exemption, or other monetary or financial benefit awarded to a person or entity to assist the person or entity in the conduct or operation of any trade, occupation, profession, or business, including, but not limited to, film and digital media production businesses, in the State.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Pennacchio (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1330 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires board of education to publicly post full meeting agenda 48 hours prior to meeting.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires boards of education to publicly post the full agenda for all their meetings on their website at least 48 hours before the meeting begins, ensuring the agenda is easily accessible and includes a detailed description of each item. This measure builds upon the existing "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA)," which already mandates 48 hours' notice for public meetings, including the time, date, location, and known agenda items, by specifically codifying and enhancing these transparency requirements for school boards and ensuring consistency in how they inform the public about their proceedings.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, all board of education meetings must be public and each board is required to hold a meeting at least once every two months during the period in which the schools in the district are in session. This bill amends current law to also require a board to post on its Internet website in an easily accessible location the full meeting agenda for all board meetings 48 hours prior to the commencement of the meeting. The bill requires that the full meeting agenda will include a detailed description of each item on the agenda. Under the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA)," P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6 et seq.), public bodies, including boards of education, empowered as voting bodies to perform governmental functions, are required to give 48 hours of advance notice giving the time, date, location, and to the extent known, the agenda of their scheduled meetings. This bill codifies the 48 hours of advance notice requirement into the section of law specifically pertaining to boards of education, and helps enhance transparency and bring consistency to boards of education by requiring each board to post on its Internet website in an easily accessible location the full meeting agenda for all board meetings 48 hours prior to the commencement of the meeting. The full meeting agenda must include a detailed description of each item on the agenda.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Pennacchio (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S553 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Permits government records custodians to redact certain personal information.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows government records custodians to remove certain personal information from public records before releasing them, aiming to protect citizens' privacy and prevent misuse of their data. Specifically, custodians may redact mailing addresses, home addresses (including primary or secondary residences), phone numbers, email addresses, and any medical, financial, or personal information if its disclosure would violate a person's reasonable expectation of privacy or could lead to harassment, unwanted solicitations, identity theft, or other criminal activities. This change is intended to prevent potential malicious use of such information and aligns with a court decision that protects information where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
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Bill Summary: This bill permits a records custodian to redact any information which discloses the mailing address, home address, whether a primary or secondary residence, phone number, email address, or any medical, financial, or personal information of a citizen. This bill would prevent potential malicious use of such personal information and would protect the privacy of an individual when an open public records act request is fulfilled. This bill codifies the decision of Burnett v. County of Bergen, by protecting information for which there is a reasonable expectation of privacy. Email addresses and phone numbers are a necessity for daily life and the collection of such information by a government agency has legitimate uses including for emergency alert systems. The ability to gain access to many email addresses and other personal information opens up the residents of New Jersey to unwanted solicitations or harassing communications and creates opportunities for attempted cybercrime.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Beach (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/15/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1354 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires controller or processor to de-identify personal data and prohibits re-identification of de-identified data.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that any entity that controls or processes personal data (a "controller" or "processor") must first de-identify it before selling it, meaning they must remove any information that could reasonably be used to identify an individual. It also strictly prohibits these entities from re-identifying de-identified data, either themselves or by providing others with the means to do so, with "re-identify" meaning to link de-identified data back to a specific person or their device. The Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs will establish standards for de-identification and can grant limited exceptions for medical studies or to prevent environmental hazards, provided these exceptions benefit the public. This legislation aims to enhance privacy protections for personal data by preventing its unauthorized re-identification after it has been anonymized for sale.
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Bill Summary: This bill amends current law on the sale or processing of personal data to provide that a controller or processor of personal data is required to de-identify personal data before sale. The bill also prohibits a controller or processor from (1) re-identifying de-identified data before or after the sale of personal data that has been previously de-identified; (2) providing a third party the means to re-identify personal data after the sale of de-identified data to the third party; or (3) engaging a third party to re-identify de-identified data before or after the sale of the de-identified data. Pursuant to the bill, "re-identify" means to link de-identified data to an identified or identifiable individual, or a device linked to such an individual. The bill requires the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs (director) in the Department of Law and Public Safety to establish standards for the de-identification of personal data. The bill also permits the director to allow exceptions to the requirements of de-identification or prohibitions on re-identification, provided that: (1) the director expects any exception to benefit the public; and (2) any exception is limited to the purpose of medical studies or the purpose of preventing or alleviating environmental hazards.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Pennacchio (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Commerce Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S532 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Includes e-mail addresses in list of confidential items to be redacted from public records under open public records act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the definition section of New Jersey's open public records act, commonly known as OPRA (N.J.S.A.47:1A-1 et seq.), to explicitly include email addresses as confidential information that must be redacted from public records when they are disclosed. This means that when a government agency releases a public record, any email addresses contained within it will be blacked out to protect privacy, unless specific exceptions apply.
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Bill Summary: This bill revises the definitions section of what is commonly known as the open public records act, N.J.S.A.47:1A-1 et seq., to include e-mail addresses on the list of confidential items that must be redacted from any public record disclosed under the provisions of the act.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Beach (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/15/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1469 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal information concerning court administrators and deputy court administrators.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," a law designed to protect the personal information of certain public officials, to include municipal court administrators and deputy court administrators. The law, which currently prohibits the disclosure of home addresses and unlisted phone numbers for individuals like judges, law enforcement officers, and child protective investigators, will now also protect this information for municipal court administrators. This means that government entities and private parties will be prohibited from sharing the personal information of these court administrators, and violations can lead to criminal prosecution and civil action, aiming to enhance their safety and security while they perform their duties.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," P.L.2020, c.125 (C.56:8-166.2 et al.), to prohibit the disclosure of personal information of municipal court administrators. The bill defines a municipal court administrator as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes an employee designated as an acting or deputy administrator in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. Currently, Daniel's Law: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home address of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, or child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families; (2) prohibits disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers, child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors; and (3) permits criminal prosecution and statutory civil action concerning prohibited disclosures. The bill expands the scope of Daniel's Law to also include municipal court administrators and deputy administrators.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Cryan (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/31/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3214 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Provides that no more than four of seven public members appointed to Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council may be of same political party.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the law governing the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council, a body established to protect the natural resources of the Highlands Region. Specifically, it changes the composition of the council by adding a requirement that of the seven public members appointed by the Governor, no more than four can belong to the same political party. This aims to ensure a more balanced representation of political viewpoints among these council members, who are expected to have expertise in areas like water quality, environmental protection, and economic development.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that of the seven residents of the State appointed to the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council by the Governor, not more than four of these members may be of the same political party.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Jay Webber (R)*, Aura Dunn (R), Dawn Fantasia (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1472 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Exempts personal information from redaction and nondisclosure requirements in certain public filings and records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to add new exceptions to the rules that allow certain public officials and employees, such as judges and law enforcement officers, to have their home addresses kept private in public records. Specifically, the bill mandates that personal information will not be redacted or kept confidential in recall petitions, reports of campaign contributions and expenditures filed under "The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act" (which governs how campaigns and political groups report their finances), financial disclosure statements made by candidates for Governor, and reports required from lobbyists or governmental affairs agents. Additionally, the bill requires the director of the Office of Information Privacy, an office established to manage privacy requests, to clearly list all these exceptions on a secure online portal where individuals can request their information be kept private.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, certain public officials and employees, such as judges and law enforcement officers, are entitled to have their home address redacted or subject to nondisclosure when a public agency has possession of such information. However, there are certain exceptions when an individual's information may still be disclosed, even if they are otherwise entitled to redaction or nondisclosure. This bill would add to the list of exceptions: (1) recall petitions circulated and signed in this State; (2) any report of campaign contributions or expenditures filed by any individual, candidate, campaign, committee, or other entity under "The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act," or any report or list of such contributions submitted by an entity seeking or holding a public contract; (3) any financial disclosure statement made by a candidate for Governor; and (4) any report of activities required to be submitted by a lobbyist or governmental affairs agent in this State. This bill would also require the director of the Office of Information Privacy to identify and display all exceptions on the secure portal where individuals can request the redaction or nondisclosure of their information.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Cryan (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/31/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3226 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits release of personal identifying information of violent crime victims and witnesses under State's open public records law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the state's Open Public Records Act, P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.), to prohibit the release of personal identifying information of victims and witnesses of violent crimes, which are defined as crimes involving force or the threat of force. Previously, current law allowed for the public release of the name, address, and age of crime victims, but this bill removes that provision and clarifies that all personal identifying information, including but not limited to identity, name, home and work addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, driver's license numbers, and social media addresses, of violent crime victims and witnesses is considered confidential for the purposes of public records requests. This change aims to enhance the safety and privacy of these individuals.
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Bill Summary: This bill would prohibit the release of any personal identifying information of violent crime victims and witnesses under P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.), commonly known as the "Open Public Records Act." Current law specifically provides that the name, address, and age of any victims of crime are public record. This bill would delete that provision and clarify that all manner of personal identifying information of violent crime victims and witnesses are confidential for purposes of public records requests to bolster the safety and privacy of violent crime victims and witnesses.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jay Webber (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1590 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Establishes government records internet database; appropriates $10 million.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Department of Community Affairs to create an online database where the public can access government records from all state and local agencies. The Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs will decide which records must be submitted and whether they will be displayed in their original format or converted into a more "user-friendly" format, balancing public accessibility with the cost and effort for agencies. The bill also appropriates $10 million from the State General Fund to the Department of Community Affairs to establish this database, which will be known as a "government record" as defined by existing law.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires the Department of Community Affairs to establish a government records internet database for the government records of all State and local agencies to be accessible by the public. The Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs will determine which government records will be required to be submitted to the department for inclusion in the database. The Commissioner will also designate which government records will be accessible in the database in the medium or format the agency maintains and which will be accessible in a format converted from what the agency maintains to a more "user-friendly" format. In making the determination, the commissioner will consider both ease of record accessibility for the public and cost and effort of the conversion to the agency. This bill appropriates $10 million from the State General Fund to the Department of Community Affairs to establish the database.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Carmen Amato (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/31/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2051 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires State-level bodies to include option for remote participation in public meetings.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that any state-level government body, such as a department, agency, board, or commission, established to serve the entire state must offer the public the option to participate remotely in their public meetings, meaning people can join or observe meetings through electronic means like video conferencing. This requirement is based on the existing law concerning public meetings, known as P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6 et seq.), which generally ensures public access to government proceedings. However, this new rule will not apply to public bodies created by local governments (like cities or counties) or those that exclusively deal with local or regional matters. The bill will become effective 30 days after it is signed into law.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires that any department, division, agency, board, commission, authority, task force, or other public body established for the purpose of serving the interests of this State as a whole provide for the remote participation of the public at every public meeting they hold. This requirement will not apply to public bodies established by a political subdivision of the State or concerned exclusively with issues of a local or regional nature.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Shama Haider (D)*, Carmen Morales (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/30/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1690 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Provides that no more than four of seven public members appointed to Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council may be of same political party.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to ensure that of the seven public members appointed to the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council, no more than four can belong to the same political party, with these appointments being made by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate, and also includes one appointment by the Governor upon the recommendation of the President of the Senate and one by the Governor upon the recommendation of the Speaker of the General Assembly, with these members expected to have expertise in areas like water quality, environmental protection, land use, or economic development.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that of the seven residents of the State appointed to the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Council by the Governor, not more than four of these members may be of the same political party.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Parker Space (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3792 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires board of education to publicly post full meeting agenda 48 hours prior to meeting.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires boards of education to publicly post the full agenda for all their meetings on their websites at least 48 hours before the meeting begins, ensuring the agenda is easily accessible and includes a detailed description of each item. This measure builds upon the existing "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA)," which already mandates 48 hours' advance notice for public meetings, including the time, date, and location, and to the extent known, the agenda. By specifically requiring boards of education to post the complete agenda with detailed descriptions online, this bill aims to enhance transparency and create consistency in how these public bodies communicate their meeting plans to the public.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, all board of education meetings must be public and each board is required to hold a meeting at least once every two months during the period in which the schools in the district are in session. This bill amends current law to also require a board to post on its Internet website in an easily accessible location the full meeting agenda for all board meetings 48 hours prior to the commencement of the meeting. The bill requires that the full meeting agenda will include a detailed description of each item on the agenda. Under the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA)," P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6 et seq.), public bodies, including boards of education, empowered as voting bodies to perform governmental functions, are required to give 48 hours of advance notice giving the time, date, location, and to the extent known, the agenda of their scheduled meetings. This bill codifies the 48 hours of advance notice requirement into the section of law specifically pertaining to boards of education, and helps enhance transparency and bring consistency to boards of education by requiring each board to post on its Internet website in an easily accessible location the full meeting agenda for all board meetings 48 hours prior to the commencement of the meeting. The full meeting agenda must include a detailed description of each item on the agenda.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 02/01/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Aura Dunn (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Education Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB33 • Last Action 01/13/2026
AN ACT relating to data privacy.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, titled the Kentucky Price Fairness Act, amends existing Kentucky law to prohibit "surveillance pricing," which is defined as offering or setting a customized price increase for a good or service based on individualized data collected through electronic surveillance technology. It defines "automated-decision system" as a computational process that uses personal data to make decisions related to surveillance pricing, and "individualized data" as personal data collected through electronic surveillance, observation, inference, or tracking of a consumer's online activity or device characteristics. The bill also defines "base price" as the lowest price offered to any consumer in Kentucky. Essentially, it prevents businesses from using sophisticated technology and personal data to charge different prices to individuals for the same product or service, with some exceptions for real-time market factors, loyalty programs, and verifiable cost differences.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 367.3611 to define "automated-decision system," "base price," "individualized data," and "surveillance pricing"; amend KRS 367.3617 to prohibit any controller under the Kentucky Consumer Data Protection Act from engaging in surveillance pricing, or offering, setting, or displaying a price for a good or service to a consumer using an automated-decision system that is based, in whole or in part, on individualized data; provide that the Act may be cited as the Kentucky Price Fairness Act.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/07/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Adam Moore (D)*, Scott Sharp (R), Chad Aull (D), Kim Banta (R), George Brown (D), Al Gentry (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: to Small Business & Information Technology (H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3865 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Includes e-mail addresses in list of confidential items to be redacted from public records under OPRA.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), a law that governs public access to government records in New Jersey, to include email addresses on the list of information that must be kept confidential and redacted from public records. This means that when a government agency releases a public record, they will now be required to remove any email addresses contained within it to protect personal privacy, similar to how social security numbers, credit card numbers, unlisted phone numbers, and driver's license numbers are already protected.
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Bill Summary: This bill revises the definitions section of what is commonly known as the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.) as amended and supplemented by P.L.2001, c.404 (C.47:1A-5 et seq.), to include e-mail addresses on the list of confidential items that must be redacted from any public record disclosed under the provisions of the act.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Craig Coughlin (D)*, Shama Haider (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KY bill #HB12 • Last Action 01/13/2026
AN ACT relating to privacy for members of the General Assembly.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands privacy protections to include current members of the General Assembly and their immediate family members, adding them to the definition of "covered person" alongside judicial officers. This means their personally identifiable information, such as home addresses, phone numbers, and children's school information, will be protected from public disclosure by government agencies. The bill allows these individuals to file civil lawsuits seeking court orders to prevent unauthorized disclosure of their private information. It also clarifies that if a covered person voluntarily publishes their own information, the privacy protections no longer apply to that specific information. Importantly, these new protections do not override any disclosures that are legally required by KRS Chapter 6 or 61, which are existing statutes governing government transparency and disclosure.
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Bill Summary: Amend KRS 61.7991 to add current members of the General Assembly and their immediate family members to the definition of "covered person"; authorize standing for a civil action for injunctive or declaratory relief for unauthorized disclosure; provide that the removal of information does not apply to required disclosures under KRS Chapter 6 or 61.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Lindsey Burke (D)*, Tina Bojanowski (D), George Brown (D), Adrielle Camuel (D), Beverly Chester-Burton (D), Anne Donworth (D), Sarah Stalker (D), Pamela Stevenson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: to State Government (H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2139 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Public records; response requirements; complaints
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona law regarding public records to establish clearer response requirements for government entities. It clarifies definitions of "officer" and "public body" and emphasizes the responsibility of public bodies and officers to maintain records. A key provision requires custodians of public records to respond to requests within fifteen business days, and if a request is complex or involves multiple records, they must provide written updates every fifteen business days, including a timeframe for a final response. This response must either provide the disclosable records or a denial explaining the specific legal exemption. The bill also allows individuals denied access to public records to submit a complaint to the office of the ombudsman-citizens aide, in addition to the existing option of appealing through a special action in court. Furthermore, it mandates that acknowledgments of public records requests include an estimated response time and, if necessary, a request for clarification due to vagueness or incompleteness. These changes aim to improve transparency and efficiency in accessing public information.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending sections 39-121.01, 39-121.02 and 39-171, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2026
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 2 : Michael Way (R)*, Chris Lopez (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: House read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2982 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Clarifies that electronic public records do not have to be converted to different electronic formats under the State's open public records law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies that public agencies are not required to convert electronic public records into a specific format requested by the public under the State's open public records law, commonly known as the "Open Public Records Act." Instead, if a public agency does not maintain a record in the requested electronic format, it has the discretion to either convert the record to that format or provide a copy in the format it currently uses. If the agency chooses to convert the record, it may charge a special fee for the reasonable costs associated with that conversion, similar to existing provisions for converting records to different physical media. The intent of this bill is to simplify the process for responding to requests for electronic public records, allowing records custodians to focus on providing timely access and potentially avoiding costly legal disputes.
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Bill Summary: This bill would clarify that a public agency does not have to convert a public record to a particular electronic format under the State's open public records law, commonly referred to as the "Open Public Records Act," P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.). Current law does not expressly address requests for public records in particular electronic formats. This bill would provide that a public agency must provide the record in the electronic format requested only if the agency maintains the record in that format. Otherwise, the public agency, in its discretion, may either convert the record to the electronic format requested or provide a copy in the electronic format maintained by the public agency. If the public agency elects to convert a record to the electronic format requested, the agency may charge a special charge for the reasonable conversion costs in those circumstances in which a special charge may be charged for converting a record to the medium requested provided for under current law. This bill would simplify the process for responding to requests for electronic public records so that records custodians may focus their efforts on the timely provision of public records, and to help avoid potential litigation over such requests, which can lead to substantial costs for a public agency.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Erik Peterson (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3584 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Permits Government Records Council staff attorneys to adjudicate certain government records complaints.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows staff attorneys at the Government Records Council (GRC) to handle, review, and make decisions on complaints related to access to government records, which are governed by the state's open public records act. Currently, the GRC, composed of state commissioners and public members, adjudicates these complaints, often leading to backlogs. This change, recommended by the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) due to concerns about timely complaint processing, empowers GRC staff attorneys to resolve these issues more efficiently, with decisions still appealable to the full GRC council and subsequently to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court. The bill also clarifies that regulations limiting access to government records cannot be applied retroactively to pending requests.
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Bill Summary: The Government Records Council (GRC) has many duties with regard to the law commonly referred to as the open public records act. Among its duties, the GRC adjudicates complaints submitted to the council concerning a denial of access to a government record by a records custodian. The council consists of the Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs, the Commissioner of the Department of Education, and three public members appointed by the Governor. The council employs an executive director, professional staff, such as a staff attorney, and clerical staff as it deems necessary. Under this bill, the staff attorneys of the council will receive, hear, review, and adjudicate complaints. The decision of a staff attorney may be appealed to the council. Under current law, a decision of the council may be appealed to the Appellate Division of the Superior Court. Under current practice, the council meets monthly for the adjudication of complaints and other matters. This bill will permit staff attorneys to adjudicate complaints on a regular basis, which should help alleviate the council's backlog of complaints. This bill is in response to the recommendations of the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) July 2022 report regarding the GRC and its review and adjudication of public records complaints. The OSC expressed concern that the GRC has not processed public records complaints in a timely manner and recommended that the GRC utilize the staff attorneys of the council to receive, hear, review, and adjudicate complaints. The council will retain its current process to hear appeals of decisions of staff attorneys.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Lou Greenwald (D)*, Chris Tully (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2953 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires municipal governing bodies and boards of education to provide sufficient time for all requested public comment at open public meetings.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires municipal governing bodies and boards of education to dedicate a portion of every meeting specifically for public comment, ensuring enough time is allocated to hear from everyone who wishes to speak on any issue they believe concerns local residents. Each speaker is guaranteed at least three minutes to voice their concerns. If the public comment period extends beyond the scheduled meeting time, any votes on the discussed topics will be postponed until the following meeting, at which point public comment will resume until all interested individuals have had a chance to speak. This amendment to the Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act aims to increase public participation and transparency in local government and school district decision-making.
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Bill Summary: This bill amends section 7 of the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act," P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6 et seq.), to provide that a municipal governing body and a board of education shall be required to set aside a portion of every meeting sufficient to accommodate all requests for public comment, of not less than three minutes per speaker, on any governmental or school district issue that a member of the public feels may be of concern to the residents of the municipality or school district. Should the portion of the meeting dedicated to public comment exceed the scheduled length of the meeting itself, no vote shall be taken on the subject of the comment until the next meeting, at which time the public comment shall resume until all interested members of the public have had opportunity to comment on the subject.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Erik Peterson (R)*, John DiMaio (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #S0721 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Candidates, personal contact information
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the "Legislative Personal Privacy Protection Act," which provides a mechanism for current and former South Carolina legislators to restrict their personal contact information (defined as home address, personal cellular phone number, or tax map number) from being publicly displayed on government websites. Under this act, legislators can request that their personal information be removed from publicly accessible online records by submitting a designated form and a notarized affidavit proving their legislative service. The restrictions have several exceptions, such as when information is needed for legal proceedings, included in specific types of official documents, or requested by certain professionals like title insurers, attorneys, or surveyors. The bill requires state and local government agencies to comply with these requests, and agencies must provide a description of any restricted information if requested. Importantly, the act includes protections for government employees, stating that they cannot be held liable for claims or damages arising from the personal information being on public records. The Legislative Services Agency is tasked with creating the official form for making these restriction requests, which must include detailed fields about the legislator's personal information and service. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval, providing a new layer of privacy protection for legislators.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Enacting The "legislative Personal Privacy Protection Act" By Adding Article 9 To Chapter 2, Title 30 So As To Provide A Method By Which The Personal Contact Information Of Current And Former Legislators In Disclosed Records On Publicly Available Websites Of State Or Local Governmental Entities May Be Restricted Upon Request, To Provide For Petitions To Courts For Compliance With This Article, And To Prevent Liability From Accruing To A State Or Local Governmental Employee.
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• Introduced: 12/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Deon Tedder (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/10/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S544 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Exempts certain health information contained in 9-1-1 calls from definition of government record.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing law to make certain health information contained within 9-1-1 calls confidential and therefore not considered a government record, which are typically accessible to the public. Specifically, any part of a 9-1-1 audio recording or transcript that reveals a person's health status, medical conditions, treatments received, medical history, genetic information, or current health insurance details will be excluded from public disclosure. This change aims to protect sensitive personal health information that might be shared during emergency calls.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, 9-1-1 audio recordings and transcripts are generally considered government records which are available for inspection, copying, and examination by the public. This bill would make confidential any part of a 9-1-1 audio recording or transcript that disclosed a person's health status, medical conditions, health care services or treatments, medical history, genetic information, or current health insurance plan information by excluding it from the definition of a government record.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Beach (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/15/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3583 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Authorizes Government Records Council to use annual appropriations to employ staff attorneys exclusively to assist council in handling complaints.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes the Government Records Council (GRC), which handles complaints about access to government records under the open public records act, to use its annual funding to hire staff attorneys specifically to help manage the increasing number of complaints. These attorneys will be responsible for receiving, reviewing, and making decisions on these complaints, aiming to speed up the process and reduce the backlog. Additionally, the bill requires the GRC to consider its resource capacity when requesting its budget to ensure it can handle proceedings efficiently. This legislation is a response to concerns raised by the Office of the State Comptroller about delays in processing public records complaints and the GRC's previous reliance on the Department of Community Affairs for hiring additional legal staff.
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Bill Summary: The Government Records Council (GRC) adjudicates certain complaints under the law commonly referred to as the open public records act. Concerns have been raised that the GRC does not process complaints in a timely manner. Additional staff attorneys could assist in the handling of complaints, helping to alleviate the GRC's backlog. Under current law, the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) oversees the staffing and budget for the GRC. Requests by the GRC for additional funds to hire staff attorneys have gone unanswered. This bill expressly authorizes the GRC to employ additional staff attorneys exclusively to assist the council in handling complaints. The staff attorneys will receive, hear, review, and adjudicate complaints filed concerning a denial of access to a government record by a records custodian. The bill also requires the GRC to take into consideration whether it has sufficient resources to conduct its proceedings as expeditiously as possible when it prepares its recommended budget request for a State fiscal year. This bill is in response to a report by the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) regarding the GRC and its review and adjudication of public records complaints. The OSC report expressed concern that the GRC does not process public records complaints in a timely manner, as well as concerns regarding the requirement that the GRC must go through the DCA to hire additional attorneys. This bill attempts to address those concerns and should help alleviate the backlog of GRC public records complaints.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Lou Greenwald (D)*, Chris Tully (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2701 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal information of members of NJ Legislature.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," a New Jersey law designed to protect the personal information of certain public servants, to include members of the New Jersey Legislature. Currently, Daniel's Law prohibits the disclosure of home addresses and unlisted phone numbers for individuals like judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers, and their immediate family members, to prevent potential harm or harassment. This legislation adds elected members of the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly to this protected group, meaning their personal information, such as home addresses, will also be shielded from public disclosure under similar circumstances, with penalties for violations including criminal prosecution and civil action.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," P.L.2020, c.125, to prohibit the disclosure of personal information of members of the New Jersey Legislature. Under the bill, "member of the legislature" means any person elected or selected to serve in the New Jersey Senate or General Assembly. Currently, Daniel's Law: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home address of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, or child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families; (2) prohibits disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers, child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors; and (3) permits criminal prosecution and statutory civil action concerning prohibited disclosures. The bill expands the scope of Daniel's Law to also include members of the legislature. This bill is in response to the violent attacks, on June 13, 2025, against two Minnesota state lawmakers, Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman, and their immediately family members, at their home.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris DePhillips (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2863 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Creates searchable website for certain records available through open public records request.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a single, searchable online website, managed by the Department of Community Affairs, to make certain government records from political subdivisions of the state publicly accessible without charge, in addition to the existing process for requesting records under the open public records act. The website will only feature records that are one-time or periodic in nature, such as reports and meeting minutes, and will be searchable by agency, date, keyword, and record type. While this new website does not change the fundamental requirements of the open public records act, it allows a records custodian to fulfill a request by directing the requestor to the website if the record has already been uploaded, unless the requestor states they lack computer access. The bill includes a six-month testing period and a two-year implementation schedule for agencies to begin uploading eligible records, with the Department of Community Affairs providing technical assistance and training. This initiative aims to save time and money for both government agencies and taxpayers by reducing the need to process multiple individual requests for the same documents and promoting greater transparency.
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Bill Summary: This bill creates a single, searchable website for government records of a political subdivision of the State that are available through a request submitted under the law commonly known as the open public records act. The website will only include records that are of a one-time or periodic nature. The website will be administered by the Department of Community Affairs. The bill does not modify the requirements of the open public records act beyond adding an additional requirement for public agencies that are political subdivisions of the State to upload to the website the specified records. A records custodian may direct a requestor to the website as a proper fulfillment of a request if the record had previously been uploaded to the website, unless the requestor explicitly informs the agency that they do not have access to a computer to access an electronic version of the record. The website will provide potential cost savings to county and local governments and taxpayers, as well as time savings for records custodians as they would have to redact, scan, copy, or upload the document only once, rather than for multiple requests. The website also promotes transparency and provides the public with beneficial access to government documents. The bill includes a six-month testing period in order to ensure the viability and capability of the website. After the six-month testing period, the Department of Community Affairs must create a schedule so that all impacted public agencies are uploading the eligible government records within two years of the effective date of the bill. This bill includes a delayed effective date in order to provide the opportunity to create the website and train the necessary professionals to maintain and upload to the website.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Alex Sauickie (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1673 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires access to law enforcement disciplinary records as government records; requires such records to be retained for certain period of time.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that disciplinary records of law enforcement officers, which include complaints, allegations, charges, officer names, hearing transcripts, dispositions, final opinions, internal affairs records, and relevant video and audio recordings, be treated as government records and made accessible to the public, with certain personal information like home addresses and detailed medical histories redacted, though injuries or conditions related to the alleged conduct will not be redacted, and complainants or witnesses can request their names be kept confidential. Furthermore, these disciplinary records must be kept for at least 20 years, while video and audio recordings from body-worn cameras or similar devices related to an incident must be preserved for at least five years if not part of an investigation or civil action, or until the conclusion of any criminal, juvenile, disciplinary, or civil proceedings, including appeals, if they are involved in such matters.
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Bill Summary: Access to government records promotes general transparency in government. Access can expose significant failings and provide insight into what can be done to effectuate meaningful change. This is especially critical in the context of police disciplinary records. This bill makes law enforcement disciplinary records accessible as government records. Under the bill, certain information pertaining to the law enforcement officer, or the officer's family, the complainant, or the complainant's family, and a witness, or the witness' family, will be redacted. Under the bill, law enforcement disciplinary records includes, but are not limited to: complaints, allegations, and charges; the name of the officer complained of or charged; the transcript of any disciplinary trial or hearing, including any exhibits; the disposition of any proceeding; and the final written opinion or memorandum supporting the disposition and discipline imposed including the agency's complete factual findings and its analysis of the conduct and appropriate discipline of the covered officer; and internal affairs records; and videos that record incidents that gave rise to complaints, allegations, charges, or internal affairs investigations. This bill also requires that the disciplinary records of law enforcement officers must be maintained for a minimum period of not less than 20 years from the date that such document was created, except that any video and audio recording created by a body-worn camera, mobile video recorder, or other similar recording device, which recorded the incident or conduct giving rise to any complaint, allegation, charge or internal affairs investigation, must be maintained for a period not less than five years if such evidence is not part of a criminal, juvenile, or officer disciplinary investigation, or a civil action. If any video and audio recording created by a body-worn camera, mobile video recorder, or other similar recording device, which recorded the incident or conduct giving rise to any complaint, allegation, charge or internal affairs investigation is part of a criminal, juvenile, or disciplinary investigation, such records must be maintained until, at a minimum, the time of a final adjudication or conviction, including the exhaustion of any appeals, or post-conviction relief. If any video and audio recording created by a body-worn camera, mobile video recorder, or other similar recording device, which recorded the incident or conduct giving rise to any complaint, allegation, charge or internal affairs investigation is part of a civil action, such records must be maintained until, at a minimum, the time of a final resolution of the civil action, including the exhaustion of any appeals, or post-conviction relief.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D)*, Linda Carter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/30/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1621 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits disclosure of body worn camera recordings under certain circumstances.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to prevent the exploitation of individuals, particularly young women, who appear in body-worn camera recordings obtained through the state's open public records law, often referred to as the "open public records act." The bill prohibits anyone who obtains such a recording and is not personally featured in it from sharing it without the written consent of everyone depicted, unless the disclosure serves a legitimate public health or safety purpose or a compelling public interest. A "body worn camera" is defined as a mobile audio and video recording system worn by a law enforcement officer, and a "subject of the body worn camera recording" includes suspects, victims, or anyone else directly involved in the encounter, but not someone who only incidentally appears. Violating this provision is considered a disorderly persons offense, a minor criminal offense, and the offender can also face a civil lawsuit from those depicted in the recording. In such a lawsuit, courts can award actual damages (at least $1,000 per violation), punitive damages for willful misconduct, attorney fees, and other appropriate legal remedies.
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Bill Summary: This bill prohibits the disclosure of body worn camera recordings obtained pursuant to the State's open public records law under certain circumstances. It has come to the sponsor's attention that bad actors have been taking advantage of the State's open public records law in order to exploit on social media young women who have been recorded on body worn cameras during law enforcement encounters. It is the sponsor's intent to prevent such exploitation without limiting legitimate access to public records by the press or others. Under the provisions of this bill, a person who has obtained a body worn camera recording pursuant to the open public records act and who is not a subject of the body worn camera recording is prohibited from disclosing the recording without the prior written consent of each subject of the body worn camera recording, unless the disclosure is for a legitimate public health or safety purpose or a compelling public interest. A person who knowingly violates this provision is guilty of a disorderly persons offense. In addition to any other right of action or recovery available under the laws of this State, a person who knowingly violates this provision is also liable to a subject of the body worn camera recording, who may bring an action in Superior Court. The court may award: 1) actual damages, but not less than liquidated damages computed at the rate of $1,000 for each violation; 2) punitive damages upon proof of willful or reckless disregard of the law; 3) reasonable attorney's fees and other litigation costs reasonably incurred; and 4) any other preliminary and equitable relief as the court determines to be appropriate. Under the bill, "body worn camera" is defined as a mobile audio and video recording system worn by a law enforcement officer. The bill defines "subject of the body worn camera recording" as a suspect, victim, detainee, conversant, injured party, or other similarly situated person who appears on the body worn camera recording and does not include a person who only incidentally appears on the recording.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sean Kean (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/23/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S255 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires access to law enforcement disciplinary records as government records; requires such records to be retained for certain period of time.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that law enforcement disciplinary records, which include complaints, allegations, charges, officer names, hearing transcripts, dispositions, final written opinions, internal affairs records, and relevant video and audio recordings, be treated as government records accessible to the public, with certain personal information like home addresses and detailed medical history redacted, though injuries or conditions that are the subject of a complaint will not be redacted, and complainants and witnesses can request their names be kept private. The bill also establishes retention periods for these records, requiring all disciplinary records to be kept for at least 20 years from their creation, while video and audio recordings from body-worn cameras or similar devices must be kept for at least five years if not part of an investigation or civil action, but must be retained until the conclusion of any criminal, juvenile, disciplinary, or civil proceedings, including appeals.
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Bill Summary: Access to government records promotes general transparency in government. Access can expose significant failings and provide insight into what can be done to effectuate meaningful change. This is especially critical in the context of police disciplinary records. This bill makes law enforcement disciplinary records accessible as government records. Under the bill, certain information pertaining to the law enforcement officer, or the officer's family, the complainant, or the complainant's family, and a witness, or the witness' family, will be redacted. Under the bill, law enforcement disciplinary records includes, but are not limited to: complaints, allegations, and charges; the name of the officer complained of or charged; the transcript of any disciplinary trial or hearing, including any exhibits; the disposition of any proceeding; and the final written opinion or memorandum supporting the disposition and discipline imposed including the agency's complete factual findings and its analysis of the conduct and appropriate discipline of the covered officer; and internal affairs records; and videos that record incidents that gave rise to complaints, allegations, charges, or internal affairs investigations. This bill also requires that the disciplinary records of law enforcement officers must be maintained for a minimum period of not less than 20 years from the date that such document was created, except that any video and audio recording created by a body-worn camera, mobile video recorder, or other similar recording device, which recorded the incident or conduct giving rise to any complaint, allegation, charge or internal affairs investigation, must be maintained for a period not less than five years if such evidence is not part of a criminal, juvenile, or officer disciplinary investigation, or a civil action. If any video and audio recording created by a body-worn camera, mobile video recorder, or other similar recording device, which recorded the incident or conduct giving rise to any complaint, allegation, charge or internal affairs investigation is part of a criminal, juvenile, or disciplinary investigation, such records must be maintained until, at a minimum, the time of a final adjudication or conviction, including the exhaustion of any appeals, or post-conviction relief. If any video and audio recording created by a body-worn camera, mobile video recorder, or other similar recording device, which recorded the incident or conduct giving rise to any complaint, allegation, charge or internal affairs investigation is part of a civil action, such records must be maintained until, at a minimum, the time of a final resolution of the civil action, including the exhaustion of any appeals, or post-conviction relief.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Shirley Turner (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/02/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2073 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Open meetings enforcement; attorney general
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Arizona Revised Statutes Section 41-192 to expand the powers and duties of the Attorney General's office by establishing an open meetings enforcement team. Specifically, the bill requires the Attorney General to create a team of attorneys who will meet at least monthly to address complaints about potential violations of open meetings laws (found in Title 38, Chapter 3, Article 3.1). The team will be required to submit quarterly reports of their activities to the Attorney General and publish these reports on the Attorney General's website. The bill also makes several minor grammatical changes, such as replacing gender-specific pronouns like "his" with gender-neutral language like "the attorney general's". Additionally, the bill includes some technical amendments to other sections of the law, such as clarifying the names of certain state agencies and updating language around financial and administrative procedures. The overall aim appears to be improving transparency and enforcement of open meetings regulations by creating a dedicated team within the Attorney General's office to investigate and report on potential violations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Amending section 41-192, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to the attorney general.
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• Introduced: 12/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : Lisa Fink (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 12/17/2025
• Last Action: House read second time
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S127 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires members of State Board of Education to attend meetings in person to be recorded as present.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires members of the State Board of Education to attend meetings in person to be counted as present, with an exception for situations declared a state of emergency by the Governor. It also mandates that all public meetings of the State Board of Education, including any part where the public can offer comments, must be accessible both in person and virtually, with a link for virtual access prominently displayed on the Board's website. Furthermore, when public comment is accepted, individuals will have the option to provide their comments remotely.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that a member of the State Board of Education may only be recorded as present if the member attends the meeting in person, except as may be otherwise determined during a state of emergency declared by the Governor. The bill also requires all public meetings of the State Board of Education to be accessible to the public both in person and virtually. A link providing virtual access to meetings is required to be publicly available on the State Board of Education's website. Finally, for any meeting in which the State Board of Education accepts public comment, the bill stipulates that members of the public will be able to provide comments by means of remote communication.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Holzapfel (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 11/24/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3574 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires redaction and nondisclosure of home address of elected officials and candidates for elected office.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the redaction and nondisclosure of the primary or secondary home address of elected officials, candidates for elected office, and their immediate family members from government records, except in specific circumstances. An "elected official" is defined as anyone holding an elected public office filled by voters, including those appointed to fill vacancies, but not political party officials; it also includes anyone "seeking election," which means they have filed with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission as a candidate. To receive this protection, the individual must submit a request for redaction or nondisclosure to the Office of Information Privacy within the Department of Community Affairs. While the home address will be protected from general disclosure, it will remain accessible to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission for residency verification purposes.
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Bill Summary: This bill prohibits the disclosure by the custodian of a government record of the primary or secondary home address of an elected official or a person seeking elective public office, or their immediate family member, except in certain circumstances. The disclosure would be prohibited if the elected official or person seeking elective public office, or the immediate family member, submits a request for redaction or nondisclosure to the Office of Information Privacy in the Department of Community Affairs. Under the bill, "elected official" any person holding elective public office, under the State Constitution or by law, that is filled by the registered voters of a jurisdiction at an election, including a person appointed, selected, or otherwise designated to fill a vacancy in such office, but does not mean an official of a political party. An "elected official" also includes any person seeking election to an elective public office. The bill defines "seeking election" as any individual who has made a filing with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission as a candidate. The bill specifies that the home address of the elected official will remain available to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission for residency verification purposes, but will otherwise be subject to redaction or nondisclosure.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 02/01/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Lou Greenwald (D)*, Carol Murphy (D)*, Joe Danielsen (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2503 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits disclosure of certain information of probation officers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections under Daniel's Law, which currently shields the home addresses of judicial officers, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers from public disclosure, to include probation officers. This means that personal information, specifically home addresses, of probation officers, as well as their immediate family members, will be protected from disclosure by both government entities and private parties, with exceptions for government agencies carrying out their functions or for enforcing child support payments. The bill defines "probation officer" broadly to encompass various job titles within the New Jersey State Judiciary and the Probation Association of New Jersey, ensuring comprehensive coverage. This legislation aims to enhance the safety and privacy of probation officers by preventing the unauthorized release of their personal information, similar to the protections already afforded to other justice system personnel.
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Bill Summary: The bill prohibits the disclosure of personal information of probation officers. Currently, various public officials who provide services in the criminal and civil justice system for this State and for other governmental entities are covered under Daniel's Law which: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home addresses of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officer, prosecutor, or law enforcement officer; (2) expands an existing crime concerning the disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers to also cover formerly active law enforcement officers, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors; and (3) permits criminal prosecutions and statutory civil actions concerning any prohibited disclosure. This bill expands the scope of Daniel's law to probation officers. "probation officers" is defined as one defined by law or contract between the New Jersey State Judiciary and the Probation Association of New Jersey, including, but not limited to those employees who are in the following titles referred to in those contracts: Probation Officer, Senior Probation Officer, Master Probation Officer, Substance Abuse Evaluator, Family Court Coordinator, Assistant Child Placement Review Coordinator, or Bilingual Community Outreach Worker. The term also shall include all titles covered by Appendix A of the Professional Supervisory Unit, including but not limited to the informal title of Team Leader and Court Service Supervisor 1, Court Service Supervisor 2, and Court Service Supervisor 3.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Bill Spearman (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1882 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires State Board of Education meetings to be accessible virtually and in person.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the State Board of Education to hold all of its public meetings in a way that is accessible to everyone, both in person and online. To ensure virtual access, a link to join the meetings remotely must be posted on the State Board of Education's website. Furthermore, if the board allows public comments during a meeting, individuals will have the option to submit their comments through remote communication, meaning they can participate without being physically present. This aims to increase public engagement and transparency in the board's decision-making processes.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires all public meetings of the State Board of Education to be accessible to the public both in person and virtually. The bill also requires that a link providing virtual access to meetings be publicly available on the State Board of Education's website. Finally, for any meeting in which the State Board of Education accepts public comment, the bill stipulates that members of the public will be able to provide comments by means of remote communication.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Latham Tiver (R)*, Vin Gopal (D), Kristin Corrado (R), Jim Holzapfel (R), Joe Pennacchio (R), Holly Schepisi (R), Mike Testa (R), Tony Bucco (R), Bob Singer (R), Troy Singleton (D), Shirley Turner (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S203 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires redaction of certain personal identifying information on vehicle accident reports.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that personal identifying information and auto insurance policy numbers be redacted from vehicle accident reports before they are released to the public under New Jersey's open public records act (OPRA), which is a law that generally allows the public to access government records. This measure aims to protect residents' privacy and prevent identity theft by limiting access to unredacted reports to specific authorized parties, including individuals involved in the accident, their attorneys, insurance companies, and law enforcement agencies, who can only use the information for legal, insurance, or investigatory purposes. Unauthorized public disclosure of this sensitive information by authorized recipients will result in escalating civil penalties, starting at $1,000 for a first offense, and custodians of these records must maintain a log of all unredacted reports provided, which will be available for inspection by the Government Records Council or Attorney General during investigations.
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Bill Summary: This bill strengthens personal privacy and security for New Jersey residents by requiring the redaction of personal identifying information and auto insurance policy numbers from vehicle accident reports before those reports are released to the public under the law commonly known as the open public records act (OPRA). At a time when data breaches and identity theft are increasingly common, safeguarding this information is essential to protecting individuals' privacy rights and preventing misuse of sensitive data. The bill limits access to unredacted vehicle accident reports to parties with a clearly defined legal, insurance, or investigatory purpose. Authorized parties include individuals involved in the accident; their attorneys; insurance companies representing a party to the accident; and local, State, and federal law enforcement agencies and their employees or agents acting within the scope of their official duties. Under the bill, authorized recipients are strictly limited to using unredacted information for official purposes and are prohibited from disclosing it publicly without the written consent of all involved parties or, in the case of a deceased or incapacitated person, the legal next of kin. To deter unauthorized disclosure, the bill imposes escalating civil penalties. The penalties are $1,000 for a first offense, $2,500 for a second offense, and $5,000 for each subsequent offense. The bill also requires custodians of government records at government agencies to keep a log of unredacted accident report disclosures, which are required to be made available to the Government Records Council or Attorney General upon request in connection with an investigation.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Patrick Diegnan (D)*, Jim Beach (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 11/25/2025
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1648 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Establishes database containing information on traffic stops by certain law enforcement officers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates the Attorney General to create and maintain a public, searchable online database containing detailed information about traffic stops made by state and local law enforcement officers, including data on the driver's race or ethnicity, approximate age, and gender, the reason for the stop, whether a search was conducted and its outcome, and if any contraband was found or property seized. This database will also record whether a citation or warning was issued, if an arrest was made, any resistance encountered, use of force, injuries, or subsequent investigations, and the specific location of the stop, with the goal of increasing public oversight and preventing discriminatory enforcement practices like racial or gender profiling. The information collected will be subject to disclosure under the open public records act, commonly known as the open public records act, and law enforcement agencies will be required to submit this information quarterly.
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Bill Summary: This bill would require the Attorney General to establish a public, searchable database of information pertaining to traffic law enforcement by State and local law enforcement officers. The information entered in the database will include the driver's identifying characteristics, such as race or ethnicity, approximate age, and gender and will pertain to all interactions with traffic law enforcement, even those stops that result only in an oral warning. The wide range of specific information contained within this database will allow for increased public oversight of traffic law enforcement practices by providing a tool to prevent pernicious enforcement of these laws, including racial and gender profiling.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Melinda Kane (D)*, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S1971 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires State Board of Education to provide five days' notice of public meeting and permit public comment on agenda items of public meeting.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the State Board of Education to provide at least five days' notice before holding a public meeting, which is an increase from the current 48-hour notice requirement, and it also mandates that the public be allowed to comment on every agenda item that is not discussed in a private executive session.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires the State Board of Education to provide a minimum of five days' notice of a public meeting of the board. The bill also requires that members of the public be permitted to provide public comment on all agenda items of a public meeting that are not addressed in executive session. Under current law, adequate notice of 48 hours is required before a public meeting of the State Board of Education. This bill extends that required notice to a minimum of five days.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Holly Schepisi (R)*, Kristin Corrado (R), Bob Singer (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Education Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB6095 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Protecting elected officials and candidates, executive state officers, election officials, and criminal justice participants against threats and incidents of political violence.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance the safety of elected officials, candidates, executive state officers, election officials, and criminal justice participants by allowing them to keep their primary residential addresses confidential and by expanding access to personal security measures. It amends several existing laws to achieve this, including making it a felony to threaten these individuals while they are performing their official duties, and allowing them to participate in an address confidentiality program, which shields their home address from public disclosure. The bill also permits the use of campaign funds and legislative expense accounts for personal security measures, such as security systems, personnel, and cybersecurity services, and clarifies that certain security-related records are not public records. Additionally, it establishes procedures for redacting residential addresses from various public records, such as campaign finance reports, property records, and voter registration information, with specific exceptions for disclosure to the news media under certain conditions and with notification requirements. The bill also directs the Washington state patrol to provide personal security for legislators at public events when local law enforcement is unable to, and mandates security assessments for legislators' residences.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to protecting elected officials and candidates, 2 executive state officers, election officials, and criminal justice 3 participants against threats and incidents of political violence by 4 authorizing the nondisclosure of their primary residential address 5 and increasing access to personal security measures; amending RCW 6 9A.46.020, 40.24.030, 43.43.037, 29B.05.030, 29B.55.030, 29B.25.090, 7 29B.40.180, 29A.24.031, 65.04.140, 84.40.020, 84.40.160, 40.14.030, 8 4.24.680, 29B.40.090, 29B.40.130, and 42.52.160; reenacting and 9 amending RCW 29A.08.710; adding a new section to chapter 44.04 RCW; 10 adding a new section to chapter 29B.05 RCW; adding a new section to 11 chapter 42.56 RCW; adding a new chapter to Title 44 RCW; prescribing 12 penalties; and declaring an emergency. 13
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• Introduced: 01/12/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 13 : Marko Liias (D)*, Marcus Riccelli (D), Jessica Bateman (D), Steve Conway (D), Adrian Cortes (D), Noel Frame (D), Liz Lovelett (D), T'wina Nobles (D), Jamie Pedersen (D), Jesse Salomon (D), Vandana Slatter (D), Yasmin Trudeau (D), Claire Wilson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/13/2026
• Last Action: First reading, referred to State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2074 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Makes certain changes to public access of government records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to public access of government records, aiming to streamline the process and protect certain personal information. It exempts email addresses, home and cell phone numbers, and home addresses (if requested by the individual) from public disclosure, while establishing a uniform per-page rate for copying records and allowing agencies to direct requesters to their websites for readily available information. The bill also clarifies that special service charges for record copying include labor costs, and requires custodians to accept requests not on the official form if they contain the necessary information and clearly state they are OPRA (Open Public Records Act) requests. It provides a seven-day extension for custodians to respond to large or complex requests, and mandates that requesters pick up documents within fourteen business days or the request is considered fulfilled, with agencies not required to hold records beyond thirty days. Additionally, contact information for custodians must be posted on agency websites, and mediation is now required for all complaints filed with the Government Records Council, with attorney's fees awarded only for knowing and willful violations. Finally, a Superior Court can issue a protective order to limit or eliminate an agency's duty to respond to requests from individuals found to be using the act for improper purposes, such as harassment.
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Bill Summary: This bill makes certain changes to the public's access to government records. Specifically the bill: ? exempts from disclosure e-mail addresses, home telephone numbers, unlisted or otherwise and cell phone numbers; ? provides for a uniform per page rate for copying government records; ? requires the Government Records Council to develop a form to be used by records custodians that will allow persons to opt-out of having their address made public; ? permits a records custodian to require the requester to obtain the record from the agency website when the information requested is readily available on the website; ? clarifies special service charges includes costs of labor; ? requires the record custodian to accept a record request made on a document other than the adopted form if it contains a notice that it is an OPRA request and contains the information required on the adopted form; ? provides records custodians a seven day extension to comply with large or complicated requests; ? requires the requestor to pick up the requested documents within fourteen business days of the records being available; ? requires contact information for the custodian of a public agency to be included on the agency website; ? requires mediation for all complaints; and ? requires that attorney's fees be awarded only when a knowing and willful violation is found. Also, this bill will permit a Superior Court to issue a protective order limiting the number and scope of requests a requestor may make under the open public records act, N.J.S.A.47:1A-1 et seq. In appropriate circumstances, the court may eliminate a public agency's duty to respond to requests from the requestor in the future. The bill will require the court, in issuing the order, to determine that the requestor has sought records under the act for an improper purpose, including, but not limited to, the harassment of a public agency or its employees.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Paul Moriarty (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2659 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Establishes Open Public Records Act Study Commission.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes an 11-member Open Public Records Act Study Commission, tasked with examining how the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), a law designed to give citizens access to government records, is currently being used and implemented. The commission will review OPRA's effectiveness, considering how technology, court decisions, and administrative actions have affected it, and will also analyze the balance between public access and individual privacy rights, as well as OPRA's use for commercial purposes. Additionally, the commission will research how other states handle public records and will make recommendations for improving OPRA. The commission, which will include members appointed by the Senate President, Speaker of the General Assembly, and the Governor, with representation from various fields like law enforcement, municipal government, and the news media, must report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature and the Governor within one year of its first meeting and will then be dissolved. This initiative stems from a recommendation by the League of Municipalities.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes an 11 member commission, to be known as the Open Public Records Act Study Commission. The study commission will examine how the open public records act, OPRA, is implemented and utilized in actual day-to-day situations. At a minimum, the commission will: review OPRA and examine how the statute compares with actual operation and use; evaluate how advancements in technology, administrative decisions, and court rulings have impacted OPRA; analyze how OPRA requests are balanced with the public's right to privacy; examine how OPRA has been used for commercial, marketing, business, and research purposes; research public records statutes and their operation and use, both positive and negative, of other states; consider such other matters relating to OPRA as the members of the commission may deem appropriate; and make recommendations for legislation or such other action as it deems appropriate with regard to improving, expanding, and facilitating OPRA. The commission will report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature and the Governor within one year of its initial organizational meeting. The commission will expire 30 days after submission of its findings and recommendations to the Legislature and the Governor. This bill is a recommendation of the League of Municipalities 2018 Conference.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Chris DePhillips (R)*, Gerry Scharfenberger (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2121 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Prohibits disclosure of personal information pertaining to certain health care workers who are victims of assault; makes violation disorderly persons offense.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits the disclosure of personal information, such as name and address, of certain healthcare workers who are victims of assault by a patient or resident at a healthcare facility, aiming to prevent further violence or intimidation against them. This protection applies to healthcare workers employed by licensed facilities, licensed healthcare professionals, and direct care workers at state or county psychiatric hospitals, developmental centers, or veterans' homes, when the assault occurs while they are providing direct patient care or practicing their profession. Such personal information must be omitted, redacted, or replaced with initials or a fictitious name on public records, including indictments and complaints, which are defined by the Open Public Records Act (OPRA). Any other public record containing this victim's information will be confidential and inaccessible to the public unless a court order allows disclosure. Violators who intentionally disclose this information without authorization face a disorderly persons offense, punishable by up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
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Bill Summary: This bill would prohibit the disclosure of personal information pertaining to certain health care workers who are assaulted by a patient or resident of a health care facility. According to data from the U.S. Department of Labor, health care and social service workers are almost four times as likely to be injured as a result of workplace violence than the average private sector worker. In 2013, the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the U.S. Department of Labor reported more than 23,000 significant injuries due to assault at work. More than 70 percent of these assaults were in health care and social service settings. This bill would prohibit personal information of certain health care workers who are victims of assault from being disclosed in order to prevent further violence, threats or intimidation against the victim. The bill prohibits the disclosure of the name, address, and identity of a victim of an alleged assault or aggravated assault on an indictment, complaint, or any other public record as defined in the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) if the actor is a patient or resident at the facility and the victim is a health care worker who was providing direct patient care or practicing the health care profession and is: 1) a health care worker employed by a licensed health care facility to provide direct patient care; 2) a health care professional licensed or otherwise authorized pursuant to Title 26 or Title 45 of the Revised Statutes to practice a health care profession; or 3) a direct care worker at a State or county psychiatric hospital or State developmental center or veterans' memorial home. The bill would require such information to be omitted or redacted, or initials or a fictitious name to appear instead. The bill also requires that any report, statement, photograph, court document, indictment, complaint or any other public record which states the name, address, and identity of a victim would be confidential and unavailable to the public, unless authorized pursuant to a court order. Any person who purposefully discloses, releases or otherwise makes available to the public, without authorization, any of these documents would be guilty of a disorderly persons offense. A disorderly persons offense is punishable by up to six months imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Paul Moriarty (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3518 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Amends "Daniel's Law" to provide exemptions for land surveyors for certain property record redaction requirements.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends "Daniel's Law," which allows certain public officials like judges and law enforcement officers to request that their home addresses be kept private from public records such as property deeds, by creating an exemption for licensed land surveyors and land surveying firms. Under the existing law, while addresses are generally redacted, there are exceptions for situations necessary for business transactions, and the Director of the Division of Taxation can create rules for using unredacted records. This bill specifically allows licensed land surveyors and authorized land surveying businesses to receive unredacted records when needed for their ordinary business operations, and also permits the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance, the New Jersey Real Estate Commission, and the State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors to issue regulations regarding the use of these unredacted records in compliance with privacy protections.
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Bill Summary: This bill amends "Daniel's Law," P.L.2021, c.371, concerning the privacy of home addresses of certain public officials, to provide an exemption for licensed land surveyors. Under "Daniel's Law," certain public officials such as judges, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and child protective investigators, may request that their home addresses be redacted or withheld from disclosure from certain public records, such as property deeds and tax maps. However, the law provides for certain exceptions where the address is necessary to facilitate certain business transactions, such as mortgages and real estate sales. The Director of the Division of Taxation may promulgate regulations concerning the use of unredacted records in conformity with the privacy protections of "Daniel's Law." Under the bill, land surveyors licensed in this State or land surveying firms authorized to operate in this State would be allowed to receive unredacted records when requested in the ordinary course of business. The bill additionally allows the Commissioner of Banking and Insurance, the New Jersey Real Estate Commission, and the State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors to also promulgate regulations concerning the use of unredacted records in conformity with the privacy protections of "Daniel's Law."
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Yvonne Lopez (D)*, Annette Quijano (D)*, Carmen Morales (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2168 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Increases transparency and accountability for NJT and independence of NJT board members; establishes Office of Customer Advocate; requires greater detail for capital program.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase transparency and accountability at NJ Transit by strengthening the independence of its board members, establishing an Office of Customer Advocate, and requiring more detailed reporting on capital projects. Key provisions include requiring the NJ Transit board to elect a vice chairperson from its public members, prohibiting ex officio members or their designees from serving as vice chairperson or presiding over meetings, and mandating that board agendas be publicly available seven days in advance with no more than 60 days between public board meetings. The bill also requires the board to directly hire the Executive Director, Director of the Office of Customer Advocate, and Auditor General, and to approve the hiring of senior management positions. It mandates board review and approval of major planning documents and substantial service cuts, and requires the board to adopt new bylaws within 180 days. To enhance transparency, audit documents will be made available in a centralized database or upon request, and senior management must collaborate with the administration committee on major fiscal items before they are acted upon. The Auditor General and internal audit department will report directly to the audit committee and board, independent of the Executive Director. The bill establishes a dedicated Office of Customer Advocate, independent of NJ Transit management but supervised by the board, to analyze the impact of board and NJ Transit actions on customers, gather customer feedback, and represent customer interests, with the director authorized to conduct investigations and issue reports. Furthermore, NJ Transit must hold at least two public hearings on its annual capital program and strategic plan, and the reporting of capital projects will be more specific, detailing contracts of $100,000 or more and conveying the scope of work over the fiscal year, with information provided in both document and sortable spreadsheet formats. Finally, the bill repeals a previous provision requiring NJ Transit to employ a customer advocate and instead creates the more robust Office of Customer Advocate.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides for changes to the New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJ Transit) enabling statues to increase transparency and accountability and the independence of NJ Transit board members. Election of the vice chairperson The bill provides that the vice chairperson of the NJ Transit board of directors is to be elected from among the public voting members of the board. The vice chairperson is to serve for a two year term. The bill prohibits an ex officio member from serving as the vice-chairperson of the board. The bill also prohibits designees of ex officio members from presiding over any board meeting. Public Meetings The bill requires that board agendas be provided to the public seven calendar days prior to the meeting and that the board is not to allow more than 60 calendar days to elapse without holding a public board meeting. The bill authorizes any board member to request, through the office of the chair, that a topic of item be included for discussion or board action at a future board meeting. Board Hiring This bill requires that the board of directors directly hire the Executive Director, Director of the Office of Customer Advocate, and Auditor General. It also requires board approval of hiring by the Executive Director for certain positions including all positions at the level of Senior Vice President and Chief. Board and Committee Transparency and Accountability The bill subjects major planning documents to review and approval by the board of directors. The board is also required to review and approve any substantial curtailment or elimination of paratransit service. The bill requires the board to take an active role in developing corporate bylaws and to adopt new bylaws within 180 days of the effective date of the bill to ensure consistency with statutory law governing NJ Transit. The board is required to ensure that the bylaws are available to the public and published on NJ Transit's website. Under the bill, NJ Transit personnel are required to make audit documents in their final form available to the members of the board in a centralized database. If NJ Transit has not yet established a centralized database for these documents, the bill requires that the documents be made available to a board member upon request. The bill requires NJ Transit senior management to collaborate with the administration committee on the development of any major fiscal item. NJ Transit is prohibited from taking certain action concerning a major fiscal item until the major fiscal item has been presented to the administration committee. If the members of the administration committee find that the major fiscal item should not advance or needs to be modified, the full board may, at a subsequent board meeting, require NJ Transit to take action. The bill provides that the Auditor General and internal audit department of NJ Transit are to report directly to the audit committee and the board of directors and are to be independent of the supervision of the Executive Director, unless specifically authorized by the audit committee or the board. The bill clarifies that each committee of the board is to serve as an apparatus for members of the committee to obtain information and to engage in policy discussions within the purview of the committee. Upon request of a committee member, NJ Transit personnel is required to provide information to the committee at a time and in a form and manner determined by the committee. The bill permits the establishment of any ad hoc or temporary committee to address a specific issue of interest to the board or the public. Each committee, standing or temporary, is to submit a committee report to the board for each committee meeting, which is to include the written summary of the substance of any discussions and any action taken at the committee meeting. The bill states that the Director of the Office of Customer Advocate, or the director's designee, may attend any committee meeting to provide pertinent information or commentary to the committee. The chairperson of each passenger advisory committee is authorized to provide pertinent information to any committee but is not privileged to committee discussion. The bill also clarifies that the board and each member of the board remain authorized and obligated to exercise the functions and responsibilities of each committee and emphasizes that each board member is required to apply independent judgment while fulfilling the board member's duties. Customer Advocate This bill repeals a provision of law that requires NJ Transit to employ a customer advocate and, instead, establishes the Office of Customer Advocate (Customer Advocate) to: provide information and independent analysis to the NJ Transit board of directors on the impact that board and NJ Transit actions are having, or are expected to have, on NJ Transit's customers; provide genuine customer input and feedback to the board of directors, including relaying the needs and concerns of customers to the board of directors; and represent the best interest of NJ Transit's customers as determined by the Director of the Office of Customer Advocate. The Customer Advocate is allocated within the Department of Transportation but is independent of any supervision or control by the department, provided, however, that the director of the office is to be supervised by NJ Transit's board of directors. The Customer Advocate is authorized to conduct investigations, initiate studies, conduct research, present comments and testimony before the board of directors, legislative committees, and other governmental bodies, and prepare and issue reports. The Customer Advocate is required to arrange for meetings with NJ Transit passengers, on at least a monthly basis, for the purpose of: relaying the concerns and needs of passengers to the board of directors and the executive management team of NJ Transit; and providing information to passengers on major board or NJ Transit actions of which the director has knowledge. In addition to monthly meetings, the director of the office may undertake any other action that the director deems to be in furtherance of the Customer Advocate's purposes. The Customer Advocate also has the authority to represent the public interest regarding proposed fare increases, proposed substantial curtailments of service, proposed expansion of service, and any other action or omission of NJ Transit that the Customer Advocate determines has an impact on NJ Transit's customers. The Customer Advocate is required to issue an annual report detailing the office's activities for the prior year. The bill reduces the number of persons appointed by the Governor to each passenger advisory committee from six to five and instead authorizes the Director of the Office of Customer Advocate to appoint one person to each passenger advisory committee. The bill also directs the passenger advisory committees to provide advice, input, and guidance to the Office of Customer Advocate. Capital Program Public Hearing and Reporting The bill requires NJ Transit to hold at least two public hearings concerning the contents of the annual capital program before it adopts and implements the program. The bill also requires NJ Transit to hold at least two public hearings per year on its strategic plan, capital program priorities, and vision for NJ Transit's future. The bill provides requirements for the public hearings. This bill amends the requirements for the annual transportation capital program report that is annually submitted to the Legislature as part of the annual budget process. This report is a recommendation provided by the Department of Transportation and NJ Transit for how the State should appropriate the State's capital program appropriations from the New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund. The bill requires that the reporting of capital projects in the report be more specific by narrowing the scope of what is to be reported as a project down to the level of each contract of $100,000 or more, or a group of contracts totaling more than $100,000 that are for related work at a single site. The bill also requires the projects to be reported in a manner that conveys the scope and scale of work to be completed over the course of the fiscal year. These requirements are directed specifically at the reporting for NJ Transit which has traditionally reported capital requests in broad categories that obscure the specific capital work to be completed. The bill also provides that the capital program is to be reported in a document format as is currently the case, and to also require the reporting of capital program information in a sortable spreadsheet format.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Andrew Zwicker (D)*, Gordon Johnson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Transportation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3490 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Exempts personal information from redaction and nondisclosure requirements in certain public filings and records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the exceptions to the redaction and nondisclosure requirements for personal information, particularly home addresses, of certain public officials and employees, such as judges and law enforcement officers. Previously, these individuals could request their home addresses be hidden from public records, but this bill adds several new categories of public records where such information will now be disclosed, including recall petitions, campaign finance reports filed under "The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act," financial disclosure statements from gubernatorial candidates, and reports from lobbyists and governmental affairs agents. Additionally, the bill mandates that the director of the Office of Information Privacy, a state office responsible for managing these redaction requests, must clearly display all these exceptions on a secure online portal where individuals can submit their redaction requests.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, certain public officials and employees, such as judges and law enforcement officers, are entitled to have their home address redacted or subject to nondisclosure when a public agency has possession of such information. However, there are certain exceptions when an individual's information may still be disclosed, even if they are otherwise entitled to redaction or nondisclosure. This bill would add to the list of exceptions: (1) recall petitions circulated and signed in this State; (2) any report of campaign contributions or expenditures filed by any individual, candidate, campaign, committee, or other entity under "The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act," or any report or list of such contributions submitted by an entity seeking or holding a public contract; (3) any financial disclosure statement made by a candidate for Governor; and (4) any report of activities required to be submitted by a lobbyist or governmental affairs agent in this State. This bill would also require the director of the Office of Information Privacy to identify and display all exceptions on the secure portal where individuals can request the redaction or nondisclosure of their information.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Yvonne Lopez (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2292 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Bars public entities and public employees from entering into confidential settlements of "whistleblower" claims; provides that such settlements constitute public records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits public entities and public employees from entering into confidential settlement agreements for claims brought under the "Conscientious Employee Protection Act," commonly known as the "Whistleblower Act," which protects employees who report illegal or unethical activities. Such settlements will now be considered public records, meaning they are accessible to the public under open public records laws, unless the settlement involves matters of national security. The Attorney General will be required to post a searchable list of these settlement agreements online, including details like the date, parties involved, a description of the claims, payment amounts, and legal counsel compensation. This bill clarifies that it does not alter existing laws protecting the identities of victims under 18 in sex crime or child abuse cases.
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Bill Summary: This bill would bar public entities and public employees from entering into any agreement to settle claims or actions where the public employee asserts the protections of the "Conscientious Employee Protection Act," P.L.1986, c.105 (C.34:19-1 et seq., informally referred to as the "Whistleblower Act"), if: (1) the agreement provides for the terms and conditions to be confidential; or (2) the purpose or the effect of such agreement is to conceal information relating to any claim or action concerning the public interest. The bill provides for an exception for agreements involving matters of national security. Under the bill, such settlement agreements constitute public records under the open public records laws, P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.) and P.L.2001, c.404 (C.47:1A-5 et al.). Under current law, set out in P.L.1989, c.336 (C.2A:82-46), the name, address, and identity of a victim of a sex crime or child abuse who was under the age of 18 at the time of the offense shall not appear on the indictment, complaint, or any other public record. The bill specifically provides that the provisions of the bill are not intended to affect this requirement. The bill would also require the Attorney General to make such agreements publicly available online. The bill would require that a list of the settlement agreements be in a searchable format in a prominent location on the department's website. The information would include: (1) the date the parties entered into the agreement; (2) the names of the parties; (3) a description of the claims; (4) the total amount each party is obligated to pay; and (5) the total amount of compensation for any outside legal counsel. In addition, the bill provides that any other agreement to settle a claim or action where a public entity is a party would be considered a public record within the meaning of P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.) and P.L.2001, c.404 (C.47:1A-5 et al.), except for matters involving national security.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : John McKeon (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1594 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Enables municipality to allow newly elected member of municipal governing body to participate in meeting where public is excluded.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows a municipality to permit a newly elected member of its governing body to attend and participate in meetings where the public is excluded, even before they have officially taken their oath of office. Municipalities can adopt a resolution or ordinance to enable this, providing a way for new members to get up to speed on important local issues before officially joining the body. Additionally, the Division of Local Government Services will develop a statement for these newly elected members to sign, confirming they will follow the municipality's rules for conducting meetings where the public is not present, and this signed statement will be kept by the municipal clerk.
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Bill Summary: This bill enables a municipality to allow a newly elected member of the municipality's governing body to participate in a meeting where the public is excluded. Under the bill, a municipality may, by resolution or ordinance, allow a newly elected member of the municipality's governing body to participate in a meeting where the public has been excluded before the newly elected member has taken their required oaths of office. The bill, thereby, provides the opportunity for a newly elected member of a municipal governing body to engage in important municipal issues in advance of the reorganization municipal meeting. Additionally, the Division of Local Government Services in the Department of Community Affairs would create an official statement for a newly elected member of a municipality's governing body to sign acknowledging that the newly elected member will abide by the municipality's rules concerning official conduct regarding meetings where the public has been excluded. This official statement signed by the newly elected member would be filed with the municipal clerk.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sean Kean (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/23/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1984 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal information concerning court administrators and deputy court administrators.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," a law designed to protect the personal information of public servants, to include municipal court administrators and deputy administrators. The law, which already prohibits the disclosure of personal information for judges, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, and child protective investigators, will now also shield the home addresses and unlisted phone numbers of municipal court administrators and their immediate family members from being published online or elsewhere. This expansion aims to enhance the safety and security of these individuals, allowing them to perform their duties without fear of reprisal.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," P.L.2020, c.125 (C.56:8-166.2 et al.), to prohibit the disclosure of personal information of municipal court administrators. The bill defines a municipal court administrator as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes an employee designated as an acting or deputy administrator in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. Currently, Daniel's Law: (1) prohibits the disclosure, by both governmental entities and private parties, of the home address of any active, formerly active, or retired federal, State, county, or municipal judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, or child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families; (2) prohibits disclosure of home addresses and unlisted telephone numbers for active or retired law enforcement officers, child protective investigators and employees of the Department of Children and Families, as well as active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers or prosecutors; and (3) permits criminal prosecution and statutory civil action concerning prohibited disclosures. The bill expands the scope of Daniel's Law to also include municipal court administrators and deputy administrators.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Annette Quijano (D)*, William Sampson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1543 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires redaction of certain personal identifying information on vehicle accident reports.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that personal identifying information and auto insurance policy numbers be redacted from vehicle accident reports before they are released to the public under New Jersey's open public records act (OPRA), which is a law that generally allows public access to government records. This change aims to protect individuals' privacy and prevent identity theft by limiting access to sensitive information. Unredacted accident reports will only be available to specific authorized parties, including those directly involved in the accident, their attorneys, insurance companies, and law enforcement agencies, and these authorized recipients can only use the information for legal, insurance, or investigatory purposes. Public disclosure of this unredacted information is prohibited without the consent of all parties involved or their next of kin if they are deceased or incapacitated, and violations will result in escalating civil penalties of $1,000 for a first offense, $2,500 for a second, and $5,000 for subsequent offenses. Government agencies will also be required to keep a log of all unredacted accident reports they release, which can be reviewed by the Government Records Council or Attorney General during investigations.
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Bill Summary: This bill strengthens personal privacy and security for New Jersey residents by requiring the redaction of personal identifying information and auto insurance policy numbers from vehicle accident reports before those reports are released to the public under the law commonly known as the open public records act (OPRA). At a time when data breaches and identity theft are increasingly common, safeguarding this information is essential to protecting individuals' privacy rights and preventing misuse of sensitive data. The bill limits access to unredacted vehicle accident reports to parties with a clearly defined legal, insurance, or investigatory purpose. Authorized parties include individuals involved in the accident; their attorneys; insurance companies representing a party to the accident; and local, State, and federal law enforcement agencies and their employees or agents acting within the scope of their official duties. Under the bill, authorized recipients are strictly limited to using unredacted information for official purposes and are prohibited from disclosing it publicly without the written consent of all involved parties or, in the case of a deceased or incapacitated person, the legal next of kin. To deter unauthorized disclosure, the bill imposes escalating civil penalties. The penalties are $1,000 for a first offense, $2,500 for a second offense, and $5,000 for each subsequent offense. The bill also requires custodians of government records at government agencies to keep a log of unredacted accident report disclosures, which are required to be made available to the Government Records Council or Attorney General upon request in connection with an investigation.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Clinton Calabrese (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Public Safety and Preparedness Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A549 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Concerns electronic notice of open public meetings for municipal governing bodies.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that municipal governing bodies, which are local government councils or boards responsible for a town or city, must provide electronic notice of their public meetings through the Internet, in addition to existing notice requirements under the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act." This electronic notice must include any documents relevant to the meeting's discussions, such as drafts that have been considered, unless those documents are confidential under the open public records act, are related to discussions where the public is excluded, or if releasing them before formal action would significantly harm the municipality as advised by legal counsel. However, a municipal governing body can hold a meeting without this electronic notice if three-quarters of the members present vote to do so in urgent situations where delaying the meeting would cause substantial public harm, provided the meeting is limited to those urgent matters, electronic notice is given as soon as possible, and the need for the meeting couldn't have been foreseen. The bill also establishes a process for municipalities to seek reimbursement from the Department of the Treasury for any extra costs incurred in complying with these new electronic notice requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill would amend the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act," P.L.1975, c.231 (C.10:4-6 et seq.) to require a municipal governing body to provide electronic notice of any meeting of the municipal governing body through the Internet. A municipal governing body would be permitted to meet without providing electronic notice in the event of an urgent matter. The bill requires an electronic notice made available by a municipal governing body to include any documents relevant to the scheduled deliberations. The bill creates an exception for certain documents that are deemed confidential under P.L.1963, c.73 (C.47:1A-1 et seq.), known as the open public records act, for documents related to discussions of the municipal governing body from which the public is excluded, and for documents that counsel to the municipality has advised the presiding officer of the governing body of the municipality would cause substantial harm to the municipality if released via electronic notice prior to formal action. The bill also provides for State reimbursement through the Department of the Treasury for additional costs incurred by a municipality to comply with the requirements of the bill.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Bob Auth (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 11/26/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1360 • Last Action 01/13/2026
"New Jersey Disclosure and Accountability Transparency Act (NJ DaTA)"; establishes certain requirements for disclosure and processing of personally identifiable information; establishes Office of Data Protection and Responsible Use in Division of Consumer Affairs.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "New Jersey Disclosure and Accountability Transparency Act (NJ DaTA)," establishes significant consumer rights regarding their personally identifiable information (PII), which is any data linked to an identifiable person. It mandates that companies, referred to as "controllers," must have a lawful basis to process a consumer's PII, such as obtaining explicit consent, fulfilling a contract, complying with legal obligations, protecting vital interests, performing a public task, or pursuing legitimate interests that don't override consumer rights. Controllers must clearly inform consumers about how their PII is collected and processed at the time of collection, and provide further disclosures if the PII is to be used for a different purpose. The bill also prohibits the processing of sensitive PII, like racial origin or health information, except under specific circumstances, and grants consumers rights to access, rectify, erase, and restrict the processing of their PII, as well as the right to object to certain types of processing, including for direct marketing and automated decision-making. To oversee these provisions, the bill establishes the Office of Data Protection and Responsible Use within the Division of Consumer Affairs, which will act as a resource and regulatory body. The bill further requires controllers and processors to implement security measures, report data breaches to the office within 72 hours, and conduct data protection impact assessments for high-risk processing activities. Violations of this act are considered unlawful practices under the consumer fraud act, carrying fines of $10,000 for a first offense and $20,000 for subsequent offenses.
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Bill Summary: The bill, entitled the "New Jersey Disclosure and Accountability Transparency Act (NJ DaTA)," establishes certain rights for consumers concerning the disclosure and processing of a consumer's personally identifiable information. A controller, as that term is defined in the bill, that collects the personally identifiable information of a consumer may lawfully process the personally identifiable information pursuant certain provisions in the bill only if at least one of the following applies: 1) the consumer has given consent to the processing of the personally identifiable information for at least one specific purpose provided by the controller; 2) processing is necessary for the performance of a contract to which the consumer is a party or in order to take steps at the request of the consumer prior to entering into a contract; 3) processing is necessary for compliance with a legal obligation to which the controller is subject; 4) processing is necessary to protect the vital interest of the consumer or another person; 5) processing is necessary for the performance of a task conducted in the public interest or in the exercise of official authority vested in the controller; or 6) processing is necessary for the purposes of the legitimate interests pursued by the controller or by a third party, except where those interests are overridden by the interests or fundamental rights and freedoms of the consumer, which require protection of personally identifiable information, including that of a child. The bill provides that a controller that collects the personally identifiable information of a consumer is to, at the time when personally identifiable information is collected, provide to a consumer information concerning the processing of that personally identifiable information in a concise, transparent, intelligible, and easily accessible form, using clear and plain language, in writing, or by other means, including, where appropriate, by electronic means that shall include, but not be limited to, certain information listed in the bill. The bill further provides that where the controller intends to process a consumer's personally identifiable information for a purpose other than that for which the personally identifiable information was collected, the controller is to provide certain disclosures to the consumer prior to that processing. The processing of personally identifiable information revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinion, religious or philosophical belief, or trade union membership, and the processing of biometric data for the purpose of uniquely identifying a person, information concerning health or a person's sexual history or orientation is to be prohibited except in certain circumstances provided in the bill. The bill provides that a controller that discloses a consumer's personally identifiable information to a processor or third party is to make certain information provided in the bill available to the consumer free of charge upon receipt of a verified request from the consumer for this information through a designated request address. The bill provides that a controller that receives a verified request from a consumer is to provide a response to the consumer within 30 days of the controller's receipt of the request and is to provide information concerning all disclosures of personally identifiable information. The bill provides that if the controller does not take action on a consumer's verified request the controller is to inform the consumer without undue delay and at the latest within one month of receipt of the verified request of the reasons for not taking action and on the ability for the consumer to lodge a complaint with the Office of Data Protection and Responsible Use (office) in the Division of Consumer Affairs in the Department of Law and Public Safety, established by the bill. The bill provides that the purpose of the office is to serve as a clearinghouse of information, comprehensive resource for consumers, controllers, and processors, and regulatory body concerning the security and processing of personally identifiable information. The office's functions are enumerated in the bill. The bill provides that a consumer is to have the right to obtain by any means from the controller rectification of inaccurate personally identifiable information. A consumer is to have the right to obtain by any means from the controller the erasure, or restriction of the processing, of personally identifiable information under certain circumstances provided by the bill. The bill provides that where processing has been restricted, personally identifiable information, with the exception of storage, is to only be processed with the consumer's consent or for the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims or for the protection of the rights of another person or legal entity or for the public interest. The bill provides that a controller is to notify each processor and third party that received a consumer's personally identifiable information of any rectification or erasure of personally identifiable information made by a consumer pursuant to the bill or restriction of processing made by a consumer pursuant to the bill. The bill provides that a consumer is to have the right to object, by any means, to the processing of personally identifiable information, at which time the controller is to no longer process the personally identifiable information unless the controller demonstrates compelling legitimate grounds for the processing which overrides the interests, rights, and freedoms of the consumer or for the establishment, exercise, or defense of legal claims. Where personally identifiable information is processed for direct marketing purposes, including profiling, the consumer is to have the right to object at any time to processing of personally identifiable information for this purpose, at which time the personally identifiable information is to no longer be used for this purpose. The bill provides that where personally identifiable information is processed for scientific or historical research purposes or statistical purposes, the consumer is to have the right to object, by any means, to the processing of their personally identifiable information unless the processing is necessary for the public interest. The bill provides that a consumer is not to be subject to a decision based solely on automated decision making, including profiling, which produces legal effects concerning the consumer or similarly significantly affects the consumer except under certain circumstances provided in the bill. The bill provides that a controller is to implement the appropriate technical and organizational measures to ensure and to be able to demonstrate to the office that processing is performed in accordance with the requirements of the bill. The bill requires a controller and processor, in certain situations provided in the bill, to designate in writing to the office a representative that is to serve as a liaison between the controller or processor and the office and public. The bill provides that, where processing is to be conducted on behalf of a controller by a processor, the controller is to contract with a processor providing sufficient guarantees to implement appropriate technical and organization measures in a manner that processing shall meet the requirements the bill. The processor shall not engage another processor without prior specific or general written authorization of the controller. Processing by a processor is to be governed by a contract between a processor and controller that is to include certain provisions provided in the bill. The bill allows the office to adopt standard contractual clauses for the contracts between controllers and processors. The bill provides that a controller and, where applicable, the controller's representative, is to maintain a record of processing activities under its responsibility. A processor and, where applicable, the processor's representative, is to maintain a record of all categories of processing activities carried out on behalf of a controller. These records are to be in writing, including in electronic form, and be made available to the office upon request. Taking into account the technology, the costs of implementation, and the nature, scope, context, and purposes of processing, as well as the risk of varying likelihood and severity for the rights and freedoms of a person, the bill requires a controller and processor to implement appropriate technical and organization measures to ensure a level of security appropriate to the risk, including certain measures provided in the bill. In assessing the appropriate level of security, account is to be taken concerning the risks that are presented by processing, such as from unlawful destruction, loss, alteration, unauthorized disclosure of, or access to personally identifiable information transmitted, stored, or otherwise processed. Adherence to a code of conduct or certification mechanism approved by the office may be used as an element by which to demonstrate compliance with the requirements established pursuant to the bill. The bill provides that, notwithstanding any other law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, in the event of a data breach resulting in the unauthorized access of personally identifiable information, the controller is to immediately and, where feasible, not later than 72 hours after having become aware of it, notify the office. Where the notification to the office is not made within 72 hours, it is to be accompanied by reasons for the undue delay. A processor is to notify the controller immediately after becoming aware of a data breach resulting in the unauthorized access of personally identifiable information and the notice is to contain certain information provided in the bill. The controller is to document any data breaches resulting in the unauthorized access of personally identifiable information, its effects, and remedial action taken, which is to be made available to the office at the office's request. The bill further provides that, notwithstanding any other law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, in the event of a data breach resulting in the unauthorized access of personally identifiable information that is likely to result in a high risk to the rights and freedoms of a person, the controller is to notify a consumer without undue delay. The bill provides that the data breach notification is to describe in clear and plain language the nature of the data breach but notification is not to be required under certain circumstances provided in the bill. The bill allows the office to notify consumers of a data breach resulting in the unauthorized access of personally identifiable information if the office determines there is a high risk to the rights and freedoms of a person. The bill requires a controller to, prior to processing personally identifiable information, conduct a data protection impact assessment that is to contain certain information provided for in the bill. The office is to establish and publicize a list of the kind of processing operations that are subject to the requirements of the data protection impact assessment. The office may establish and publicize a list of the kind of processing operations for which no data protection impact assessment is required. Where appropriate, a controller is to request input from consumers on the intended processing. The bill requires a controller to consult with the office prior to processing in the event the data protection impact assessment indicates that the processing would result in a high risk to a consumer's personally identifiable information in the absence of measures taken by the controller to mitigate the risk. If the office determines that the controller's data protection impact assessment indicates the processing may violate the provisions the bill, the office is to, within eight weeks of the submission of the data protection impact assessment, provide written advice to the controller, and processor where applicable, concerning best industry practices to conform with the requirements of the bill. The Attorney General is to, in consultation with the State's Chief Information Officer, appoint an executive director to head the office who is to be an individual qualified by training and experience to perform the duties of the office and who is to devote the time as executive director solely to the performance of those duties. It is to be an unlawful practice and violation of the consumer fraud act for a controller or processor to violate any provision of the bill, which includes $10,000 fine for the first offense and a $20,000 for each subsequent offense.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ellen Park (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/22/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Science, Innovation and Technology Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3206 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires public bodies under Open Public Meetings Act to display U.S. flag and recite Pledge of Allegiance at beginning of meeting.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that all public bodies, which are governmental entities subject to the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act" (a law ensuring transparency in government meetings), must display a United States flag in their meeting rooms and that the presiding official, or someone they appoint, must lead attendees in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of every meeting.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires that all public bodies covered by the provisions of the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act" have a United States flag displayed in the meeting room and that the person presiding, or a person designated by the person presiding, lead those present in a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jay Webber (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A973 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands definition of personal data to include use of reproductive health care services and prohibits collection of reproductive health care prescription drugs from Prescription Monitoring Program.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the definition of "personal data" and "sensitive data" to include information about a person's use of or attempt to use reproductive health care services, and prohibits entities that control or process personal data from disclosing such information if it could lead to legal liability for obtaining or providing legal reproductive health care services in the state. Additionally, the bill amends the state's Prescription Monitoring Program, which tracks prescription drug use, to prevent its expansion to include prescription drugs used for sterilization, contraception, abortion, in-vitro fertilization, or any other reproductive health care services.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands the provisions of P.L.2023, c.266, which requires notification to consumers of the collection and use of personal data by certain entities, and requires those entities to provide consumers with the means of opting out of targeted advertising, location tracking, and customer profiling. Under the bill, the definitions of "personal data" and "sensitive data" are amended to include data concerning a person's use of or attempt to use reproductive health care services. Additionally, under the bill, entities that control or process personal data are prohibited from disclosing such data to the extent that disclosure would be in furtherance of imposing civil or criminal liability upon a person or entity for the provision, receipt, or seeking of, or inquiring or responding to an inquiry about reproductive health care services that are legal in this State but may not be legal outside this State. This bill also amends P.L.2007, c.244, concerning the State's Prescription Monitoring Program, to prohibit the expansion of the program to prescription drugs used for sterilization, contraception, termination of pregnancy, in-vitro fertilization, or any reproductive health care services.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Carol Murphy (D)*, Annette Quijano (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/12/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Health Infrastructure Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2956 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Exempts certain personal information and entities from certain requirments concerning notification and disclosure of personal data.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill exempts certain insurance-support organizations and national securities associations from requirements to notify consumers about the collection and disclosure of their personal data, aligning them with existing exemptions for insurance institutions. It also clarifies that certain health information protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), when used in accordance with HIPAA's privacy and security rules, is exempt from these notification and disclosure requirements. Additionally, the bill exempts human subjects research conducted according to specific international clinical practice guidelines from these requirements. Finally, it expands the definition of "de-identified data" to include data that meets HIPAA's de-identification standards and where recipients are contractually prohibited from re-identifying it.
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Bill Summary: This bill exempts insurance-support organizations and national securities associations from provisions of current law that require certain entities to notify consumers of collection and disclosure of personal data. Under current law, insurance institutions and other entities are exempt from those requirements. The bill exempts certain data from disclosure requirements under current law, including: (1) information treated like protected health information collected, used, or disclosed by a covered entity or business associate under the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996" (HIPAA), when the information is used or disclosed in accordance with HIPAA and the information is afforded all the privacy protections and security safeguards of the federal laws and implementing regulations under HIPAA; and (2) human subjects research conducted in accordance with good clinical practice guidelines issued by The International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use. Finally, the bill expands the definition of de-identified data under current law to include data de-identified in accordance with the requirements in HIPAA, where any recipients of that data are contractually prohibited from attempting to reidentify the data.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Raj Mukherji (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn Because Approved P.L.2025, c.367.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2323 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Establishes various requirements for charter schools, charter school board of trustees members, and charter management organizations.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New Jersey's Charter School Program Act of 1995 to introduce several new requirements for charter schools, their boards of trustees, and charter management organizations, which are nonprofit entities managing one or more charter schools. Key provisions include enhanced public notice and comment periods for charter school applications and renewals, requiring three newspaper publications and online postings with a 30-day window for public feedback. The Commissioner of Education will now develop the application process, which must include a financial plan, a demonstration of need not met by existing public schools, and an assessment of the financial impact on the local school district, including potential effects on bond ratings. Charter schools must be physically located and provide all instruction within New Jersey, with applications proposing primarily online operations or out-of-state locations being denied. Annual reports must be posted online and presented publicly, and the Commissioner will issue a comprehensive report on the state of charter schools every five years. The bill also allows for the consolidation of charter schools within contiguous districts and strengthens oversight by enabling the Commissioner to review renewed charters at any time and place schools on probationary status for specific violations, with revocation possible for continued non-compliance. Furthermore, charter school budgets must be made publicly accessible in a user-friendly, plain language format, and board members must now have relevant experience and be approved by the Commissioner, with residency requirements in the school's district of residence. Charter management organizations (CMOs) are prohibited from contracting with for-profit entities for management services, must comply with public records laws, and their executives receiving public funds must adhere to ethics disclosure rules. The bill also introduces stricter anti-nepotism policies for both charter schools and CMOs, preventing immediate family members of administrators or board members from holding leadership positions within the same or affiliated organizations. Finally, training for charter school board members will be enhanced to include specific guidance on governance, evaluations, and compensation studies, and charter schools will be required to maintain websites with detailed operational and financial information.
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Bill Summary: This bill modifies certain parts of the "Charter School Program Act of 1995" and other sections of New Jersey law to establish various new requirements for charter schools, charter school boards of trustees, and charter school management organizations. Public Notice and Hearing of Charter School Applications and Renewals The bill requires three public notices of an application to establish or renew a charter school, as applicable, to be published in a newspaper having a substantial circulation in the county or counties where the charter school is to be located and in accordance with current law's requirements for issuing or publishing a public notice. Each public notice is to include instructions for the public to submit comments on the application to the Commissioner of Education within 30 days of the date of the first notice. The bill requires the Department of Education to post notice of the filing on the department's Internet website where it is to remain until the commissioner makes a final determination on the application. Charter School Applications and Consolidation The bill directs the Commissioner of Education to develop an application for the establishment of a charter school. The application is to include a financial plan for the charter school that includes the anticipated administrative costs of the charter school and a demonstration of need and an explanation of how the need is not currently being met by existing public schools. Under the bill, prior to approving a charter school application and granting a charter, the commissioner is required to review: (1) the application material submitted by the proposed charter school; (2) the proposed charter school's anticipated financial impact on the school district in which the charter school is to be located, including the impact to the bond ratings of the school district; and (3) any other information the commissioner deems necessary. The commissioner is to give equal consideration to this information when determining whether to grant or deny an application to establish a charter school. The bill permits any two charter schools within the same public school district or within contiguous public school districts that demonstrate a need to consolidate to petition the commissioner to consolidate into one school pursuant to a process that is to be determined by the commissioner. Under current law, any two charter schools within the same public school district that are not operating the same grade levels may petition the commissioner to amend their charters and consolidate into one school under certain circumstances. Physical Location Requirements for Charter Schools Under the bill, a charter school is required to be physically located, and provide all instruction, in the State. The bill directs the commissioner to deny a charter school application that proposes to operate a charter school, or provide instruction, in a physical location outside of the State and to deny a charter school application that proposes to operate or provide instruction primarily online. The bill clarifies that its provisions are not to be construed to limit a charter school's ability to utilize technological tools as an aide to in-person instruction, or virtual or remote instruction as permitted under current law or regulation. Charter School Reporting Current law requires each charter school to submit an annual report to the local board of education, the county superintendent of schools, and the commissioner. This bill requires the annual report to be made available on the charter school's Internet website and be presented to the public at a regularly scheduled board of trustees meeting. This bill requires the commissioner to report on the state of charter schools in New Jersey every five years based on measures contained in the Performance Framework developed by the State Board of Education to evaluate the academic, financial, and organizational performance of charter schools. The bill requires a charter school to maintain an Internet website that includes certain listed information in an effort to provide increased public access to the operations and activities of the charter school. The bill also requires the Department of Education to maintain, and include certain listed information on, a webpage on its Internet website for charter school transparency. Charter School Renewals and Revocations Pursuant to current law, a charter granted by the commissioner is granted for a four-year period and may be renewed for a five-year period. The bill permits the commissioner to review any charter school that has been granted a renewal at any time during the renewal period. The commissioner is to provide the charter school with reasonable notice of the commissioner's intent to review the school's charter. Under the bill, the commissioner may place a charter school on probationary status to allow the implementation of a remedial plan if, on two occasions, the school: (1) has not fulfilled any condition imposed by the commissioner in connection with granting the charter; (2) violates any provision of its charter; (3) violates any of the financial operations requirements established for the charter schools by the State board; (4) fails to make reasonable and appropriate efforts to serve a cross section of the community's school age population; (5) engages in a practice and pattern of discrimination in violation of federal or State law; or (6) violates any federal or State law. The bill requires the commissioner to revoke a school's charter if the commissioner determines, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, the charter school has committed or engaged in any of the six listed criteria while the school is on probationary status. Under the bill, the commissioner is to consider the most recent compensation study submitted by the charter school and the charter school's administrative costs over the past three years when reviewing an application to renew a charter school and as part of a charter school's annual review. Charter School Budget Transparency The bill requires the budget adopted by a charter school for the school year to be posted for public inspection on the charter school's Internet website and be made available in print in a "user-friendly" format using plain language. Under the bill, the plain language budget summary is to be submitted to the department and made publicly available on the department's website. Under current law, school districts are required to post this information. This bill supplements the charter school law to generally require charter schools to disclose and post the same budgetary information as required under current law for school districts, with certain additional information pertaining to the salary, and in certain circumstances the contract, of the lead person and the school business administrator of the charter school Under the bill, a board of trustees of a charter school is also required to hold a public hearing on the budget, the amounts of money necessary for the ensuing school year, and the various items and purposes for which the funds will be used. Additional Requirements with Respect to Charter School Boards of Trustees and Board Membership The bill clarifies that the provisions of the "Conscientious Employee Protection Act" apply to charter schools and charter school employees. This bill requires an individual appointed to a board of trustees of a charter school to possess legal, fiscal, educational, community, or board leadership or governance experience. The bill also makes appointment as a member of a board of trustees of a charter school subject to approval of the commissioner. The bill requires the board of trustees of a charter school to submit a compensation study concerning the lead person of the school to the commissioner at various intervals. The board of trustees may utilize a compensation study completed in any of the immediately preceding three years to comply with this submission requirement. The bill imposes on charter schools certain public notice requirements in relation to modifications to certain administrator contracts, which requirements are similar to those under current law on school districts. Specifically, the bill prohibits a board of trustees of a charter school from renegotiating, extending, amending, or otherwise altering the terms of a contract with a lead person, school business administrator, or charter management organization unless notice is provided to the public at least 30 days prior to the scheduled action by the board. The bill stipulates that the board is to hold a public hearing and may not take any action on the matter until the hearing has been held. The bill prohibits a board of trustees of a charter school, or any employee acting on behalf of the board, from requiring or requesting an employee enter into a non-disclosure agreement or restrictive covenant as a condition of employment or with respect to severance pay as provided in an employment contract; except that this provision is not to be construed to prohibit a board of trustees from entering into a non-disparagement agreement with an employee. Under current law, the board of trustees of a charter school is required to comply with the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act." In accordance with these provisions, the bill requires the board of trustees of a charter school to post a copy of all meeting notices, including a calendar of all meeting dates, and the minutes of each meeting on the charter school's website. The bill also requires the board of trustees of a charter school to hold all meetings in a physical building in the school district of residence of the charter school, with certain limited exceptions. Under State Board of Education regulations, the board of education of a school district was required to adopt an anti-nepotism policy by October 1, 2008. Regulations also required each charter school board of trustees to adopt a policy by January 20, 2010. The regulations were amended in 2024 to require the adoption of an anti-nepotism policy by the board of trustees of each renaissance school project. This bill requires these nepotism policies to include provisions prohibiting: (1) any immediate family member of an administrator, board of education member, or board of trustees member of a charter school or renaissance school project from being employed in a leadership or governance position in the school district, charter school and any school facility operated by the charter school, or renaissance school project, during the tenure of the administrator, board of education member, or board of trustees member; and (2) any immediate family member of the officers and members of the management team, board, or other governing body of a charter management organization from being employed in a leadership or governance position in any charter school that contracts with the charter management organization for operation or management services. The bill requires the training provided to charter school board of trustees members by the New Jersey School Boards Association to: (1) be prepared in consultation with the New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association; (2) include information on best practices for charter school governance and oversight, school leader evaluations, and charter school compensation for leadership; (3) include guidelines for conducting a compensation study; and (4) be approved by the Department of Education and the New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association. This bill requires a charter school board of trustees member to maintain their principal residence in the charter school district of residence. Provisions Related to Charter Management Organizations Under the bill, a charter management organization is defined as a nonprofit organization that is exempt from federal taxation pursuant to section 501(c)(3) of the federal Internal Revenue Code, which operates or manages one or more charter schools linked by centralized support and operations. The bill prohibits a board of trustees of a charter school from contracting with a for-profit entity to provide any operation or management services, but permits contracting with a charter management organization. Under the bill, an executive of a charter management organization that receives payment for operation or management services from a charter school, the source of which is State or local funds, is required to comply with the provisions of the "School Ethics Act" pertaining to disclosure of certain employment and financial activities. The bill requires a charter management organization that receives payment for operating or managing a charter school, the source of which is State or local funds, to (1) comply with the provisions of State law commonly referred to as the "Open Public Records Act," in its operation or management of the charter school, and (2) annually file with the department the most recent public inspection copy of its Internal Revenue Service Form 990, and in accordance with federal law, all schedules and supporting documentation required to be submitted in conjunction with that form. Form 990 is a tax form the Internal Revenue Service requires 501(c)(3) charitable and nonprofit organizations to submit. Form 990 includes revenue, expenditure, and income data in addition to information used to assess whether a nonprofit aligns with federal requirements for tax-exempt status.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Luanne Peterpaul (D)*, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson (D)*, Sterley Stanley (D)*, Anthony Verrelli (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/05/2026
• Last Action: Withdrawn Because Approved P.L.2025, c.277.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2297 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Establishes certain data privacy protection requirements for consumer health data, health care providers, and patients.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive data privacy protections for "consumer health data," which is defined as personal information linked to an individual's physical or mental health status, including biometric and genetic data, and precise location information indicating health service attempts. It applies to "regulated entities," which are businesses operating in or targeting New Jersey consumers that determine how consumer health data is collected, processed, shared, or sold. These entities must maintain a clear privacy policy detailing data practices and consumer rights, and can only collect or share data with explicit consumer consent or when necessary to provide a requested service. Consumers gain rights to confirm data collection, access their data, withdraw consent, and request data deletion, with regulated entities required to honor these requests promptly and notify third parties. The bill also mandates reasonable data security practices, prohibits deceptive designs in data collection, and restricts the use of geofencing around healthcare facilities to track or collect data from patients. Violations are considered unlawful practices, and the bill includes specific prohibitions against selling consumer health data without separate authorization and outlines exemptions for certain entities and types of data, such as information protected under HIPAA.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes certain data privacy protection requirements for consumer health data, health care providers, and patients. The bill defines a "regulated entity" to mean any legal entity that: conducts business in New Jersey, or produces or provides products or services that are targeted to consumers in New Jersey; and alone or jointly with others, determines the purpose and means of collecting, processing, sharing, or selling of consumer health data. "Regulated entity" does not mean a government agency, tribal nation, or contracted service provider when processing consumer health data on behalf of the government agency. Under the bill, each regulated entity in the State is to maintain a consumer health data privacy policy that details how data may be collected and shared and how consumer can exercise their rights provided by the bill concerning consumer health data. "Consumer health data" means personal information that is linked or reasonably linkable to a consumer and that identifies the consumer's past, present, or future physical or mental health status. The bill establishes certain requirements for regulated entities to collect, share, and sell consumer health data, which includes requiring consumers to provide consent or authorization in order for a regulated entity to collect, share, or sell any consumer health data. Under the bill, consumers will have certain rights concerning their consumer health data, including: confirming which data is being collected, shared, or sold; withdrawing consent for the collection, sharing, or sale of the data; or requesting the deletion of the data. The bill establishes certain requirements for regulated entities to process any requests for the deletion of a consumer's consumer health data. The bill requires a regulated entity to restrict access to consumer health data as necessary and to establish certain data security practice to protect consumer health data. The bill provides that a processer may process consumer health data only pursuant to a binding contract between the processor and the regulated entity that sets forth the processing instructions and limits the actions the processor may take with respect to the consumer health data it processes on behalf of the regulated entity. The bill prohibits any person from implementing a geofence around an entity that provides in-person health care services where such geofence would be used to: identify or track consumers seeking health care services; collect consumer health data from consumers; or send notifications, messages, or advertisements to consumers related to their consumer health data or health care services. The bill provides that any violation of bill's provisions will be considered an unlawful practice in violation of P.L.1960, c.39 (C.56:8-1 et seq.) The bill outlines certain entities and types of information and data that are exempted from the provisions of the bill. The bill provides that nothing in the bill's provisions is to construed to restrict a regulated entity's or processor's ability for the collection, use, or disclosure of consumer health data to prevent, detect, protect against, or respond to security incidents, identity theft, fraud, harassment, malicious or deceptive activities, or any activity that is illegal under State law or federal law; preserve the integrity or security of systems; or investigate, report, or prosecute those responsible for any such action that is illegal under State law or federal law, except that such entity bears the burden of demonstrating that such processing qualifies for the exemption provided under the bill.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Margie Donlon (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Health Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A897 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Exempts personal identifying information of minor from disclosure in public record; requires information to be redacted.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires government agencies to redact personal identifying information of individuals under 18 years old from public records before releasing them, with certain exceptions. This means that details like names, addresses, and other identifying information of minors will be removed to protect their privacy. However, this information can still be disclosed if it's used by a government agency for its official duties, by a private entity to collect court-ordered child support, in specific cases involving driver information from the Motor Vehicle Commission, or if it's a Social Security number in a record legally required to be kept and not otherwise prohibited from disclosure. Additionally, the bill excludes the names of individuals under 18 from certain personnel and pension records that are otherwise made public.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires a records custodian to redact any personal identifying information of a person under the age of 18 years prior to allowing access to any government record, subject to certain exceptions in statutory law. The bill excludes that information from the definition of a "government record," and excludes the name of persons under the age of 18 years from disclosure in certain personnel and pension records. The information would still be subject to disclosure when used by a government agency, court, or law enforcement agency in carrying out its functions; when used by a private person or entity seeking to enforce payment of court-ordered child support; when circumstances involve the disclosure of driver information by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission under N.J.S.A.39:2-3.4; and when the information involves a social security number contained in a record required by law to be made, maintained or kept on file, if disclosure is not otherwise prohibited by law.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : John Azzariti (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/11/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3085 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires certain studies and papers produced or commissioned by State entities to be made available electronically.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires that any studies or papers created or paid for by a "State entity," which refers to any department, agency, board, commission, corporation, authority, or similar body within the Executive Branch of the State government, must be made publicly accessible online. Specifically, if these documents are considered public records under the open public records act (P.L.1963, c.73, C.47:1A-1 et seq.), they must be posted on the relevant State entity's website in an electronic format, making them easier for the public to find and access.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires certain studies and papers produced or commissioned by the State to be made available electronically. The bill provides that all studies or papers produced or commissioned by a State entity that are considered a public record pursuant to the open public records act must be made available electronically and posted on the appropriate State entity website. This bill defines "State entity" as a State department or agency in the Executive Branch of State Government, and any board, commission, corporation, authority, or instrumentality thereof.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Tully (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2783 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands protections under "Daniel's Law"; requires Office of Information Privacy to establish portal for prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities and establishes penalties for failure to comply.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands protections under "Daniel's Law," which shields the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials and employees, to now include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. It also mandates the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) to create a secure online portal where private entities, referred to as "covered entities," can access procedures to prevent the disclosure of personal information of these protected individuals. The bill defines "covered information" as home addresses or unpublished home telephone numbers and establishes civil penalties for private entities that fail to comply with the new requirements, including a $200 penalty for each 45-day period they fail to check the portal for approved redaction requests, after an initial notice and opportunity to correct the violation.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands protections provided under "Daniel's Law," which shields the home addresses and personal information of certain public officials and employees, to include members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. The bill also requires the Director of the Office of Information Privacy (OIP) in the Department of Community Affairs to establish a secure portal for the purpose of prohibiting disclosure of personal information by private entities. In addition, the bill establishes civil penalties for a private entity's failure to comply with the procedures and requirements established under the bill. Covered Persons Under Daniel's Law New Jersey's "Daniel's Law," P.L.2021, c.371, was enacted to prevent harm by limiting public access to personal information of certain public officials who request protection under the law. Currently, the protections are afforded to active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers, prosecutors, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators, and immediate family members residing in the same household as these individuals. This bill would extend those protections to members of the Legislature and municipal court administrators. Expanded Definitions The bill expands the meaning of certain terms under Daniel's law and establishes and defines several new terms. The new definitions include "covered entity," "covered information," "hashed," "hashed data," "hashed query," "hashing data," "hashed registry," "member of the Legislature," and "municipal court administrator." "Covered entity" is defined under the bill to mean a person, business, or association that discloses or re-discloses on the Internet the covered information of a covered person. "Covered information" means the home address or home telephone number of a covered person. "Municipal court administrator" is defined as a person employed by a county or municipality in accordance with subsection a. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10 and includes a deputy administrator and acting administrator designated as such in accordance with subsection b. of N.J.S.A.2B:12-10. "Hashed" means the type of value produced by hashing data. "Hashed data" means data that has been hashed. Hashed data also may be referred to as "hash values," "hash codes," or "hashes." "Hashing data" means to input data into a cryptographic, one-way, collision-resistant formula or function that maps a bit string of arbitrary length to a fixed-length bit string to produce a cryptographically secure value. "Hashed query" means a query submitted to a hashed registry. "Hashed registry" means a table or index of hashed data. Under the bill, the definition of "authorized person" is expanded to include, with the covered person's written consent, (1) the covered person's employer; (2) any union, benevolent association, or other labor association in which the covered person is a member or to which the covered person pays dues; (3) or a person designated, in writing, by the covered person to serve as the covered person's agent. Establishment of New Secure Portal Binding on Private Actors Daniel's Law established the OIP, and required the director of the OIP to establish a secure portal for these public servants to apply for redaction protections. This bill requires the director of OIP to establish a separate secure portal for prohibiting the disclosure of personal information by private, covered entities. Specifically, the bill requires the director of OIP to establish:· a process for verifying and authenticating a request submitted by an authorized person for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings, as provided under current law;· a standard form through which an authorized person may submit or revoke a request for the redaction or nondisclosure of a covered person's covered information from certain records and Internet postings. The form is must:o require an authorized person to submit the covered information;o allow an authorized person to submit or revoke request for the redaction or nondisclosure of the covered information of a single person, or multiple persons on a single form;· reasonable security procedures and practices necessary to protect the information contained in the secure portal from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, destruction, or modification. The director is required to annually evaluate the security procedures and practices, and revise them as the director deems appropriate; and· an initial fee and, thereafter, an annual fee, for a covered entity to access the portal; · and implement procedures for maintaining on the portal independent, searchable registries of each type of covered information; and· a process for a covered entity to certify to the director each date that the covered entity has accessed the registry; the covered information for each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request; and each request to protect the covered information for a covered person that was approved by the director and received by the covered entity, but was unable to be processed by the covered entity and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. Required Certifications and Penalties The bill requires a covered entity to access the secure portal at least once during each 45-day period to determine whether a request to prevent disclosure of a covered person's covered information has been approved by the director. The bill further requires a covered entity to certify to the director not less than once during each 45-day period:· each date that the covered entity accessed the secure portal;· each covered person for whom the covered entity has processed a request approved by the director; and· each request on behalf of a covered person that was received by a covered entity and approved by the director, but that the covered entity was unable to process and the reason the covered entity was unable to process the request. In addition to any other penalty provided by law, a covered entity that fails to access the secure portal as required under the bill is be subject to a civil penalty in the amount of $200 for each 45-day period that the entity fails to access the portal. Prior to initiating an enforcement action, the Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs is required to issue a notice to the covered entity of the violation, and provide the covered entity an opportunity to cure the violation within 30 days of the notice. If the covered entity fails to cure the violation within the 30-day period, the commissioner shall initiate an enforcement action.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Gordon Johnson (D)*, Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D)*, Patrick Diegnan (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3996 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires certain record keeping related to municipal rent control compliance; appropriates $2 million.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires landlords in municipalities with rent control ordinances to file a rent control compliance form with their local municipal clerk, detailing information such as unit address, owner name, rent registration, and any claimed exemptions or enforcement actions, with the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) responsible for publishing this form and establishing an online system for municipalities to digitize and publicly display these records. Municipalities can charge a fee to cover their costs, and the DCA will provide grants, including a $2 million appropriation, to help with the digitization process. Missing or incomplete records will create a presumption that a property is not exempt from rent control, and landlords knowingly providing false information will face a civil penalty. The DCA will also audit the system and report annually on municipalities with poor record-keeping.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires certain record keeping related to municipal rent control compliance. The bill directs the Department of Community Affairs (department) to publish a rent control compliance form for landlords of units located in municipalities that have adopted rent control ordinances to submit required information to the clerk of the municipality in which the unit is located. The bill requires the municipal clerk, or other municipal official as is designated by the clerk, to index and file the rent control compliance forms. The department would be required to develop and make available an Internet system for each municipality to digitize its rent control compliance records and make them available to the public on the department's Internet website. The bill appropriates $2 million to the department and directs the department to provide grants to municipalities to assist in the digitization of the municipality's rent control compliance records. The bill further authorizes the establishment of a municipal fee to pay for the municipality's actual costs of compliance with the bill. The bill establishes that missing or incomplete records for a residential rental property constitutes presumption that no valid exemption to the municipal rent control ordinance exists. The bill also establishes a penalty for a landlord who knowingly provides false information on a rent control compliance form. The bill further directs the department to conduct an audit of the Internet system and publish an annual report identifying municipalities with deficient record-keeping practices. The bill provides a timeline for when certain information and resources are to be made available and when certain forms and recordkeeping standards are to be completed. The bill would take effect immediately, except that the provision that a missing or incomplete record will establish a presumption that no valid exemption exist shall not take effect until the first day of the twelfth month next following enactment, which is the deadline for municipal clerks to digitize the rent control compliance records.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Katie Brennan (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Housing Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A2257 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit disclosure of personal identifying information of victim support advocates and victim support care providers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law," which currently protects the personal identifying information of judicial officers, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators, and prosecutors, as well as their immediate household family members, to also include "victim support advocates" and "victim support care providers." A victim support advocate is defined as a victim witness coordinator or advocate within the State Office of Victim-Witness Advocacy or a county prosecutor's office, and a victim support care provider includes program coordinators or forensic sexual assault nurse examiners involved in the Statewide Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program or members of a Sexual Assault Response Team. The purpose of this expansion is to safeguard these individuals, who provide critical assistance to victims of sexual assault, from potential harassment or retaliation by perpetrators by prohibiting the disclosure of their personal identifying information, such as home addresses and telephone numbers, to the public.
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Bill Summary: This bill expands "Daniel's Law" to prohibit the disclosure of personal identifying information of a victim support advocate and victim support care provider. Under current law, Daniel's Law protects the personal identifying information of active, formerly active, or retired judicial officers, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators in the Division of Child Protection and Permanency and prosecutors, as well as the personal information of immediate family members who reside in the same household as those individuals. Public and private parties are forbidden from publishing the home address and telephone number of a person covered by Daniel's Law. This bill expands Daniel's Law to prohibit the disclosure of personal identifying information of victim support advocates and victim support care providers. A "victim support advocate" is defined as a victim witness coordinator or a victim witness advocate in the State Office of Victim-Witness Advocacy in the Division of Criminal Justice in the Department of Law and Public Safety or in a county prosecutor's office. A "victim support care provider" is defined as a program coordinator or forensic sexual assault nurse examiner appointed or designated to serve in the Statewide Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program, or a member of the Sexual Assault Response Team. Victim support advocates and victim support care providers are sources of critical care and assistance to victims of sexual assault. Because victim support advocates and victim support care providers work directly with victims of sexual assault, they are vulnerable to harassment and retaliation by perpetrators of sexual assault. Extending the protection of Daniel's Law to victim support advocates and victim support care providers is intended to protect and provide a measure of comfort to those in this vital profession.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Shanique Speight (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/02/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Judiciary Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2969 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Establishes certain data privacy protection requirements for consumer health data, health care providers, and patients.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive data privacy protections for "consumer health data," which is defined as personal information linked to an individual's physical or mental health status, including biometric and genetic data. It applies to "regulated entities," which are businesses operating in or targeting New Jersey consumers that determine how consumer health data is collected, processed, shared, or sold. These entities must maintain a clear privacy policy detailing data practices and obtain explicit consumer consent before collecting, sharing, or selling such data, with specific requirements for how consent is obtained and the information it must include. Consumers are granted rights to access their data, withdraw consent, and request deletion of their information, with regulated entities having strict timelines and procedures for handling these requests, including notifying third parties. The bill also prohibits the use of "geofencing" (creating virtual boundaries) around healthcare facilities to track individuals seeking care or collect their health data, and violations will be treated as unlawful practices under existing consumer protection laws. Certain entities and types of health-related information, such as data protected by HIPAA or used in specific research contexts, are exempted from these provisions, and the bill includes exceptions for responding to security incidents or illegal activities, though the burden of proof for these exemptions lies with the regulated entity.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes certain data privacy protection requirements for consumer health data, health care providers, and patients. The bill defines a "regulated entity" to mean any legal entity that: conducts business in New Jersey, or produces or provides products or services that are targeted to consumers in New Jersey; and alone or jointly with others, determines the purpose and means of collecting, processing, sharing, or selling of consumer health data. "Regulated entity" does not mean a government agency, tribal nation, or contracted service provider when processing consumer health data on behalf of the government agency. Under the bill, each regulated entity in the State is to maintain a consumer health data privacy policy that details how data may be collected and shared and how consumer can exercise their rights provided by the bill concerning consumer health data. "Consumer health data" means personal information that is linked or reasonably linkable to a consumer and that identifies the consumer's past, present, or future physical or mental health status. The bill establishes certain requirements for regulated entities to collect, share, and sell consumer health data, which includes requiring consumers to provide consent or authorization in order for a regulated entity to collect, share, or sell any consumer health data. Under the bill, consumers will have certain rights concerning their consumer health data, including: confirming which data is being collected, shared, or sold; withdrawing consent for the collection, sharing, or sale of the data; or requesting the deletion of the data. The bill establishes certain requirements for regulated entities to process any requests for the deletion of a consumer's consumer health data. The bill requires a regulated entity to restrict access to consumer health data as necessary and to establish certain data security practice to protect consumer health data. The bill provides that a processer may process consumer health data only pursuant to a binding contract between the processor and the regulated entity that sets forth the processing instructions and limits the actions the processor may take with respect to the consumer health data it processes on behalf of the regulated entity. The bill prohibits any person from implementing a geofence around an entity that provides in-person health care services where such geofence would be used to: identify or track consumers seeking health care services; collect consumer health data from consumers; or send notifications, messages, or advertisements to consumers related to their consumer health data or health care services. The bill provides that any violation of bill's provisions will be considered an unlawful practice in violation of P.L.1960, c.39 (C.56:8-1 et seq.) The bill outlines certain entities and types of information and data that are exempted from the provisions of the bill. The bill provides that nothing in the bill's provisions is to construed to restrict a regulated entity's or processor's ability for the collection, use, or disclosure of consumer health data to prevent, detect, protect against, or respond to security incidents, identity theft, fraud, harassment, malicious or deceptive activities, or any activity that is illegal under State law or federal law; preserve the integrity or security of systems; or investigate, report, or prosecute those responsible for any such action that is illegal under State law or federal law, except that such entity bears the burden of demonstrating that such processing qualifies for the exemption provided under the bill.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2026
• Added: 01/14/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Raj Mukherji (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/07/2026
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A723 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Requires members of State Board of Education to attend meetings in person to be recorded as present.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires members of the State Board of Education to attend meetings in person to be counted as present, unless a state of emergency declared by the Governor allows for exceptions. It also mandates that all public meetings of the State Board of Education, including those where public comment is accepted, must be accessible to the public both in person and virtually, with a link for virtual access prominently displayed on the Board's website, and allows the public to submit comments remotely.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that a member of the State Board of Education may only be recorded as present if the member attends the meeting in person, except as may be otherwise determined during a state of emergency declared by the Governor. The bill also requires all public meetings of the State Board of Education to be accessible to the public both in person and virtually. A link providing virtual access to meetings is required to be publicly available on the State Board of Education's website. Finally, for any meeting in which the State Board of Education accepts public comment, the bill stipulates that members of the public will be able to provide comments by means of remote communication.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Greg McGuckin (R)*, Paul Kanitra (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/01/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Education Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A3265 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Establishes certain prescription drug data reporting requirements for hospitals.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires hospitals to report specific data to the Division of Consumer Affairs (division) within the Department of Law and Public Safety, enabling the division to study and report on emerging trends in prescription drug pricing within hospitals. This expands upon existing law that already mandates reporting from pharmacy benefits managers, wholesale drug distributors, insurance issuers, and manufacturers. Hospitals will be required to report, upon notification from the division about specific drugs or drug groups, the minimum and maximum prices paid, the volume dispensed or administered, total rebates and discounts received, and total net income for those drugs over the past calendar year, with all reported information protected from public disclosure. Hospitals are also now explicitly defined as "reporting entities" and will be subject to the same registration, potential penalties for non-compliance, and annual assessment fees as other entities under the existing law, P.L.2023, c.106, which established these reporting requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes certain data reporting requirements for hospitals, so that the Division of Consumer Affairs (division) in the Department of Law and Public Safety can study, and annually report on, emerging trends in prescription drug pricing in hospitals. Current law requires pharmacy benefits managers, wholesale drug distributors, insurance issuers, and manufacturers to register with the division and report certain data to the division concerning prescription drug transactions. This bill extends similar reporting requirements to hospitals and includes hospitals as reporting entities subject to certain requirements under P.L.2023, c.106. Under this bill, hospitals will, to the extent allowed by law, report to the division the following minimum data, and other data that may be specified by the division. The division will annually notify hospitals for which specific drugs or drug groups for which reporting is required and a hospital shall have 60 days following such notification to report to the division the following: (1) minimum and maximum price paid for each indicated drug and drug group in the last calendar year, related to prescriptions under an insurance policy issued in the State; (2) volume in pricing units of each indicated drug and drug group that the hospital dispensed or administered in the last calendar year, for business in the State, in total and for each payer type as relevant; (3) total rebates, discounts, and price concessions received for each drug and drug group as indicated by the division in the last calendar year, for business in the State, in total and for each payer type as relevant; and (4) total net income received in the last calendar year for each drug and drug group as indicated by the division, for business in the State, in total and for each payer type as relevant. Disclosure of all information reported under this bill will be subject to protections under P.L.2023, c.106.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Hutchison (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/06/2026
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly Health Infrastructure Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A851 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Permits special service charge for commercial purpose public records requests; increases time to respond to commercial requests; provides penalty for failure to certify commercial purpose request.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the process for requesting government records, particularly for commercial purposes, by allowing agencies to charge a "special service charge" based on the actual, direct costs of providing records when the request is for commercial use or involves extraordinary effort. It also extends the response time for such commercial requests from seven to fourteen business days, and requires requesters to certify if their request is for a commercial purpose, with a $500 civil penalty for intentionally failing to do so. "Commercial purpose" is defined as using government records for sale, resale, solicitation, rent, or lease of a service, or any use where profit is expected, but it excludes use by news media or scholarly/governmental organizations.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, an open public record request for commercial purposes is treated the same as a request for personal purposes. Commercial requests, however, often take more time and utilize more resources than traditional requests. This bill permits a special service charge for record requests for commercial purposes. The special service charge must be reasonable and based upon the actual, direct cost of providing the records. The bill also extends the time for a records custodian to respond to a public records request for commercial purposes from seven business days to fourteen business days. Under the bill, the records custodian can require a requestor to state whether the requestor intends to use the records for a commercial purpose, but cannot require the requestor to provide the exact use for the commercial purpose. A requestor who intends to use the record for a commercial purpose must certify to that fact on the request form. A requestor who is found to have intentionally failed to certify that a records request is for a commercial purpose will be subject to a civil penalty of $500. Commercial purposes mean the direct or indirect use of any part of a government record for sale, resale, solicitation, rent, or lease of a service, or any use by which the user expects a profit either through commission, salary, or fee. It does not include the use of information or data by the news media, or by any scholarly or governmental organization.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 01/29/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Gerry Scharfenberger (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/12/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A655 • Last Action 01/13/2026
Omits State Police detectives from Open Public Records Act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) to exclude certain information about State Police detectives from public disclosure. Specifically, it adds to the list of confidential information details such as an individual's name, title, position, salary, or any other identifying information that would reveal the identity of a detective. The stated purpose of this exclusion is to protect the safety of State Police detectives and their families, as their work in apprehending criminals requires discretion and publicizing their personal details could put them in danger.
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Bill Summary: This bill amends the definitions of the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) to include State Police detective information to the list of OPRA exclusions. State Police detectives must work discreetly to apprehend criminals. Information that publicizes personal details of a detective such as name, place of work, title, salary, etc. places this person and their family in danger. The State of New Jersey has the obligation to protect those who are protecting the citizens of this State.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2026
• Added: 02/01/2026
• Session: 2026-2027 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Greg McGuckin (R)*, Paul Kanitra (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/01/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB5920 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Providing protections for school districts against burdensome public records requests.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill provides protections for school districts against burdensome public records requests by introducing several key changes to existing public records laws. The legislation allows school districts to establish a supplementary cost schedule for requests that are overly burdensome, requiring districts to notify requestors of additional charges and receive their acceptance before processing the request. School districts may also petition courts to deny requests that are vague, overly broad, or unreasonable, or to issue protective orders against requests intended to substantially interrupt government functions. The bill mandates that school districts provide clear instructions on their websites for submitting public records requests, including designating a public records officer. It also offers special provisions for smaller school districts of the second class, allowing them additional time to respond to requests based on their available resources. The legislation explicitly protects school districts and their employees from liability when they act in good faith while handling public records requests, and adds a specific definition of "news media" to clarify which requestors might be exempt from additional cost considerations. Importantly, the bill maintains existing protections under federal education privacy laws and ensures that school districts can manage public records requests more effectively without compromising transparency.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to providing protections for school districts 2 against burdensome public records requests; amending RCW 42.56.070, 3 42.56.080, 42.56.060, 42.56.520, and 42.56.010; adding a new section 4 to chapter 28A.320 RCW; and adding a new section to chapter 42.56 5 RCW. 6
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• Introduced: 12/19/2025
• Added: 12/20/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Lisa Wellman (D)*, T'wina Nobles (D), Claire Wilson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 12/20/2025
• Last Action: First reading, referred to State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB5274 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Concerning body worn cameras within corrections agencies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a pilot program for body worn cameras at Green Hill School, a juvenile detention facility run by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), to be implemented by January 1, 2026. The legislation expands the current law regarding body worn cameras to explicitly include DCYF officers, in addition to existing law enforcement and corrections personnel. The bill also modifies public records exemption rules to provide detailed guidelines about when body worn camera recordings can be disclosed or withheld, emphasizing privacy protections. Specifically, the exemptions cover situations involving medical facilities, residences, intimate images, minors, deceased persons, and victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. The bill requires law enforcement and corrections agencies to retain body worn camera recordings for at least 60 days and provides specific procedures for requesting and potentially redacting these recordings, with special provisions for individuals directly involved in incidents, their attorneys, and certain state commission representatives. The legislation aims to increase transparency and accountability while protecting the privacy of individuals captured on these recordings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to body worn cameras within corrections agencies; 2 amending RCW 10.109.030; reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.240; and 3 adding a new section to chapter 10.109 RCW. 4
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : John Braun (R)*, Leonard Christian (R), Manka Dhingra (D), Perry Dozier (R), Jeff Wilson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/15/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB5926 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Expanding the public records exemption for personal information of family home child care providers to all licensed or certified child care providers.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands privacy protections for child care providers by creating a new public records exemption that shields personal information for all licensed or certified child care providers, not just those operating from family homes. Currently, only family home child care providers were protected from having their personal details publicly disclosed, but this legislation extends those safeguards to providers working in child care centers, school-age programs, and other licensed settings. The bill specifically exempts from public disclosure various personal identifiers including names, home addresses, GPS coordinates, phone numbers, email addresses, dates of birth, social security numbers, driver's license numbers, bank account information, emergency contact details, and personal photographs. While personal information would be protected, the bill still allows public access to business addresses, program capacity, licensing status, and inspection results. The legislature's rationale is to protect child care providers from potential safety risks, harassment, and targeted retaliation that could occur if their personal information were made publicly available. The bill also requires the Department of Children, Youth, and Families to update its guidance and training materials to reflect these new privacy protections.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to expanding the public records exemption for 2 personal information of family home child care providers to all 3 licensed or certified child care providers; amending RCW 42.56.640; 4 adding a new section to chapter 42.56 RCW; adding a new section to 5 chapter 43.216 RCW; and creating a new section. 6
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• Introduced: 12/22/2025
• Added: 12/23/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Lisa Wellman (D)*, T'wina Nobles (D), Claire Wilson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 12/23/2025
• Last Action: First reading, referred to State Government, Tribal Affairs & Elections.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1964 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Concerning persons requesting disclosure of lists of individuals under the public records act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Washington state Public Records Act to clarify and modify requirements for public records requests. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that requires individuals requesting lists of individuals to sign a declaration under penalty of perjury stating that their request is not for commercial purposes and explaining the purpose of their request. The bill maintains existing provisions that agencies must make identifiable public records available for inspection and copying, and cannot deny requests solely because they are considered overbroad. The legislation also reinforces that agencies cannot discriminate among people making records requests and can only ask about the purpose of a request to determine if disclosure would violate certain privacy exemptions. Additionally, the bill allows agencies to deny multiple "bot requests" (automated computer-generated requests) within a 24-hour period if responding would excessively interfere with the agency's essential functions. For school district records, the bill specifies that recording requests must include a specific date or date range, and districts can only use date as a search criteria when responding to such requests.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to persons requesting disclosure of lists of 2 individuals under the public records act; and amending RCW 42.56.080. 3
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• Introduced: 02/12/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Mary Fosse (D)*, Darya Farivar (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Shelley Kloba (D), Mia Gregerson (D), Alex Ramel (D), Timm Ormsby (D), Shaun Scott (D), Natasha Hill (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/13/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1949 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Exempting certain scholarly communications from disclosure under the public records act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to modify the Washington state Public Records Act to protect certain scholarly and academic communications from mandatory public disclosure. The legislation recognizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality in academic settings by creating specific exemptions from public inspection. These exemptions include: (1) protecting the identity of human research subjects when confidentiality was originally promised, (2) shielding peer review materials and correspondence that could reveal a reviewer's identity, and (3) keeping research-related data, computer code, and draft manuscripts confidential until they are publicly disseminated, published, copyrighted, or patented. The bill's legislative findings emphasize that confidentiality encourages frank participation in academic processes, supports academic freedom, and allows researchers to work without concerns about premature disclosure of sensitive or competitive intellectual work. The exemptions are specifically defined using federal regulatory definitions for terms like "human subject" and are intended to create a narrow, targeted protection for scholarly communications while maintaining the overall transparency goals of public records laws.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to exempting certain scholarly communications 2 from disclosure under the public records act; adding a new section to 3 chapter 42.56 RCW; and creating a new section. 4
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Gerry Pollet (D)*, Larry Springer (D), Julia Reed (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Osman Salahuddin (D), Nicole Macri (D), Beth Doglio (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/11/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1055 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Enhancing access to public records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to study the potential creation of a Washington Office of Transparency Ombuds as an independent state agency to improve public access to government records. The legislature will commission a comprehensive study to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of such an agency, comparing Washington's public records laws with those of other states, particularly focusing on Pennsylvania's model. The study, to be conducted by the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee in coordination with various government entities, will assess potential benefits including cost savings from reduced litigation, increased ease of accessing public records, and providing individuals with alternative avenues for appealing denied or incomplete public records requests. A joint legislative committee on transparency will be established, comprising members from legislative bodies, media organizations, and state officials, to oversee the study and make recommendations by December 1, 2026. The bill reaffirms the state's commitment to open and accountable governance, building upon the Public Records Act (Initiative Measure No. 276), and is set to expire on December 31, 2026, after the completion of the study and recommendations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to enhancing access to public records through 2 studying the efficacy of establishing the Washington office of 3 transparency ombuds as an independent state agency; creating new 4 sections; and providing an expiration date. 5
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• Introduced: 12/12/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Peter Abbarno (R)*, Sam Low (R), Mari Leavitt (D), Joshua Penner (R), Matt Marshall (R), Gerry Pollet (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 12/12/2024
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1424 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Concerning transparency, public safety, and independent oversight of the city, county, and regional jail system in Washington state.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes an independent Jail Oversight Board within the Governor's office to improve transparency and accountability in Washington state's jail system. The board will consist of seven members with diverse backgrounds, including people with lived experience of incarceration, medical and behavioral health providers, a jail administrator, an attorney, and a jail employee. The board will be responsible for monitoring jails statewide at least once every three years, maintaining a public database of jail information, investigating systemic issues, and providing technical assistance to jail administrators. Key provisions include creating a statewide uniform jail reporting system that will collect data on various aspects of jail operations, such as medical care, population trends, use of force, and programming. The board will have broad access to jail facilities and information, with the ability to interview incarcerated individuals and staff confidentially. The legislation aims to promote safe and humane conditions, support rehabilitation, reduce litigation, and improve public trust in the jail system. Notably, the bill was informed by a joint legislative task force and recognizes that in 2022, over 130,000 people were booked into Washington jails, with more than 8,000 people detained on any given day. The board will submit annual reports to the governor and legislature and can make recommendations for statutory changes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to transparency, public safety, and independent 2 oversight of the city, county, and regional jail system in Washington 3 state; amending RCW 70.48.510; and adding a new chapter to Title 43 4 RCW. 5
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 19 : Edwin Obras (D)*, Darya Farivar (D), Tarra Simmons (D), Cindy Ryu (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Strom Peterson (D), Julia Reed (D), Alex Ramel (D), Mia Gregerson (D), Roger Goodman (D), Beth Doglio (D), Julio Cortes (D), Jake Fey (D), Mary Fosse (D), Mari Leavitt (D), Chipalo Street (D), Natasha Hill (D), Nicole Macri (D), Shaun Scott (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/18/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1671 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Protecting personal data privacy.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive personal data privacy protections for Washington state residents, introducing detailed regulations for how businesses (called "controllers") collect, process, and transfer personal data. The legislation defines personal data broadly, including any information that can identify or be linked to an individual, and creates extensive consumer rights such as the ability to confirm what data is being collected, access and correct that data, delete personal information, and opt out of targeted advertising or data sales. Companies must obtain affirmative consent before collecting sensitive data, which includes health information, racial or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, and precise location data. The bill requires businesses to provide clear privacy notices, implement robust data security practices, and conduct data protection assessments for high-risk processing activities. Notably, the law prohibits discriminatory data processing and prevents companies from retaliating against consumers who exercise their privacy rights. The attorney general will be responsible for enforcement, with a 30-day cure period for businesses before potential legal action. The law applies to businesses conducting business in Washington or targeting Washington residents, with specific exemptions for government entities, certain types of research, and some healthcare-related data processing. The bill aims to give consumers more control over their personal information and hold businesses accountable for responsible data handling practices.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to personal data privacy; adding a new section to 2 chapter 19.373 RCW; adding a new chapter to Title 19 RCW; creating a 3 new section; providing an effective date; and providing an expiration 4 date. 5
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Shelley Kloba (D)*, Mary Fosse (D), Beth Doglio (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Liz Berry (D), Alex Ramel (D), Shaun Scott (D), Jamila Taylor (D), Tarra Simmons (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/17/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1885 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Eliminating any legislative privilege exemption from the public records act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to modify Washington state's Public Records Act (RCW 42.56.010) by expanding the definition of "public records" to explicitly include internal legislative documents and communications. Specifically, the bill adds language that clarifies public records now encompass writings related to internal deliberations about bills, including preliminary drafts, recommendations, internal legislative communications, and interbranch communications where opinions are expressed or policies are formulated or recommended. This means that previously potentially privileged legislative documents would now be subject to public disclosure requirements. The bill maintains existing definitions of what constitutes a public record, an agency, and a writing, but introduces a significant change by removing any potential legislative privilege that might have previously prevented transparency around the drafting and deliberation of proposed legislation. By making these internal legislative documents explicitly part of the public record, the bill aims to increase governmental transparency and public access to information about how laws are developed.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to eliminating any legislative privilege 2 exemption from the public records act; and amending RCW 42.56.010. 3
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Jeremie Dufault (R)*, Gloria Mendoza (R), Deb Manjarrez (R), Chris Corry (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1765 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Exempting email addresses of individuals who subscribe to regular communications and updates from local agencies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the state's public records law (RCW 42.56.230) to create a new exemption from public disclosure for email addresses of individuals who voluntarily subscribe to regular communications and updates from local government agencies. The exemption specifically protects email addresses provided to local agencies when people sign up for things like newsletters, agency updates, or similar publications. This means that if someone provides their email address to a local government agency to receive ongoing communications, that email address would be protected from public disclosure requests and cannot be released without the individual's permission. The bill is designed to protect individuals' privacy by preventing their contact information from being easily obtained through public records requests, while still allowing them to voluntarily engage with local government communication channels. The exemption is added as a new subsection (14) to the existing list of personal information types that are already protected from public disclosure under Washington state law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to exempting email addresses of individuals who 2 subscribe to regular communications and updates from local agencies; 3 and reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.230. 4
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• Introduced: 01/30/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Tarra Simmons (D)*, Kevin Waters (R), Timm Ormsby (D), Greg Nance (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/31/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1991 • Last Action 01/12/2026
Exempting from public inspection and copying requirements email addresses of individuals who subscribe to regular communications of certain agencies as defined under the public records act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 42.56.230, which governs public records exemptions, to add a new provision that protects email addresses of individuals who voluntarily subscribe to regular communications from certain state boards or commissions. Specifically, the bill creates a new exemption from public disclosure for email addresses that people provide when signing up for newsletters, updates, or similar publications from statutorily created state boards or commissions. This means that if someone voluntarily provides their email address to receive official communications from a state board or commission, that email address cannot be disclosed through public records requests. The exemption is designed to protect individuals' contact information and provide them with a sense of privacy when they choose to stay informed about the activities of various state governmental bodies. The bill is part of a broader set of privacy protections in Washington state's public records law, which already contains numerous exemptions for personal information to protect individuals from potential misuse or unwanted disclosure of their private data.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to exempting from public inspection and copying 2 requirements email addresses of individuals who subscribe to regular 3 communications of certain agencies as defined under the public 4 records act; and reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.230. 5
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• Introduced: 02/14/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Tarra Simmons (D)*, Lillian Ortiz-Self (D), Julio Cortes (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/15/2025
• Last Action: By resolution, reintroduced and retained in present status.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD259 • Last Action 01/11/2026
An Act to Establish the Criminal Records Review Commission in Statute
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Criminal Records Review Commission, a new state entity tasked with continuously examining laws, rules, and procedures related to criminal history record information, which refers to details about an individual's past arrests and convictions. The commission will be composed of a diverse group of members, including legislators from both the Senate and House of Representatives, state department heads such as the Attorney General and Commissioners of Health and Human Services, Public Safety, and Corrections, as well as representatives from various organizations including those focused on civil rights, legal aid, poverty, domestic violence, substance use disorder treatment, prisoners' rights, the press, sheriffs, police chiefs, broadcasting, sexual assault advocacy, low-income legal assistance, mental health advocacy, civil liberties, sexual exploitation and sex trafficking, juvenile justice reform, and public records access. The commission will review how criminal history information is collected, maintained, and shared, the criteria for sealing such records, public access to them, and the process for vacating them. It will then submit annual findings and recommendations for legislative changes and can also advise relevant state departments and judicial committees. The bill also appropriates funds for the expenses of legislators serving on the commission and sets an effective date of January 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Establish the Criminal Records Review Commission in Statute
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 3 : Rachel Talbot Ross (D)*, Mana Abdi (D), Donna Bailey (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 01/14/2026
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Unsigned, Jan 11, 2026
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S08858 • Last Action 01/09/2026
Requires the creation of an immigration enforcement activity transparency dashboard, which shall be made publicly available, to track certain information relating to immigration authorities activities within New York state.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "reporting of arrests, detentions, actions and removals by immigration enforcement (RADAR) act," mandates the creation and public availability of an online dashboard to track immigration enforcement activities within New York State. The dashboard will be maintained by the division, in consultation with several state departments, and will log all interactions between state and local agencies ("agencies") and federal immigration authorities, which include entities like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection. It will record various "immigration enforcement actions," such as arrests, detentions, and interviews, along with any "cooperation" provided by state or local entities in response to requests from immigration authorities. The bill defines "contact" as any communication or request between these entities. The dashboard will display aggregated, non-identifying data, including the types and locations of enforcement actions, the amount of contact received, and the nature of agency responses, while strictly prohibiting the publication of any personally identifying information. Agencies failing to report as required may face penalties, and the bill emphasizes that it does not authorize cooperation beyond existing state or local prohibitions. The dashboard is to be made publicly accessible within twelve months of the bill's effective date.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to enacting the "reporting of arrests, detentions, actions and removals by immigration enforcement (RADAR) act"
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• Introduced: 01/09/2026
• Added: 01/10/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 12 : Patricia Fahy (D)*, Leroy Comrie (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), Liz Krueger (D), John Liu (D), Rachel May (D), Shelley Mayer (D), Jessica Ramos (D), Gustavo Rivera (D), James Sanders (D), Erik Bottcher (D), Cordell Cleare (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/09/2026
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0473 • Last Action 01/08/2026
Pub. Rec./Civilian Contractors and Government Employees
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Florida's public records law to provide a new exemption for certain civilian contractors and government employees who are authorized to access "secret" or "top secret" federal information. The bill defines these terms and allows such individuals, along with their spouses and dependents, to request that their identification and location information (including home addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth, and school locations) be kept confidential. To qualify, the individual must submit a written request to the agency holding their information and provide a statement that they have tried to protect their personal details from public access. The exemption applies retroactively and will automatically expire on October 2, 2031, unless the Legislature reenacts it. The bill includes a detailed legislative finding that justifies the exemption by arguing that these individuals and their families could be at risk of threats from terrorist groups due to their sensitive work, and that protecting their personal information is more important than public disclosure. The new law will take effect on July 1, 2026.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.071, F.S.; defining the terms "civilian contractor" and "government employee"; providing an exemption from public records requirements for certain current and former civilian contractors and government employees and their spouses and dependents; providing for retroactive application; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/19/2025
• Added: 11/20/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jeff Holcomb (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 11/19/2025
• Last Action: Withdrawn prior to introduction
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0502 • Last Action 01/08/2026
An act relating to charging for actual cost under Vermont’s Public Records Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill seeks to modify Vermont's Public Records Act to allow public agencies to charge requestors the actual staff time costs associated with processing public records requests. Currently, public records requests often require government agencies to spend staff time locating, reviewing, and preparing documents, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. By permitting agencies to recover these direct labor costs, the bill aims to offset the administrative burden of fulfilling public records requests while still maintaining the principle of government transparency. The proposed change would enable agencies to bill requestors for the precise amount of staff time spent responding to their records request, helping to defray the expenses involved in complying with public records law without creating undue financial barriers to accessing government information.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to authorize public agencies to charge and collect the actual cost of staff time associated with complying with a request to inspect a public record.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Jed Lipsky (I)*, Robert Hunter (D), John Kascenska (R), Leland Morgan (R), Richard Nelson (R), Robert North (R), Dan Noyes (D), John O'Brien (D), Debra Powers (R), Michael Tagliavia (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: House Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs Hearing (00:00:00 1/8/2026 )
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2887 • Last Action 01/08/2026
FOIA-RECURRENT REQUESTERS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify the definition and treatment of "recurrent requesters" - individuals who submit a high volume of public records requests. Specifically, the bill reduces the thresholds for being classified as a recurrent requester from 50 to 40 requests in 12 months, from 15 to 10 requests in a 30-day period, and from 7 to 5 requests in a 7-day period. The bill extends the response time for public bodies when dealing with recurrent requesters from 21 to 30 business days and specifies that notice of recurrent requester status only needs to be provided once every 30 days. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision making it a violation of the Act for designated recurrent requesters to knowingly obtain public records without disclosing their status. These changes aim to balance the public's right to access information with the administrative burden on public bodies caused by frequent, extensive record requests. The bill maintains existing exemptions for news media, non-profit, scientific, and academic organizations when their requests are primarily for informational, research, or educational purposes.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Reduces the number of record requests that must be made for a person to be considered a recurrent requester under the Act. Provides that public bodies must respond to requests from recurrent requesters with 30 (rather than 21) days after receipt of a request. Specifies that notice that requests are being treated as recurrent requests must be provided only once every 30 days. Provides that it is a violation of the Act for persons designated as recurrent requesters to knowingly obtain a public record without disclosing their status as recurrent requesters.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Martha Deuter (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Chief Sponsor Changed to Rep. Martha Deuter
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2881 • Last Action 01/08/2026
FOIA-COMMERCIAL PURPOSES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand the definition of "commercial purpose" in public records requests. Specifically, the bill modifies the existing definition to clarify that a commercial purpose includes not only selling or advertising records, but also any use that advances the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester or the person on whose behalf the request is made. The amendment preserves an existing exemption for news media and non-profit, scientific, or academic organizations, ensuring that their requests for information related to news, public interest, current events, opinion pieces, or research are not considered commercial in nature. This change aims to provide more clarity around what constitutes a commercial use of public records and potentially helps prevent requests that are primarily intended to generate private financial gain from being treated the same as requests made for public interest or informational purposes.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, as used in the Act, the term "commercial purpose" means, among other things, the use of any part of a public record or records, or information derived from public records, in any form for any use or purpose that furthers the commercial, trade, or profit interests of the requester or the person on whose behalf the request is made.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Martha Deuter (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Chief Sponsor Changed to Rep. Martha Deuter
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A05624 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Enacts the mental health assessment and record keeping for the coroner's office act; requires the coroner, coroner and coroner's physician, or the medical examiner, to conduct a mental health assessment when a death occurs in such person's jurisdiction; requires death certificates list an underlying mental illness as the cause of death when a person commits suicide; requires life insurance policies to pay upon a suicide which the coroner, coroner and coroner's physician, or the medical examiner
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the Mental Health Assessment and Record Keeping for the Coroner's Office Act, which requires coroners, coroner and coroner's physicians, or medical examiners to conduct a comprehensive mental health assessment when a death occurs in their jurisdiction. The assessment must include a thorough evaluation of the individual's medical and psychiatric history, involving the review of medication records, therapy reports, and the acquisition of necessary medical documents. Upon completion, the findings must be documented on a form prescribed by the health commissioner, detailing any indications of mental distress, illness, or specific mental health disorders like schizophrenia, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. Importantly, the bill mandates that death certificates list the underlying mental illness as the cause of death when a suicide occurs, rather than listing suicide itself. The bill also modifies insurance law to require life insurance policies to pay out in cases of suicide if the mental health assessment reveals a pre-existing mental health condition. All documents related to the mental health assessment will be kept confidential and protected under privacy laws, with use limited to research and prevention efforts. The act will take effect 180 days after becoming law, allowing time for implementation and preparation of necessary regulations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the county law, the public health law and the insurance law, in relation to enacting the mental health assessment and record keeping for the coroner's office act
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• Introduced: 02/18/2025
• Added: 05/07/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Nikki Lucas (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/18/2025
• Last Action: referred to local governments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S07308 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits the release of criminal history or any mental health history records by a police agency, prosecutorial agency or other law enforcement agency of individuals who were the subject of the use of force by a police or peace officer.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits police agencies, prosecutorial agencies, and other law enforcement agencies from publicly releasing or disseminating criminal history or mental health history records of individuals who have been subject to the use of force by a police or peace officer. The bill specifically applies to situations where a police officer (as defined in the criminal procedure law) or a peace officer employs use of force against an individual. The law would prevent these agencies from sharing such sensitive personal information with news or media organizations, effectively protecting the privacy of individuals who have experienced police use of force. By restricting the release of criminal and mental health records, the bill aims to prevent potential stigmatization or prejudicial treatment of individuals involved in such incidents. The legislation would take effect 30 days after becoming law, and it amends the executive law by adding a new section 845-f to establish these restrictions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to prohibiting the release of certain records of victims of police violence by a police agency, prosecutorial agency or other law enforcement agency
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• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Cordell Cleare (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A05669 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides for monetary penalties for the intentional violation of the open meetings law by any member of a public body who participates in a meeting with the intent and purpose of violating the provisions of the open meetings law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the public officers law to establish monetary penalties for intentional violations of the open meetings law by public body members. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that makes it an offense for a public body member to participate in a meeting with the explicit intent of violating open meetings regulations. For a first offense, the member would be subject to a fine between $350 and $1,000, and for a second or subsequent offense, the fine would range from $500 to $2,000. Additionally, the convicted member would be responsible for prosecution costs, and importantly, neither the state nor the public corporation can pay or reimburse these fines on the member's behalf. The bill aims to discourage deliberate attempts to circumvent transparency in government meetings by imposing direct financial consequences on individual members who knowingly violate open meetings protocols. The new provisions will take effect on the first of September following the bill becoming law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to providing penalties for the intentional violation of the open meetings law
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chris Eachus (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/19/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S04860 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Establishes the New York Data Protection Act; requires government entities and contractors to disclose certain personal information collected about individuals.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the New York Data Protection Act, which creates comprehensive regulations for how government entities and contractors handle personal information of New York residents. The bill defines "personal information" broadly, including identifiers like names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and various types of personal data such as biometric information, employment records, and inferences about an individual's characteristics. Key provisions include giving individuals the right to request disclosure of personal information collected about them, including the categories of information, sources, and purposes of collection, as well as the right to request deletion of their personal information. Government entities and contractors must provide at least two methods for submitting information requests, respond within 45 days, and can only share personal information when crucial to their duties. The bill prohibits discrimination against individuals who exercise these rights and limits the sale or inappropriate sharing of personal information. Notably, the bill does not create a private right of action, but allows individuals to seek relief through the Attorney General's office in cases of unauthorized data access. The law will take effect one year after becoming law, giving government entities and contractors time to adjust their data handling practices to comply with the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to enacting the New York data protection act
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• Introduced: 02/13/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : James Sanders (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/13/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A06322 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Creates the office of the correctional ombudsperson to achieve transparency, fairness, impartiality and accountability in New York state correctional facilities; relates to reports by coroners; designates investigators of the office of the correctional ombudsperson as peace officers; authorizes the attorney general to investigate the alleged commission of any criminal offense committed by an employee of the department of corrections and community supervision in connection with their official dut
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Office of the Correctional Ombudsperson, an independent oversight body designed to achieve transparency, fairness, impartiality, and accountability in New York state and local correctional facilities. The ombudsperson will be appointed by a newly established 12-member Correctional Oversight Board and will serve a six-year term, with the ability to be removed only for good cause. The office will have broad investigative powers, including the ability to review policies, inspect facilities, interview staff and incarcerated individuals, access records, conduct investigations, and receive complaints about correctional facilities. The ombudsperson will be required to produce annual public reports detailing investigations, significant problems discovered, and recommendations for improvement. The bill also grants the office significant autonomy, including the power to subpoena documents, interview employees confidentially, and investigate allegations of misconduct. Additionally, the bill expands the Attorney General's authority to investigate criminal offenses committed by corrections employees and makes investigators of the ombudsperson's office peace officers. The goal is to create a robust, independent oversight mechanism to monitor and improve conditions in correctional facilities across New York State.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the correction law, in relation to creating the office of the correctional ombudsperson; to amend the county law, in relation to reports by coroners; to amend the criminal procedure law, in relation to designating investigators of the office of the correctional ombudsperson as peace officers; to amend the education law, in relation to the certification of incarcerated individual populations; to amend the executive law, in relation to authorizing the attorney general to investigate the alleged commission of any criminal offense committed by an employee of the department of corrections and community supervision in connection with their official duties; to amend the executive law, in relation to the division of criminal justice services; to amend the mental hygiene law, in relation to clinical records; to amend the public health law, in relation to the confidentiality of certain records; to amend the public officers law, in relation to including the office of the correctional ombudsperson records within the definition of public safety agency records; and to amend the social services law, in relation to inspection and supervision
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• Introduced: 03/04/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 10 : Latrice Walker (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D)*, Deborah Glick (D), Maryjane Shimsky (D), Yudelka Tapia (D), Harvey Epstein (D), David Weprin (D), Phil Steck (D), Demond Meeks (D), Anna Kelles (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/04/2025
• Last Action: referred to correction
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01417 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to the failure to produce records in response to a FOIL request; criminalizes the failure to comply with the freedom of information law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill strengthens the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) by introducing new provisions to improve government transparency and accountability. It defines "state agency" and "head of agency" more comprehensively and establishes stricter requirements for responding to public records requests. The bill mandates that state agencies must respond to FOIL requests within five business days by either providing the requested records, denying the request in writing, or providing a written acknowledgement with an estimated completion date. If an agency does not fulfill a records request within 30 days, the agency head must review the request, direct the agency to make a determination, and sign a detailed certification under penalty of perjury explaining the status of the request. Furthermore, the bill criminalizes failure to comply with FOIL by creating a new misdemeanor offense for government officials who intentionally fail to review records requests, direct agencies to make determinations, or provide required certifications. The new criminal provision explicitly prohibits the use of public or campaign funds to pay any resulting fines or legal fees, and violations are classified as a class B misdemeanor. This legislation aims to enhance government transparency by providing stronger enforcement mechanisms and personal accountability for public officials handling public records requests.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the failure to produce records in response to a FOIL request; and to amend the penal law, in relation to criminalizing the failure to comply with the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : Jim Tedisco (R)*, George Borrello (R), Pam Helming (R), Peter Oberacker (R), Rob Ortt (R), Tony Palumbo (R), Alexis Weik (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01096 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Establishes the "protect our privacy (POP) act" to impose limitations on the use of drones for law enforcement purposes; prohibits the use of drones by law enforcement at concerts, protests, demonstrations, or other actions protected by the first amendment.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the "Protect Our Privacy (POP) Act" to comprehensively regulate law enforcement's use of drones, imposing strict limitations to protect civil liberties. The legislation prohibits law enforcement agencies from using drones for general surveillance, specifically banning their use at First Amendment protected events like concerts, protests, and demonstrations, and explicitly forbidding the use of armed drones. The bill allows very limited drone usage only for specific purposes such as search and rescue operations and examining areas after natural disasters. Additionally, the legislation mandates that any data collected through permissible drone use must be kept confidential, cannot be shared without agreement, and must be destroyed within one year unless part of an active criminal investigation. The bill provides strong enforcement mechanisms, including allowing individuals to file civil actions against government entities that violate these provisions, with potential damages of $1,000 per violation or actual damages, punitive damages, and mandatory attorney's fees for prevailing plaintiffs. The definition of "drone" is broad, encompassing remotely piloted devices that travel by air, land, or water, and the law applies retroactively to existing drone surveillance data, requiring the deletion of any information collected using facial recognition technology.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil rights law, in relation to imposing limitations on the use of drones for law enforcement purposes
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 15 : Jessica Ramos (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Leroy Comrie (D), Andrew Gounardes (D), Brad Hoylman (D), Robert Jackson (D), Brian Kavanagh (D), Liz Krueger (D), John Liu (D), Rachel May (D), Zellnor Myrie (D), Kevin Parker (D), Gustavo Rivera (D), Julia Salazar (D), Luis Sepúlveda (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A07510 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Authorizes state and municipal agencies to establish rules and regulations for the use, distribution, duplication, sale and resale of geographic information systems materials disclosed under the freedom of information law; authorizes the imposition of fees for copies of such materials which do not exceed the fair market value of the materials; establishes such rules and regulations shall be consistent with those adopted by the committee on open government; authorizes applicants to appeal the rea
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public Officers Law to provide state and municipal agencies with specific authority regarding Geographic Information Systems (GIS) materials, which are digital maps and spatial data. Under the proposed legislation, agencies can now create rules and regulations governing the use, distribution, duplication, sale, and resale of GIS materials obtained through freedom of information requests. Agencies are permitted to charge fees for these materials, but such fees cannot exceed the fair market value of the materials. The bill requires that these agency rules be consistent with guidelines established by the Committee on Open Government. Additionally, if an applicant believes the fee charged is too high, they can appeal to the agency's governing body, which must review the fee within ten business days and potentially reduce it based on the committee's guidelines. The agency must then forward the appeal and its determination to the Committee on Open Government. This legislation aims to provide more clarity and transparency around the handling and pricing of digital geographic information while ensuring reasonable access to public data.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the provision of geographic information systems materials by state and municipal agencies
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• Introduced: 03/28/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Gary Pretlow (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/28/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A07313 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Exempts from disclosure, under the freedom of information law, the issuance of pistol permits to active and retired police officers, peace officers and correction officers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to create a new exemption under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) that protects the confidentiality of firearm licenses issued to active and retired law enforcement personnel. Specifically, the bill prohibits the disclosure of firearm license information for police officers (as defined in criminal procedure law), peace officers, correction officers employed by state or county correctional facilities, and retired personnel in these categories. The exemption ensures that the names and license details of these individuals remain private, with a key exception that allows law enforcement agencies to access this information for investigative or prosecutorial purposes. This protection is intended to safeguard the personal information of law enforcement professionals who may be at risk of targeted harassment or retaliation if their firearm licensing details were to become publicly accessible.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to exempting the disclosure, under the freedom of information law, of the name of any police officer, peace officer, correction officer, or retired police officer, peace officer or correction officer issued a license to carry or possess a firearm
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• Introduced: 03/25/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Gary Pretlow (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/25/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A07226 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Makes certain not-for-profit corporations subject to the freedom of information and open meetings laws.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the not-for-profit corporation law to make certain non-profit organizations subject to freedom of information and open meetings laws (specifically Articles Six and Seven of the Public Officers Law). Specifically, the bill applies to non-profit corporations that meet three key criteria: (1) have 25 or more full-time equivalent employees, (2) receive either $1 million or more in government funding, or at least 75% of their gross revenues from government funding, and (3) are licensed by specific state agencies like the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities, Office of Mental Health, or Department of Health as an approved service provider. The bill includes two important exceptions: patient records protected under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) are exempt, and any documents identified by the New York State Police as requiring non-disclosure for security purposes are also excluded from the transparency requirements. The law will take effect 30 days after it becomes law, which means it aims to increase government transparency by allowing public access to records of certain non-profit organizations that substantially rely on government funding and provide critical public services.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the not-for-profit corporation law, in relation to making certain not-for-profit corporations subject to the freedom of information and open meetings laws
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/21/2025
• Last Action: referred to corporations, authorities and commissions
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A07176 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to the discoverability of recordings found on police body worn cameras and vehicle cameras.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules to expand the disclosure requirements for police recordings, specifically those from body-worn cameras and vehicle cameras. The amendment mandates full disclosure of films, photographs, video tapes, audio tapes, and other recordings made or received by police or peace officers during their duties. This means that in legal proceedings, all portions of such recordings—including outtakes—must be made available, not just the segments a party intends to use. The bill maintains an existing exemption for materials compiled for law enforcement purposes that are already protected from disclosure under the Public Officers Law. By broadening the scope of discoverable recordings, the bill aims to increase transparency in police interactions and provide more comprehensive evidence in legal proceedings involving law enforcement. The legislation takes effect immediately upon enactment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil practice law and rules, in relation to recordings found on police cameras
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Monique Chandler-Waterman (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/21/2025
• Last Action: referred to judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A06728 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides for the confidentiality of personnel records of police officers, firefighters, correction officers and probation officers.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill provides comprehensive legal protections for the personnel records of police officers, firefighters, correction officers, and probation officers by establishing strict confidentiality guidelines. The legislation mandates that all personnel records used to evaluate performance, promotion, or continued employment for these public safety professionals shall be considered confidential and cannot be inspected or reviewed without the explicit written consent of the individual officer. If records are sought through a court order, the judge must first conduct a thorough review, provide an opportunity for interested parties to be heard, and demonstrate a clear and sufficient factual basis for requesting the records. When a court order is issued, the personnel records must be sealed and sent directly to the judge, who will then determine which parts of the record are relevant and material to the case. The bill includes an important exemption for various government legal representatives and agencies who may require these records for official functions. By creating this heightened protection, the bill aims to safeguard the privacy and professional integrity of public safety personnel while still maintaining a mechanism for legitimate legal review when absolutely necessary.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil rights law, in relation to the confidentiality of personnel records of police officers, firefighters, correction officers and probation officers
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Patrick Chludzinski (R)*, Joe Angelino (R), Joe DeStefano (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/11/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03588 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires public officers and public bodies to make reasonable efforts to provide qualified interpreters at no charge for the hearing impaired at public meetings and hearings upon written request to the public officer responsible for the siting of such hearing; requires installation and use of assistive listening devices.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to enhance accessibility for deaf and hard of hearing individuals at public meetings and hearings. It requires public officers and bodies to make reasonable efforts to provide qualified interpreters at no cost when requested in writing within a reasonable timeframe. Starting January 1, 2028 for public hearings and January 1, 2026 for public meetings, any rooms accommodating more than 100 people must be equipped with an assistive listening system, which is defined as specialized acoustic communication equipment designed to improve sound transmission and reception. These systems can include various technologies like AM/FM modulation, audio induction loops, infrared sound, or hardwire systems. The bill also specifies that these requirements are subject to an "undue hardship" exception, meaning public bodies are not required to provide interpretation or assistive listening systems if doing so would pose significant challenges. The changes aim to ensure more inclusive and accessible public meetings and hearings for individuals with hearing impairments, expanding on existing accessibility laws that previously focused primarily on physical access for people with disabilities.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the accessibility of public hearings and meetings
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jessica González-Rojas (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/28/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03615 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Makes various amendments to requirements for web-based videoconferencing of public meetings; establishes the municipal hybrid meeting trust fund.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes comprehensive changes to New York's public meeting laws, primarily focusing on web-based videoconferencing requirements for public bodies. The legislation mandates that public bodies shall use web-based videoconferencing with closed captioning, requiring a minimum number of members to be physically present at meeting locations. For bodies composed of elected officials, a quorum must be physically present, while for appointed boards, the presiding officer must be in person or designate an alternate. The bill establishes new requirements for public meeting notices, including posting details on websites and social media, providing clear information about videoconferencing access, and ensuring public participation through real-time video and closed captioning. Additionally, the bill creates a municipal hybrid meeting trust fund to support municipalities in expanding their remote and hybrid meeting capabilities, with a competitive grant program administered by the office of information technology services. The legislation also requires meeting minutes to document electronic participation details and mandates that meetings be recorded and made available online. Notably, the bill makes permanent previous temporary provisions allowing more flexible meeting formats and aims to improve accessibility and transparency of public meetings across New York state.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law and the state technology law, in relation to requirements for open meetings; to amend part WW of chapter 56 of the laws of 2022 amending the public officers law relating to permitting videoconferencing and remote participation in public meetings under certain circumstances, in relation to making such provisions permanent; to amend the state finance law and the state technology law, in relation to establishing the municipal hybrid meeting trust fund; and providing for the repeal of certain provisions upon the expiration thereof
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 01/29/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 17 : Tony Simone (D)*, Maryjane Shimsky (D), Emily Gallagher (D), Andrew Hevesi (D), Harvey Epstein (D), Jo Anne Simon (D), Keith Brown (R), Ken Blankenbush (R), Deborah Glick (D), Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn (D), Yudelka Tapia (D), Jessica González-Rojas (D), Karines Reyes (D), Rebecca Kassay (D), Donna Lupardo (D), Karen McMahon (D), Alicia Hyndman (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00645 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Exempts statements of victims and witnesses relating to sexual abuse or misconduct from disclosure under FOIL provisions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to expand existing Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) exemptions by adding protection for statements made by witnesses or victims relating to sexual abuse or misconduct. Specifically, the bill modifies section 87 of the public officers law to include a new provision that prevents the disclosure of any statements made by witnesses or victims about sexual abuse or misconduct. This means that under FOIL requests, government agencies would be prohibited from releasing such sensitive statements, which could potentially protect victims from further trauma or potential retaliation. The exemption is part of a broader set of protections for law enforcement records, which already include safeguards against disclosures that could interfere with investigations, compromise fair trials, reveal confidential sources, or expose investigative techniques. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, providing immediate protection for these types of victim and witness statements.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to exempting certain statements relating to sexual abuse or misconduct from disclosure
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• Introduced: 01/03/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : James Skoufis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01027 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Makes various amendments to requirements for web-based videoconferencing of public meetings; establishes the municipal hybrid meeting trust fund.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes significant changes to the requirements for web-based videoconferencing of public meetings in New York State, fundamentally altering how local government bodies can conduct meetings. The legislation mandates that public bodies shall (rather than may) use web-based videoconferencing with closed captioning, requiring at least some members to be physically present while allowing remote participation under specific conditions. For elected bodies, a minimum number of members must be physically present to meet quorum requirements, while for appointed boards, the presiding officer must be present in person or designate an alternate. The bill also requires public bodies to adopt written procedures for remote meetings, ensure public access and participation via video, and provide recordings of meetings with closed captioning that are posted online within five business days. Additionally, the bill establishes a Municipal Hybrid Meeting Trust Fund to help municipalities expand their remote and hybrid meeting capabilities, creating a competitive grant program specifically for non-elected local public bodies to support technological implementation. The legislation aims to make videoconferencing a permanent option for public meetings while ensuring transparency, accessibility, and public participation, with provisions for American Sign Language interpretation and detailed record-keeping of electronic meetings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law and the state technology law, in relation to requirements for open meetings; to amend part WW of chapter 56 of the laws of 2022 amending the public officers law relating to permitting videoconferencing and remote participation in public meetings under certain circumstances, in relation to making such provisions permanent; to amend the state finance law and the state technology law, in relation to establishing the municipal hybrid meeting trust fund; and providing for the repeal of certain provisions upon the expiration thereof
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Rachel May (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Andrew Gounardes (D), Robert Jackson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A05498 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Establishes the class E felony of criminal use of public records for the intentional use of any public record in the course of or in furtherance of the commission of a crime.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new criminal offense called "criminal use of public records" as a class E felony in New York state law. Specifically, the bill defines the crime as intentionally obtaining a public record through legal channels (such as using the Freedom of Information Law) with the deliberate intent to use that record to commit or further another criminal act. The bill references the definition of "record" from the public officers law, ensuring that the term is consistently understood. Under this proposed legislation, if someone purposefully acquires a public record and then attempts to use it in the course of or as a tool to commit a crime, they can be charged with this felony. The new law would take effect on the first of November following its passage, providing a clear timeline for implementation. This bill appears designed to prevent the misuse of legally obtained public documents for criminal purposes, adding an additional layer of legal protection against potential document-related criminal activities.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the penal law, in relation to criminal use of public records
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• Introduced: 02/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Alec Brook-Krasny (R)*, Misha Novakhov (R), Robert Smullen (R), Karl Brabenec (R), Chris Tague (R), Dave McDonough (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/14/2025
• Last Action: referred to codes
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00581 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires public bodies to make reasonable efforts to ensure that proceedings of meetings are audible for individuals in person and via broadcast and to provide audio visual equipment as necessary.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law by requiring public bodies to make reasonable efforts to ensure that meeting proceedings are audible for both in-person attendees and those watching via broadcast. Specifically, the legislation mandates that public bodies provide audiovisual equipment such as microphones and speakers to guarantee that all individuals, whether physically present at the meeting or participating remotely, can adequately hear what is being discussed. The new provision is designed to enhance transparency and accessibility of public meetings by ensuring that sound quality is sufficient for all participants. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage, meaning public bodies will need to quickly implement audio equipment and sound practices to comply with the new requirement. This legislation represents a step towards improving public access to government proceedings by addressing potential audio clarity issues that could hinder understanding or participation in public meetings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring public bodies to ensure that proceedings of meetings are audible for individuals in person and via broadcast
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Amy Paulin (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A04947 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Enacts the NY privacy act to require companies to disclose their methods of de-identifying personal information, to place special safeguards around data sharing and to allow consumers to obtain the names of all entities with whom their information is shared.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the New York Privacy Act, a comprehensive data privacy law aimed at giving consumers more control over their personal information. The bill defines personal data broadly and applies to businesses that meet certain revenue or data processing thresholds. Key provisions include requiring companies to obtain explicit opt-in consent before processing personal data, providing consumers with rights to access, correct, delete, and transfer their data, and mandating that companies conduct regular risk assessments of their data processing practices. Companies must provide clear, easy-to-understand privacy notices, limit data collection and retention, and obtain consent before sharing data with third parties. The bill also requires special safeguards for automated decision-making, particularly in areas like financial services, housing, and healthcare, and mandates annual impact assessments to check for potential discrimination. Data brokers must register with the Attorney General, and the law provides both regulatory enforcement through the Attorney General and a private right of action for consumers. The bill aims to increase transparency, give consumers more agency over their personal information, and hold companies accountable for responsible data management. Most provisions will take effect two years after becoming law, with the private right of action taking effect three years after enactment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to the management and oversight of personal data
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : Linda Rosenthal (D)*, David Weprin (D), Jo Anne Simon (D), Jeffrey Dinowitz (D), Amy Paulin (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/10/2025
• Last Action: referred to consumer affairs and protection
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01490 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Updates the fee collected by county clerks and clerks for the city of New York for deposit into the cultural education account from $15 to $30; increases the amount retained by the county or city from $0.75 to $1.00.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates the fees collected by county clerks and clerks for the city of New York when recording and indexing legal instruments. Currently, clerks pay an additional $15 to the cultural education account, with $0.75 being retained by the county or city. The bill increases the total fee to $30, with $1.00 being retained by the county or city. This means that when county clerks record documents like deeds, mortgages, or other legal instruments, they will now collect a higher fee, with a slightly larger portion kept locally. The increased fees will support the New York state local government records management improvement fund and the cultural education account, which likely funds cultural and educational initiatives. The bill will take effect 60 days after becoming law, applying to both county clerks across New York state and the city of New York's register. The changes are relatively straightforward, essentially doubling the additional recording fee while marginally increasing the local retention amount.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil practice law and rules and the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to updating the fee collected by county clerks for deposit into the cultural education account
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• Introduced: 01/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Patricia Fahy (D)*, Leroy Comrie (D), Robert Jackson (D), Liz Krueger (D), Julia Salazar (D), Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/10/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A06226 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Improves transparency regarding boards of elections; improves voter centricity; includes boards of elections in open meetings requirements; requires certain notices be given regarding elections; requires additional transparency during the tabulation of votes.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill improves transparency and voter accessibility in New York's election process through several key provisions. The bill requires boards of elections to be subject to open meetings laws, ensuring that their decision-making processes are more transparent to the public. It mandates that boards of elections provide more comprehensive and timely information about elections, including publishing detailed notices at least 30 days prior to primary and general elections with information such as election dates, polling place locations, registration deadlines, and sample ballots. The bill also expands voter options by allowing voters to cast ballots at any polling place within their county and requires boards of elections to ensure sufficient ballots are available at each location. Additionally, the legislation increases transparency during vote counting by requiring public posting of election results, including detailed breakdowns by ballot type, and mandating that results be made available in spreadsheet format. The bill also introduces new provisions for election watchers, allowing the Committee on Open Government to appoint additional non-partisan watchers to observe election processes. Furthermore, it requires boards of elections to hold public hearings within two weeks after transmitting certified election statements, giving voters an opportunity to provide feedback on the election process. These changes aim to make New York's election system more open, accessible, and accountable to voters.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the election law, in relation to improving transparency regarding boards of elections and improving voter centricity
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• Introduced: 02/27/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Robert Carroll (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: referred to election law
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03629 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits sharing or selling personal data to third parties by government entities and contractors.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive restrictions on how New York state government entities and their contractors can collect, share, and sell personal information. The legislation defines personal information broadly, including identifiers like names, addresses, social security numbers, and various other categories of data that could potentially identify an individual. The bill requires government entities to disclose to individuals what personal information they are collecting and why, and strictly limits the sharing and selling of such information. Specifically, government entities and contractors are prohibited from selling personal information, and can only share personal information with other entities or contractors when it is absolutely crucial for performing official duties and cannot be obtained through other means. The bill includes several important exceptions, such as complying with legal requests, freedom of information law, and specific federal reporting requirements. Contractors who receive personal information are bound by strict rules about how they can use the data, and must not retain or use it for purposes beyond the original contracted service. The law will take effect one year after becoming law, giving government agencies and contractors time to adjust their data handling practices to comply with the new regulations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to prohibiting sharing or selling personal data to third parties by government entities and contractors
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Nily Rozic (D)*, Josh Jensen (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A08158 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Enacts the New York privacy act to require companies to disclose their methods of de-identifying personal information, to place special safeguards around data sharing and to allow consumers to obtain the names of all entities with whom their information is shared.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the New York Privacy Act, a comprehensive data privacy law designed to give consumers more control over their personal information. The bill requires companies that conduct business in New York or target New York residents to provide clear notices about data collection, processing, and sharing practices. Specifically, companies must disclose the categories of personal data they collect, the purposes for processing that data, and the types of third parties with whom the data is shared. Consumers are granted several key rights, including the ability to opt out of targeted advertising and data sales, access and correct their personal data, request data deletion, and obtain a portable copy of their data in a machine-readable format. The bill applies to companies that meet certain thresholds, such as having annual gross revenue of $25 million or processing data of 50,000 consumers. Companies must obtain explicit consent for processing sensitive data, implement reasonable data security measures, and are prohibited from discriminating against consumers who exercise their privacy rights. The New York Attorney General is empowered to enforce the law, with potential penalties of up to $20,000 per violation. The law is designed to provide enhanced privacy protections, increase transparency in data practices, and give consumers more autonomy over their personal information.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to the management and oversight of personal data
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• Introduced: 05/02/2025
• Added: 05/03/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Nily Rozic (D)*, William Conrad (D), Jo Anne Simon (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 05/02/2025
• Last Action: referred to consumer affairs and protection
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A06131 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Authorizes city boards, city-wide councils, community councils and school based management teams to conduct meetings via videoconferencing.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York education law to allow city boards, city-wide councils, community councils, and school-based management teams to conduct public meetings via videoconference without requiring physical presence of members or the public. Specifically, these groups can hold remote meetings as long as they comply with certain requirements from the public officers law, including provisions related to meeting accessibility, recording, and transparency. The bill effectively provides flexibility for these educational governance bodies to meet virtually, which can be particularly useful during situations that make in-person meetings challenging, such as public health emergencies or logistical constraints. The videoconference meetings must still adhere to specific guidelines to ensure public access and transparency, such as maintaining records of the meetings and following proper notice procedures. The changes will take effect immediately but are subject to existing expiration dates of the referenced sections of education law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the education law, in relation to meetings of the city board, city-wide councils, community councils and school based management teams
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Michael Benedetto (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/26/2025
• Last Action: referred to education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03463 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Exempts statements of victims and witnesses relating to sexual abuse or misconduct from disclosure under FOIL provisions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public Officers Law to add a new exemption to the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), which is the state law governing public access to government records. Specifically, the bill creates a new provision that prevents the disclosure of statements made by witnesses or victims relating to sexual abuse or misconduct through public records requests. This means that if someone files a FOIL request for documents that contain such statements, the government agency can legally withhold those specific statements to protect the privacy and potentially the emotional well-being of victims and witnesses. The exemption is added to an existing section of law that already allows agencies to withhold records in certain circumstances, such as when disclosure could interfere with law enforcement investigations, compromise a fair trial, or reveal confidential investigative techniques. By adding this specific protection for statements about sexual abuse or misconduct, the bill aims to provide additional privacy safeguards for individuals who have experienced or reported such sensitive matters.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to exempting certain statements relating to sexual abuse or misconduct from disclosure
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• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Charles Lavine (D)*, Ed Braunstein (D)*, Andrew Hevesi (D)*, Alicia Hyndman (D)*, William Colton (D), Vivian Cook (D), Jodi Giglio (R), Jaime Williams (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/27/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A04868 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires the disclosure of certain information when an agency responds to a request for law enforcement disciplinary records, including information a victim alleges regarding sexual misconduct.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to enhance transparency and accessibility of law enforcement disciplinary records. Specifically, the bill prevents agencies from denying access to disciplinary records based on several previous exemptions, such as records concerning unresolved complaints, records compiled for law enforcement purposes, inter-agency materials, records designated as confidential through private agreements, or records created before the law's effective date. Additionally, the bill adds a provision protecting victims of sexual misconduct by prohibiting the disclosure of a victim's personal identifying information in disciplinary records. The bill provides a comprehensive definition of sexual misconduct, which includes a wide range of behaviors such as verbal and digital harassment, sexual intimidation, inappropriate use of personal information, sexually motivated police actions, and physical sexual contact. By removing barriers to accessing disciplinary records and protecting victim identities, the bill aims to increase accountability and transparency in law enforcement disciplinary proceedings while safeguarding the privacy of those who report sexual misconduct.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the disclosure of law enforcement officer's disciplinary records
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 15 : Jessica González-Rojas (D)*, Monique Chandler-Waterman (D), Tony Simone (D), Maritza Davila (D), Jo Anne Simon (D), Andrew Hevesi (D), Anna Kelles (D), Harvey Epstein (D), Steven Raga (D), Sarahana Shrestha (D), Emily Gallagher (D), Zohran Mamdani (D), Phara Souffrant Forrest (D), Demond Meeks (D), Dana Levenberg (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A08919 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Permits enrollment in the address confidentiality program for members of the state legislature.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York State Executive Law to expand the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP), which currently protects victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, kidnapping, sexual offenses, and stalking, as well as reproductive health care providers and their family members, to now also include members of the state legislature. The changes add state legislators to the list of individuals who can apply for the program, which allows participants to use a designated address to keep their actual residential address confidential due to safety concerns. The modifications include updating multiple sections of the existing law to explicitly mention state legislators as eligible participants, enabling them to protect their personal address from disclosure if they feel they are at risk of violence, threats, or other safety issues. The bill uses gender-neutral language (changing "his or her" to "their") and provides state legislators with the same protections currently afforded to other vulnerable groups. The amendments are technical in nature and do not substantively change the program's existing structure, but simply broaden its scope to include another potentially at-risk group. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to enrollment eligibility for members of the state legislature in the address confidentiality program
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• Introduced: 07/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Charles Lavine (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 07/16/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S06797 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits data brokers from selling the personal information of current and former military servicemembers or their households without consent.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits data brokers from selling personal information about current and former military servicemembers or their households without obtaining explicit consent. The bill defines several key terms, including "data broker" (a business that collects and sells personal data without a direct relationship with the consumer), "military servicemember" (which includes active duty personnel, national guard members, and service academy cadets), and "consent" (a clear, informed, and freely given agreement that can be withdrawn at any time). The legislation applies to businesses operating in New York and requires that any sale or advertisement of military servicemembers' personal information must first receive their explicit permission. The bill includes numerous exceptions for certain types of data processing, such as government records, healthcare information, and research purposes. If a data broker violates these provisions, they may be subject to an injunction and civil penalties of up to $10,000, with the New York Attorney General empowered to pursue enforcement actions. The law will take effect 90 days after becoming official, providing a transition period for businesses to adjust their data handling practices.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to prohibiting data brokers from selling the personal information of current and former military servicemembers
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• Introduced: 03/24/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : James Skoufis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/24/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CONSUMER PROTECTION
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A08960 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires the home address of candidates on nomination and designation petitions be redacted prior to the release of such documents to the public.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New York's election law to enhance the privacy and personal security of political candidates by requiring that home addresses be redacted from nomination and designation petitions before they are released to the public or made available through freedom of information requests. Specifically, the bill mandates that both the home addresses of candidates and the witnesses who sign these petitions must be obscured when such documents are shared, whether through public publication or information requests. The changes apply to various sections of the election law related to petition filing and documentation, ensuring that personal residential information is not easily accessible. This legislation aims to protect candidates and petition signers from potential privacy risks or safety concerns that could arise from publicly disclosing their home addresses. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, signaling the state's intent to quickly implement these privacy protections for political candidates and petition participants.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the election law, in relation to protecting the personal information of candidates for public office
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• Introduced: 08/13/2025
• Added: 08/13/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Rebecca Seawright (D)*, Al Taylor (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 08/13/2025
• Last Action: referred to election law
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03342 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides that, for a quorum, an advisory board may require that at a minimum, one quarter of the members and the presiding officer of a community board physically be present at a location where the public can attend for such board to conduct videoconferencing.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing public meeting laws to provide more flexibility for advisory bodies, particularly community boards in large cities like New York City, when conducting videoconferenced meetings. Specifically, the bill allows advisory bodies to require only one-quarter of their members and the presiding officer to be physically present at a location where the public can attend, instead of requiring a full quorum to be physically present. The bill defines an "advisory body" as an entity involved in an advisory capacity only, such as policy development, program planning, and program evaluation, which may or may not have voting authority to determine final outcomes. This change is intended to make it easier for advisory bodies to conduct meetings remotely while still maintaining some in-person presence to ensure transparency and public accessibility. The amendment to the Public Officers Law will take effect immediately and is part of ongoing efforts to adapt public meeting procedures to modern technological capabilities and post-pandemic work environments.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to lowering quorum requirements for meetings of community boards held by videoconferencing
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• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Alex Bores (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/27/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A09376 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires the creation of an immigration enforcement activity transparency dashboard, which shall be made publicly available, to track certain information relating to immigration authorities activities within New York state.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the "Reporting of Arrests, Detentions, Actions and Removals by Immigration Enforcement" (RADAR) Act, which requires New York state to create a publicly accessible online dashboard tracking immigration enforcement activities. The dashboard will comprehensively record and display aggregate, non-identifying data about interactions between state and local agencies and federal immigration authorities, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Agencies will be required to electronically report weekly on immigration enforcement actions, such as arrests, detentions, interviews, and transfers, with detailed information like the individual's demographic data, location of enforcement, and agency responses. The dashboard will provide insights into the type, frequency, and geographic distribution of immigration enforcement actions, while protecting individual privacy by anonymizing data. Agencies that fail to report as required may face penalties like written warnings, referral to the attorney general, or ineligibility for state grants. The bill mandates that the division responsible for the dashboard consult with various state departments, develop standardized reporting templates, and submit annual reports to state leadership summarizing collected data and trends. The dashboard must be made publicly available within 12 months of the bill's effective date, with the goal of increasing transparency around immigration enforcement activities in New York state.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to enacting the "reporting of arrests, detentions, actions and removals by immigration enforcement (RADAR) act"
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• Introduced: 12/19/2025
• Added: 12/20/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 12 : Tony Simone (D)*, Grace Lee (D), Linda Rosenthal (D), Yudelka Tapia (D), Phara Souffrant Forrest (D), Jo Anne Simon (D), Gabriella Romero (D), Deborah Glick (D), Sarahana Shrestha (D), Steven Raga (D), Diana Moreno (D), Claire Valdez (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 12/19/2025
• Last Action: referred to codes
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03805 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Authorizes the public to participate in public meetings in person or remotely through the use of a telephone conference, a video conference, and/or other similar technology.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the public officers law and public buildings law to expand accessibility and participation in public meetings. Specifically, the bill updates language from "physically handicapped" to "persons with disabilities" and requires public bodies to ensure meeting facilities are barrier-free for individuals with disabilities. The legislation also mandates that any public meeting must now allow participation both in-person and remotely through technologies like telephone conferences, video conferences, or other similar communication methods. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "persons with disabilities" to include various physical and sensory impairments, such as those requiring wheelchair use, experiencing walking difficulties, having hearing or vision challenges, or dealing with age-related mobility issues. Public bodies are permitted to establish reasonable rules for recording and transmitting meetings, provided these rules are posted visibly and available upon request. The changes aim to make government meetings more accessible and inclusive for all citizens, regardless of physical limitations or geographic location.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law and the public buildings law, in relation to authorizing the public to participate in public meetings in person or remotely
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• Introduced: 01/30/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 9 : Jo Anne Simon (D)*, Michael Durso (R), Rebecca Seawright (D), Stefani Zinerman (D), Jeffrey Dinowitz (D), Chris Burdick (D), Al Stirpe (D), Keith Brown (R), Jodi Giglio (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/30/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A02370 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Repeals the driver's license access and privacy act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill repeals the Driver's License Access and Privacy Act, effectively removing several provisions that previously protected certain personal information for non-commercial driver's license and learner's permit holders. The bill eliminates previous restrictions on public access to personal details such as photo images, social security numbers, addresses, place of birth, employment information, and other sensitive data. It modifies application requirements for driver's licenses, maintaining provisions for organ donation registration and selective service compliance for applicants aged 18-26. The bill restores broader public access to driver's license records and removes special privacy protections that were previously in place for non-commercial license holders. Specifically, it repeals subdivisions in the vehicle and traffic law that limited public inspection of personal information, reinstates more standard record-keeping practices, and removes alternative identification mechanisms that were previously allowed for individuals without social security numbers. The changes aim to standardize driver's license application and record-keeping processes, effectively rolling back privacy protections that were implemented in previous legislation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to repealing the driver's license access and privacy act; to repeal certain provisions of such law relating thereto; to repeal section 7 of chapter 39 of the laws of 2019, amending the vehicle and traffic law relating to the issuance of non-commercial drivers' licenses and learners' permits; and to repeal subdivision 1 of section 502 of the vehicle and traffic law
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Karl Brabenec (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: referred to transportation
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00950 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides for the award of reasonable attorneys' fees in FOIL proceedings if the person is successful and in open meeting proceedings to the successful petitioner and against the public body.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to modify provisions regarding attorneys' fees in Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) and open meetings proceedings. Specifically, the bill changes the language from "may" to "shall" when awarding attorneys' fees, making it mandatory for courts to award reasonable legal fees to a successful petitioner in certain circumstances. For FOIL proceedings, attorneys' fees must be awarded when an agency fails to respond to a request within the statutory time, or when the court determines the agency had no reasonable basis for denying access to records. The bill defines "reasonable basis" for denial as either relying on a published appellate court opinion with substantially similar facts or a published opinion from the committee on open government. For open meetings proceedings, the bill similarly mandates that courts award costs and reasonable attorneys' fees to the successful petitioner against the public body, removing previous language that gave courts discretion in such awards. These changes are intended to provide stronger legal recourse and financial support for individuals seeking government transparency and accountability.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the award of reasonable attorneys' fees in certain proceedings
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Phil Steck (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D), Bill Magnarelli (D), Anna Kelles (D), Tony Simone (D), Harvey Epstein (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A02336 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires certain meetings between the governor, the temporary president of the senate and the speaker of the assembly relating to the state budget to be open to the general public; to provide an opportunity for the public to attend, listen to, and observe such meetings; and to broadcast and maintain records of such meetings on each party's website.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires meetings between the governor, the temporary president of the senate, and the speaker of the assembly that discuss the state budget to be open to the general public. Specifically, the bill mandates that these budget-related meetings must allow public attendance, with opportunities for people to listen and observe in at least one physical location where a meeting participant is present. The meetings would be allowed to be photographed, broadcast, webcast, or recorded through audio or video means. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that these meetings should be broadcast in real-time and maintained as records on the websites of the governor, senate, and assembly, with recordings remaining accessible for a reasonable period after the meeting. The purpose of this legislation is to increase transparency in the state budget negotiation process by providing the public with direct access to and insight into how key budget decisions are made. The bill would amend the public officers law by adding a new section (103-b) to ensure these transparency requirements are legally mandated, and it is set to take effect immediately upon passage.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring public access to state budget discussions
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 10 : Steve Hawley (R)*, Joe Angelino (R)*, Keith Brown (R), Joe DeStefano (R), Jeff Gallahan (R), Jodi Giglio (R), John Lemondes (R), Brian Manktelow (R), Chris Tague (R), Matt Slater (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01074 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires public disclosure of certain state agency materials, and authorizes the office for technology to publish a technical standards manual for the publishing of records on the internet by state agencies.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Open New York Act," establishes a comprehensive framework for public disclosure of state agency records on the internet. The legislation requires state agencies to categorize their records into four classifications: immediate (records that can be quickly published online), priority (records requiring more time to prepare), legacy (complex records needing significant preparation), and exempt (records not required to be disclosed). Each agency must submit a compliance plan by January 2027, detailing how they will make their records publicly accessible through a single web portal. The bill mandates that records must be available in machine-readable, unprocessed electronic format, without registration requirements or fees, and provides a phased implementation schedule with deadlines ranging from 2027 to 2029. The Office of Information Technology Services is tasked with developing a technical standards manual for internet publishing, consulting with voluntary consensus standards bodies to ensure best practices. Additionally, the bill defines technical terms like "consensus" and "voluntary consensus standards" and prohibits charging fees for physical copies of records that are not made available online within the specified timeframes. The ultimate goal is to increase government transparency by making state agency records more accessible to the public.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring public disclosure of certain state agency materials; and to amend the state technology law, in relation to authorizing the office of information technology services to publish a technical standards manual for the publishing of records on the internet by state agencies
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jose Serrano (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A02329 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Expands use of videoconferencing to purely advisory bodies.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to allow purely advisory committees and subcommittees more flexibility in conducting meetings through videoconferencing. Specifically, the bill permits members of advisory bodies to attend meetings remotely via videoconference and be counted toward meeting quorum requirements. However, the bill mandates that the public must still have an opportunity to attend and observe the meeting in at least one physical location that meets all existing physical access requirements. This change provides greater convenience for committee members while maintaining transparency by ensuring public access. The amendment applies only to advisory bodies, meaning those committees and subcommittees that do not have decision-making authority, and gives these bodies discretion in choosing whether to utilize videoconferencing. The bill takes effect immediately and does not permanently alter the underlying structure of the public officers law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to expanding use of videoconferencing to purely advisory bodies
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : John McDonald (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01206 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Ensures privacy protections for all emergency personnel present at a crime scene including ambulance services or advanced life support first response services, certified first responders, firefighters, emergency medical technicians or advanced emergency medical technicians, who are employed by or enrolled members of any such service.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the criminal procedure law to extend privacy protections to emergency personnel present at crime scenes, including ambulance services, advanced life support first responders, certified first responders, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and advanced emergency medical technicians. Specifically, the bill modifies two sections of the law to ensure that the names and contact information of these emergency service professionals are treated similarly to law enforcement personnel during criminal discovery proceedings. Under the new provisions, prosecutors will not be required to disclose the full contact details of these emergency personnel, and courts can consider the potential risks to these professionals (such as safety concerns, intimidation, or harassment) when determining whether to require further disclosure of their identifying information. The bill aims to protect the privacy and safety of emergency service workers who may be involved in crime scene responses, recognizing their critical role in public safety while maintaining the defendant's right to receive relevant information for their legal defense. The legislation will take effect 90 days after becoming law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the criminal procedure law, in relation to ensuring privacy protections for all emergency personnel present at a crime scene
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 9 : Jim Tedisco (R)*, George Borrello (R), Patrick Gallivan (R), Joe Griffo (R), Pam Helming (R), Mario Mattera (R), Tom O'Mara (R), Rob Ortt (R), Dan Stec (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A05739 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Establishes the "secure our data act"; relates to cybersecurity protection by state entities; requires the office of information technology services to develop standards for data protection of state entity-maintained information.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the "Secure Our Data Act" to enhance cybersecurity protection for state entities in New York by requiring comprehensive data protection standards and practices. The legislation mandates that the Office of Information Technology Services develop and implement rigorous cybersecurity measures, including creating detailed regulations for protecting mission-critical information systems within one year of the act's effective date. Key provisions include requiring state entities to perform monthly vulnerability assessments of their critical systems, develop immutable and segmented data backup strategies, create comprehensive inventories of personal information and information systems, and establish incident response plans. The bill defines several technical terms like "breach of the security of the system" and "immutable" and requires annual workforce training on cybersecurity protection. State entities must conduct vulnerability testing, with a complete assessment of entire information systems mandated by December 2026, and must create incident response plans detailing how to manage and recover from security breaches. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that it does not create a private right of action, meaning individuals cannot sue state entities directly under this law. The overall goal is to protect personal information stored by state entities from unauthorized access, modification, or potential cyber threats.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the state technology law, in relation to establishing the "secure our data act"
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Michaelle Solages (D)*, Rebecca Seawright (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/20/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01259 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to permitting witness testimony before legislative committees via videoconferencing upon a request for reasonable accommodation by a witness and the demonstration by the witness of an inability to testify in-person.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing laws to allow witnesses to provide testimony before legislative committees via videoconferencing under specific circumstances. The bill establishes that when a witness requests a reasonable accommodation, a legislative committee may permit videoconference testimony if the witness demonstrates an inability to appear in person due to factors such as disability, travel costs, severe weather conditions, or other justifiable reasons deemed acceptable by the committee. Additionally, the bill updates public officers law to explicitly state that witness testimony in legislative committee meetings can be conducted through videoconference. The changes aim to increase accessibility and flexibility for witnesses who may find it challenging to physically attend committee hearings, ensuring that important testimony can still be heard while providing reasonable accommodations. The modifications apply to committees in either house of the state legislature or joint committees, and the act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the legislative law and the public officers law, in relation to witness testimony before legislative committees via videoconferencing
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rachel May (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S03044 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Enacts the New York privacy act to require companies to disclose their methods of de-identifying personal information, to place special safeguards around data sharing and to allow consumers to obtain the names of all entities with whom their information is shared.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the New York Privacy Act, which aims to give consumers more control over their personal data and impose significant responsibilities on companies that collect, process, or sell such data. The bill requires companies doing business in New York to provide clear, easily understandable notices about their data practices, obtain explicit consent before processing sensitive data, and allow consumers to access, correct, delete, and transfer their personal information. Companies must limit data collection and retention, implement robust data security measures, and are prohibited from discriminating against consumers who exercise their privacy rights. The bill applies to businesses with annual revenues over $25 million, those processing data of 50,000 or more consumers, or those deriving over 50% of their revenue from selling personal data. Data brokers must register with the Attorney General, and the law empowers the Attorney General to enforce these provisions through civil penalties of up to $20,000 per violation. Notably, the bill includes comprehensive definitions of personal data, sensitive data, and various data processing activities, and provides detailed requirements for obtaining consent, with special protections for sensitive information like racial, health, or location data.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to the management and oversight of personal data
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Kristen Gonzalez (D)*, James Sanders (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A05527 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires agencies and public employers to provide notice and a review period to employees whose personnel records have been provided pursuant to the state's freedom of information law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the public officers law to require government agencies and public employers to provide written notification to employees when a request for their personnel records has been approved under the state's freedom of information law. Specifically, the notification must list all documents requested, provided, or copied for public dissemination. Additionally, the bill mandates that upon receiving official notification, employees must be given the opportunity to inspect their personnel file or any documents referencing them that are part of the information request. Importantly, this new requirement does not limit an employee's existing rights to inspect their personnel file through other means, such as collective bargaining agreements or other existing laws. The bill aims to increase transparency and provide employees with more control and awareness about the disclosure of their personnel records, ensuring they are informed when their professional documents are being shared in response to public information requests. The legislation will take effect 30 days after it becomes law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requests for employee personnel records
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• Introduced: 02/14/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Stacey Pheffer Amato (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/14/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S03421 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires certain meetings between the governor, the temporary president of the senate and the speaker of the assembly relating to the state budget to be open to the general public; to provide an opportunity for the public to attend, listen to, and observe such meetings; and to broadcast and maintain records of such meetings on each party's website.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires meetings between the governor, the temporary president of the senate, and the speaker of the assembly that discuss the state budget to be open to the general public. Specifically, the bill mandates that these budget discussions must allow public attendance, with at least one physical location where the public can observe the meeting. The meetings must be open to being photographed, broadcast, webcast, or recorded through audio or video means. The bill further requires that these meetings be broadcast in real-time and streamed on the websites of the governor, senate, and assembly, with recordings maintained and posted online both during and for a reasonable time after the meeting. This legislation aims to increase transparency in the state budget negotiation process by providing the public with direct access to and insight into how key state budget decisions are made. The bill would amend the public officers law by adding a new section (103-b) to ensure these transparency requirements are implemented, and it is set to take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring public access to state budget discussions
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• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : George Borrello (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/27/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S01666 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides for accessing records under the freedom of information law including notification procedures and the release of names of natural persons and residential addresses.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to modify procedures related to Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests. The bill clarifies regulations around releasing lists of names and addresses, specifying that such lists must be connected to natural persons and residential addresses. It requires agencies to respond to record requests within five business days by either making the record available, denying the request in writing, or providing a written acknowledgement with an estimated response date. The bill prevents agencies from denying requests solely due to staffing limitations or administrative burden, and allows agencies to use outside professional services to fulfill requests if necessary. Agencies can require requestors to certify they will not use name and address lists for solicitation or fundraising purposes. The bill also mandates that when agencies cannot respond within twenty business days, they must provide a written explanation and a specific date for their eventual determination. Additionally, the legislation requires agencies with websites to provide online methods for submitting record requests and emphasizes that agencies should use electronic retrieval methods when feasible, without considering such retrieval as "creating" a new record. The changes aim to make government records more accessible and streamline the FOIL request process.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to accessing records under the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Pete Harckham (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/13/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S03725 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires agency payroll records be made available.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to require government agencies to not only maintain payroll records but also make those records available to the public. Specifically, the bill modifies existing language by adding the phrase "Notwithstanding any other provision in this article" and inserting the requirement that agencies "make available" their payroll records, in addition to maintaining them. This change appears designed to increase transparency in government by ensuring that payroll information is accessible, though the bill does not specify the exact mechanism for making these records available. The bill will take effect 60 days after becoming law, which is a standard implementation timeline that allows agencies time to prepare for the new requirement. By requiring agencies to proactively make payroll records accessible, the bill aims to provide greater public insight into how government funds are being used for employee compensation.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to making agency payroll records available
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Andrew Lanza (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S02222 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to the retention of state records; repeals provisions relating to rules and regulations governing access to state legislative records; repeals provisions relating to executive records; repeals provisions relating to information confidentially disclosed by applicants.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill addresses electronic records retention and government transparency by establishing new standards for preserving state electronic records, particularly emails from policymakers. The legislation requires state agencies and the legislature to maintain electronic records for specified periods, with policy makers' emails to be permanently preserved and transferred to the State Archives between 15 and 25 years after creation, while other officials' emails must be retained for at least seven years. The bill removes the legislature's previous exemption from the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL), subjecting legislative records to the same disclosure requirements as executive branch and municipal agencies. It also mandates that the State Archives develop a protocol for electronic record preservation, including processes for categorizing emails and identifying historically important records. Additionally, the bill allows aggrieved persons to enforce these provisions through legal action and provides for potential court-mandated training and attorney's fees if agencies fail to comply. The underlying intent is to promote government accountability by ensuring that electronic communications are preserved and potentially accessible, preventing the automatic deletion of potentially important government records and increasing transparency across state government branches.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, the arts and cultural affairs law, the executive law and the legislative law, in relation to the retention of state electronic records; to repeal subdivision 1 of section 88 of the public officers law, relating to rules and regulations governing access to state legislative records; to repeal section 5 of the executive law, relating to executive records; and to repeal section 70-0113 of the environmental conservation law, relating to information confidentially disclosed by applicants
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : Liz Krueger (D)*, Leroy Comrie (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), John Liu (D), Kevin Parker (D), Jessica Ramos (D), James Sanders (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00549 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to publishing records of public interest by agencies and the legislature on their websites.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to encourage government agencies and state legislature houses to proactively publish records of public interest on their websites when technologically feasible. The legislation recognizes that technological advances have made it easier to disseminate public information and seeks to enhance government transparency by requiring agencies to identify and publish records that are of substantial public interest and already available under existing freedom of information laws. The bill includes important safeguards, such as preventing the publication of records that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy and allowing agencies to remove records when they are no longer of substantial interest or have reached their legal retention period. The Committee on Open Government will be responsible for creating regulations to implement this new requirement, and agencies retain the discretion to publish records proactively even before receiving a formal request. The legislation aims to make government more accessible and responsive to the public by leveraging digital technology to share information more widely and efficiently. The act will take effect 90 days after becoming law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to publishing records of public interest by agencies and the state legislature
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Amy Paulin (D)*, John McDonald (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S02407 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to the public release of grand jury documents; releases the district attorney's grand jury charges to the public upon request once the grand jury has reached a final decision.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Criminal Procedure Law to require courts to release the district attorney's grand jury charges and legal instructions to the public upon request, but only after the grand jury has completed its final action on a case. The bill includes an important protection mechanism: while the charges and instructions will be made publicly available, the names of witnesses and any information that could potentially identify witnesses must be redacted if the court determines, through a written order, that releasing such information could reasonably endanger an individual. Currently, grand jury documents are typically kept confidential, so this bill represents a significant shift towards greater transparency in the judicial process by allowing public access to the legal framework and guidance used during grand jury proceedings, while still maintaining safeguards to protect witness safety. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the criminal procedure law, in relation to public release of grand jury documents
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Luis Sepúlveda (D)*, Leroy Comrie (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S04637 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to the disclosure of law enforcement personnel records; provides that law enforcement personnel records shall be considered confidential and not subject to inspection or review without the express written consent of such law enforcement officers except as mandated by lawful court order.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Civil Rights Law to establish strict confidentiality protections for personnel records of law enforcement and emergency service personnel, including police officers, firefighters, correction officers, and certain peace officers. Under the new law, these personnel records will be considered confidential and cannot be inspected or reviewed without the express written consent of the individual officer, except when mandated by a court order. The bill creates a detailed judicial review process for such court orders, requiring judges to carefully evaluate requests, provide opportunities for interested parties to be heard, and only release records after determining they are relevant and material to a specific legal action. The legislation specifically exempts certain government officials and agencies, such as district attorneys, attorneys general, and other legal representatives, from these restrictions when accessing records for official functions. Additionally, the bill repeals several existing subdivisions in the Public Officers Law related to record disclosure, effectively strengthening the confidentiality protections for law enforcement personnel records. The act is designed to protect the privacy of law enforcement and emergency service workers while still allowing for judicial review in appropriate circumstances.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil rights law, in relation to the disclosure of law enforcement personnel records; and to repeal certain provisions of the public officers law relating thereto
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Alexis Weik (R)*, Tony Palumbo (R), Steve Rhoads (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/10/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A02105 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides for the confidentiality of applications for licenses for the possession of firearms.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill provides for the confidentiality of firearms license applications by amending the New York State Penal Law to ensure that applications for firearms licenses and their supporting records will no longer be considered public records and will not be subject to disclosure under the state's public officers law. The bill eliminates previous provisions that allowed for potential public disclosure of applicant information and removes complex mechanisms that previously allowed individuals to request exceptions to public disclosure. Now, the application details, including personal information like name, address, and other identifying details, will be kept confidential by default. The licensing officer must file the application with the county clerk or designated police department division, and a duplicate copy must still be sent to the state police division within ten days of license issuance. The bill allows the state police superintendent to request certain limited information from license holders if records are incomplete, such as name, date of birth, gender, race, residential address, social security number, and firearms possessed. Records can only be released through a court order, and the bill aims to protect the privacy of firearms license applicants while maintaining necessary record-keeping for law enforcement purposes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the penal law, in relation to the filing of approved applications for licenses to carry, possess, repair and dispose of firearms
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dave DiPietro (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/15/2025
• Last Action: referred to codes
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A05827 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Establishes consumers' foundational data privacy rights; creates oversight mechanisms; establishes enforcement mechanisms; establishes the privacy and security victims relief fund.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive data privacy and protection regulations in New York, creating a robust framework for consumer data rights and corporate accountability. The American Data Privacy and Protection Act introduces sweeping provisions that cover how businesses collect, process, and transfer personal data, with several key elements: First, it requires covered entities to minimize data collection, only gathering information that is necessary and proportionate to specific purposes. Second, it establishes strong consent mechanisms, mandating that companies obtain clear, explicit permission from individuals before collecting or transferring their sensitive data. Third, the bill creates significant protections for children and minors, prohibiting targeted advertising to individuals under 17 and restricting data transfers involving minors. Fourth, it requires large data holders to conduct privacy impact assessments and implement robust data security practices. Fifth, the legislation establishes enforcement mechanisms through the Division of Consumer Protection and the Attorney General's office, with provisions for both government enforcement and individual civil actions. The bill also creates a Privacy and Security Victims Relief Fund to provide compensation and support for individuals affected by data privacy violations. Notably, the law applies to a wide range of entities, including businesses, service providers, and third-party data collectors, with some exemptions for small businesses and certain types of organizations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to establishing consumers' foundational data privacy rights, creating oversight mechanisms, and establishing enforcement mechanisms; and to amend the state finance law, in relation to establishing the privacy and security victims relief fund
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Michaelle Solages (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/20/2025
• Last Action: referred to science and technology
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S02683 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Creates the federal contract workers assistance program to permit the state to provide loans to certain small businesses affected by the federal government shutdown.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new Federal Contract Workers Assistance Program in New York State to help small businesses financially impacted by federal government shutdowns. Under the program, eligible small businesses with current federal government contracts can apply for loans to cover payroll expenses. To qualify, businesses must demonstrate they have been negatively affected financially by a federal government shutdown. Applicants must submit a detailed application, provide documentation proving eligibility, and agree to allow information sharing between state departments like taxation and labor. The loans must be repaid within 12 calendar months and can only be used for payroll purposes. The loan amount will be determined by the commissioner but cannot exceed the funds appropriated for the program. The bill requires the commissioner to establish rules and regulations for implementing the program, and businesses must certify compliance with environmental, worker protection, and tax laws. The program aims to provide financial relief and support to small businesses during federal government shutdowns, helping them maintain their workforce during periods of economic disruption.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the economic development law, in relation to creating the federal contract workers assistance program
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Leroy Comrie (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/22/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO COMMERCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND SMALL BUSINESS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01860 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits agencies from charging for the process of a FOIL request made by state and local agencies or the state legislature.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to prohibit state and local government agencies from charging fees to other state and local agencies or the state legislature when processing a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) request. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision that prevents agencies, including those in state government and cities with populations over one million, from charging processing fees for FOIL requests made by other government entities in the course of their official duties. The bill clarifies that this new prohibition does not create any additional fee authorization beyond what was already in place before the law's enactment. The provision is designed to streamline information sharing between government agencies by removing financial barriers to FOIL request processing, potentially making government operations more efficient and transparent. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to prohibiting certain agencies from charging for the process of a FOIL request made by state and local agencies or the state legislature
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : Linda Rosenthal (D)*, Jeffrey Dinowitz (D)*, Crystal Peoples-Stokes (D)*, Amy Paulin (D), Steve Otis (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S03065 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires district leadership teams to operate under open meetings law requirements.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires district leadership teams in New York City to operate under the open meetings law, which is outlined in Article 7 of the Public Officers Law. Specifically, the bill adds a new chapter to Title 21-A of the city's administrative code mandating that all district leadership teams must conduct their meetings in accordance with the open meetings law. This means these teams will be required to provide public notice of their meetings, keep minutes, and generally conduct their business in a transparent manner that allows public access and observation. The law will take effect 90 days after it is signed, with provisions allowing for preparatory rule-making to be completed before the effective date. The bill aims to increase transparency and public accountability for district leadership teams by ensuring their meetings are open and accessible to the public.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to establishing certain requirements for district leadership teams
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : James Sanders (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Cordell Cleare (D), Leroy Comrie (D), Robert Jackson (D), Jessica Ramos (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CITIES 1
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01539 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to information available pertaining to rental histories of rent stabilized units through FOIL applications by the NYS division of housing and community renewal.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the administrative code of New York City to enhance transparency and oversight of rent-stabilized housing by making three key changes: First, it requires the State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) to provide complete rental histories of rent-stabilized units to local, county, or state elected officials who request such information through a Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) application, with the caveat that personal information must be redacted and the records can only be used for the stated purpose in the application. Second, the bill mandates that DHCR maintain rent histories for a minimum of ten years, ensuring a longer-term record of rental information. Third, the bill empowers DHCR to re-regulate housing accommodations that have been illegally deregulated through processes such as illegal construction, illegal conversion, using the property as a transient hotel, removing units from rent rolls, or warehousing. The bill takes effect immediately but includes a provision that the amendments will expire on the same date as the existing law. These changes aim to provide more accountability in the rent-stabilized housing market and prevent improper unit deregulation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to available information pertaining to rental histories of rent-stabilized units
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• Introduced: 01/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Linda Rosenthal (D)*, Tony Simone (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/10/2025
• Last Action: referred to housing
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S03679 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires the New York state thruway authority to provide notice, a description of meeting details and a sign up list prior to meetings of the board.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the New York State Thruway Authority to improve transparency and public access to its board meetings by mandating specific pre-meeting communication procedures. The bill stipulates that at least two weeks before a board meeting, the authority must provide public notice including the date, time, and location of the meeting. Additionally, at least one week prior to the meeting, the authority must publish a detailed description of all items to be discussed and create a sign-up list that allows interested parties to register for public comment. These notices and materials must be prominently displayed and published on the authority's website, thereby increasing public awareness and potential participation in the board's decision-making process. The new requirements aim to enhance governmental transparency by giving the public more advanced information about and opportunities to engage with the Thruway Authority's meetings. The bill will take effect 30 days after it becomes law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public authorities law, in relation to requiring the New York state thruway authority to provide notice, a description of meeting details and a sign up list prior to meetings of the board
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Leroy Comrie (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO TRANSPORTATION
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01294 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits the disclosure of highway, bridge, tunnel and other thoroughfare toll and transit records, with exceptions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive privacy protections for electronic toll and fare records collected by public entities, such as E-Z Pass and Metrocard systems. The legislation defines electronic toll and fare information as detailed records about an account holder's transportation transactions, including personal details, vehicle information, travel locations, dates, and times. Under the bill, these records are considered confidential and generally cannot be disclosed to the public, used in legal proceedings, or obtained through freedom of information requests. However, the bill allows limited exceptions for specific scenarios, including: providing information to the account holder, obtaining a valid search warrant for criminal investigations, responding to subpoenas related to law enforcement, using records in civil proceedings involving toll or fare revenue collection, communicating with account holders, and administrative purposes. The bill also requires public entities to provide clear notice to account holders about these privacy protections and imposes a potential civil penalty of up to $5,000 for unauthorized disclosure of such information. While protecting individual privacy, the legislation still permits the use of aggregated, anonymized data that does not identify specific account holders.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil rights law, in relation to privacy of electronic fare and toll records
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Linda Rosenthal (D)*, Steve Otis (D), Jo Anne Simon (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S03889 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to the publication of information on public meetings; requires the office of information technology services to develop a mobile application and website to publish information on every public meeting held by a state or local public body; requires public bodies to report such meetings to the office of information technology services.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the New York Office of Information Technology Services to develop a mobile application and website that will comprehensively publish information about public meetings held by state and local government bodies. The app and website must include specific details for each public meeting, such as the date, time, location (including videoconferencing links), and summaries of the meeting's purpose. Public bodies will be mandated to electronically transmit meeting notices to the Office of Information Technology Services within existing public notice timeframes, ensuring that these details are published on the new mobile application and website. The goal of this legislation is to increase transparency and improve public access to information about government meetings by creating a centralized, user-friendly platform for tracking and viewing public meeting details. The bill will go into effect 180 days after becoming law, allowing time for the technological infrastructure to be developed and implemented.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the state technology law and the public officers law, in relation to the publication of information on public meetings
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• Introduced: 01/30/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Kristen Gonzalez (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/30/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01288 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires governmental and certain nongovernmental entities to publish public records proactively on the internet that are of public interest.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires governmental and certain nongovernmental entities to proactively publish public records on the internet that are of public interest. The legislation amends the New York Public Officers Law to expand transparency requirements, with key provisions including: mandating that state agencies maintain websites with easily accessible information about records requests, establishing a more diverse and transparent process for appointing members to the Committee on Open Government, creating new procedures for responding to records requests, and introducing an appeals process for denied requests. The bill broadens the definition of what constitutes a "public agency" and requires agencies to make publishable state data available online, post their current fiscal year budget on their homepage, and respond to records requests more comprehensively. Additionally, the legislation establishes an informal mediation program, requires agencies to provide more detailed explanations when denying records requests, and creates a presumption that requestors are entitled to records unless there is a clear legal reason for withholding them. The bill aims to increase government transparency by leveraging technology to make public information more accessible and by creating more robust mechanisms for citizens to obtain government records.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to making certain public records available on the internet
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Clyde Vanel (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S04632 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides that any entity subject to the provisions of article six of the public officers law which does not grant or deny a request for a record within twenty-five days of such request shall be deemed to have denied the request for such record; makes related provisions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Public Officers Law to strengthen transparency and responsiveness in Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests. Specifically, the bill changes the timeframe for government entities to respond to records requests, establishing that if an entity does not grant or deny a request within 25 days, they will be considered to have denied the request. Additionally, if an entity grants a request within 25 days but fails to provide the actual records within 40 days, they will also be deemed to have denied the request. The bill allows requestors to appeal such denials to the head of the agency within 30 days, and the agency must then fully explain the reasons for denial or provide access to the record within 10 business days. The legislation aims to create more accountability and reduce potential delays in responding to public records requests by setting clear timelines and consequences for government entities. The changes are designed to make government more transparent and ensure that citizens can more effectively access public information.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to clarifying the amount of time an agency has to respond to a request under the freedom of information law
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Alexis Weik (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/10/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00524 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Provides that FOIL appeals are to be heard by the committee on open government.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the New York Public Officers Law to change how Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) appeals are processed. Currently, when a person is denied access to a government record, they can appeal to the head of the agency that denied the request. The bill would instead require these appeals to be heard by the Committee on Open Government, a state agency that provides guidance on public access to government records. The bill changes multiple sections of the law to reflect this shift, including provisions about how appeals are filed, how agencies respond to appeals, and the subsequent legal procedures if an appeal is denied. Specifically, the bill removes language about appeals being sent to agency heads and replaces it with references to the Committee on Open Government handling these appeals. This change aims to potentially create a more standardized and neutral process for reviewing FOIL requests, as the Committee on Open Government is an independent body focused on transparency and public access to government information. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the hearing of FOIL appeals by the committee on open government
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Steck (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S04726 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires agencies and public employers to provide notice and a review period to employees whose personnel records have been provided pursuant to the state's freedom of information law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to require government agencies and public employers to provide more transparency and employee protections when personnel records are requested under the state's freedom of information law. Specifically, agencies must now send written notification to an employee when a request for their personnel records has been approved, detailing exactly which documents have been requested, provided, or are set to be made public. Additionally, upon receiving this official notification, the employee must be given the opportunity to inspect their own personnel file or any documents referencing them that are part of the information request. The bill ensures that this new notification requirement does not limit existing rights employees may have to inspect their personnel files through collective bargaining agreements or other legal provisions. The changes will take effect 30 days after the bill becomes law, providing a clear process to protect employee privacy and ensure they are informed when their personnel records are being shared.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requests for employee personnel records
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• Introduced: 02/12/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Robert Jackson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/12/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00522 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relates to the availability of agency records prior to or at an open meeting; removes the "to the extent practicable at least twenty-four hours" limitation from the requirement that agencies and departments shall make records available.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to modify requirements for making agency records available to the public before open meetings. Specifically, the bill removes the existing language that allowed agencies to make records available "to the extent practicable at least twenty-four hours" prior to a meeting, which effectively weakened the requirement. Under the new provision, agencies will be required to make records such as proposed resolutions, laws, rules, regulations, policies, and their amendments available upon request before the meeting where they will be discussed. If an agency has a regularly updated website with a high-speed internet connection, these records should be posted online. The bill maintains existing provisions that allow agencies to charge a reasonable fee for copies of records, consistent with existing freedom of information guidelines. While agencies are encouraged to post these documents, they are not required to spend additional money to implement this requirement. The amendment aims to increase government transparency by ensuring that the public has more direct and timely access to documents that will be discussed in open meetings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the availability of agency records prior to or at an open meeting
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 01/07/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Amy Paulin (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00534 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits public bodies from conducting an executive session where the subject to be considered relates to the appointment of an elected member or officer to fill a vacancy in an elected office of such public body, including interviews of prospective appointees and related discussions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to prohibit public bodies from conducting executive sessions (closed-door meetings) when discussing the appointment of an elected member or officer to fill a vacancy in that public body. Specifically, the bill requires that all aspects of the vacancy appointment process, including interviews of prospective candidates and related discussions, must be conducted in a public meeting that is open to the general public. This means that when a public body needs to fill a vacancy caused by death, resignation, removal from office, or refusal to serve, they cannot retreat to a private executive session to conduct these proceedings. The purpose of the bill appears to be increasing transparency in local government by ensuring that the selection process for filling elected positions is conducted in full view of the public. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to prohibiting executive sessions for the appointment of elected office
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Amy Paulin (D)*, Tony Simone (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A04170 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires the New York state thruway authority to provide notice, a description of meeting details and a sign up list prior to meetings of the board.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the New York State Thruway Authority to improve transparency and public engagement for its board meetings by mandating specific notice and communication requirements. Under the proposed legislation, the board must provide public notice at least two weeks before a meeting, including the date, time, and location. Additionally, at least one week prior to the meeting, the authority must publish a detailed description of the meeting's agenda and items to be discussed. The bill also requires the authority to create a sign-up list that allows interested parties to register for public comment at the meeting. All of these materials—the notice, meeting details, and sign-up list—must be prominently displayed and published on the authority's official website. The goal of these provisions is to increase public awareness and participation in the Thruway Authority's decision-making process by providing more advance information and opportunities for public input. The bill will take effect 30 days after it becomes law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public authorities law, in relation to requiring the New York state thruway authority to provide notice, a description of meeting details and a sign up list prior to meetings of the board
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• Introduced: 01/31/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Alicia Hyndman (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/31/2025
• Last Action: referred to corporations, authorities and commissions
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S05156 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Establishes the "It's Your Data Act" for the purposes of providing protections and transparency in the collection, use, retention, and sharing of personal information.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the "It's Your Data Act," a comprehensive privacy protection law for New York state residents that significantly expands data privacy rights and regulations for businesses. The bill provides consumers with extensive protections regarding the collection, use, retention, and sharing of their personal information, including requiring businesses to obtain explicit opt-in consent before collecting or sharing personal data. Key provisions include giving consumers the right to access, delete, and request information about their personal data, mandating businesses implement reasonable security procedures, and prohibiting businesses from discriminating against consumers who exercise their privacy rights. Businesses that collect personal information from New York residents must provide transparent disclosures about their data practices, limit data collection to what is necessary, and allow consumers to opt out of data sales. The law applies to businesses meeting certain revenue or data collection thresholds and includes substantial enforcement mechanisms, such as allowing consumers to bring private lawsuits with potential damages up to $750 per violation and empowering the Attorney General to pursue civil penalties. The bill aims to give consumers more control over their personal information and hold businesses accountable for responsible data management, with provisions designed to protect individual privacy rights in an increasingly digital world.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil rights law and the general business law, in relation to establishing the "It's Your Data Act"
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Leroy Comrie (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/19/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01256 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Enacts the "access for all act" removing the requirement for in person attendance at public meetings by community boards in a city with a population of over one million.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Access for All Act" (AFA), modifies existing public meeting requirements for community boards in cities with populations over one million, primarily New York City. Specifically, the bill removes the mandate for in-person meeting attendance, allowing community boards to conduct meetings entirely through videoconferencing while still maintaining quorum requirements. Community boards will no longer be required to maintain a physical meeting location and can establish written procedures for member and public attendance through virtual platforms. This change provides greater flexibility for community board meetings, potentially improving accessibility and convenience for board members and the public, especially in large urban areas with complex scheduling and transportation challenges. The bill takes effect immediately, with a provision that ensures the amendment will be considered repealed in conjunction with any future repeal of the underlying section of public officers law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to removing the requirement for in person attendance at public meetings by certain community boards
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Alex Bores (D)*, Eddie Gibbs (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00292 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Allows access to sealed records and certain confidential records by the New York city civilian complaint review board in furtherance of the board's duties and functions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York City Charter to grant the New York City Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) expanded access to sealed and confidential records from public agencies in order to carry out its duties. Specifically, the bill allows the CCRB to receive sealed records from state or local public agencies, with strict confidentiality provisions. Access to these records will be limited to board members and employees directly involved in a specific matter, and the records can only be shared for purposes such as prosecution, investigation, or disciplinary proceedings. The bill requires the board to establish detailed protocols for handling these sensitive records, including marking them as sealed and confidential, and mandates that when the records are no longer needed, they must be destroyed or returned to the originating agency. Additionally, the bill provides special provisions for records related to confidential matters under civil rights law, ensuring that victims or their legal guardians are notified when such records are received, destroyed, or returned. The overall aim is to enhance the CCRB's ability to conduct thorough investigations while maintaining the highest standards of privacy and confidentiality.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the New York city charter, in relation to allowing access to sealed records and certain confidential records by the New York city civilian complaint review board in furtherance of the board's duties and functions
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• Introduced: 12/31/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 9 : Catalina Cruz (D)*, Eddie Gibbs (D), Jessica González-Rojas (D), Latrice Walker (D), Maritza Davila (D), Tony Simone (D), Brian Cunningham (D), Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn (D), Grace Lee (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to cities
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00387 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires governmental and certain nongovernmental entities to publish public records proactively on the internet that are of public interest.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires governmental and certain nongovernmental entities to proactively publish public records on the internet that are of public interest. The legislation amends the existing Public Officers Law to enhance transparency by expanding the definition of what constitutes an "agency" and mandating that state agencies make their publishable data available online. Key provisions include requiring every state agency to maintain a website with contact information for record requests, publish their current fiscal year budget, and make publishable state data available either on their own website or through the state's open data website. The bill also strengthens the Committee on Open Government by expanding its membership, requiring monthly meetings, and establishing an appeals process for record request disputes. The committee is now empowered to assign appeals officers, conduct informal mediations, and issue binding decisions on record access challenges. Additionally, the bill creates new guidelines for responding to record requests, including stricter timelines for acknowledgment and response, and allows for potential attorney's fees to be assessed against agencies that improperly deny access to records. The overall goal is to increase government transparency and public access to information by leveraging technological advances and establishing clearer procedures for record requests.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to making certain public records available on the internet
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/30/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : James Skoufis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S06768 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Enacts the "access for all act" removing the requirement for in person attendance at public meetings by community boards in a city with a population of over one million.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Access for All Act" (AFA), amends the public officers law to remove the requirement for in-person attendance at public meetings for community boards in cities with a population over one million, such as New York City. Specifically, the bill eliminates the need for community boards to maintain a physical meeting location and allows board members to be considered present for quorum purposes when participating through videoconferencing. The legislation provides flexibility for these community boards to establish written procedures for member and public attendance that are consistent with existing regulations. By doing so, the bill aims to modernize public meeting requirements, potentially making community board participation more accessible and convenient for members and constituents. The act will take effect immediately upon passage, with the amendments specifically applying to the targeted community boards in large cities.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to removing the requirement for in person attendance at public meetings by certain community boards
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 03/24/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/24/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A01120 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Allows a judicial district convention to be conducted in whole or in part via video conference upon a minimum of seventy-two hours notice to the members of the respective committee by mail, an appropriately titled email, text or telephone call at an address or number expressly provided in writing for the purpose of receiving such notices.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York election law to allow judicial district conventions to be conducted partially or entirely via video conference, with specific requirements for providing notice and conducting the meeting. The bill mandates that organizers must give at least 72 hours notice to committee members through mail, email, text, or telephone call, using contact information expressly provided in writing for such notifications. The notice must include instructions for accessing the video conference. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that when a convention is held remotely, the presiding officer must ensure that participants have a fair and appropriate opportunity to listen, hear, and be heard, which is comparable to the experience of an in-person meeting. This change provides flexibility for judicial district conventions by enabling remote participation while maintaining principles of accessibility and democratic engagement. The bill would take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the election law, in relation to allowing a judicial district convention to be conducted in whole or in part via video conference
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Amy Paulin (D)*, Jen Lunsford (D), Donna Lupardo (D), Jo Anne Simon (D), Dave McDonough (R), Maritza Davila (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: referred to election law
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S06852 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires each public body to live stream and post video recordings of all open meetings and public hearings; requires each public body to post such recordings for a period of not less than five years.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all public bodies (such as government agencies, boards, and committees) to live stream their open meetings and public hearings on their websites in real-time, to the extent it is practicable. Additionally, these public bodies must post video recordings of these meetings and hearings on their websites within five business days of the event and keep these recordings available for at least five years. The bill amends the public officers law to add these transparency requirements, which aim to increase public access to government proceedings. The new requirements would go into effect 120 days after the bill becomes law, giving public bodies time to implement the necessary technology and procedures to comply with the streaming and recording mandates.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring all public bodies to live stream open meetings and public hearings and make the recordings of such meetings and hearings available on the webpage of the public body
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• Introduced: 03/25/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Joe Addabbo (D)*, Stephen Chan (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/25/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00972 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Establishes the "protect our privacy (POP) act" to impose limitations on the use of drones for law enforcement purposes; prohibits the use of drones by law enforcement at concerts, protests, demonstrations, or other actions protected by the first amendment.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Protect Our Privacy (POP) Act," establishes comprehensive restrictions on law enforcement's use of drones, effectively prohibiting their deployment for most investigative and surveillance purposes. The legislation broadly defines drones and strictly limits their use, permitting drone usage only for specific purposes like search and rescue operations or examining dangerous areas after natural disasters. Critically, the bill explicitly bars law enforcement from using drones at First Amendment-protected events such as concerts, protests, and demonstrations, and completely prohibits the use of armed drones. The bill includes robust privacy protections, mandating that any data collected through drone use cannot be used for law enforcement purposes, must have personally identifying information redacted, and must be destroyed within one year unless part of an ongoing investigation. Additionally, the bill provides individuals with a private right of action, allowing them to sue government entities for violations, with potential damages of $1,000 per violation or actual damages, whichever is greater. The legislation also includes provisions for suppressing evidence obtained through illegal drone use and requires courts to consider factors like the number of people affected and whether the violation targeted constitutionally protected activities when assessing potential punitive damages.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil rights law, in relation to imposing limitations on the use of drones for law enforcement purposes
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 8 : Ron Kim (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D), Al Taylor (D), Chantel Jackson (D), Karines Reyes (D), Steven Raga (D), Catalina Cruz (D), Diana Moreno (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S07311 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits public bodies from conducting an executive session where the subject to be considered relates to the appointment of an elected member or officer to fill a vacancy in an elected office of such public body, including interviews of prospective appointees and related discussions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the public officers law to prohibit public bodies from holding closed-door executive sessions when discussing the appointment of an elected member or officer to fill a vacancy in that public body. Specifically, the bill requires that all aspects of the appointment process—including candidate interviews, discussions, and deliberations—must be conducted in an open, public meeting. The vacancy could be caused by various circumstances such as death, resignation, removal from office, or refusal to serve. By mandating transparency in this appointment process, the bill aims to ensure that the selection of new elected officials happens in full view of the public, preventing potential behind-closed-doors negotiations or decisions that might not reflect the public's interests. The legislation would take effect immediately upon enactment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to prohibiting executive sessions for the appointment of elected office
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Shelley Mayer (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00508 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires the court of appeals to provide copies of appellate briefs to any person upon request.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York judiciary law by requiring the Court of Appeals (the state's highest court) to provide copies of appellate briefs to any person who submits a written request to the clerk of the chief judge. An important provision of the bill is that before releasing these documents, the court must first redact the name and personal identifying information of any victim in cases involving sexual assault offenses. This ensures that while the legal documents can be made publicly available, sensitive personal details of victims are protected. The bill represents an effort to increase transparency in the judicial process while simultaneously safeguarding the privacy of individuals who may have been survivors of sexual assault. The legislation would take effect immediately upon passage.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the judiciary law, in relation to production of appellate briefs
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• Introduced: 12/31/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Tony Palumbo (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO JUDICIARY
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S08524 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Enacts the New York privacy act to require companies to disclose their methods of de-identifying personal information, to place special safeguards around data sharing and to allow consumers to obtain the names of all entities with whom their information is shared.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the New York Data Protection Act, a comprehensive privacy law designed to give New York consumers more control over their personal data. The bill requires companies that meet certain revenue or data processing thresholds to provide clear notices about data collection, allow consumers to opt out of targeted advertising and data sales, and obtain explicit consent before processing sensitive data. Key consumer rights include the ability to access, correct, delete, and transfer personal data. Companies must implement reasonable data security measures, conduct regular data protection assessments, and limit data collection and retention. The bill mandates that companies develop contracts with processors and third parties that handle personal data, ensuring data protection and consumer privacy. Data brokers must register with the Attorney General and provide detailed information about their data collection practices. The Attorney General is empowered to enforce the law, with potential civil penalties of up to $20,000 per violation. The law preempts local privacy regulations and will take effect two years after becoming law, giving businesses time to adapt to the new requirements. The bill's goal is to provide transparency, increase consumer control, and protect personal data in an increasingly digital world.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general business law, in relation to the management and oversight of personal data
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• Introduced: 10/08/2025
• Added: 10/08/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Kristen Gonzalez (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 10/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INTERNET AND TECHNOLOGY
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00622 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Clarifies the application of the accountability standards, open meetings law and freedom of information requirements to local development corporations as defined in section two of the public authorities law.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies and expands the accountability, open meetings, and freedom of information requirements for local development corporations as defined in section two of the Public Authorities Law. Specifically, the bill amends multiple sections of New York state law to explicitly include local authorities in various reporting, transparency, and oversight provisions. Key changes include requiring local authorities to submit detailed annual reports to local government officials, which must include financial information, compensation details, project descriptions, property transactions, and internal control assessments. The bill also ensures that local authorities are subject to the same guidelines for property disposal as public authorities, including requirements for competitive bidding, appraisals, and explanatory statements for transactions. Additionally, the bill expands the jurisdiction of the state inspector general to include local authorities and modifies definitions of "agency" and "public body" to encompass local authorities in open meetings and freedom of information contexts. These amendments aim to increase transparency, accountability, and public oversight of local development corporations by standardizing their reporting and operational requirements.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public authorities law, the executive law and the public officers law, in relation to clarifying the application of the accountability standards, open meetings law and freedom of information requirements to local development corporations
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• Introduced: 01/03/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : John Liu (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CORPORATIONS, AUTHORITIES AND COMMISSIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03140 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Creates special proceedings for freedom of information law and open meetings law reviews; directs the chief administrator of the courts to establish a freedom of information law and open meetings law review program in the supreme court, whereby individuals may file a petition for review of a freedom of information law request or open meetings law claim.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new administrative review process for Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests and Open Meetings Law complaints in New York State. The chief administrator of the courts will establish a review program in the Supreme Court where individuals who have been denied information or believe a public body has violated open meetings regulations can file a petition for review. Before filing, petitioners must first exhaust administrative remedies, such as filing an administrative appeal or requesting an opinion from the New York Committee on Open Government. The review process involves an informal hearing conducted by a specially appointed hearing officer within 45 days of filing, with the option for virtual or in-person hearings. Petitioners do not need to be represented by an attorney and the hearing will follow a flexible, non-technical approach focused on substantial justice. The hearing officer will have the power to order corrections to agency decisions, potentially require the release of information, or review excessive fees. There is a $50 filing fee, and the hearing officer's decision cannot be used as a legal precedent. Petitioners can still seek judicial review through traditional court processes if unsatisfied with the hearing officer's decision. The program is designed to provide a more accessible and less formal mechanism for resolving FOIL and open meetings law disputes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to creating special proceedings for freedom of information law and open meetings law reviews
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Linda Rosenthal (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03642 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Prohibits the release of criminal history or any mental health history records by a police agency, prosecutorial agency or other law enforcement agency of individuals who were the subject of the use of force by a police or peace officer.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill prohibits police agencies, prosecutorial agencies, and other law enforcement agencies from publicly releasing or disseminating criminal history or mental health history records of individuals who have been subjected to the use of force by a police or peace officer. Specifically, the bill defines police officers according to section 1.20 of the criminal procedure law and peace officers according to section 2.10 of the criminal procedure law. The legislation aims to protect the privacy of individuals involved in incidents of police use of force by preventing the release of potentially stigmatizing personal information to news or media organizations. The bill would take effect 30 days after becoming law, and it represents a significant restriction on the public disclosure of personal records in the context of law enforcement interactions involving force.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the executive law, in relation to prohibiting the release of certain records of victims of police violence by a police agency, prosecutorial agency or other law enforcement agency
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 7 : Erik Dilan (D)*, Maritza Davila (D), Nader Sayegh (D), Catalina Cruz (D), Dana Levenberg (D), Karines Reyes (D), Charles Lavine (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S04568 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requires the disclosure of certain information when an agency responds to a request for law enforcement disciplinary records, including information a victim alleges regarding sexual misconduct.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to expand transparency and access to law enforcement disciplinary records by removing several previous barriers to disclosure. Specifically, agencies can no longer refuse to release disciplinary records based on claims of personal privacy invasion, even if the complaints have not been fully determined, did not result in disciplinary action, or resulted in a finding other than "substantiated" or "guilty". The bill also prohibits agencies from withholding records on grounds that they are for law enforcement purposes, are inter-agency materials, were designated as confidential by private agreements, or were created before the law's effective date. Additionally, the bill adds protections for victims of sexual misconduct by law enforcement, defining sexual misconduct broadly to include verbal and physical harassment, sexual intimidation, inappropriate use of personal information, sexually motivated police actions, and unwanted sexual contact. While protecting the identity of alleged victims, the bill ensures that substantive information about sexual misconduct allegations can be disclosed in disciplinary records, promoting greater accountability in law enforcement agencies.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the disclosure of law enforcement officer's disciplinary records
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Jamaal Bailey (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Leroy Comrie (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), Robert Jackson (D), Julia Salazar (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB233 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Requiring meetings of the New Hampshire vaccine association to be audio and video recorded and published on its website within 48 hours.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the New Hampshire Vaccine Association's board of directors to audio and video record all of its meetings and make these recordings available on the association's website within 48 hours of the meeting concluding, in addition to any existing requirements for public meetings under RSA 91-A, which is New Hampshire's Right-to-Know Law that ensures public access to government proceedings.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires meetings of the New Hampshire vaccine association to be audio and video recorded and published on its website within 48 hours.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Barbara Comtois (R)*, Judy Aron (R), Mike Belcher (R), David Love (R), Kristine Perez (R), Yury Polozov (R), Kelley Potenza (R), Jonah Wheeler (D), Robert Wherry (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 03/20/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote === BILL KILLED ===; 01/07/2026; Senate Journal 1
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB313 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Relative to non-public sessions at public meetings where discussion in public would likely affect a person's reputation.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends New Hampshire's Right-to-Know Law, specifically RSA 91-A:3, II(c), which governs when public bodies can hold non-public sessions. Currently, discussions that could harm someone's reputation can be held in private unless that person requests an open meeting. This bill changes that by stating that if a person has the right to attend a meeting where their reputation might be adversely affected by public discussion, they must be given the opportunity to request that the meeting remain open, and if they do, their request must be granted. This provides individuals with more control over discussions that could impact their personal standing within public meetings.
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Bill Summary: This bill allows a person who has the right to attend a public meeting to choose that the meeting remain open, even when discussion about the person in public would likely adversely affect the reputation of the person.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Joe Alexander (R)*, Ross Berry (R), David Love (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 01/07/2026 House Journal 1 P. 75
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB74 • Last Action 01/07/2026
Defining the term citizen for the purposes of the right to know law and including preliminary drafts circulated to a quorum of a majority of a public body as disclosable documents.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies the definition of "citizen" for the purposes of New Hampshire's Right to Know Law, which ensures public access to government proceedings and records. It explicitly states that organizations and individuals acting primarily as the press are considered citizens under this law, recognizing their role in informing the public. Additionally, the bill amends the law to include preliminary drafts of documents that have been circulated to a quorum, meaning a majority of the members of a public body, as disclosable records. This means that even if a document is not finalized, if a majority of a public body has seen it, it can be requested and reviewed by the public.
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Bill Summary: This bill defines the term citizen as a citizen of New Hampshire, includes the press in the definition of citizen, and provides for disclosure of preliminary drafts circulated to a quorum or majority of a public body.
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• Introduced: 12/23/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jess Edwards (R)*, Bob Lynn (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 12/23/2024
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 01/07/2026 House Journal 1 P. 74
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5444 • Last Action 12/31/2025
Medical marihuana: licenses; new licenses for provisioning centers; prohibit the cannabis regulatory agency from issuing unless certain conditions are met. Amends secs. 102, 302, 401 & 402 of 2016 PA 281 (MCL 333.27102 et seq.) & adds sec. 402b. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5443'25, HB 5441'25, HB 5442'25
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act to modify regulations for medical marijuana provisioning centers. Specifically, beginning January 1, 2026, the Cannabis Regulatory Agency will be prohibited from issuing a new provisioning center license in a municipality if doing so would result in more than one provisioning center per 5,000 residents. The bill includes several exceptions to this restriction, such as license renewals, transfers between existing license holders, and potential exemptions for provisioning centers in designated "resort districts." To qualify for an exemption, applicants must submit detailed documentation demonstrating adequate capital, suitable location, service demand, and need for additional provisioning centers. The bill also establishes criteria for a municipality to be designated as a resort district, including factors like tourist visitation, seasonal population, and local attractions. The changes aim to regulate the proliferation of medical marijuana provisioning centers while providing flexibility for areas with significant tourism or seasonal population fluctuations. The bill's implementation is contingent upon the passage of several related bills in the 103rd Legislature.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 2016 PA 281, entitled"Medical marihuana facilities licensing act,"by amending sections 102, 302, 401, and 402 (MCL 333.27102, 333.27302, 333.27401, and 333.27402), section 102 as amended by 2021 PA 57, section 401 as amended by 2020 PA 207, and section 402 as amended by 2021 PA 161, and by adding section 402b.
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• Introduced: 12/23/2025
• Added: 12/24/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Joey Andrews (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/23/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 12/23/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4099 • Last Action 12/31/2025
Civil rights: open meetings; electronic hearings of the tax tribunal; permit under the open meetings act. Amends sec. 3a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263a). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4098'25
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow electronic hearings for the Tax Tribunal under certain conditions, meaning that proceedings of the Tax Tribunal, which is a body that hears tax-related disputes, can be conducted remotely via video or teleconference. Specifically, it permits electronic proceedings for sections 26, 34, or 62 of the Tax Tribunal Act, regardless of the usual requirements for electronic meetings, such as accommodating absent members due to military duty or medical conditions. The bill also clarifies that for these Tax Tribunal electronic proceedings, a physical location is not required, and members and the public participating electronically are considered present. Furthermore, it outlines requirements for public notice of these electronic meetings, including explaining why the meeting is electronic, how the public can participate, and how to provide input. The bill also specifies that public bodies holding electronic meetings must allow for two-way communication and provide mechanisms for public comment, and that members of the public cannot be required to register or provide personal information to participate, except for necessary public comment participation. This change is tied to another bill, HB 4098 of the 103rd Legislature, meaning it will only become law if that bill is also enacted.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled ?An act to require certain meetings of certain public bodies to be open to the public; to require notice and the keeping of minutes of meetings; to provide for enforcement; to provide for invalidation of governmental decisions under certain circumstances; to provide penalties; and to repeal certain acts and parts of acts,? by amending section 3a (MCL 15.263a), as amended by 2023 PA 214.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 02/21/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 16 : Steve Frisbie (R)*, Jerry Neyer (R), Angela Rigas (R), David Martin (R), Brian BeGole (R), Carrie Rheingans (D), Joseph Pavlov (R), Gina Johnsen (R), Mike Harris (R), Ken Borton (R), Mike Hoadley (R), Jason Woolford (R), Ron Robinson (R), Tom Kunse (R), Cam Cavitt (R), Will Bruck (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 12/29/2025
• Last Action: Assigned Pa 54'25
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H1645 • Last Action 12/31/2025
To update expungement
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates existing Massachusetts law regarding the protection of sealed and expunged court records by modifying Chapter 276, sections 100Q and 100T. Specifically, the bill reinforces strict confidentiality provisions that prohibit any person from making sealed or expunged records available for inspection in any form. The changes expand the existing restrictions to include records sealed under section 100C, in addition to the previously covered sections 100A and 100B. The bill ensures that court records that have been sealed or expunged remain completely confidential and cannot be accessed by any individuals, which helps protect the privacy of individuals who have had their court records sealed or expunged. This type of legal protection is important for individuals seeking to move past prior legal issues and prevent potential discrimination or stigma related to past court records.
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Bill Summary: Relative to the protection of sealed court records. The Judiciary.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Michael Day (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4858
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5441 • Last Action 12/31/2025
Medical marihuana: licenses; new licenses for certain types of medical marihuana facilities; prohibit the cannabis regulatory agency from issuing. Amends secs. 102, 302, 401 & 402 of 2016 PA 281 (MCL 333.27102 et seq.) & adds sec. 402a. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5444'25, HB 5443'25, HB 5442'25
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act to make several significant changes to medical marijuana licensing in Michigan. Beginning January 1, 2026, the Cannabis Regulatory Agency will be prohibited from issuing new state operating licenses for most types of medical marijuana facilities, with exceptions for provisioning centers, class A growers, license renewals, and license transfers. The bill also introduces a cap on provisioning center licenses, limiting municipalities to one provisioning center per 5,000 residents. The legislation renames the "Marijuana Regulatory Agency" to the "Cannabis Regulatory Agency" throughout the existing law and makes technical updates to various definitions and regulatory provisions. The bill maintains existing licensing requirements, such as background checks and application processes, while creating new restrictions on future licensing. Importantly, the bill will only take effect if three related bills are also enacted into law, creating a legislative package that aims to reshape medical marijuana facility regulations in Michigan. The changes appear designed to control the number and distribution of medical marijuana facilities while maintaining existing operations.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 2016 PA 281, entitled"Medical marihuana facilities licensing act,"by amending sections 102, 302, 401, and 402 (MCL 333.27102, 333.27302, 333.27401, and 333.27402), section 102 as amended by 2021 PA 57, section 401 as amended by 2020 PA 207, and section 402 as amended by 2021 PA 161, and by adding section 402a.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 12/23/2025
• Added: 12/24/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Joey Andrews (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/23/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 12/23/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2122 • Last Action 12/24/2025
Relative to increasing transparency in public construction
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 8B of Chapter 81 of the General Laws to modify how public construction-related documents are handled. Specifically, it changes the status of applications for certificates of eligibility and update statements, declaring them public records under the definition in Section 7 of Chapter 4, with one important exception: financial information contained within these applications will remain confidential and not be considered a public record. This modification aims to increase transparency in public construction processes while still protecting sensitive financial details. The bill essentially allows broader access to construction-related documentation, enabling more public oversight, but ensures that specific financial data remains protected from public disclosure.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to increase transparency in public construction. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Brendan Crighton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5416 • Last Action 12/23/2025
Economic development: Michigan strategic fund; grant, loan, award, tax credit, or other economic assistance under the Michigan strategic fund act; implement certain approval process for. Amends sec. 5 of 1984 PA 270 (MCL 125.2005).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Michigan Strategic Fund Act to enhance transparency in economic development funding decisions. The bill adds a new requirement that the Michigan Strategic Fund Board must post proposed draft contract approval agreements, briefing memoranda, and term sheets on its website at least 10 business days before approving any grants, loans, awards, company-specific tax credits, or other economic assistance. If the board fails to post these documents as required, the approval becomes invalid. The bill maintains the existing structure of the Michigan Strategic Fund, which is an autonomous entity within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, governed by a board consisting of government officials and private sector members with expertise in areas like venture capital, commercial lending, and technology commercialization. The board is expanded to include two additional members appointed by the governor, with one member nominated by the senate minority leader and another by the house minority leader. The new transparency provision aims to provide greater public visibility into economic development funding decisions and allow for potential public input or scrutiny before final approvals are made.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled"Michigan strategic fund act,"by amending section 5 (MCL 125.2005), as amended by 2023 PA 24.
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• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 10 : Jimmie Wilson (D)*, Dylan Wegela (D), Mike Hoadley (R), Mike Harris (R), Mike McFall (D), Matt Maddock (R), Jay DeBoyer (R), Greg Alexander (R), Bryan Posthumus (R), Pat Outman (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 12/18/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3328 • Last Action 12/18/2025
Relative to virtual meetings of appointed statewide public bodies
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies existing Massachusetts law to allow statewide public bodies whose members are appointed to conduct meetings through remote participation. Specifically, the bill enables members to participate virtually in meetings, count as present for quorum purposes, and vote remotely. The bill mandates that during remote meetings, all participants must be clearly audible to each other and identify themselves. Public bodies must provide meaningful public access to these virtual meetings through alternative technological means like telephone, internet, or video conferencing, ensuring transparency and allowing the public to follow proceedings in real-time. These alternative access methods must be free of charge. The bill requires that documents used in remote meetings be made available to the public before or during the meeting, and any proceedings that typically allow public participation must continue to do so in the virtual format. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that these provisions do not apply to municipal bodies, limiting the scope to statewide appointed public bodies. By removing an existing subsection (d) from Chapter 30A and adding a new section (20A), the bill creates a clear legal framework for virtual meetings of statewide appointed public bodies.
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Bill Summary: Relative to virtual meetings of appointed statewide public bodies. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 2 : Tricia Farley-Bouvier (D)*, Mindy Domb (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4831
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3283 • Last Action 12/18/2025
Relative to the open meeting law
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the existing state law regarding public construction contract bidding processes by introducing new provisions to protect bidder privacy during interview stages. Specifically, the bill requires public agencies to establish a process that prevents bidders or their representatives from observing interviews of other bidders competing for the same contract. Additionally, the legislation prohibits public agencies from sharing or posting written or video testimony from interviews until all bidders for a specific contract have completed their individual interviews. The bill explicitly overrides existing open meeting laws (sections 18 to 25 of chapter 30A) to ensure that the interview process remains confidential and fair, preventing potential advantages that could arise from one bidder being able to observe another's interview. This change aims to maintain the integrity of the bidding process by creating a more equitable environment for all potential contractors.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to assure for bidder privacy in certain interviews for public construction contracts. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 03/12/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jim Arciero (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4831
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3299 • Last Action 12/18/2025
To modernize participation in public meetings
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modernizes participation in public meetings by updating Massachusetts' open meeting laws to enhance transparency, accessibility, and public engagement. The bill defines "remote access" and "remote participation" as methods for attending and participating in meetings through internet or video technology. It mandates that all public bodies (including local, regional, state, and county entities) must provide remote access to their meetings without charge and ensure accessibility for people with disabilities, including captioning. The bill requires public bodies to post meeting notices at least 48 hours in advance on their websites, with specific filing requirements for different types of public bodies. Additionally, the bill stipulates that public bodies must have a minimum number of members physically present during meetings, allows remote participation and voting, and requires video recording of state public body meetings. The legislation also strengthens recordkeeping requirements, mandating that detailed minutes be created within 30 days and made publicly available within 10 business days, either through direct provision or website posting. Furthermore, the bill introduces potential civil penalties of up to $200 for individual public body members who knowingly violate open meeting laws, and provides the Attorney General with more enforcement options, such as issuing education letters or reprimands. These changes aim to increase government transparency and make public meetings more accessible to citizens.
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Bill Summary: Relative to participation in public meetings. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 03/12/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Tony Cabral (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4831
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3342 • Last Action 12/18/2025
To modernize municipal meetings, town meetings, and local elections
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modernizes municipal meetings, town meetings, and local elections by establishing comprehensive guidelines for remote participation. It first clarifies that "Select Board" is synonymous with "Board of Selectmen" and then creates new provisions allowing public bodies to conduct meetings remotely using technologies like telephone or video conferencing. The bill enables remote participation for both government members and the public, requiring that such remote meetings provide adequate public access, ensure all participants can hear each other, and record roll call votes. For local elections, the bill grants select boards the authority to postpone annual elections under certain circumstances, such as during weather-related, public safety, or public health emergencies, with specific provisions for maintaining election integrity and voter rights. Additionally, the bill allows town moderators to conduct town meetings through remote or hybrid formats, establishing detailed technological requirements to ensure fair, accessible, and transparent proceedings. The legislation mandates that the attorney general develop best practices for remote participation within 90 days and requires remote meetings to be recorded and made publicly available. Overall, the bill aims to modernize local government operations by providing flexible meeting options while maintaining transparency and democratic principles.
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Bill Summary: Relative to remote participation of municipal meetings, town meetings, and local elections. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Danielle Gregoire (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4831
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H4831 • Last Action 12/18/2025
To modernize participation in public meetings
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modernizes public meeting participation by updating Massachusetts' Open Meeting Law to require all public bodies to provide remote access and participation options for meetings. It defines "remote access" as internet or video technology that allows the public to view and potentially participate in meetings from a different location, and "remote participation" as members joining meetings remotely. The bill mandates that meetings must be both physically open and remotely accessible, with detailed notice requirements including posting meeting information at least 48 hours in advance on websites and in municipal locations. Public bodies must ensure remote access is free, captioned, and accessible to people with disabilities. The bill also strengthens record-keeping requirements, mandating that meeting minutes be created, approved within 30 days, and posted online within 10 business days. Additionally, the bill introduces new enforcement mechanisms for Open Meeting Law violations, including the ability to issue private education letters, reprimand members, and impose civil penalties up to $200 for repeated knowing violations. A special provision allows rural communities with fewer than 10,000 residents and low population density to request hardship waivers from full remote meeting requirements. Most provisions will take effect on July 1, 2027, with some sections having different implementation dates.
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Bill Summary: To modernize participation in public meetings
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• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3290 • Last Action 12/18/2025
Relative to the executive session interview process
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Section 21 of Chapter 30A of Massachusetts General Laws to provide clearer guidelines for how public bodies can conduct executive sessions during job candidate interviews. Specifically, the bill allows public bodies (such as school committees, city councils, town councils, select boards, or boards of aldermen) to hold closed-door, executive session meetings when initially screening job applicants, but only if the chair of the body declares that an open meeting would negatively impact their ability to attract qualified candidates. Importantly, the bill clarifies that this executive session privilege only applies to preliminary screening stages and does not extend to meetings where candidates have already passed an initial screening. The bill ensures that all members of the public body can participate in these preliminary screening executive sessions, which provides more flexibility in the hiring process while maintaining some transparency in governmental employment practices.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to further regulate meetings of public bodies in executive sessions. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 03/12/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Michelle Badger (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4831
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2107 • Last Action 12/18/2025
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists; providing for form of compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists, a comprehensive agreement designed to facilitate the interstate practicerocof by creating a streamlined licensing process. The compact establishes a framework for help allows school psychoneologists equivalent professional licenses across member states, states, with the primary goals of addressing workforce shortages, improving public accessibility to school services, and ensuring that only qualified professionals provide these services. educational and compact a-overseing the compact a unified set of professionalificationsn standards, including requiring a qualifying national exam, minimum education standards education program, and a supervised internship. The compact allows for easier license portability for school psychologists, with special provisions for active military membersouses and includes robust mechanisms for sharing information sharing disciplinary actions, resolution, and maintaining professional standards. The bill createsishes PsychIzersure compact to administer the compact, with detailed provisions for governance, rulemaking, financing, and potential, and includes protections for member states and individual licensees. such as comprehensive criminal background checks and maintaining professional conduct standards Human malp. effective once seven member stateseless have enacted it, and it provides for specific potential withdrawal and amendment processes.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists; providing for form of compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
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• Introduced: 12/18/2025
• Added: 12/19/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Manny Guzman (D)*, Carol Hill-Evans (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Danilo Burgos (D), Kyle Donahue (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Mandy Steele (D), Ed Neilson (D), Jim Haddock (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/18/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Professional Licensure
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3426 • Last Action 12/18/2025
Relative to the open meeting law
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to amend Section 18 of Chapter 30A of the Massachusetts General Laws by removing the current exemption that excludes the General Court (the state legislature) and its committees or recess commissions from the definition of a "public body" under the Open Meeting Law. By making this change, the bill would subject the General Court to the same open meeting requirements that currently apply to other government bodies, which typically mandate that meetings be publicly noticed, open to the public, and documented with minutes. This would increase transparency by ensuring that legislative meetings, committees, and commissions would need to follow the same public access and notification rules as other state governmental entities, potentially allowing greater public oversight of legislative proceedings.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to make the General Court subject to the open meeting law. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 03/13/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Erika Uyterhoeven (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4831
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0082 • Last Action 12/18/2025
Courts: judges; personal information and physical safety protections for judges, their families, and household members; enhance. Creates new act.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Judicial Protection Act, which provides comprehensive privacy protections for judges and their immediate family members by restricting the public disclosure of their personal identifying information. The bill defines "personal identifying information" expansively to include sensitive details like residential addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, vehicle identifiers, school information, and employment locations. Judges can submit a written request to public bodies and persons to prevent the public posting or display of such information, and these entities must remove the specified information within five business days. The law applies to state court judges, federal judges with a residential address in Michigan, and tribal court judges. While there are numerous exceptions for public safety alerts, news reporting, voluntary disclosure, and certain business and financial transactions, the bill allows judges to file civil actions to compel compliance and recover court costs and attorney fees if their personal information is improperly disclosed. The act is designed to be interpreted broadly to protect judges' and their families' privacy and security, with an effective date of January 1, 2027, and contingent on the passage of a related House Bill. The legislation aims to enhance the personal safety of judges by limiting access to potentially sensitive personal information that could be used to threaten or harass them.
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Bill Summary: A bill to protect the safety of judges and certain other individuals; to protect certain information of judges and certain other individuals from disclosure; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local governmental officers and certain other people and entities; and to provide remedies.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 7 : Stephanie Chang (D)*, Mallory McMorrow (D), Sue Shink (D), Rosemary Bayer (D), John Damoose (R), Erika Geiss (D), Ed McBroom (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 12/16/2025
• Last Action: Postponed For The Day
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3382 • Last Action 12/18/2025
Promoting governmental efficiency
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Massachusetts' Open Meeting Law to establish more structured procedures for filing and responding to complaints about potential violations. The bill clarifies that individuals can file complaints with a public body within 20 business days of an alleged violation, requiring specific details like contact information and a signature. It mandates that public bodies must review and respond to complaints within 14 business days, confirming receipt and identifying any remedial actions. Importantly, the bill provides a mechanism for public bodies to seek relief from the Attorney General if they receive excessive or burdensome complaints, with the Attorney General considering factors like the body's compliance history, the complaint's burden, potential harassment, and the violation's facts. The bill also requires public bodies to send a copy of the complaint to the Attorney General within 14 business days and specifies that any remedial actions cannot be used as evidence against the public body in subsequent legal proceedings. Additionally, the bill makes a small amendment to chapter 66 of the General Laws, removing language that restricts information requests. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the complaint process for Open Meeting Law violations while providing some protections for public bodies against potential harassment.
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Bill Summary: Relative to open meeting law complaints. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 03/12/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : David Linsky (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB686 • Last Action 12/15/2025
In falsification and intimidation, further providing for the offense of tampering with public records or information.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law and the state's criminal code to strengthen protections against tampering with public records. Specifically, the bill creates a criminal penalty for intentionally and unlawfully altering, destroying, concealing, removing, or otherwise impairing the availability or authenticity of a record that has been requested under the Right-to-Know Law. While previously tampering with public records was typically considered a misdemeanor, the bill upgrades the offense to a felony of the third degree if the record is the subject of a current information request or appeal, or if the actor's intent is to defraud or injure someone. The new provisions aim to deter individuals from deliberately interfering with public information requests by imposing more serious legal consequences for such actions. The bill will go into effect 60 days after its passage, giving agencies and potential offenders time to understand and adapt to the new legal standards.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled <-- "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in judicial review, providing for criminal penalty. AMENDING TITLE 18 (CRIMES AND OFFENSES) OF THE PENNSYLVANIA <-- CONSOLIDATED STATUTES, IN FALSIFICATION AND INTIMIDATION, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR THE OFFENSE OF TAMPERING WITH PUBLIC RECORDS OR INFORMATION.
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• Introduced: 04/28/2025
• Added: 04/29/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Cris Dush (R)*, Greg Rothman (R), Jarrett Coleman (R), Kristin Phillips-Hill (R), Pat Stefano (R), Judy Ward (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 05/06/2025
• Last Action: Re-referred to Commerce
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB0576 • Last Action 12/12/2025
GOVERNMENT-TECH
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Public Official Safety and Privacy Act, which aims to protect public officials' personal information from being publicly disclosed. The legislation prohibits governmental agencies, persons, businesses, and associations from publicly posting or displaying a public official's personal information (such as home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and social security numbers) once they have received a written request from the official to refrain from doing so. Governmental agencies must remove such information within 5 business days of receiving a request, and other entities have 72 hours to remove the information from the internet. The bill makes knowingly posting a public official's personal information a Class 3 felony if the posting poses an immediate threat to the official's health and safety and is the proximate cause of bodily injury or death. Additionally, the legislation amends several existing laws, including the Freedom of Information Act, the Election Code, and the Illinois Identification Card Act, to allow public officials to use work addresses instead of home addresses on various official documents and to provide mechanisms for redacting personal information. The bill is designed to improve public officials' safety and security by giving them more control over the disclosure of their personal information, while still maintaining transparency in government.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Public Official Safety and Privacy Act. Prohibits governmental agencies from displaying or otherwise publicly posting or displaying publicly available content that includes a public official's personal information when the governmental agency has received a written request from the public official that it refrain from disclosing the public official's personal information. Requires governmental agencies to remove publicly available content within 5 business days. Prohibits persons, businesses, and associations from publicly posting or otherwise displaying a public official's personal information online when the public official has made a written request that the person, business, or association refrain from disclosing that information. Permits public officials to seek declaratory or injunctive relief for violations of the Act. In the event of a violation by a person, business, or association, requires the person, business, or association to pay the public official's costs and attorney's fees if a court grants injunctive or declaratory relief. Makes knowingly posting a public official's personal information a Class 3 felony, if the person knows or reasonably should know that publicly posting the information poses an immediate threat to the public official's health and safety or that of a member of the public official's immediate family and if posting that information is the proximate cause of death or bodily injury. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts the personal information of public officials from disclosure. Amends the Election Code. Specifies that a provision that limits expenditures by a political committee for debts or for the payment of any expenses relating to a personal residence does not apply to expenses related to: (i) a public official's or candidate's personal security services or security enhancements to a public official's or candidate's primary residence; or (ii) cybersecurity measures or tools used to protect and secure a public official's or candidate's devices, Internet networks, or other technology. Requires the State Board of Elections to redact the home addresses of all current and past officers of political committees upon the written request of the supported candidate or the current chair of the political committee. Requires the State Board of Elections to redact a public official's home address information upon request. Provides that, upon expiration of the period for filing an objection to a public official's certificate of nomination or nomination papers, a public official who is a candidate may file a written request with the State Board of Elections, election authority, or local election official with whom the certificate of nomination or nomination papers are required to be filed for redaction of the public official's home address information from the public official's certificate of nomination or nomination papers. Specifies that, after receipt of the public official's written request, the State Board of Elections, election authority, or local election official with whom the certificate of nomination or nomination papers are required to be filed shall redact or cause redaction of the public official's home address from the public official's certificate of nomination or nomination papers within 5 business days. Amends the Illinois Identification Card Act. Permits public officials to have their work addresses listed on their identification card (rather than their home or mailing address). Amends the Vehicle Code. Permits public officials to provide their work address in their vehicle registration application rather than their home or mailing address. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 10/29/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 27 : Katie Stuart (D)*, Adriane Johnson (D)*, Chris Welch (D), Maurice West (D), Lisa Davis (D), Nicole La Ha (R), Robyn Gabel (D), Jaime Andrade (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Tracy Katz Muhl (D), Gregg Johnson (D), Matt Hanson (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Michael Kelly (D), Mary Gill (D), Natalie Manley (D), Joyce Mason (D), Dave Vella (D), Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar (D), Sue Scherer (D), Carol Ammons (D), Christopher Belt (D), Lakesia Collins (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Doris Turner (D), Mattie Hunter (D), Julie Morrison (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 67
• Last Amended: 10/30/2025
• Last Action: Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0443
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4822 • Last Action 12/10/2025
Natural resources: other; natural resources commission; require to live stream all meetings. Amends sec. 501 of 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.501).
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to modify the structure, operations, and transparency requirements for the Commission of Natural Resources. The bill maintains the existing provisions about the commission's composition, including that it will have 7 members appointed by the governor with Senate consent, with no more than 4 members from the same political party. The key new provisions require the commission to provide live video streaming of all public meetings, publish meeting links at least 24 hours in advance on their website, make past meetings available for online viewing, and maintain a publicly searchable archive of all previous meetings. These changes aim to increase public access and transparency by allowing citizens to watch commission meetings in real-time and review past discussions. The bill also makes some minor language clarifications about the commission's operations, such as updating terminology from "person" to "individual" and standardizing certain procedural descriptions. The overall intent appears to be enhancing governmental transparency by providing broader public visibility into the natural resources commission's decision-making processes.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1994 PA 451, entitled"Natural resources and environmental protection act,"by amending section 501 (MCL 324.501).
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• Introduced: 08/27/2025
• Added: 08/28/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 25 : Parker Fairbairn (R)*, Cam Cavitt (R), David Prestin (R), Greg Markkanen (R), Angela Rigas (R), Ken Borton (R), Tom Kunse (R), Matthew Bierlein (R), Gina Johnsen (R), Brad Slagh (R), Jason Woolford (R), J.R. Roth (R), Kathy Schmaltz (R), Greg Alexander (R), Matt Maddock (R), Ron Robinson (R), Jennifer Wortz (R), Karl Bohnak (R), David Martin (R), Sarah Lightner (R), Jaime Greene (R), Tim Kelly (R), Jay DeBoyer (R), Pat Outman (R), Curt VanderWall (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 12/09/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Oversight
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #SB1022 • Last Action 12/09/2025
Public records; exemption; photos
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill adds a new section to Arizona law that prevents the mandatory disclosure of certain types of photographic records under public records laws. Specifically, the bill exempts booking photographs (which are typically mugshots taken when someone is arrested and processed into a jail or detention facility) and photographs or digital recordings from photo enforcement systems (such as traffic cameras that capture images of vehicles committing traffic violations) from being required to be released in response to public records requests. The bill provides definitions for these two types of images by referencing existing definitions in other sections of Arizona law, ensuring that these specific visual records cannot be automatically obtained through public records requests. This exemption appears designed to protect individuals' privacy by limiting the widespread distribution of arrest images and traffic violation evidence.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT amending title 39, chapter 1, article 2, Arizona Revised Statutes, by adding section 39-130; relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 12/09/2025
• Added: 01/13/2026
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - Second Regular Session (2026)
• Sponsors: 1 : John Kavanagh (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 12/09/2025
• Last Action: Prefile
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H4807 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relative to updating the security of personal information
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates Massachusetts law regarding the security of personal information by expanding and clarifying several key definitions and requirements. The bill introduces new definitions for terms like "access device" (a card or device storing personal information), "biometric indicator" (unique biological attributes used for identification), "information security program" (safeguards for handling personal information), "neural data" (information measuring nervous system activity), and "precise location information" (highly accurate geographic data). It broadens the definition of "personal information" to include more types of sensitive data such as medical information, neural data, biometric indicators, and precise location information. The bill requires the Department of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation to adopt regulations that safeguard residents' personal information, taking into account the size and resources of businesses. It also modifies notification requirements for data breaches, specifying that notices to residents must include information about obtaining police reports, the timeframe of exposure, how to request a security freeze, and available mitigation services. Additionally, the bill provides an exemption from notification requirements for inadvertent disclosures that are unlikely to cause harm, with a requirement to document such determinations in writing and potentially report them to the Attorney General if over 500 residents are affected.
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Bill Summary: Relative to updating the security of personal information
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• Introduced: 12/08/2025
• Added: 12/09/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/08/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB786 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Government Records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to improve government record accessibility for people with disabilities by requiring all government records to be available in disability-accessible formats starting January 1, 2027. The legislation mandates that the governor, chief justice, and mayors of each county designate at least one agency as a "converting agency" responsible for transforming government documents into formats that can be easily used by individuals with vision, hearing, or speech disabilities. Under the bill, when a person requests a government record in an accessible format, the initiating agency must retrieve the record and submit a conversion request to the designated converting agency, which will then accurately convert the document and return it in the requested format. The bill defines "disability-accessible format" as any communication method that provides equally effective access to information, including formats compatible with assistive technology. To support implementation, the bill appropriates funds for the executive branch, judiciary, and each county to procure necessary equipment, provide training, and establish half-time positions to manage the conversion process. The bill also allows converting agencies to consult with the Disability Communications Access Board and requires relevant government entities to adopt rules for processing these requests, including a five-business-day extension for converting documents to accessible formats.
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Bill Summary: Beginning 1/1/2027, requires all government records required to be open to public inspection under the Uniform Information Practices Act to be made available in a disability-accessible format upon request. Requires the Governor, Chief Justice, and Mayor of each county to designate at least one agency within their respective government unit as a converting agency responsible for converting government records into a disability-accessible format. Establishes the process by which government records shall be converted into disability-accessible format upon request. Allows the converting agencies to consult with the Disability Communications Access Board. Requires the Office of Information Practices, Judiciary, and each county to adopt rules, regulations, or ordinances, including a provision that extends the time within which an agency must respond to requests for government records by 5 business days for records in disability-accessible formats, with exceptions for records pertaining to board meetings. Appropriates funds.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Karl Rhoads (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Carol Fukunaga (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB1038 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Privacy.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates Hawaii's privacy laws by expanding the definitions of "personal information" and introducing a new term "specified data element" in response to recommendations from a 2019 privacy task force. The bill defines "specified data element" to include sensitive identifying information such as social security numbers, driver's license numbers, financial account details, biometric data, security codes, and health insurance identifiers. The definition of "personal information" is broadened to include combinations of an individual's name, electronic mail address, username, phone number, and other identifying details when paired with unencrypted specified data elements. The expanded definitions aim to provide more comprehensive protection against identity theft and personal data breaches by capturing a wider range of potentially sensitive personal information. The bill is part of an effort to modernize privacy regulations in response to the increasing use of digital technologies and the growing risks associated with personal data exposure. The changes will take effect on April 1, 2026, giving organizations time to update their data handling and protection practices.
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Bill Summary: Adds a definition for "specified data element" and expands the definition of "personal information". Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Chris Lee (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 03/18/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB494 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Open Meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill repeals Section 92-10 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which previously provided a special exemption for the legislative branch from standard open meetings laws. Currently, the existing law allows the Hawaii State Legislature to establish its own rules and procedures regarding open meetings, notice requirements, agendas, and minutes, which took precedence over the general open meetings regulations. By removing this section, the bill will subject the Legislature to the same open meetings requirements as other government bodies, ensuring greater transparency and public access to legislative proceedings. The bill would eliminate the Legislature's ability to create separate, potentially less stringent rules about meeting openness and would require legislators to follow the standard state open meetings protocols. The bill would take effect immediately upon approval, meaning the new open meetings standards would apply to the Legislature as soon as the bill is signed into law.
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Bill Summary: Repeals the Legislature's exemption under the State's open meetings law.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Kim Iwamoto (D)*, Elijah Pierick (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB1617 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Public Meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to improve public meeting accessibility by prohibiting boards in Hawaii from starting or continuing meetings after 9:00 p.m., with an explicit exemption for county council meetings. The legislation is based on the legislature's finding that late-night meetings can disadvantage people with work, school, or caregiving responsibilities the following day. Specifically, the bill amends Chapter 92 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes by adding a new section that mandates boards must conclude their meetings by 9:00 p.m., ensuring that public meetings are conducted at times that are more convenient and accessible to the general public. The new law would take effect immediately upon approval, and applies to all board meetings across the state except those held by county councils. The underlying motivation is to promote greater public participation in government proceedings by scheduling meetings at more reasonable hours.
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Bill Summary: Prohibits boards from beginning or continuing meetings after 9:00 p.m., excluding county council meetings.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Stanley Chang (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB686 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Community Outreach Boards.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to clarify and expand the legal status of community outreach boards in Hawaii's Sunshine Law (a state law ensuring transparency in government meetings). The bill defines a "community outreach board" as a board established to serve in an advisory capacity under a county department, such as the Hawaii county community development plan action committees. It amends existing law to include community outreach boards alongside neighborhood boards in several key provisions, which means these boards will now have the same legal rights and responsibilities. Specifically, the bill allows members of both neighborhood and community outreach boards to attend public meetings or presentations related to their official board business statewide, without geographic restrictions. The bill also ensures that these boards can receive public input during meetings, discuss unanticipated events if timely action is necessary for public health and safety, and operate with similar procedural protections. By doing so, the legislation seeks to enhance grassroots community participation in local government and provide clearer legal guidelines for these advisory boards. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000 (which appears to be a placeholder date).
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Bill Summary: Defines community outreach board to mean a board established to serve in a community advisory capacity under a county department. Includes community outreach boards in existing provisions of the Sunshine Law relating to neighborhood boards. Authorizes neighborhood board and community outreach board members to attend meetings or presentations related to official board business statewide. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/13/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB580 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To The School Facilities Authority.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the responsibilities and operational capabilities of the School Facilities Authority (SFA), a public entity responsible for school development and construction projects. The bill clarifies that the SFA can now focus on developing, planning, and constructing facilities for prekindergarten, preschool, and child care, as well as workforce housing for educators. The legislation allows the SFA to use the Department of Education for recruitment and hiring purposes and enables the authority to partner with public and private development agencies to create prekindergarten facilities. Additionally, the bill modifies the governance of the SFA by excluding its board workgroups and subcommittees from the state's Sunshine Law (which typically requires open meetings), except for rules related to permitted interactions between board members. This change will provide the SFA with more flexibility in forming workgroups and subcommittees, potentially streamlining its decision-making processes. The bill is designed to enhance the efficiency and scope of the School Facilities Authority's operations, with the changes set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: Clarifies that the School Facilities Authority is responsible for certain development, planning, and construction projects for prekindergarten, preschool, and child care facilities, as well as workforce housing. Allows the School Facilities Authority to use the Department of Education for certain recruitment and hiring responsibilities. Allows the School Facilities Authority to partner with public and private development agencies to develop prekindergarten facilities. Exclude School Facilities Authority Board workgroups and subcommittees from the Sunshine Law, except as it relates to permitted interactions.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Henry Aquino (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Lynn DeCoite (D)*, Kurt Fevella (R)*, Mike Gabbard (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Les Ihara (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB1556 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Trusted Public Representatives.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a Trusted Public Representatives (TPR) Program within the Office of Information Practices (OIP) to enhance government transparency by training and assigning volunteer representatives to observe closed government meetings. The program requires volunteers to be Hawaii residents at least 18 years old, pass a background check, have no conflicts of interest, and demonstrate a commitment to government accountability. The OIP will be responsible for recruiting, training, and managing these volunteers, who will attend closed meetings and confidentially report to the OIP whether the meetings comply with Hawaii's Sunshine Law (open meetings law). Trusted Public Representatives will serve as unpaid volunteers but can be reimbursed for expenses, must maintain the confidentiality of meeting discussions, and will be trained to identify potential legal violations during closed meetings. The bill also amends existing law to allow the OIP to conduct background checks on current and prospective volunteers and requires the OIP to submit an annual report to the Legislature detailing the program's activities and any recommendations for improvement. Funds will be appropriated to support the program's establishment and implementation, with the program set to begin on July 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Establishes a Trusted Public Representative Program within the Office of Information Practices under which the Office assigns a volunteer Trusted Public Representative trained in the requirements of the Sunshine Law and observes public agency meetings closed to the public. Allows the Office of Information Practices to conduct background checks of current and prospective Trusted Public Representatives. Requires annual reports to the Legislature. Appropriates funds.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 01/23/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Les Ihara (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/22/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB846 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Emergency Powers.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill addresses transparency and public access to records during states of emergency by prohibiting the Governor or a Mayor from completely suspending requests for public records or vital statistics during an emergency declaration. Specifically, the legislation prevents government officials from halting access to two key types of documents: public records (as defined in Hawaii's open records law) and vital records like birth, death, and marriage certificates. While a total suspension of these services is now forbidden, the bill recognizes that agencies may experience operational challenges during emergencies and thus allows for reasonable delays in responding to record requests. The bill's purpose is to ensure continued public access to important documents and maintain government transparency, stemming from challenges observed during the COVID-19 pandemic where record access was sometimes completely suspended. By preventing such wholesale suspensions, the legislation aims to protect residents' ability to obtain critical documents needed for healthcare, education, government benefits, and legal transactions, while also maintaining public trust in governmental processes during emergency situations.
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Bill Summary: Prohibits the Governor or a Mayor from suspending requests for public records or vital statistics during a declared state of emergency. Allows for a reasonable delay in an agency's response to a request as a result of extenuating circumstances.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 13 : Dru Kanuha (D)*, Henry Aquino (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Lynn DeCoite (D)*, Brandon Elefante (D)*, Mike Gabbard (D)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Lorraine Inouye (D)*, Michelle Kidani (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Sharon Moriwaki (D)*, Tim Richards (D)*, Joy San Buenaventura (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB1037 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Consumer Data Protection.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a comprehensive Consumer Data Protection Act for Hawaii that provides extensive privacy rights and regulations for consumer personal data. The legislation applies to businesses that either process personal data of at least 100,000 consumers annually or process data of 25,000 consumers while deriving over 25% of their gross revenue from selling personal data. The bill defines "personal data" broadly and gives consumers several key rights, including the ability to confirm what data a company has, correct inaccuracies, delete their data, obtain a copy of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain profiling activities. Controllers (businesses handling data) must provide clear privacy notices, limit data collection, obtain consent for sensitive data processing, and implement reasonable data security practices. The Department of the Attorney General will have exclusive enforcement authority, with the ability to issue warnings, seek injunctions, and impose civil penalties of up to $7,500 per violation. A new Consumer Privacy Special Fund will be created to collect penalties and support the law's implementation, with the law set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Importantly, the bill does not allow private lawsuits, meaning only the state can take legal action against violators.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Establishes a framework to regulate controllers and processors with access to personal consumer data. Establishes penalties. Establishes the Consumer Privacy Special Fund to be administered by the Department of the Attorney General. Appropriates funds.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Chris Lee (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Carol Fukunaga (D)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Karl Rhoads (D)*, Glenn Wakai (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB1412 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Sunshine Laws.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Hawaii's Sunshine Law, which governs public meetings and transparency, to clarify rules for neighborhood boards. The bill designates the neighborhood commission as the official oversight authority for applying the Sunshine Law to neighborhood boards. It allows boards to discuss two types of items not originally on the meeting agenda: unanticipated events critical to public health and safety, and official government reports. In both cases, the board can discuss the item but cannot make decisions during that meeting. For any decisions related to these discussed items, the board must place the matter on a future meeting's agenda with specific notice of potential decision-making. The bill also reinforces existing rules about quorum requirements, specifying that a quorum is needed for conducting official business, holding discussions prior to voting, and validating board actions, while allowing boards to receive information without a quorum as long as no decisions are made. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for neighborhood boards while maintaining transparency and preventing improper decision-making outside of properly noticed meetings. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: Designates the neighborhood commission as the appropriate oversight authority for application of the sunshine law to neighborhood boards. Authorizes neighborhood boards to discuss official government reports without placing it on the agenda, provided that no decision-making can be made.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 01/24/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Julie Reyes Oda (R)*, David Alcos (R)*, Diamond Garcia (R)*, Matthias Kusch (D)*, Lauren Matsumoto (R)*, Elijah Pierick (R)*, Adrian Tam (D)*, Chris Todd (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00569 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relates to the publication of information on public meetings; requires the office of information technology services to develop a mobile application and website to publish information on every public meeting held by a state or local public body; requires public bodies to report such meetings to the office of information technology services.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Office of Information Technology Services (OITS) to develop a mobile application and website that comprehensively publicizes information about public meetings held by state and local government bodies. Specifically, the bill mandates that OITS create a platform that includes details for each public meeting such as the date, time, location (including videoconferencing links), and a summary of the meeting's purpose. Additionally, the bill requires all state and local public bodies to electronically transmit their meeting notices to OITS within existing public notice timeframes, ensuring the information can be published on the new mobile app and website. By creating a centralized, easily accessible platform, the bill aims to increase transparency and public access to government meeting information. The legislation will take effect 180 days after becoming law, which provides time for government agencies to prepare and implement the new reporting and publication requirements.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the state technology law and the public officers law, in relation to the publication of information on public meetings
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Harvey Epstein (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: enacting clause stricken
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB1453 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Public Meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to amend Hawaii's public meeting laws by prohibiting boards from starting or continuing meetings after 9:00 p.m., with an exception for county council meetings. The legislation is based on the legislature's finding that late-night meetings can disadvantage members of the public who have work, school, or caregiving responsibilities the following day. By adding a new section to Chapter 92 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, the bill aims to make public meetings more accessible by restricting their duration and ensuring they conclude by 9:00 p.m. The bill defines a clear time limit for meetings of various boards, excluding county councils, with the goal of promoting greater public participation and convenience. The new law would take effect immediately upon approval, and any new statutory material added to the law is underscored to distinguish it from existing text.
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Bill Summary: Prohibits boards from beginning or continuing meetings after 9:00 p.m., excluding county council meetings.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Adrian Tam (D)*, Darius Kila (D)*, Shirley Ann Templo (D)*, Scot Matayoshi (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB1255 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Government Records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Hawaii's Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA) to enhance transparency and accountability in government contracting by expanding public access to government records. Specifically, the bill requires that any contract for performing a government function must include provisions mandating contractors retain records according to the agency's retention schedule and provide the agency full access to those records. The bill defines "government function" as a service, program, or activity an agency is legally authorized to perform, and broadens the definition of "government record" to include information created, received, maintained, or used by private contractors when performing government functions. Importantly, the bill prohibits government agencies from refusing public records requests related to contractor work by claiming trade secrets or proprietary information, except where specifically protected by law. The legislative intent is to prevent agencies from circumventing public records transparency by outsourcing government functions to private contractors. This legislation aims to ensure that records created during the performance of government contracts remain accessible to the public, thereby maintaining government accountability and transparency. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2491, which appears to be a typographical error and likely meant to be a more near-term date.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Uniform Information Practices Act to require each contract to perform a government function to expressly require the contractor to retain records in accordance with the retention schedule of the agency and provide the agency with access to all records subject to the Uniform Information Practices Act; define "government function" and "trade secret"; clarify that "government record" includes information that is created, received, maintained, or used by a private person in performance of a government function contract; and prohibit agencies from denying a request for access to records of a contractor used in the performance of a government function on the basis of trade secret or other proprietary information. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
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• Introduced: 01/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Donna Kim (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Lynn DeCoite (D)*, Kurt Fevella (R)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Michelle Kidani (D)*, Donovan Dela Cruz (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 02/11/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB270 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To The Sunshine Law.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Hawaii's Sunshine Law, which governs open meetings for government boards, by changing the rules about board members attending informational meetings. Specifically, the bill expands the existing provision to allow any number of board members (previously restricted to less than a quorum) to attend informational meetings or presentations related to board business, such as legislative hearings, conventions, seminars, or community meetings. The meetings must not be specifically organized just for board members. Board members can now participate in discussions during these meetings, including discussions among themselves, as long as they do not make or seek commitments about how they will vote on any matter. The bill also removes the previous requirement that board members must report their attendance and the details of discussions at their next official board meeting, effectively providing more flexibility and reducing administrative burden for board members attending such informational events.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Authorizes any member of a board to attend an informational meeting or presentation on matters relating to board business; provided that the meeting or presentation is not specifically and exclusively organized for or directed toward members of the board. Repeals the requirement of a subsequent report of attendance and the matters presented and discussed that related to board business at the informational meeting or presentation.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 01/15/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ron Kouchi (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB403 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To The Sunshine Law.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Hawaii's Sunshine Law regarding board member attendance at informational meetings by removing previous restrictions on the number of board members who can attend such gatherings and eliminating the requirement that they report details of these meetings afterward. Specifically, the bill allows board members to attend and participate in discussions during informational meetings, presentations, legislative hearings, conventions, seminars, or community meetings related to board business, as long as the event is not specifically organized exclusively for board members. The bill maintains a key constraint that while board members can discuss matters during these events, they cannot make or seek commitments about how they will vote. The legislation aims to provide board members with more flexibility in gathering information while still maintaining transparency and preventing private decision-making outside of public meetings. The changes will take effect immediately upon the bill's approval, and the bill ensures that any existing rights, penalties, or proceedings will not be impacted by this new law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Authorizes any member of a board to attend an informational meeting or presentation on matters relating to board business; provided that the meeting or presentation is not specifically and exclusively organized for or directed toward members of the board. Repeals the requirement of a subsequent report of attendance and the matters presented and discussed that related to board business at the informational meeting or presentation.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Nadine Nakamura (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB1329 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Communities.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires both state and county departments to follow specific communication procedures when developing major plans or work efforts that could significantly impact a community. These procedures include conducting a public hearing on the issue, posting the hearing notice on the department's website, and sending direct mail and email notifications to key government officials, including the governor, county mayor, and state and county legislators who represent constituents in the affected community. The bill emphasizes the principle that government should be "of the people, by the people, and for the people" by ensuring that communities are informed about and can participate in decisions that may substantially affect them. The public hearings mandated by this legislation must be free and open to the general public, providing an opportunity for community members to learn about and potentially provide input on proposed plans or projects. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to both state and county government departments, creating a uniform approach to community engagement across different levels of government in Hawaii.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Requires any state or county department pursuing any major plan or work effort that is likely to significantly affect members of any community to: (1) Conduct a public hearing on the issue, and post notices on the department's website; and (2) Send direct notices of the public hearing to state and county elected officials who have constituents in the community.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Elle Cochran (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*, Tina Grandinetti (D)*, Kim Iwamoto (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*, Elijah Pierick (R)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Gene Ward (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB863 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Fees For Public Records Under Chapter 92f.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Hawaii's public records law by establishing new guidelines for government record access fees and fee waivers. Specifically, the bill caps charges for searching, reviewing, and segregating government records at $5 per fifteen minutes for searching and $7.50 per fifteen minutes for reviewing and segregating records. The bill introduces a detailed framework for waiving these fees when the public interest would be significantly served by record disclosure. To qualify for a fee waiver, the requested records must contribute meaningfully to public understanding of government operations, not be primarily for commercial purposes, and not be unreasonably burdensome. When evaluating potential waivers, authorities will consider factors such as the request's subject matter, the information's informative value, the potential public understanding gained, the significance of the contribution to public knowledge, any commercial interests involved, and the primary motivation for disclosure. The bill aims to maintain government transparency and accountability by making public records more accessible while preventing excessive or unnecessary fees from hindering citizens' ability to obtain important government information.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Imposes a cap on charges for searching for, reviewing, and segregating government records under the Uniform Information Practices Act. Provides for a waiver of fees in certain circumstances when the public interest is served by a government record's disclosure.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Karl Rhoads (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB724 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Open Meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase government transparency by making several key changes to Hawaii's open meetings law (known as the Sunshine Law). It expands the definition of a "board" to explicitly include the Legislature, including its committees and decision-making bodies, which were previously exempt from open meeting requirements. The bill establishes a new notice period requirement, specifying that for boards with a fixed session duration (like the Legislature), the notice period shall be one-thirtieth of the total session duration, with at least two calendar days' notice during a sixty-day regular session, while boards without a fixed session duration must provide at least six calendar days' notice. Additionally, the bill repeals two significant exemptions: the Legislature's previous exclusion from Sunshine Law requirements and the provision allowing certain private interactions between board members. The legislation also clarifies that for legislative bodies, the president of the senate and speaker of the house will be responsible for enforcing these open meeting provisions. By removing these exemptions and standardizing notice requirements, the bill seeks to make government decision-making more transparent and accountable to the public, ensuring that discussions, deliberations, and actions of governmental agencies are conducted as openly as possible.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the definition of a "board" under the Sunshine Law to include the Legislature. Clarifies notice period requirements. Repeals the Legislature's exemption from the Sunshine Law. Repeals the exemption for permitted interactions between board members.
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• Introduced: 01/18/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Ikaika Hussey (D)*, Kim Iwamoto (D)*, Lauren Matsumoto (R)*, Amy Perruso (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/18/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HB130 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Fees For Public Records Under Chapter 92f.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Hawaii's public records law by establishing specific guidelines for fees associated with searching, reviewing, and segregating government records. The bill caps fees at $5 per 15 minutes for searching records and $7.50 per 15 minutes for reviewing and segregating records. Importantly, the legislation introduces a mechanism for fee waivers when the public interest would be significantly served by disclosing a record. To qualify for a fee waiver, the disclosed information must contribute substantially to public understanding of government operations, not be primarily for commercial interests, and not be unreasonably burdensome. When evaluating whether a disclosure serves the public interest, officials will consider factors such as the subject matter, informative value, potential public understanding, contribution significance, any commercial interests, and the primary motivation for the request. The bill aims to maintain government transparency and accountability by making public records more accessible while preventing excessive financial barriers to information retrieval. The legislation is modeled after the federal Freedom of Information Act standards and provides guidance for interpreting fee waiver circumstances through existing case law.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Imposes a cap on charges for searching for, reviewing, and segregating government records under the Uniform Information Practices Act. Provides for a waiver of fees in certain circumstances when the public interest is served by a government record's disclosure.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : David Tarnas (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*, Cory Chun (D)*, Tina Grandinetti (D)*, Kim Iwamoto (D)*, Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Lisa Kitagawa (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*, Elijah Pierick (R)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Julie Reyes Oda (R)*, Kanani Souza (R)*, Gregg Takayama (D)*, Gene Ward (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB381 • Last Action 12/08/2025
Relating To Public Agency Meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase transparency in the appointment of heads of state divisions and agencies by mandating that boards establish, approve, and follow a public process and timeline for such selections. Specifically, when a leadership position becomes vacant, the board must use an open meeting to create and approve a selection process and timeline, and any amendments to this process must also be made transparently in an open meeting. The bill further stipulates that any votes to appoint or select a division or agency head must be conducted in a public session, and any appointment made in violation of these requirements will be considered invalid. The legislation is motivated by concerns about potential favoritism, lack of public accountability, and the need to ensure that important governmental leadership decisions are made with input and oversight from the public. By requiring open deliberations and clear, predetermined selection processes, the bill seeks to foster greater public trust in governmental decision-making and ensure that leadership transitions in state agencies are conducted with integrity and public visibility.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Requires appointments and selections of heads of state divisions and agencies that require a board approval to be made through a publicly established process and timeline. Requires the approval of the process and timeline to appoint or select a new head of a state division or agency to be determined in an open meeting. Requires that votes to appoint or select heads of state divisions and agencies be conducted in an open meeting. Provides that any vote to appoint or select a head of a state division or agency cast in violation of the foregoing shall be invalid. Effective 1/1/2491. (SD1)
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 01/15/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Angus McKelvey (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Samantha DeCorte (R)*, Mike Gabbard (D)*, Kurt Fevella (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 02/11/2025
• Last Action: Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A06613 • Last Action 12/05/2025
Permits records required to be disclosed under the freedom of information law to have exempt parts of such documents be redacted before disclosure.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to clarify the process for handling records requested under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). Specifically, the bill allows government agencies to redact or withhold portions of a record that are exempt from disclosure while still releasing the remaining portions of the document that can be legally shared. Previously, agencies were required to make all records available for public inspection, with some exceptions. The new provision explicitly states that when a record contains both exempt and non-exempt sections, agencies can remove or block out the exempt portions while disclosing the rest of the document. The bill emphasizes that denials of access cannot be based solely on the type of record and must have a specific, particularized justification. This change aims to promote transparency by ensuring that as much information as possible is made available to the public, while still protecting sensitive or confidential information that is legally exempt from disclosure.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to permitting records required to be disclosed under the freedom of information law to have exempt parts of such documents be redacted before disclosure
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• Introduced: 03/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : John McDonald (D)*, Judy Griffin (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 03/06/2025
• Last Action: tabled
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0541 • Last Action 11/25/2025
Pub. Rec./Code Inspector Body Camera Recordings
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new public records exemption for body camera recordings made by code inspectors, protecting certain types of recordings from public disclosure. Specifically, the bill defines body cameras as portable electronic devices worn by code inspectors that record audio and video during official duties, and establishes that recordings taken in private residences, healthcare facilities, or places a reasonable person would consider private are confidential and exempt from public records requirements. The bill allows these recordings to be disclosed in limited circumstances, such as to the person recorded, their personal representative, or pursuant to a court order, with the court considering factors like potential harm to reputation, privacy interests, and the compelling nature of the request. Local governments must retain these body camera recordings for at least 90 days and are prohibited from disclosing them except under specific conditions. The exemption applies retroactively and is subject to legislative review, with the provision set to automatically repeal on October 2, 2031, unless reenacted. The Legislature justifies this exemption by arguing that while body cameras can help review the accuracy of code inspections, they may also capture highly sensitive personal information, and protecting such recordings will help code inspectors perform their duties more effectively.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An act relating to public records; amending s. 119.0713, F.S.; providing definitions; providing an exemption from public records requirements for body camera recordings recorded by a code inspector under certain circumstances; providing exceptions; requiring a local government to retain body camera recordings for a specified period; providing for retroactive application; providing for future legislative review and repeal of the exemption; providing a statement of public necessity; providing a contingent effective date.
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• Introduced: 11/24/2025
• Added: 11/25/2025
• Session: 2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Bill Partington (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 11/24/2025
• Last Action: Withdrawn prior to introduction
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2197 • Last Action 11/24/2025
To modernize municipal meetings, town meetings, and local elections
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modernizes municipal meetings and local elections by establishing comprehensive guidelines for remote participation and election postponement. The legislation allows public bodies to conduct meetings remotely using technologies like telephone or video conferencing, ensuring that remote participants can vote, be counted for quorum purposes, and have equal standing to in-person members. The bill requires public bodies to provide alternative means of public access to their meetings without charge and mandates that all remote votes be recorded as roll call votes. For local elections, select boards are granted the authority to postpone annual elections under specific circumstances, such as during weather-related, public safety, or public health emergencies, with provisions to ensure voter engagement and accommodation. Additionally, the bill empowers town moderators to hold town meetings through remote or hybrid formats, with detailed requirements to maintain democratic principles, such as limiting voting to confirmed eligible participants, enabling public access, and recording proceedings. The Attorney General is tasked with developing best practices for remote participation within 90 days of the act's effective date, and the legislation updates terminology like changing "Board of Selectmen" to "Select Board" to reflect modern language. Overall, the bill aims to provide flexibility and accessibility for local government proceedings while maintaining transparency and democratic integrity.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: For legislation relative to remote participation in municipal and town meetings and postponement of local elections elections. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jake Oliveira (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 03/10/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0243 • Last Action 11/21/2025
OMA-SERVICE MEMBER ATTENDANCE
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends several Illinois state laws to make changes to open meetings, public records requests, and local record management. Specifically, the bill allows township members to satisfy Open Meetings Act training requirements by participating in training sponsored by township organizations, prohibits public bodies from holding meetings on election days, and modifies Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) procedures. For electronic public records requests, the bill requires that requests appear entirely within the body of an electronic submission and prevents public bodies from being required to open attached files or hyperlinks. The bill also allows public bodies to require verification that a requester is a person within 5 business days of receiving a request. Additionally, the bill exempts certain security-sensitive documents related to nuclear regulatory information from public disclosure. The changes aim to improve government transparency while protecting sensitive information and providing more flexibility for public bodies in managing records requests. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that an elected or appointed member of a public body of a township may satisfy specified training requirements of the Act by participating in a course of training sponsored or conducted by an organization that represents townships created under the Township Code. Provides that a public body may not hold or schedule a regular or special meeting on the day of an election. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that electronic requests for public records must appear in their entirety within the body of the electronic submission and that no public body shall be required to open electronically attached files or hyperlinks to view or access the details of such a request. Allows, within 5 business days after its receipt of the request, a public body that has a reasonable belief that a request was not submitted by a person to require the requester to verify orally or in writing that the requester is a person. Provides that documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under certain requirements related to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and National Materials Program are exempt from inspection and copying under the Act. Amends the Local Records Act to make a conforming change. Makes other changes. Effective January 1, 2026.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 01/23/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 17 : Mike Porfirio (D)*, Dan Didech (D)*, Li Arellano (R), Kimberly Lightford (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Mark Walker (D), Celina Villanueva (D), Christopher Belt (D), Stephanie Kifowit (D), Suzanne Ness (D), Terra Costa Howard (D), Martha Deuter (D), Nicolle Grasse (D), Justin Slaughter (D), Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 71
• Last Amended: 10/15/2025
• Last Action: Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0438
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1836 • Last Action 11/19/2025
Consolidating the First Class Township Code; and making a repeal.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill consolidates the First Class Township Code into the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, creating a new comprehensive legal framework for townships of the first class. The bill replaces the existing First Class Township Code with two new parts in Title 73: Part I (Preliminary Provisions) and Part II (First Class Township Code). The legislation maintains most of the existing legal provisions while reorganizing them into a more structured format compatible with the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. Key provisions include establishing detailed guidelines for township governance, including: - Classification of townships - Procedures for changing township classifications - Election and appointment of township officials - Powers and duties of township commissioners - Processes for public improvements - Regulations for various township services like sewers, water systems, and parks - Establishment of civil service commissions - Procedures for ordinances and resolutions - Enforcement mechanisms and penalties The bill ensures continuity by stipulating that existing activities, orders, regulations, rules, and decisions under the old First Class Township Code will remain in effect until modified. Contracts, obligations, and collective bargaining agreements are also preserved. The legislation is primarily a technical reorganization and consolidation of existing law, with some minor updates to language and structure. It will take effect 60 days after passage, providing townships with a more systematically organized legal framework while maintaining the substantive rights and procedures that were previously in place.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 73 (Townships) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, consolidating the First Class Township Code; and making a repeal.
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• Introduced: 09/04/2025
• Added: 09/05/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Bob Freeman (D)*, Christina Sappey (D), Izzy Smith-Wade-El (D), Lee James (R), Brett Miller (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 09/05/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1777 • Last Action 11/19/2025
In local organizations and services, further providing for general authority of political subdivisions; and, in general provisions relating to government and administration, further providing for scope of subchapter, providing for definitions, further providing for establishment and designation, providing for emergency meetings by authorized telecommunications device, repealing provisions relating to exercise of powers and functions, further providing for declaration of policy and for definition
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modernizes emergency governance procedures for Pennsylvania municipalities by updating laws related to disaster emergencies and local government operations. The legislation makes several key changes, including allowing municipal governing bodies to conduct meetings using telecommunications devices during a disaster emergency, expanding the definition of "disaster emergency" beyond military attacks to include broader emergency situations, and modifying rules for declaring and extending local disaster emergencies. Specifically, the bill permits municipal governing bodies to hold meetings via authorized telecommunications devices (like conference calls or video meetings) without requiring physical presence, provided they give 24-hour advance public notice and attempt to allow public participation. It also standardizes the duration of emergency declarations to 21-day periods that can be renewed by resolution, and removes outdated references to military attacks as the primary type of emergency. The bill further clarifies that local officials can designate emergency interim successors to ensure government continuity during emergencies, and simplifies the process for exercising governmental powers during extraordinary circumstances. These changes are designed to provide local governments with more flexible and practical tools for maintaining operations and making critical decisions during unexpected crisis situations.
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Bill Summary: Amending Titles 35 (Health and Safety) and 53 (Municipalities Generally) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in local organizations and services, further providing for general authority of political subdivisions; and, in general provisions relating to government and administration, further providing for scope of subchapter, providing for definitions, further providing for establishment and designation, providing for emergency meetings by authorized telecommunications device, repealing provisions relating to exercise of powers and functions, further providing for declaration of policy and for definitions, repealing provisions relating to enabling authority for emergency interim successors for local offices, further providing for emergency interim successors for local officers and for succession period and repealing provisions relating to term and removal of designees.
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• Introduced: 07/31/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Brett Miller (R)*, Bob Freeman (D), Christina Sappey (D), Izzy Smith-Wade-El (D), Lee James (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 08/04/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #SB327 • Last Action 11/19/2025
Enact PEACE Act
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill enacts the Protecting Elected Officials Against Coercion and Extremism (PEACE) Act, which modifies Ohio's public records law to provide additional protections for elected officials' personal information. The bill amends existing statutes to restrict the disclosure of an elected official's residential and familial information. Specifically, the legislation creates a more stringent process for journalists or other requesters seeking an elected official's home address. Under the new provisions, a requester must appear in person at a board of elections, complete a detailed request form including their name, reason for the request, and signature, and show government-issued identification. The board of elections must then notify the elected official in writing if their residential information is released. The bill also expands the definition of "designated public service worker" to explicitly include elected officials and provides additional protections for their personal information in various public records, including voter registration databases. The changes aim to enhance the privacy and personal safety of elected officials by making it more difficult to obtain their home addresses and other sensitive personal details.
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Bill Summary: To amend sections 149.43, 3503.13, and 3503.153 of the Revised Code to enact the Protecting Elected Officials Against Coercion and Extremism (PEACE) Act to generally prohibit the disclosure of an elected official's residential and familial information under the Public Records Law.
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• Introduced: 11/19/2025
• Added: 11/20/2025
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Alessandro Cutrona (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 11/19/2025
• Last Action: Referred to committee: General Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HR326 • Last Action 11/19/2025
Recognizing December 1, 2025, as "Young Involved Philadelphia Day" in Pennsylvania.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This resolution recognizes December 1, 2025, as "Young Involved Philadelphia Day" in Pennsylvania, honoring Young Involved Philadelphia (YIP), a civic engagement organization for young people. Founded in 2000 by a small group of college graduates and incorporated in 2003, YIP has grown to over 7,000 members and focuses on empowering young Philadelphians aged 22 to 35 (though all are welcome) through civic education, advocacy, volunteer opportunities, and social events. The resolution highlights YIP's mission of encouraging emerging leadership, fostering community relationships, and promoting engagement with local leadership in Philadelphia. By designating this specific date, the resolution aims to celebrate YIP's 25th anniversary and recognize its significant contributions to the city's civic landscape and young community members.
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Bill Summary: A Resolution recognizing December 1, 2025, as "Young Involved Philadelphia Day" in Pennsylvania.
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• Introduced: 09/25/2025
• Added: 09/27/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Tarik Khan (D)*, Carol Hill-Evans (D), Ben Waxman (D), Ed Neilson (D), Tarah Probst (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Keith Harris (D), Tim Briggs (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Pat Gallagher (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Roni Green (D), Darisha Parker (D), Jeremy Shaffer (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 09/27/2025
• Last Action: Adopted (197-6)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR4405 • Last Action 11/19/2025
Epstein Files Transparency Act
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the Attorney General to release all unclassified Department of Justice documents related to Jeffrey Epstein within 30 days of enactment. The bill mandates the public release of comprehensive materials including investigation records, flight logs, communications about Epstein's criminal activities, immunity agreements, and documentation surrounding his detention and death. The Attorney General may only withhold or redact specific types of sensitive information, such as personally identifiable victim information, child sexual abuse materials, ongoing investigation details, graphic images of violence, and certain classified national security information. Any redactions must be accompanied by a written justification published in the Federal Register and submitted to Congress. The bill explicitly prohibits withholding documents solely due to potential embarrassment or political sensitivity. Within 15 days of completing the document release, the Attorney General must submit a detailed report to Congressional Judiciary Committees listing all released and withheld records, a summary of redactions, and a comprehensive list of government officials mentioned in the materials. The bill aims to increase transparency around the Epstein case and ensure public access to relevant government documents.
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Bill Summary: An Act To require the Attorney General to release all documents and records in possession of the Department of Justice relating to Jeffrey Epstein, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 07/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 25 : Ro Khanna (D)*, Thomas Massie (R), Darren Soto (D), Stephen Lynch (D), Yassamin Ansari (D), Jim McGovern (D), Shri Thanedar (D), Hank Johnson (D), Ilhan Omar (D), Brad Sherman (D), Wesley Bell (D), Johnny Olszewski (D), Nancy Pelosi (D), Chris Deluzio (D), Seth Moulton (D), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), Kweisi Mfume (D), Adam Smith (D), Danny Davis (D), Mary Gay Scanlon (D), Shomari Figures (D), Seth Magaziner (D), Maxine Dexter (D), Robert Garcia (D), Josh Harder (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 11/20/2025
• Last Action: Became Public Law No: 119-38.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2030 • Last Action 11/17/2025
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor and the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Interstate Compact, which establishes a multi-state licensing system for advanced practice registered nurses. The compact aims to streamline APRN licensing across participating states by creating a uniform set of licensure requirements, allowing APRNs to practice in multiple states under a single multistate license. Key provisions include establishing specific educational, examination, and professional practice standards for APRNs, creating a coordinated licensure information system to track nurse licensure and disciplinary actions, and forming an Interstate Commission of APRN Compact Administrators to oversee implementation. The compact will enable APRNs to more easily practice across state lines while maintaining public safety through consistent licensing standards, background checks, and information sharing among participating states. An APRN's home state will issue a multistate license that allows practice in other compact states, with the understanding that the nurse must comply with each state's specific practice laws. The bill specifies that the compact becomes operative when the Governor executes it and it is ratified by other states, with the compact administrator receiving expense reimbursement but no additional compensation for their role.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Interstate Compact; providing for the form of the compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor and the Secretary of the Commonwealth.
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• Introduced: 11/12/2025
• Added: 11/18/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Manny Guzman (D)*, Tarik Khan (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Joe Hohenstein (D), Ben Waxman (D), Ben Sanchez (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Steve Malagari (D), Carol Kazeem (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 11/17/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Professional Licensure
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H104 • Last Action 11/17/2025
Establishing the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act, which creates comprehensive data privacy protections for Massachusetts residents by introducing two new chapters to the state's General Laws: Chapter 93M (Massachusetts Data Privacy Act) and Chapter 93N (Privacy Protections for Location Information Derived from Electronic Devices). The bill defines key terms and establishes a robust framework for how businesses (called "covered entities") can collect, process, and transfer personal data. Key provisions include requiring explicit consent for data collection, giving individuals rights to access, correct, delete, and export their personal data, prohibiting targeted advertising to minors, and establishing strict rules around sensitive data like biometric information and precise geolocation data. The legislation applies to businesses based on their annual revenues and amount of data collected, with more stringent requirements for large data holders. The bill provides individuals with a private right of action to sue for violations, with potential damages ranging from $5,000 to a percentage of the company's annual global revenue. Enforcement is primarily through the Massachusetts Attorney General, who can investigate violations and impose significant penalties. The act will take effect one year after its enactment, giving businesses time to adapt to the new requirements. Overall, the bill represents a comprehensive approach to data privacy that aims to give Massachusetts residents more control over their personal information and hold businesses accountable for responsible data practices.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to establish the Massachusetts data privacy act. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 2 : Andy Vargas (D)*, Dave Rogers (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see H4746
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00847 • Last Action 11/14/2025
Requires each public body to live stream and post video recordings of all open meetings and public hearings; requires each public body to post such recordings for a period of not less than five years.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all public bodies (such as government agencies, boards, and commissions) to live stream their open meetings and public hearings on their official websites in real-time, to the extent that it is practicable. Additionally, these public bodies must post video recordings of these meetings and hearings on their websites within five business days of the event and maintain these recordings for a minimum of five years. The purpose of this legislation is to increase government transparency by making public meetings more accessible to citizens who cannot attend in person. The bill will go into effect 120 days after it becomes law, giving public bodies time to prepare and implement the necessary technology and procedures to comply with the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring all public bodies to live stream open meetings and public hearings and make the recordings of such meetings and hearings available on the webpage of the public body
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Amy Paulin (D)*, Jo Anne Simon (D), Tony Simone (D), Noah Burroughs (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: enacting clause stricken
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00578 • Last Action 11/14/2025
Requires public bodies to post video recordings of open meetings on their websites within five days of such meetings; requires such recordings be maintained for a period of five years.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to require public bodies to post video recordings of their open meetings on their websites within five business days of the meeting and maintain these recordings for at least five years. The legislation expands existing requirements for government transparency by replacing more narrow language about "agencies or authorities" with broader terminology of "public bodies". Previously, the law encouraged broadcasting and streaming meetings "to the extent practicable and within available funds", but this bill makes the video recording and posting requirements more specific and mandatory. Public bodies with websites and high-speed internet connections must now ensure that their open meetings are not only streamed in real-time but also recorded and made available online for an extended period. The bill eliminates detailed definitions of "agency" and "authority" that were previously in the law, potentially broadening the scope of organizations affected by these transparency requirements. The legislation takes effect immediately upon enactment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring public bodies to post video recordings of open meetings
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 01/07/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Amy Paulin (D)*, Carrie Woerner (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: enacting clause stricken
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H4653 • Last Action 11/13/2025
Protecting public higher education student information
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Chapter 66 of the General Laws by adding a new section that protects student information at public colleges and universities in Massachusetts. Specifically, the bill prevents these educational institutions from being required to disclose education records as defined by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), including directory information that might typically be released. The protection applies broadly to all such records, with a notable exception: requests from federal, state, or municipal agencies are still permitted to access these student records. The bill aims to provide additional privacy safeguards for students at public higher education institutions by limiting the circumstances under which their personal educational information can be shared or released.
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Bill Summary: Protecting public higher education student information
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• Introduced: 10/27/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : Joint Committee on Higher Education
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 10/27/2025
• Last Action: Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5247 • Last Action 11/13/2025
Civil rights: public records; limited access to public records; provide for incarcerated individuals. Amends secs. 1, 2, 3 & 5 of 1976 PA 442 (MCL 15.231 et seq.).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand public records access for incarcerated individuals while maintaining certain restrictions. The bill removes language that previously excluded incarcerated individuals from accessing public records and introduces specific conditions under which they can request records. Incarcerated individuals can now request public records if the records: (1) are not exempt from disclosure, (2) contain specific references to the individual or their minor child, and (3) are related to specific legal proceedings such as arrests, prosecutions, or juvenile adjudications involving the individual, their child, or where they are an alleged victim. The bill requires that such requests include specific identifying information and, in cases involving a minor child, an affidavit confirming parental rights. The legislation also clarifies that these new provisions do not interfere with existing Department of Corrections rules about mail delivery and provides that if a public body does not possess relevant records, they must deny the request within 30 days. Additionally, the bill makes minor technical changes to language around electronic communications, definitions, and administrative procedures for handling public records requests.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 442, entitled"Freedom of information act,"by amending sections 1, 2, 3, and 5 (MCL 15.231, 15.232, 15.233, and 15.235), section 1 as amended by 1997 PA 6, section 2 as amended by 2018 PA 68, section 3 as amended by 2018 PA 523, and section 5 as amended by 2020 PA 36.
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• Introduced: 11/12/2025
• Added: 11/13/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 16 : Stephanie Young (D)*, Erin Byrnes (D), Natalie Price (D), Brenda Carter (D), Kara Hope (D), Jennifer Conlin (D), Kelly Breen (D), Regina Weiss (D), Julie Brixie (D), Carrie Rheingans (D), Jason Hoskins (D), Veronica Paiz (D), Donavan McKinney (D), Helena Scott (D), Tyrone Carter (D), Tonya Myers Phillips (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/12/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 11/12/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5264 • Last Action 11/13/2025
Veterans: other; Michigan military and veteran services support fund; provide for. Creates new act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Michigan Military and Veteran Services Support Fund, a charitable and educational endowment fund within the state treasury designed to support military service members, veterans, and their families. The fund will have two separate accounts: one focused on supporting military service members and their families, and another dedicated to supporting veterans and their communities. The bill establishes a seven-member board to oversee the fund, including representatives from military and veteran agencies, and five appointed members with backgrounds in fundraising or charitable giving who represent various stakeholder groups such as service members, veterans, veteran service organizations, military trade associations, and the general public. Board members will serve four-year terms, with initial appointments having staggered term lengths. The fund will be tax-deductible and managed by the state treasurer, who will invest its assets using the same authority as a public employee retirement system investment fiduciary. The board will have the power to request appropriations, make fund allocations, accept gifts and bequests, enter into contracts, and develop policies to support military and veteran services. The state treasurer must prepare an annual accounting of the fund's revenues and expenditures, which will be reported to legislative appropriations committees, ensuring transparency and accountability in the fund's management.
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Bill Summary: A bill to create a Michigan military and veteran services support fund; to create a Michigan military and veteran services support fund board and prescribe its powers and duties; and to provide for the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities.
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• Introduced: 11/12/2025
• Added: 11/13/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 30 : Mai Xiong (D)*, Julie Rogers (D), Cynthia Neeley (D), Julie Brixie (D), Emily Dievendorf (D), Stephanie Young (D), Brenda Carter (D), Natalie Price (D), Jason Morgan (D), Donavan McKinney (D), Angela Witwer (D), Joseph Tate (D), Tullio Liberati (D), Regina Weiss (D), Penelope Tsernoglou (D), Samantha Steckloff (D), Veronica Paiz (D), Helena Scott (D), Denise Mentzer (D), Amos O'Neal (D), Erin Byrnes (D), Carol Glanville (D), Matt Longjohn (D), Tyrone Carter (D), Joey Andrews (D), Reggie Miller (D), Mike McFall (D), Matt Koleszar (D), Stephen Wooden (D), Kelly Breen (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/12/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 11/12/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB315 • Last Action 11/12/2025
An act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), entitled "An act relating to the public school system, including certain provisions applicable as well to private and parochial schools; amending, revising, consolidating and changing the laws relating thereto," in preliminary provisions, further providing for Special Education Funding Commission and for minimum number of days or hours; in duties and powers of boards of school directors, providing for admission fees for school-sponsored
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill is a comprehensive amendment to the Public School Code of 1949, addressing various aspects of education in Pennsylvania. It includes provisions related to special education funding, school safety, teacher certification, cyber charter school funding, performance-based funding for state-related universities, reading instruction, truancy, and several other educational matters. Key provisions include: 1. Establishing a Nursing Shortage Assistance Program to help address nursing workforce needs by providing grants to support loan repayment for nursing students. 2. Creating a new performance-based funding formula for state-related universities, which will allocate funding based on metrics like graduation rates, student demographics, and high-demand degree production. 3. Implementing new requirements for reading instruction in schools, including mandatory screening for reading competency in grades K-3 and development of reading intervention plans for students with reading deficiencies. 4. Modifying cyber charter school funding mechanisms to adjust per-student funding calculations and improve accountability. 5. Establishing new school safety and mental health grant programs for school entities. 6. Introducing changes to teacher certification processes, including modifications to certificate types and grade spans. 7. Creating a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) requirement for high school students, with an opt-out option. 8. Expanding the Grow Pennsylvania Scholarship program and adjusting various higher education funding mechanisms. The bill aims to improve educational outcomes, address workforce needs, enhance school safety, and provide more flexible and performance-driven funding for educational institutions across Pennsylvania.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), entitled "An <-- act relating to the public school system, including certain provisions applicable as well to private and parochial schools; amending, revising, consolidating and changing the laws relating thereto," in certification of teachers, providing for assessment of basic skills; in pupils and attendance, further providing for exceptional children and education and training; in school safety and security, further providing for School Safety and Security Grant Program and providing for school safety and mental health grants for 2025-2026 school year; in Drug and Alcohol Recovery High School Program, further providing for scope of program and selection of students and for enrollment of students; in charter schools, further providing for funding for cyber charter schools; in career and technical education, further providing for career and technical education equipment grants; in community colleges, further providing for financial program and reimbursement of payments; in State colleges, further providing for powers and duties of State Board of Higher Education, for definitions, for Performance- based Funding Council and for public institution of higher education reporting, establishing the State-related University Performance Fund and providing for performance- based funding formula and for public accountability; in funding for public libraries, providing for State Aid for Fiscal Year 2025-2026; in reimbursement by Commonwealth and between school districts, further providing for student- weighted basic education funding beginning with 2023-2024 school year, for assistance to school districts declared to be in financial recovery status or identified for financial watch status and for Ready-to-Learn Block Grant; and, in construction and renovation of buildings by school entities, further providing for applicability. AMENDING THE ACT OF MARCH 10, 1949 (P.L.30, NO.14), ENTITLED "AN <-- ACT RELATING TO THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM, INCLUDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS APPLICABLE AS WELL TO PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS; AMENDING, REVISING, CONSOLIDATING AND CHANGING THE LAWS RELATING THERETO," IN PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING COMMISSION AND FOR MINIMUM NUMBER OF DAYS OR HOURS; IN DUTIES AND POWERS OF BOARDS OF SCHOOL DIRECTORS, PROVIDING FOR ADMISSION FEES FOR SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITIES; IN INTERMEDIATE UNITS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR STAFF; IN CERTIFICATION OF TEACHERS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR CERTIFICATES QUALIFYING PERSONS TO TEACH AND FOR INSTRUCTIONAL CERTIFICATE GRADE SPANS AND AGE LEVELS AND DUTIES OF DEPARTMENT, PROVIDING FOR INSTRUCTIONAL CERTIFICATE GRADE SPANS AND AGE LEVELS AND FOR STATE CERTIFICATE FEE REDUCTION, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR STANDARD EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION, FOR CAREER AND TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONAL CERTIFICATE, FOR PROGRAM OF CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL AND PARAPROFESSIONAL EDUCATION AND FOR POSTBACCALAUREATE CERTIFICATION, PROVIDING FOR ASSESSMENT OF BASIC SKILLS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR DISCIPLINE FEE AND PROVIDING FOR CAREER AND TECHNICAL ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR CERTIFICATION FLEXIBILITY; IN PUPILS AND ATTENDANCE, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR ATTENDANCE POLICY AT CHARTER, REGIONAL CHARTER AND CYBER CHARTER SCHOOLS, FOR PROCEDURE WHEN CHILD IS TRUANT, FOR PROCEDURE BY SCHOOL WHEN CHILD HABITUALLY TRUANT, FOR PROCEDURE UPON FILING OF CITATION, FOR PENALTIES FOR VIOLATING COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS AND FOR STUDY OF TRUANCY PROCEDURE, PROVIDING FOR DEPARTMENT SUPPORTS TO PREVENT TRUANCY AND FURTHER PROVIDING FOR REPORTS TO SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION AND FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN AND EDUCATION AND TRAINING; IN STUDENT SUPPORTS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS; IN SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS, FOR SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY COMMITTEE, FOR SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY ASSESSMENT PROVIDERS, FOR SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM, FOR SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY COORDINATOR AND FOR SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY TRAINING, PROVIDING FOR SCHOOL SAFETY AND MENTAL HEALTH GRANTS FOR 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR AND FURTHER PROVIDING FOR REPORTING AND MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING; IN SCHOOL SECURITY, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR TRAINING, FOR SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS, FOR SCHOOL SECURITY GUARDS AND FOR DUTIES OF COMMISSION; IN SAFE2SAY PROGRAM, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR INTENT, FOR DEFINITIONS, FOR SAFE2SAY PROGRAM AND FOR ANNUAL REPORT; IN THREAT ASSESSMENT, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS, FOR THREAT ASSESSMENT TEAMS AND FOR THREAT ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES, TRAINING AND INFORMATION MATERIALS; IN DRUG AND ALCOHOL RECOVERY HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR SCOPE OF PROGRAM AND SELECTION OF STUDENTS AND FOR ENROLLMENT OF STUDENTS; IN EVIDENCE-BASED READING INSTRUCTION, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS AND PROVIDING FOR SCHOOL ENTITY DUTIES RELATED TO EVIDENCE-BASED READING INSTRUCTION, FOR SCHOOL ENTITY DUTIES RELATED TO READING SCREENING, FOR READING DEFICIENCY IDENTIFICATION AND PARENTAL NOTIFICATION, FOR READING INTERVENTION PLANS, FOR GRANT PROGRAM, FOR FUNDING, FOR REPORTING, FOR ACCOUNTABILITY AND FOR CONSTRUCTION; IN HIGH SCHOOLS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR ATTENDANCE IN OTHER DISTRICTS AND PROVIDING FOR FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID; IN INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS ACCOUNTABILITY, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR COUNCIL RECOMMENDATIONS AND STANDARDS; IN CHARTER SCHOOLS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR FUNDING FOR CYBER CHARTER SCHOOLS, FOR ENROLLMENT AND NOTIFICATION AND FOR ENROLLEE WELLNESS CHECKS; IN CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR CAPITAL RESERVE FUND FOR APPROVED PURCHASES OF EQUIPMENT AND FACILITY MAINTENANCE, FOR CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION EQUIPMENT GRANTS, FOR COSMETOLOGY TRAINING THROUGH CAREER AND TECHNICAL CENTER PILOT PROGRAM AND FOR BARBER TRAINING THROUGH CAREER AND TECHNICAL CENTER PILOT PROGRAM; PROVIDING FOR NURSING SHORTAGE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM; IN COMMUNITY COLLEGES, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR FINANCIAL PROGRAM AND REIMBURSEMENT OF PAYMENTS; IN THE STATE SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR DEFINITIONS AND FOR GROW PENNSYLVANIA MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM; IN EDUCATIONAL TAX CREDITS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR LIMITATIONS; IN HIGHER EDUCATION ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR EXIT COUNSELING; IN MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS RELATING TO INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, REPEALING PROVISIONS RELATING TO STATE-RELATED UNIVERSITY PERFORMANCE-BASED FUNDING MODEL, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR PROHIBITION ON SCHOLARSHIP DISPLACEMENT AT PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND PROVIDING FOR COOPERATION AND FOR STATE SCHOLARSHIP RENEWALS; IN INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR POWERS AND DUTIES OF STATE BOARD OF HIGHER EDUCATION, FOR DEFINITIONS, FOR PERFORMANCE-BASED FUNDING COUNCIL AND FOR PUBLIC INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION REPORTING, PROVIDING FOR STATE-RELATED UNIVERSITY PERFORMANCE FUND, FOR PERFORMANCE-BASED FUNDING FORMULA AND FOR PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY AND FURTHER PROVIDING FOR AGENCY DUTIES, FOR GRANT PRIORITY AND FOR REPORT; IN READY-TO- SUCCEED SCHOLARSHIP, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR AGENCY; IN FUNDING FOR PUBLIC LIBRARIES, PROVIDING FOR STATE AID FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026; IN REIMBURSEMENTS BY COMMONWEALTH AND BETWEEN SCHOOL DISTRICTS, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR STUDENT-WEIGHTED BASIC EDUCATION FUNDING BEGINNING WITH 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR, FOR EXTRAORDINARY SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM EXPENSES, FOR ASSISTANCE TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS DECLARED TO BE IN FINANCIAL RECOVERY STATUS OR IDENTIFIED FOR FINANCIAL WATCH STATUS AND FOR READY-TO-LEARN BLOCK GRANT; IN CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION OF BUILDINGS BY SCHOOL ENTITIES, FURTHER PROVIDING FOR APPLICABILITY; ABROGATING REGULATIONS; AND MAKING AN EDITORIAL CHANGE.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 11/12/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 12 : Lynda Schlegel-Culver (R)*, Rosemary Brown (R), Tracy Pennycuick (R), Wayne Fontana (D), Jay Costa (D), Tina Tartaglione (D), Pat Stefano (R), Judy Schwank (D), Cris Dush (R), Lindsey Williams (D), Frank Farry (R), James Malone (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 12 • Actions: 39
• Last Amended: 11/12/2025
• Last Action: Act No. 47 of 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB5243 • Last Action 11/12/2025
Economic development: other; Michigan economic development corporation; abolish. Amends secs. 4, 5 & 7 of 1984 PA 270 (MCL 125.2004 et seq.); adds sec. 15 & repeals sec. 29e of 1984 PA 270 (MCL 125.2029e).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes significant changes to the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) by fundamentally restructuring its relationship with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The bill amends several sections of the Michigan Strategic Fund Act to remove the MEDC's role in economic development activities and consolidate its powers and functions directly within the Strategic Fund. Specifically, the bill prohibits the Strategic Fund from delegating any powers to the MEDC, prevents funding or support for any projects associated with the MEDC, requires the Strategic Fund to withdraw from the interlocal agreement that created the MEDC, and transfers all of the MEDC's powers, records, and resources to the Strategic Fund. The bill also modifies the board composition by removing the MEDC's chief executive officer as a board member and makes technical changes to definitions and operational details of the fund. Additionally, the bill repeals a specific section of the existing law related to the MEDC. These changes appear designed to centralize economic development functions within the Strategic Fund and eliminate the separate MEDC entity, effectively abolishing the MEDC as a distinct organization while maintaining its core economic development responsibilities.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1984 PA 270, entitled"Michigan strategic fund act,"by amending sections 4, 5, and 7 (MCL 125.2004, 125.2005, and 125.2007), sections 4 and 7 as amended by 2020 PA 358 and section 5 as amended by 2023 PA 24, and by adding section 15; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
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• Introduced: 11/06/2025
• Added: 11/07/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 11 : Steve Carra (R)*, Joseph Fox (R), Matt Maddock (R), Jay DeBoyer (R), Jim DeSana (R), Tim Kelly (R), Bill Schuette (R), Jason Woolford (R), Luke Meerman (R), Angela Rigas (R), Will Bruck (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/06/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 11/06/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H1214 • Last Action 11/10/2025
To protect taxpayer confidentiality
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Chapter 200A of the Massachusetts General Laws to enhance confidentiality protections for individuals involved in the unclaimed property program. Specifically, the bill adds language to prevent the disclosure of identities and records of persons being examined under the unclaimed property program. The new provision explicitly states that such information cannot be disclosed under public records laws (Chapter 66) and is not considered a public record as defined in Chapter 4. The bill becomes effective immediately upon the governor's signature and applies to all taxpayer information from that point forward. The key purpose appears to be protecting the privacy of individuals whose property or financial information is being reviewed by state financial authorities, ensuring that sensitive personal and financial details remain confidential and cannot be publicly accessed through standard public records requests.
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Bill Summary: Relative to the disclosure of information of certain persons in the unclaimed property program. Financial Services.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Hannah Kane (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a study order, see H4712
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4813 • Last Action 11/05/2025
Education: other; interstate compact on educational opportunity for military children; modify. Amends secs. 1 & 2 of 2008 PA 160 (MCL 3.1041 & 3.1042).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, which aims to help children of military families overcome educational challenges caused by frequent moves and deployments. The bill updates the compact's language to include the Space Force in the definition of Armed Forces and makes several technical corrections to terminology. It also specifies requirements for the state's representative to the interstate commission, stipulating that the governor should appoint someone who is either a resident with good moral character who has been honorably discharged from the Armed Forces after at least 15 years of active duty and had at least one minor child enrolled in school during service, or the spouse or child of such a person. The compact's core purpose remains facilitating educational transitions for military children by removing barriers such as enrollment challenges, course placement difficulties, and graduation complications that can arise when families are relocated. Key provisions include ensuring timely school enrollment, honoring previous educational placements, providing flexibility in course and program requirements, and supporting on-time graduation, all designed to minimize disruptions to military children's education when their families are transferred between states.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 2008 PA 160, entitled"An act entering into the interstate compact on educational opportunity for military children: and for related purposes,"by amending sections 1 and 2 (MCL 3.1041 and 3.1042).
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• Introduced: 08/26/2025
• Added: 08/27/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 7 : Joseph Pavlov (R)*, Jamie Thompson (R), Bryan Posthumus (R), Jaime Greene (R), Joseph Fox (R), Rylee Linting (R), Tom Kunse (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 08/26/2025
• Last Action: Recommendation Concurred In
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB2002 • Last Action 10/29/2025
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists; providing for form of compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists, which aims to facilitate the practice of school psychology across participating states by creating a streamlined licensure process. The compact establishes a framework for school psychologists to obtain equivalent licenses in multiple states, promoting workforce mobility and addressing potential shortages while maintaining professional standards. Key provisions include requiring participants to have a qualifying education (at least 60-90 graduate semester hours with a supervised internship), pass a national exam, and undergo a criminal background check. The bill creates an interstate commission to oversee the compact, which will manage licensure information exchange, set rules for participation, resolve disputes between states, and ensure that only qualified professionals can provide school psychological services. The compact allows for easier licensure for military members and their spouses, enables states to share investigative and disciplinary information about licensees, and provides a mechanism for states to join, participate in, or withdraw from the agreement. The compact will become operative when the Governor executes it and at least six other states have ratified it, with the goal of improving access to school psychological services while maintaining high professional standards and protecting public safety.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists; providing for form of compact; and imposing additional powers and duties on the Governor, the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Compact.
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• Introduced: 10/29/2025
• Added: 10/30/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 13 : Manny Guzman (D)*, Carol Hill-Evans (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Danilo Burgos (D), Kyle Donahue (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Nikki Rivera (D), Mandy Steele (D), Ed Neilson (D), Jim Haddock (D), Joe Ciresi (D), John Inglis (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 10/29/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Professional Licensure
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4176 • Last Action 10/28/2025
OPEN MTGS-STATEWIDE ASSOC
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to modify the circumstances under which public bodies can hold closed meetings when discussing self-evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics. Specifically, the bill removes the phrase "or regional" from the existing law, which means that public bodies can now hold closed meetings only when meeting with a representative of a statewide association (not a regional association) of which the public body is a member. This change narrows the scope of permitted closed meetings, potentially increasing transparency by limiting the types of associations that can trigger a closed meeting. The bill is contingent on Senate Bill 243 of the 104th General Assembly becoming law, and it will take effect either immediately upon becoming law or on the date that Senate Bill 243 takes effect, whichever is later. The modification is a technical adjustment to the existing Open Meetings Act, which generally requires public bodies to conduct meetings openly but allows for specific exceptions where closed meetings may be appropriate.
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Bill Summary: If and only if Senate Bill 243 of the 104th General Assembly, as amended by House Amendment No. 1, becomes law, then the Open Meetings Act is amended to allow a public body to hold closed meetings to consider self evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics, when meeting with a representative of a statewide association (rather than a statewide or regional association) of which the public body is a member. Effective upon becoming law or on the date Senate Bill 243 of the 104th General Assembly takes effect, whichever is later.
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• Introduced: 10/22/2025
• Added: 10/22/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 10/22/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1822 • Last Action 10/27/2025
Providing for protection of personal data of certain public servants; imposing duties on data brokers regarding personal data; and providing for civil enforcement.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill provides enhanced privacy protections for public servants by establishing a legal framework that restricts data brokers from disclosing personal information about judges, elected officials, and their associated persons. The legislation defines "protected information" as including home addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and vehicle identifiers, and requires data brokers to immediately cease disclosing such information upon receiving a written request from a covered person or their authorized agent. The bill imposes both civil and criminal penalties for violations, with civil penalties including damages of $1,000 per violation, potential punitive damages, and attorney fees, while criminal penalties range from misdemeanor of the third degree for reckless violations to misdemeanor of the second degree for intentional violations. The law aims to protect public servants and their families from potential threats and intimidation by making it more difficult for malicious actors to obtain personal contact information, with coverage lasting for the principal person's lifetime and ten years for associated persons. The bill explicitly allows for liberal interpretation to accomplish its purpose of safeguarding public servants' privacy while still permitting necessary disclosures for official candidacy and residency challenges.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 44 (Law and Justice) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for protection of personal data of certain public servants; imposing duties on data brokers regarding personal data; and providing for civil and <-- criminal enforcement.
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• Introduced: 08/26/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Tim Briggs (D)*, Jeanne McNeill (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Danielle Otten (D), Kristine Howard (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Lisa Borowski (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Pat Gallagher (D), Dan Williams (D), Melissa Shusterman (D), Heather Boyd (D), Ed Neilson (D), Gina Curry (D), Roni Green (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 10/27/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H638 • Last Action 10/23/2025
To protect library patron privacy
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect the privacy of library patrons by amending Chapter 78 of the General Laws. Specifically, the bill adds a new section (Section 7A) that prevents library records that reveal a person's identity and intellectual activities from being considered public records. Under this proposed legislation, such records can only be accessed with a specific warrant issued through Chapter 276 or in urgent, emergency situations (referred to as "exigent circumstances"). By striking the third sentence of the existing Section 7 and inserting this new provision, the bill strengthens the confidentiality of library patron information, ensuring that an individual's reading habits, research interests, and library usage remain private and protected from casual or unauthorized disclosure.
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Bill Summary: For legislation relative to the privacy of library records. Education.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jay Livingstone (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #HB527 • Last Action 10/22/2025
Allow felony defendants to request indictment by open grand jury
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows felony defendants to request an alternative system of indictment through an open grand jury, which differs from the traditional secret grand jury process. Currently, grand jury proceedings are confidential, but under this bill, defendants would have the right to request a public grand jury hearing where they can be present, hear the evidence, and potentially offer their own evidence or move for discharge. The bill adds new provisions that require judges to inform defendants of their right to an open grand jury and allows defendants to demand that the state provide probable cause in a public setting. If a defendant requests an open grand jury, the case will proceed in this manner unless the state can demonstrate specific exigent circumstances that require a secret grand jury, such as potential evidence destruction or flight risk. The bill also modifies numerous existing sections of Ohio law to accommodate this new grand jury option, including provisions about jury selection, oath-taking, and procedural requirements. The open grand jury proceedings would operate similarly to secret grand juries but with the key difference of being open to the public and allowing the defendant more direct participation in the process.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To amend sections 109.83, 109.84, 109.85, 109.86, 121.22, 177.03, 307.52, 325.07, 701.03, 1901.21, 2151.43, 2152.13, 2301.25, 2335.08, 2930.09, 2933.62, 2933.63, 2935.36, 2937.09, 2937.10, 2937.12, 2939.02, 2939.03, 2939.06, 2939.07, 2939.08, 2939.09, 2939.10, 2939.11, 2939.12, 2939.13, 2939.14, 2939.15, 2939.16, 2939.17, 2939.19, 2939.23, 2939.24, 2941.06, 2941.58, 2951.041, 2953.33, 3515.13, 3701.14, 3701.17, 3701.24, and 4113.22 and to enact sections 2937.111, 2939.061, and 2939.071 of the Revised Code to allow felony defendants to request an alternative system of indictment by open grand jury.
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• Introduced: 10/15/2025
• Added: 10/16/2025
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Josh Williams (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 10/15/2025
• Last Action: Referred to committee: Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S1210 • Last Action 10/20/2025
Concerning the disclosure of the home address and home contact information of certain public safety officials
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes legal protections for the home addresses and unpublished home telephone numbers of active, retired, or formerly active judicial officers, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and their immediate family members living in the same household. The legislation prohibits persons, businesses, or associations from disclosing or re-disclosing such personal information on the internet or through other means once they receive written notice from an authorized person requesting nondisclosure. If such information is published, the aggrieved person can bring a civil action in Superior Court, where the court may award actual damages (with a minimum of $1,000 per violation), punitive damages for willful disregard, reasonable attorney's fees, and other equitable relief. Authorized persons who can request nondisclosure include the covered person themselves, court clerks, designated representatives, or legal guardians. The bill specifically includes protections for immediate family members and provides a detailed definition of terms like "covered person" and "immediate family member." Notably, the bill does not impose liability on news media for information in previously printed newspapers and will not require compliance until one year after its enactment, though organizations may choose to honor redaction requests earlier.
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Bill Summary: For legislation relative to the disclosure of the home address and home contact information of certain public safety officials. The Judiciary.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Moore (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Hearing scheduled for 07/15/2025 from 01:00 PM-08:00 PM in A-2
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S08411 • Last Action 10/16/2025
Authorizes the denial of access to certain public records which relate to civil investigations; requires the superintendent of state police to provide the department of law with direct, real-time access to the criminal gun clearinghouse; relates to the enforcement powers of the attorney general; authorizes the attorney general to investigate and bring any civil action addressing repeated or persistent discrimination in elementary and secondary schools; requires the compromise of any claim which
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several key changes to New York state law regarding public records, law enforcement, and civil rights enforcement. It allows state agencies to deny access to public records related to civil investigations, similar to existing protections for criminal investigations. The bill requires the state police superintendent to provide the Department of Law with direct, real-time access to the criminal gun clearinghouse, which tracks firearms seized or recovered by law enforcement. Additionally, the bill significantly expands the Attorney General's enforcement powers, specifically authorizing investigations and civil actions in cases of repeated or persistent discrimination in elementary and secondary schools. The Attorney General can now seek damages, injunctive relief, and other remedies when discriminatory practices are found to be ongoing or affecting multiple individuals. The bill also modifies provisions related to compromising certain state claims in medical and hospital settings, removing the requirement for prior attorney general approval and instead establishing parameters for such compromises. These changes aim to enhance transparency, improve gun tracking, and strengthen civil rights protections, particularly in educational settings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the denial of access to public records that relate to civil investigations; to amend the executive law, in relation to requiring the superintendent of state police to provide the department of law with direct, real-time access to the criminal gun clearinghouse; to amend the executive law and the civil rights law, relating to the enforcement powers of the attorney general; to amend the education law, in relation to authorizing the attorney general to enforce the provisions of the education law against covered entities who engage in discrimination and the powers and duties of state university trustees; and to amend the public health law, in relation to the compromise of certain claims the state may have
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• Introduced: 06/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : James Skoufis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 06/09/2025
• Last Action: VETOED MEMO.53
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB935 • Last Action 10/13/2025
State agencies: complaints: demographic data.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires two state departments - the State Department of Education and the Civil Rights Department - to collect and report specific demographic data about complaints alleging discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying, while ensuring individual privacy. Beginning July 1, 2026 for the Department of Education and July 1, 2027 for the Civil Rights Department, these agencies will collect voluntary demographic information such as ethnicity, race, gender, and protected group status from complaint filers, along with details about the complaint and its resolution. The departments will be required to publish annual summary reports on their websites that provide an overview of the collected data, with strict safeguards to prevent the identification of specific individuals. The collected information will be kept confidential and protected from public disclosure under the California Public Records Act, except to the same extent as the underlying complaint. The bill aims to balance transparency and data collection with individual privacy protection, allowing the state to gather insights about discrimination complaints while preventing potential personal harm or identification of complainants. Legislative findings emphasize the need to protect residents' privacy while still collecting useful demographic information.
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Bill Summary: An act to add Section 33315.5 to the Education Code, and to add Section 8310.10 to the Government Code, relating to state government administration.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 07/04/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 12 : Rhodesia Ransom (D)*, Mia Bonta (D), Isaac Bryan (D), Sade Elhawary (D), Mike Gipson (D), Corey Jackson (D), Tina McKinnor (D), Laura Richardson (D), LaShae Sharp-Collins (D), Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D), Akilah Weber Pierson (D), Lori Wilson (D)
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 10 • Actions: 39
• Last Amended: 10/13/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 717, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1388 • Last Action 10/13/2025
Law enforcement: settlement agreements.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends California law to address settlement agreements and transparency in law enforcement personnel records. Specifically, the bill prohibits law enforcement agencies from entering into agreements that require destroying, removing, or concealing records of misconduct investigations, halting investigations, or restricting the disclosure of misconduct information. The legislation expands public access to certain types of peace officer personnel records, including those related to incidents involving use of force, sexual assault, dishonesty, discrimination, and unlawful arrests or searches. The bill requires law enforcement agencies to report specific events to the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, such as officer employment changes, complaints, and investigation dispositions. It also allows agencies that previously employed an officer to disclose termination information and provides mechanisms for officers to respond to separation reports. The goal is to increase accountability and transparency in law enforcement by preventing the concealment of misconduct and ensuring that important information about officer conduct is preserved and potentially accessible to the public, while still protecting certain sensitive personal information.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 832.7 and 13510.9 of the Penal Code, relating to law enforcement.
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• Introduced: 02/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Isaac Bryan (D)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 36
• Last Amended: 10/13/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 729, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1178 • Last Action 10/11/2025
Peace officers: confidentiality of records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 832.7 of the Penal Code to modify the rules surrounding the confidentiality and public disclosure of peace officers' and custodial officers' personnel records. Specifically, the bill requires courts to consider whether a peace officer is currently operating undercover when determining whether redacting a record is appropriate to protect the officer's physical safety. The bill expands the types of records that can be publicly disclosed, including records related to incidents involving officer misconduct such as use of force, sexual assault, dishonesty, discrimination, or unlawful arrests. It also establishes detailed procedures for how and when such records can be released, including time limits on withholding records during investigations and requirements for agencies to provide explanations for any delays in disclosure. The bill further clarifies that certain types of records must be made available through public records requests, while also protecting sensitive personal information and maintaining provisions to safeguard the privacy and safety of officers, witnesses, and other involved parties. The bill includes complex operative clauses that coordinate its implementation with two other related bills (AB 847 and AB 1388) to ensure consistent amendments to the law.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 832.7 of the Penal Code, relating to peace officers.
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• Introduced: 02/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Blanca Pacheco (D)*, Juan Alanis (R), Blanca Rubio (D), Michelle Rodriguez (D), Stephanie Nguyen (D)
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 38
• Last Amended: 10/11/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 635, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB538 • Last Action 10/11/2025
Public works: payroll records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 1776 of the Labor Code to clarify and strengthen requirements for payroll record management in public works projects. Specifically, the bill requires awarding bodies to obtain certified payroll records from contractors when a public records request is made and the awarding body does not already possess those records. If a contractor fails to provide the requested records within 10 days, the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) can enforce penalties by requesting funds be withheld from the contractor's progress payments. The bill maintains existing requirements that payroll records must include detailed information about workers, such as names, addresses, work classifications, hours worked, and wages paid, and must be verified under penalty of perjury. The legislation also preserves existing privacy protections by requiring personal identifying information like social security numbers to be redacted when records are shared publicly. The bill expands the potential administrative burden on contractors and subcontractors, which could be considered an expansion of a potential misdemeanor crime, but it does not require state reimbursement for these new requirements. The overall aim is to increase transparency and accountability in public works project payroll record-keeping.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 1776 of the Labor Code, relating to public works.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Marc Berman (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 10/11/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 616, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0605 • Last Action 10/09/2025
Children: protection; availability of confidential records; modify. Amends sec. 7 of 1975 PA 238 (MCL 722.627).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Child Protection Law to expand access to confidential child protection records by adding two new categories of individuals who can request these records: state legislators and members of the media. The bill specifically defines media members as news reporters or press photographers with valid press credentials. The legislation maintains the existing strict confidentiality protections for child protection records, which are generally only available to specific authorized entities such as child protective agencies, law enforcement, medical professionals, courts, and research organizations. The bill makes some minor language updates, such as changing gendered pronouns to gender-neutral terms like "themself." The key change is broadening the circle of individuals who can access these sensitive records while still maintaining significant restrictions to protect the privacy and safety of children and families involved in child protection cases. The bill aims to increase transparency around child protection processes while attempting to balance the need for confidentiality with public interest in understanding these important child welfare matters.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1975 PA 238, entitled"Child protection law,"by amending section 7 (MCL 722.627), as amended by 2023 PA 305.
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• Introduced: 10/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 4 : Jim Runestad (R)*, Jonathan Lindsey (R), Ed McBroom (R), Lana Theis (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 10/09/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Civil Rights, Judiciary, And Public Safety
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S02520 • Last Action 10/09/2025
Relates to the maximum allowable time frames to respond to requests for records under the freedom of information act.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) response timelines for New York state agencies, establishing a phased approach to reducing the maximum time allowed to fulfill records requests. Under the new provisions, agencies must respond to records requests within progressively shorter timeframes: 180 days for requests made before the end of 2026, 90 days for requests made in 2027, and 60 days for requests made from 2028 onward. The bill allows agencies to extend these timelines only under specific circumstances, such as federal legal restrictions, employee safety concerns, or when records are extremely voluminous. If an agency needs additional time, it must provide a detailed written explanation to the requester, including monthly progress updates, and must also notify the Committee on Open Government. The notification must be signed by the agency's commissioner and explain why the records cannot be provided within the standard timeframe and what efforts are being made to expedite the request. Additionally, the bill reinforces existing requirements for agencies to accept electronic requests, maintain websites with online submission capabilities, and make reasonable efforts to retrieve electronic records when possible. The changes aim to improve transparency and efficiency in public records access by establishing more stringent response timelines.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to time frames for responding to requests for records under the freedom of information act
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• Introduced: 01/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : James Skoufis (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Cordell Cleare (D), Robert Jackson (D), Liz Krueger (D), Christopher Ryan (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 01/21/2025
• Last Action: VETOED MEMO.29
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB583 • Last Action 10/06/2025
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to streamline social work licensing across participating states. The compact aims to increase public access to social work services by reducing duplicative licensing requirements, enhancing interstate practice mobility, and supporting workforce flexibility. Key provisions include establishing a national data system to track social worker licenses, creating a multistate license that allows social workers to practice in all compact member states, and setting uniform standards for licensure across different practice levels (bachelor's, master's, and clinical). Social workers can obtain a multistate license by meeting specific education, examination, and practice requirements in their home state, which will then be recognized by other member states. The compact creates a governing commission to manage implementation, oversee rule-making, and handle interstate disputes. It also includes provisions to protect public safety by allowing states to take adverse actions against licenses and maintaining each state's ability to regulate social work practice within its borders. The compact will become operational once seven states have enacted substantially similar legislation, with a goal of facilitating easier professional mobility while maintaining high standards of professional practice and public protection.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Social Work Licensure Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 04/10/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Tracy Pennycuick (R)*, Wayne Fontana (D), Nikil Saval (D), Dave Argall (R), Elder Vogel (R), Nickolas Pisciottano (D), Jarrett Coleman (R), Patty Kim (D), Greg Rothman (R), Judy Schwank (D), Carolyn Comitta (D), Nick Miller (D), Katie Muth (D), Frank Farry (R), Steve Santarsiero (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table (Pursuant to Senate Rule 9)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #H3301 • Last Action 10/06/2025
Further regulating access to public records
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: 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.
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Bill Summary: Relative to further regulating access to public records. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Tony Cabral (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB847 • Last Action 10/06/2025
Peace officers: confidentiality of records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill would expand access to confidential peace officer and custodial officer personnel records by granting civilian law enforcement oversight boards and county inspector generals the ability to review these previously restricted documents during investigations of officer conduct. The bill specifies that these oversight entities must maintain the confidentiality of the records and can conduct closed sessions to review them. Currently, such records are generally confidential and can only be accessed through specific legal discovery processes, but this legislation would create new exceptions for civilian oversight bodies. The bill also incorporates potential amendments from other related bills (AB 1178 and AB 1388) depending on the order and timing of their enactment, which creates a complex set of conditions for the bill's implementation. Importantly, the expanded access is limited to official oversight investigations and requires the receiving entities to protect the sensitive nature of the personnel records, balancing transparency with the need to protect individual officers' privacy.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 25303.7 of the Government Code, and to amend Section 832.7 of the Penal Code, relating to peace officers.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : LaShae Sharp-Collins (D)*, Jesse Arreguin (D)
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 10/06/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 383, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB808 • Last Action 10/03/2025
Campaign statements and registrations: filing online or electronically.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modernizes and updates California's campaign finance reporting and disclosure laws, primarily focusing on transitioning to an online electronic filing system. The bill replaces the term "campaign statement" with "campaign report" and eliminates the option to file reports by fax, requiring most campaign finance documents to be filed electronically with the Secretary of State. It introduces a new online filing system that will allow for more efficient and transparent reporting of campaign contributions, expenditures, and other financial activities. The bill removes some existing filing requirements, such as the provision for a short-form filing for candidates with minimal contributions and expenditures, and modifies rules around personal loans to campaigns by removing the $100,000 cap on candidate loans. The legislation also updates various reporting deadlines, disclosure requirements, and audit procedures for campaign committees, slate mailer organizations, and other political entities. Importantly, the bill will only become operative once the Secretary of State certifies a new online filing and disclosure system, ensuring that the technological infrastructure is in place before implementation. The changes aim to improve public access to campaign finance information and streamline the reporting process for political committees and candidates.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 81007, 81007.5, 81009, 81010, 82006, 82015, 82018, 82022.5, 82025, 82046, 83113, 84100, 84101, 84101.5, 84102, 84103, 84104, 84106, 84108, 84200, 84200.5, 84200.8, 84200.9, 84202.3, 84202.7, 84203, 84204, 84204.5, 84205, 84207, 84209, 84211, 84212, 84213, 84214, 84215, 84218, 84219, 84222, 84223, 84224, 84226, 84252, 84300, 84302, 84303, 84306, 84502, 84504.6, 84602, 84605, 84612, 84615, 84616, 85200, 85201, 85307, 85400, 85505, 85704, 86116, 89502, 89503, 89511.5, 89517.5, 89517.6, 90001, 90002, 90004, 91010, 91011, and 91013 of, and to repeal Sections 84206 and 84603 of, the Government Code, relating to the Political Reform Act of 1974.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Dawn Addis (D)*
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 34
• Last Amended: 10/03/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 278, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB707 • Last Action 10/03/2025
Open meetings: meeting and teleconference requirements.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates California's open meeting laws (known as the Ralph M. Brown Act) to enhance public participation and accessibility in local government meetings. Beginning July 1, 2026, and until January 1, 2030, the bill requires eligible legislative bodies (such as city councils and county boards of supervisors in larger jurisdictions) to provide two-way telephonic or audiovisual platforms for public meeting participation, with specific requirements for translation, public comment, and meeting disruption. The bill expands opportunities for remote meeting participation, including for members with caregiving needs or other justified reasons, while maintaining provisions to ensure public transparency. It allows for teleconferencing under various circumstances, such as during emergencies or for specific types of bodies like health authorities and student organizations, and mandates that meeting agendas be translated into languages spoken by 20% or more of the local population. The legislation aims to modernize public meeting access by reflecting technological changes, promoting broader civic engagement, and providing flexibility for different types of local government bodies while maintaining core principles of open government.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 54952.7, 54953, 54953.5, 54953.7, 54954.2, 54954.3, 54956, 54956.5, 54957.6, 54957.9, and 54957.95 of, to amend and repeal Section 54952.2 of, to add Sections 54953.8, 54953.8.1, 54953.8.2, and 54957.96 to, and to add and repeal Sections 54953.4, 54953.8.3, 54953.8.4, 54953.8.5, 54953.8.6, and 54953.8.7 of, the Government Code, relating to local government.
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• Introduced: 02/21/2025
• Added: 02/22/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : María Elena Durazo (D)*, Jesse Arreguin (D)*, Joaquin Arambula (D), Blanca Rubio (D), Mike Fong (D)
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 42
• Last Amended: 10/03/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 327, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB343 • Last Action 10/01/2025
California Public Records Act: elected or appointed officials.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands the definition of "elected or appointed official" under the California Public Records Act to include additional categories of judicial and legal professionals, such as retired judges and court commissioners, retired federal judges and defenders, retired judges from federally recognized Indian tribes, and court-appointed children's counsel in family or dependency proceedings. The bill aims to protect personal information of these officials by preventing disclosure of sensitive details like home addresses and phone numbers to reduce the risk of harassment or targeted violence. By broadening the scope of protected officials and maintaining existing restrictions on unauthorized information disclosure, the bill creates a new criminal penalty for revealing such protected information. The legislation includes a legislative finding that the need to protect officials and their families from potential harm outweighs the public's interest in accessing their personal details. Notably, the bill specifies that no reimbursement will be required from local agencies or school districts for implementing these changes, as the modifications primarily relate to creating or modifying criminal provisions.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 7920.500 of the Government Code, relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Blanca Pacheco (D)*, James Ramos (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 10/01/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 142, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB470 • Last Action 10/01/2025
Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act: teleconferencing.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Bagley-Keene Open Meeting Act to extend existing teleconferencing provisions for state bodies and advisory bodies until January 1, 2030, instead of the current expiration date of January 1, 2026. The bill maintains key provisions that allow state bodies to hold meetings via teleconference, including requirements that meetings be visible and audible to the public, provide remote access methods, and allow public comments. For standard state bodies, the bill preserves rules that require at least one member to be physically present at each teleconference location, with a majority of members physically present at the same location. The bill also continues to allow members with disabilities to participate remotely and maintains provisions that require members to be visibly on camera during open meetings when technologically feasible. Additionally, the bill includes legislative findings highlighting the benefits of teleconferencing, such as increased public participation, reduced travel costs, and improved accessibility for individuals who might face barriers to physical meeting attendance. The bill aims to balance public transparency with the privacy and convenience introduced by modern teleconferencing technologies.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 11123.2 and 11123.5 of, the Government Code, relating to state government.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 02/20/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : John Laird (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 10/01/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 222, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1899 • Last Action 09/30/2025
In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Right-to-Know Law by modifying an existing provision about personal identification information that can be kept confidential. Specifically, the bill expands the list of government officials whose home addresses are exempt from public disclosure. Currently, home addresses of law enforcement officers are protected, and this bill adds judges and members of the General Assembly (Pennsylvania's state legislature) to that list of protected individuals. By inserting a comma and the phrase "member of the General Assembly" after the existing language about law enforcement officers and judges, the bill ensures that these public officials can keep their home addresses private, likely to protect their personal safety and prevent potential harassment. The amendment will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving state agencies time to implement the change. This modification is part of ongoing efforts to balance public transparency with the personal security of government officials.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
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• Introduced: 09/30/2025
• Added: 09/30/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 25 : Gregory Scott (D)*, Roni Green (D), Heather Boyd (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Tarah Probst (D), Jeanne McNeill (D), Danielle Otten (D), Pat Harkins (D), Chris Pielli (D), Manny Guzman (D), Milou Mackenzie (R), Josh Siegel (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Thomas Kutz (R), Steve Malagari (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Lisa Borowski (D), Gina Curry (D), Jack Rader (R), Paul Friel (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Andre Carroll (D), Nancy Guenst (D), La'Tasha Mayes (D), Bob Merski (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 09/30/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB1004 • Last Action 09/26/2025
Tribal financial information: public records: exemption.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends California law to protect the confidentiality of financial information provided by federally recognized Indian tribes to public agencies when receiving financial assistance. Specifically, the bill makes any financial records submitted by an Indian tribe as part of a grant, cooperative agreement, or other financial assistance process confidential and not subject to public disclosure. The bill requires that all agreements between public agencies and Indian tribes include a provision ensuring the confidentiality of financial information. The legislation defines "financial assistance" broadly to include grants, direct appropriations, donations of property, and food commodities. The bill's purpose is to respect tribal sovereignty by protecting sensitive financial information while still allowing public agencies to collect necessary information when providing financial support. By making these records confidential, the bill aims to create a more secure and respectful framework for financial interactions between public agencies and Indian tribes. The bill also includes provisions ensuring that this confidentiality applies to all cities, including charter cities, and includes legislative findings that demonstrate the need to protect tribal financial information from public disclosure.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 7930.205 of, and to add Chapter 5.7 (commencing with Section 8450) to Division 1 of Title 2 of, the Government Code, relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Greg Wallis (R)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 09/26/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 132, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0420 • Last Action 09/26/2025
Civil rights: open meetings; the children trust Michigan state board; allow to meet remotely under the open meetings act. Amends sec. 3a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263a). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0418'25
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Michigan's Open Meetings Act to allow the Children Trust Michigan state board to meet remotely under the same conditions as other public bodies. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision (subsection (g)) that permits the Children Trust Michigan board to hold electronic meetings under any circumstances where members need accommodation, such as military duty or medical conditions. The bill maintains existing requirements for electronic meetings, including ensuring two-way communication, allowing public participation, and providing clear advance notice on the public body's website at least 18 hours before the meeting. The notice must explain why the meeting is electronic, how the public can participate, how to provide input, and how people with disabilities can join. The bill also specifies that members of the public cannot be required to register or provide personal information to attend an electronic meeting, except for mechanisms necessary for public comment. Importantly, this bill is tie-barred with Senate Bill 418, meaning it will only take effect if that companion bill is also enacted into law. The changes will take effect on February 13, 2024, expanding the flexibility for public bodies to conduct meetings electronically.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending section 3a (MCL 15.263a), as amended by 2023 PA 214.
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• Introduced: 06/12/2025
• Added: 06/13/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 2 : Sam Singh (D)*, Kevin Hertel (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 09/25/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Government Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2608 • Last Action 09/25/2025
Establishing the Massachusetts data privacy act
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act, a comprehensive law that provides consumers with significant rights regarding their personal data and imposes strict obligations on companies (controllers and processors) that collect and process such data. The bill applies to organizations that collect data from at least 60,000 consumers or derive 20% of their revenue from selling personal data, with notable exemptions for certain government entities, financial institutions, and healthcare organizations. Consumers are granted specific rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being collected, access and correct their data, delete their data, obtain a copy of their data in a portable format, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain automated profiling. The law requires controllers to limit data collection, obtain affirmative consent for sensitive data processing, implement robust data security practices, and provide clear, understandable privacy notices. Companies must establish secure mechanisms for consumers to exercise their rights and are prohibited from discriminating against consumers who do so. The Attorney General is granted exclusive enforcement authority, with the ability to issue violations, impose civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation, and seek damages and restitution. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, representing a significant step towards enhanced data privacy protections for Massachusetts residents.
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Bill Summary: Establishing the Massachusetts data privacy act
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• Introduced: 09/18/2025
• Added: 09/18/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 0 : Senate Committee on Ways and Means
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 50
• Last Amended: 09/18/2025
• Last Action: Amendment #12 (Mark) rejected
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2516 • Last Action 09/25/2025
Establishing the Massachusetts data privacy act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Data Privacy Protection Act and the Location Shield Act, creating comprehensive regulations for how businesses collect, process, and use personal and location data. The Massachusetts Data Privacy Act applies to businesses that collect personal data from at least 25,000 consumers or derive revenue from selling personal data, and provides consumers with several key rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being collected, access their data, correct inaccuracies, delete personal data, obtain a copy of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data transfers, and certain types of profiling. The bill requires businesses to obtain explicit consent for collecting sensitive data, implement data security practices, and provide clear privacy notices. It also establishes specific protections for minors, health data, and reproductive health information. The Location Shield Act complements this by creating strict regulations around the collection and use of location information, requiring businesses to obtain consent, limit data collection, and protect individuals' location privacy. The bill allows for enforcement by the Attorney General and provides for potential civil penalties and consumer lawsuits, with damages of at least $15,000 per violation. Businesses will need to implement robust data protection practices, with larger data holders facing more stringent requirements. The act will take effect in stages, with most provisions becoming active one year after enactment.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to establish the Massachusetts Data Privacy Protection Act, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2516).
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• Introduced: 05/12/2025
• Added: 05/13/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 9 : Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity, Mike Moore (D), Cynthia Creem (D), William Driscoll Jr. (D), Jo Comerford (D), Becca Rausch (D), Jamie Eldridge (D), Julian Cyr (D), Brad Jones (R), Pat Jehlen (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 05/12/2025
• Last Action: New draft substituted, se S2608
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #S252 • Last Action 09/18/2025
GOOD Act Guidance Out Of Darkness Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Guidance Out Of Darkness (GOOD) Act, aims to increase transparency and public access to agency guidance documents by establishing a comprehensive publication requirement. The bill defines a "guidance document" broadly to include various types of agency communications like memoranda, notices, directives, blog posts, and speeches that provide policy or interpretive guidance but do not have the force of law. Under the bill, agencies would be required to publish all current and future guidance documents on a single, centralized internet website designated by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget within 90 days of the Act's enactment. Agencies must also provide hyperlinks to these documents on their own websites, categorizing them appropriately for easy navigation. Agencies must publish existing guidance documents within 180 days and new guidance documents on the same day they are issued. The bill includes an important exemption for documents or information that would be exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Additionally, when guidance documents are rescinded, agencies must maintain the documents at the central location and clearly indicate the rescission date and any relevant court order information.
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Bill Summary: A bill to increase access to agency guidance documents.
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• Introduced: 01/25/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 16 : Ron Johnson (R)*, Kevin Cramer (R), Joni Ernst (R), James Lankford (R), Thom Tillis (R), Marsha Blackburn (R), Ted Budd (R), Eric Schmitt (R), Roger Marshall (R), Tim Sheehy (R), Mike Lee (R), Cynthia Lummis (R), Rick Scott (R), John Hoeven (R), Jim Risch (R), David McCormick (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/24/2025
• Last Action: Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Hearing (09:00:00 9/18/2025 SD-342)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HR0024 • Last Action 09/17/2025
HOUSE RULES-AMEND
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This resolution amends House Rule 39 to enhance transparency in the Illinois General Assembly by requiring the Clerk to make audio recordings of committee and task force meetings publicly available online within 24 hours after the meeting adjourns. Specifically, the rule modification mandates that any audio recording of a meeting that is required under House Rules must be accessible on the General Assembly website within this short timeframe. This change appears aimed at increasing public access to legislative proceedings by ensuring that interested citizens and lawmakers can quickly review the audio record of committee discussions, thereby promoting openness and accountability in the legislative process.
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Bill Summary: Amends House Rule 39. Provides that, within 24 hours after adjournment of a committee or task force meeting, the Clerk shall make accessible on the General Assembly website any audio recording of a meeting required under the House Rules.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Patrick Windhorst (R)*, Tony McCombie (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Tony M. McCombie
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #S2850 • Last Action 09/17/2025
Protecting Legislators and Survivors of Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence from Doxing and Political Violence Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect Members of Congress, their family members, staff, and survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault from having their personal information (called "covered information") publicly disclosed without consent. The bill defines "covered information" as including home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, social security numbers, vehicle identifiers, children's information, school or work location routes, and precise location data. Government agencies would be required to remove such information from public records within 72 hours of receiving a request, and data brokers would be prohibited from selling or trading this information. Businesses would also be banned from publicly posting covered information if requested not to do so, with exceptions for news reporting, information voluntarily published by the individual, or information from government sources. The bill allows at-risk individuals to request privacy protections for themselves and their immediate family members, and provides a mechanism for legal action if their information is improperly disclosed. The legislation is designed to protect the privacy and safety of public officials and vulnerable individuals by restricting the unauthorized distribution of their personal details, while still preserving protections for press freedom and public information.
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Bill Summary: A bill to improve the safety and security of Members of Congress, immediate family members of Members of Congress, and congressional staff.
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• Introduced: 09/18/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 1 : Ron Wyden (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 10/07/2025
• Last Action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #S2851 • Last Action 09/17/2025
Protecting Americans from Doxing and Political Violence Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect Members of Congress, their staff, and their family members from having their personal information publicly disclosed without consent, a practice known as "doxing." The legislation defines "covered information" as sensitive personal details like home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, social security numbers, vehicle identifiers, children's information, and precise location data. Government agencies would be required to remove such information from public records within 72 hours of receiving a request from an at-risk individual. The bill prohibits data brokers from selling or trading this covered information and prevents businesses from publicly posting such details if requested not to do so, with exceptions for news reporting, information voluntarily published by the individual, or information lawfully obtained from federal sources. At-risk individuals would have the right to seek legal action if their protected information is improperly disclosed. The legislation includes broad protections for press freedoms and does not prevent legitimate public interest reporting, while emphasizing the importance of protecting personal information for those in public service. The bill applies to current and former Members of Congress, their designated employees, and their immediate family members, providing a comprehensive framework for protecting their privacy and personal security.
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Bill Summary: A bill to improve the safety and security of Members of Congress, immediate family members of Members of Congress, and congressional staff, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 09/18/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 1 : Ron Wyden (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 10/04/2025
• Last Action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4950 • Last Action 09/17/2025
Transportation: funds; distribution of funds; modify. Amends secs. 5a, 10, 11, 11h, 12, 13, 14, 15 & 20a of 1951 PA 51 (MCL 247.655a et seq.) & repeals sec. 12b of 1951 PA 51 (MCL 247.662b).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the distribution of transportation funds and repeals a section of existing law, covering fiscal year 2024 and beyond. * **Michigan Transportation Fund:** This fund, which receives specific taxes on motor vehicles and fuels, is the primary source of funding. * Up to $3 million annually is allocated to the state trunk line fund for the rail grade crossing account. * Up to $3 million annually is allocated to the state trunk line fund for the grade crossing surface account. * Up to $3 million annually is allocated to the local bridge fund for debt service on notes or bonds. * $2 million annually is allocated to the local agency wetland mitigation board fund. * $5 million annually is allocated to the movable bridge fund, with the remainder of certain fuel tax revenue distributed to the state trunk line fund (39.1%), county road commissions (30.45%), and cities and villages (30.45%). * A portion of fuel tax revenue is allocated to the state trunk line fund for state bridge repair and to the local bridge fund for distribution to cities, villages, and county road commissions. * $50 million is allocated to the state trunk line fund for debt service costs on state projects. * 10% is allocated to the comprehensive transportation fund. * $5 million is allocated to the local bridge fund for distribution to the local bridge advisory board, regional bridge councils, cities, villages, and county road commissions. * $36.775 million is allocated to the state trunk line fund for the transportation economic development fund, with an additional $3.5 million for economic development road projects. * At least $33 million annually is allocated to the local program fund. * The balance of the Michigan transportation fund, after other allocations, is distributed: 39.1% to the state trunk line fund, 30.45% to county road commissions, and 30.45% to cities and villages. * Federal funds are allocated to the transportation economic development fund for rural and urban projects. * **State Trunk Line Fund:** This fund receives a significant portion of the Michigan Transportation Fund and is used for state highway and bridge preservation, construction, and debt service. It also receives funds for rail grade crossing improvements and grade crossing surface improvements. An amount equal to 0.0025% of the Michigan Transportation Fund is dedicated to the maintenance and construction of state trunk line highway rest areas. * **Local Bridge Fund:** This fund provides financial assistance for the preservation, improvement, or reconstruction of existing bridges or the construction of new bridges. It is managed by a local bridge advisory board and regional bridge councils. * **Local Agency Wetland Mitigation Board Fund:** This fund supports a program to provide funds to local road agencies for wetland mitigation site development, land purchase, construction, monitoring, and easement acquisition. * **County Road Commissions:** These entities receive funds for the preservation, construction, acquisition, and extension of county primary and local road systems. The distribution formula for these funds is updated to include factors like commercial truck traffic, lane miles, regional climate, construction costs, and subbase geology. * **Cities and Villages:** These entities receive funds for the preservation, construction, acquisition, and extension of their major and local street systems. The distribution formula is also updated with similar factors as for county road commissions. * **Seasonal County Roads:** The bill allows county road commissions to establish systems of seasonal roads that are not open to public travel during certain months, with specific notice and hearing requirements. * **Repeal:** Section 12b of 1951 PA 51, concerning urban area road distribution, is repealed.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1951 PA 51, entitled"An act to provide for the classification of all public roads, streets, and highways in this state, and for the revision of that classification and for additions to and deletions from each classification; to set up and establish the Michigan transportation fund; to provide for the deposits in the Michigan transportation fund of specific taxes on motor vehicles and motor vehicle fuels; to provide for the allocation of funds from the Michigan transportation fund and the use and administration of the fund for transportation purposes; to promote safe and efficient travel for motor vehicle drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and other legal users of roads, streets, and highways; to set up and establish the truck safety fund; to provide for the allocation of funds from the truck safety fund and administration of the fund for truck safety purposes; to set up and establish the Michigan truck safety commission; to establish certain standards for road contracts for certain businesses; to provide for the continuing review of transportation needs within the state; to authorize the state transportation commission, counties, cities, and villages to borrow money, issue bonds, and make pledges of funds for transportation purposes; to authorize counties to advance funds for the payment of deficiencies necessary for the payment of bonds issued under this act; to provide for the limitations, payment, retirement, and security of the bonds and pledges; to provide for appropriations and tax levies by counties and townships for county roads; to authorize contributions by townships for county roads; to provide for the establishment and administration of the state trunk line fund, local bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds; to provide for the deposits in the state trunk line fund, critical bridge fund, comprehensive transportation fund, and certain other funds of money raised by specific taxes and fees; to provide for definitions of public transportation functions and criteria; to define the purposes for which Michigan transportation funds may be allocated; to provide for Michigan transportation fund grants; to provide for review and approval of transportation programs; to provide for submission of annual legislative requests and reports; to provide for the establishment and functions of certain advisory entities; to provide for conditions for grants; to provide for the issuance of bonds and notes for transportation purposes; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state and local agencies and officials; to provide for the making of loans for transportation purposes by the state transportation department and for the receipt and repayment by local units and agencies of those loans from certain specified sources; to investigate and study the tolling of roads, streets, highways, or bridges; and to repeal acts and parts of acts,"by amending sections 5a, 10, 11, 11h, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 20a (MCL 247.655a, 247.660, 247.661, 247.661h, 247.662, 247.663, 247.664, 247.665, and 247.670a), section 5a as added by 1981 PA 184, section 10 as amended by 2022 PA 50, section 11 as amended by 2015 PA 175, sections 11h, 14, and 15 as amended by 2020 PA 152, section 12 as amended by 2023 PA 248, section 13 as amended by 2020 PA 153, and section 20a as amended by 2012 PA 298; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
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• Introduced: 09/16/2025
• Added: 09/17/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Skaggs (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 09/16/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 09/16/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #SB494 • Last Action 09/13/2025
Charter schools: establishment prohibition and renewal procedures.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill primarily extends several existing provisions related to charter schools and disciplinary procedures for classified employees in school and community college districts. Specifically, the bill extends the prohibition on approving new nonclassroom-based charter schools from January 1, 2026, to January 1, 2027, and delays the implementation of new charter school renewal standards until January 1, 2027. The bill also modifies disciplinary procedures for classified employees, allowing them to appeal disciplinary actions to a contracted administrative law judge jointly selected by the district and employee or their employee organization. For school districts and community college districts, the bill changes the timeframe for requesting a hearing on disciplinary charges from at least 5 days to at least 30 days after receiving notice. Additionally, the bill extends these new disciplinary procedures to classified employees of joint powers authorities. If the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill imposes state-mandated costs, local agencies and school districts would be reimbursed according to existing statutory procedures. The changes aim to provide more robust due process for classified employees and maintain current charter school oversight mechanisms.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 47607.2 and 47612.7 of the Education Code, relating to charter schools.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 09/10/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Dave Cortese (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 38
• Last Amended: 09/09/2025
• Last Action: Ordered to inactive file on request of Assembly Member Aguiar-Curry.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB84 • Last Action 09/12/2025
School accountability: Office of the Education Inspector General: school financial and performance audits: charter school authorization, oversight, funding, operations, networks, and contracting: data systems: local educational agency contractor background checks and contracting.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to enhance school accountability, oversight, and financial transparency across California's educational system, with a particular focus on charter schools. The bill establishes the Office of the Education Inspector General, which will be appointed by the Governor and tasked with conducting forensic audits and investigations into potential fraud, misappropriation of funds, and other illegal practices within educational agencies. The Education Inspector General will have the authority to refer findings to law enforcement and provide annual reports to the Legislature. The bill introduces several key changes to charter school oversight, including requiring chartering authorities to annually review charter school data, attend governing body meetings, monitor payments, and verify average daily attendance reporting. It also establishes new funding determination criteria for nonclassroom-based charter schools, requiring them to spend a certain percentage of revenue on certificated staff salaries and instruction-related services. Additionally, the bill creates multiple grant programs to support charter school authorization and oversight, including the Chartering Authority Mentor Grant Program, the Charter School Authorizer Grant Program, and the Charter School Standardized Account Code Structure Grant Program. These programs aim to provide technical assistance, cover increased oversight costs, and help charter schools implement standardized financial reporting. The legislation also introduces new contracting requirements for local educational agencies, mandating policies that ensure public funds are used appropriately, prohibit certain incentive practices, and maintain transparency and accountability in contractor selection and oversight. Other provisions include enhancing audit requirements, establishing more stringent teacher credentialing and assignment monitoring, and creating an advisory committee on charter schools. The bill seeks to improve fiscal management, prevent fraud, and ensure that charter schools are effectively serving students' educational needs.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Sections 1240, 14500, 14501, 14502.1, 14503, 14504, 14504.2, 14505, 14506, 14507, 14508, 14509, 41020, 41020.2, 41020.3, 41020.5, 41020.8, 41341, 41344.4, 42100, 44258.9, 45037, 45125.1, 47604.32, 47604.33, 47605, 47605.6, 47612.5, 47634.2, 51745.6, 51746, 51747.5, and 51748 of, to add Sections 33309.5, 41020.4, 46149, 47604.35, 47604.6, 47605.8, 47605.10, and 47634.3 to, to add Article 7 (commencing with Section 47670) to Chapter 6 of Part 26.8 of Division 4 of Title 2 of, and to add Article 11.5 (commencing with Section 51827) to Chapter 5 of Part 28 of Division 4 of Title 2 of, and to add and repeal Section 46306 of, the Education Code, relating to school accountability.
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• Introduced: 12/20/2024
• Added: 03/20/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Robert Garcia (D)*, Al Muratsuchi (D)*, Jesse Arreguin (D)
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 36
• Last Amended: 09/09/2025
• Last Action: Ordered to inactive file at the request of Senator Grayson.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0200 • Last Action 09/12/2025
Open Meetings Clarification Temporary Amendment Act of 2025
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act on a temporary basis to clarify several key provisions regarding public meetings in the District of Columbia. The bill redefines "meeting" to include any gathering of a quorum of public body members where public business is discussed, while explicitly excluding chance social gatherings and press conferences. It provides new flexibility for public bodies by allowing meetings to be considered open if reasonable steps are taken to let the public view or hear the proceedings, even if in-person attendance is not possible. The bill creates specific exemptions for certain types of meetings, including those where potential terrorist or public health threats are discussed, and introduces a new provision that excludes meetings between the Council and the Mayor from open meeting requirements, provided no official action is taken. Additionally, the bill modifies notice requirements for public meetings, making them less stringent by changing language from mandatory provisions to more flexible guidelines about providing notice. The amendments also clarify that Council meetings have some unique rules and that votes can be recorded differently than traditional roll call methods. The bill is temporary, set to expire 225 days after taking effect, and will require approval from the Mayor and congressional review.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on a temporary basis, the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of meeting, to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken, to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings, and to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 03/28/2025
• Added: 03/29/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 12 : Phil Mendelson (D)*, Christina Henderson (I)*, Brianne Nadeau (D)*, Matt Frumin (D)*, Zachary Parker (D)*, Wendell Felder (D)*, Kenyan McDuffie (I)*, Anita Bonds (D)*, Robert White (D)*, Brooke Pinto (D)*, Janeese George (D)*, Charles Allen (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 06/03/2025
• Last Action: Law L26-0024, Effective from Aug 16, 2025 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 009563, Expires on Mar 29, 2026
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03479 • Last Action 09/08/2025
Provides that the acquisition of interests or rights in real property for the preservation of open spaces and areas shall constitute a public purpose for which public funds may be expended or advanced.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies several sections of the New York General Municipal Law to standardize and clarify notice requirements for public hearings related to acquiring property for open spaces, historic preservation, and urban renewal purposes. Specifically, the bill replaces the vague phrase "due notice" with a precise requirement of "ten days' notice" for public hearings across multiple contexts, including the acquisition of land for preserving open spaces, acquiring historical or cultural properties, and urban renewal planning. The bill maintains the existing principles that acquiring interests in real property for preserving open spaces constitutes a public purpose and that municipalities can acquire such property through various means like purchase, gift, grant, or lease. Additionally, the bill makes minor technical corrections to language around taxation of acquired properties and the processes for approving property acquisitions, ensuring consistency in municipal law. The changes aim to provide more clarity and predictability in the legal procedures for municipal property acquisition and urban development projects.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the general municipal law, in relation to certain notice requirements for the acquisition of real property for open space, historic preservations, or urban renewal purposes
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Billy Jones (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/28/2025
• Last Action: enacting clause stricken
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S947 • Last Action 09/08/2025
Protecting public higher education student information
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Chapter 66 of the General Laws to protect student information at public higher education institutions by exempting them from having to disclose education records, including directory information as defined by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Specifically, public colleges and universities, as well as municipally owned educational institutions, would no longer be required to produce these types of student records in response to public records requests. However, the bill includes an important exception that allows federal, state, and municipal agencies to continue accessing such records. The legislation aims to provide additional privacy protections for students' educational information by limiting the circumstances under which their personal details can be shared, while still maintaining necessary access for government agencies.
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Bill Summary: For legislation relative to certain higher education records under the public records law. Higher Education.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Jake Oliveira (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DE bill #HB64 • Last Action 09/02/2025
An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To School Board Meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Title 14 of the Delaware Code to require all school board meetings to provide a remote attendance and public comment method, effectively ensuring that members of the public can participate in school board meetings virtually. Specifically, the bill adds new language to two sections of the Delaware Code (§ 504B and § 1048) mandating that school boards must offer a technological means for people to both attend meetings and provide public comments without being physically present. This change aims to increase transparency and accessibility of school board proceedings by allowing community members who may not be able to attend in person to still engage with and observe their local school board's decision-making processes. The new requirement will take effect on September 2, 2025, giving school districts time to implement the necessary technological infrastructure to support remote participation.
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Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To School Board Meetings.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 153rd General Assembly
• Sponsors: 17 : Cyndie Romer (D)*, Eric Morrison (D)*, Kim Williams (D)*, Madinah Wilson-Anton (D)*, Tizzy Lockman (D), Laura Sturgeon (D), DeShanna Neal (D), Melanie Ross Levin (D), Mike Smith (R), Bill Bush (D), Rae Moore (D), Mara Gorman (D), Kerri Harris (D), Larry Lambert (D), Stephanie Hansen (D), Kyra Hoffner (D), Jack Walsh (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 06/24/2025
• Last Action: Signed by Governor
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR5070 • Last Action 08/29/2025
Federal Police Camera and Accountability Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all federal law enforcement officers to wear body cameras during interactions with the public, with comprehensive guidelines for their use and management. The legislation mandates that officers activate body cameras during law enforcement stops, service calls, and investigative encounters, with some exceptions for safety or national security concerns. Officers must notify individuals they are being recorded and, in certain situations like entering a private residence, must offer to turn off the camera if requested. The bill establishes strict rules for video footage retention, allowing most footage to be kept for six months, with some interactions requiring a three-year retention period. The legislation prohibits using body cameras for intelligence gathering based on First Amendment protected activities and bans facial recognition technology. If officers fail to comply with recording requirements or intentionally interfere with camera functionality, they may face disciplinary action, and there are provisions for potential evidentiary presumptions favoring defendants or civil plaintiffs. Additionally, the bill requires a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study on federal law enforcement training and interactions, and mandates that the Attorney General issue regulations within six months of the Act's enactment to implement these requirements.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To require Federal law enforcement officers to wear body cameras, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 08/30/2025
• Added: 09/03/2025
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 2 : Eleanor Holmes Norton (D)*, Don Beyer (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 09/03/2025
• Last Action: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4830 • Last Action 08/28/2025
Drains: other; compensation and expense reimbursement for board members; modify. Amends secs. 72, 384, 441, 464 & 515 of 1956 PA 40 (MCL 280.72 et seq.).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies several sections of Michigan's Drain Code of 1956, primarily focusing on compensation and procedural details for drain-related boards and commissioners. The bill standardizes language around compensation for board members, replacing specific per diem rates with a more flexible approach that allows the drain commissioner or drainage board to determine "reasonable compensation" and "necessary expenses" for members attending meetings. It clarifies notification procedures for drain-related meetings, updates terminology (such as changing "board of supervisors" to "board of commissioners"), and provides more precise guidelines for appointing board members. The bill also addresses potential conflicts of interest by establishing procedures for what happens when a board member has a conflict, such as allowing alternative members to be appointed. These changes aim to make drain district management more flexible and consistent across different counties, while maintaining transparency and proper governance in drain-related proceedings. The modifications apply to various aspects of drain district organization, including board composition, consolidation of drainage districts, and administrative procedures.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1956 PA 40, entitled"The drain code of 1956,"by amending sections 72, 384, 441, 464, and 515 (MCL 280.72, 280.384, 280.441, 280.464, and 280.515), section 72 as amended by 2018 PA 646 and section 464 as amended by 2016 PA 521.
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• Introduced: 08/27/2025
• Added: 08/28/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 3 : Greg Alexander (R)*, Cam Cavitt (R), David Martin (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 08/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 08/27/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3363 • Last Action 08/15/2025
STATE PUBLIC DEFENDER
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a comprehensive State Public Defender system in Illinois, creating an independent agency within the judicial branch to ensure high-quality legal representation for individuals who cannot afford counsel. The bill creates a State Public Defender position appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court for an initial 2-year term, with subsequent terms lasting 6 years. Key provisions include establishing a State Public Defender Commission composed of 11 members from various appointing authorities, creating regional public defender offices, and implementing a robust system for data collection and performance metrics for indigent defense services. The legislation mandates that the State Public Defender must be a licensed attorney with at least 5 years of legal experience, administrative skills, and a commitment to providing high-quality representation. The bill also reforms county public defender appointment processes, introduces new reporting requirements, and establishes advisory boards to improve public defense services. Additionally, the legislation provides for state funding to support county public defender offices, creates mechanisms for professional development and resource allocation, and emphasizes the constitutional right to legal representation regardless of a person's ability to pay. The bill aims to enhance the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of public defense services across Illinois, with most provisions taking effect in January 2027.
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Bill Summary: Reinserts the provisions of the engrossed bill with the following changes. Deletes provision that the initial State Public defender shall be nominated by the Illinois Public Defender Association and appointed for a 2-year term by a majority vote of the Supreme Court. Provides that the initial State Public Defender shall be appointed for a 2-year term by a majority vote of the Illinois Supreme Court. Deletes provision that the State Public Defender shall adopt rules, instructions, and orders, consistent with the State Public Defender Act to further define the organization of the Office of State Public Defender and the duties of employees of the Office of the State Public Defender. Provides that the State Public Defender may (rather than shall) appoint a deputy public defender for each regional office. Provides that the Office of the State Public Defender may (rather than shall) hire and train new State-employed personnel to carry out the Office's duties under the Act. Provides that the State Public Defender must be an attorney licensed to practice law in the State whose practice of law has clearly demonstrated experience in the representation of persons accused of crime; who has been licensed to practice law in this State or in another state for at least 5 years; who has had administrative experience; and who is dedicated to the goals of providing high quality representation for eligible persons and to improving the quality of defense services generally (rather than have criminal defense experience). In the amendatory changes to the Counties Code, makes changes to the appointment provisions concerning the Chief County Public Defender and to the State reimbursement for the compensation of the Chief County Public Defender and Assistant Public Defenders. Makes other technical changes. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 46 : Dave Vella (D)*, Robert Peters (D)*, Kevin Olickal (D), Justin Slaughter (D), Lisa Davis (D), Lindsey LaPointe (D), Kelly Cassidy (D), Will Guzzardi (D), Eva-Dina Delgado (D), Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar (D), Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D), Dee Avelar (D), Dan Didech (D), Katie Stuart (D), Rick Ryan (D), Tracy Katz Muhl (D), Martha Deuter (D), Margaret Croke (D), Janet Yang Rohr (D), Natalie Manley (D), Nabeela Syed (D), Marcus Evans (D), Norma Hernandez (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Marty Moylan (D), Terra Costa Howard (D), Michael Kelly (D), Sonya Harper (D), Michael Crawford (D), Matt Hanson (D), Bill Cunningham (D), Willie Preston (D), Cristina Castro (D), Laura Ellman (D), Adriane Johnson (D), Karina Villa (D), Mike Simmons (D), Rob Martwick (D), Mike Porfirio (D), Mary Edly-Allen (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Mark Walker (D), Paul Faraci (D), Lakesia Collins (D), Emil Jones (D), Graciela Guzmán (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 116
• Last Amended: 06/04/2025
• Last Action: Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0300
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3144 • Last Action 08/15/2025
JUDICIAL PRIVACY-ADMIN JUDGES
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Judicial Privacy Act to expand the definition of "judicial officer" to include administrative law judges. Specifically, the bill adds a new category (7) to the existing list of judicial officers, which currently includes Supreme Court justices, federal and state appellate and circuit court judges, and other federal court judges. Administrative law judges, who are defined in the Illinois Administrative Procedure Act, will now be protected under the same privacy provisions that prevent the public posting or displaying of their personal information, such as home addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, and other identifying details. This change ensures that administrative law judges, who typically preside over administrative hearings and make decisions about government regulations and agency actions, receive the same privacy protections as other judicial officers. The bill aims to safeguard these judges' personal information from unnecessary public disclosure, potentially protecting them from potential harassment or privacy invasions related to their professional roles.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Judicial Privacy Act. Adds administrative law judges to the definition of judicial officer in the Judicial Privacy Act.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 12 : Eva-Dina Delgado (D)*, Elgie Sims (D)*, Curtis Tarver (D), Kevin Olickal (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Michael Crawford (D), Will Guzzardi (D), Dan Ugaste (R), Willie Preston (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Adriane Johnson (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 38
• Last Amended: 05/27/2025
• Last Action: Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0278
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WI bill #SB169 • Last Action 08/11/2025
Privacy protections for judicial officers.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies privacy protections for judicial officers by establishing more specific guidelines for requesting the removal of personal information from public view. The bill requires that written requests for privacy protection must now be notarized and include a detailed description of the records believed to contain personal information. A judicial officer must send such a request directly to a designated officer of a government agency, which is defined as the highest-ranking employee or an officially designated representative. The bill clarifies that a home address is considered personal information only when directly associated with the judicial officer's name, and requires officers to update their requests within 90 days if their home address changes. The legislation also introduces liability protections for government agencies, stating they are not liable for privacy violations unless the actions are intentional or reckless. Additionally, the bill allows government agencies to share information with each other for legitimate governmental purposes and provides exceptions to privacy restrictions, such as when information disclosure is legally required. The bill amends previous privacy protection legislation (Act 235) to provide more precise and comprehensive guidelines for protecting judicial officers' personal information.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to renumber and amend 19.55 (2) (cm) and 757.07 (1) (g); to amend 19.36 (15), 59.43 (1r), 757.07 (1) (a) 12., 757.07 (1) (k), 757.07 (4) (b) 1. a., 757.07 (4) (b) 2., 757.07 (4) (d), 757.07 (4) (e) 3., 757.07 (4m) (a), 757.07 (4m) (b) and 757.07 (5) (a); to repeal and recreate 757.07 (5) (b); to create 757.07 (1) (am), 757.07 (1) (g) 2m., 757.07 (1) (im), 757.07 (3) (c) 2. c., 757.07 (4) (dm) 2., 757.07 (4) (e) 2. d. to h., 757.07 (4) (e) 5. and 6., 757.07 (4m) (c), 757.07 (5) (cm), 757.07 (5) (d) and 757.07 (5m) of the statutes; relating to: privacy protections for judicial officers and providing a penalty.
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• Introduced: 04/03/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Van Wanggaard (R)*, Ron Tusler (R), Barbara Dittrich (R), Rick Gundrum (R), Rob Kreibich (R), Dave Murphy (R), Jerry O'Connor (R), William Penterman (R), Christine Sinicki (D), Lisa Subeck (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 34
• Last Amended: 08/09/2025
• Last Action: Published 8-9-2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NE bill #LR192 • Last Action 08/06/2025
Interim study to investigate public notice requirements in Nebraska, including those mandated under the Open Meetings Act and the Administrative Procedure Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This resolution calls for the Government, Military and Veterans Affairs Committee of the Nebraska Legislature to conduct an interim study investigating public notice requirements in the state, specifically focusing on requirements mandated under the Open Meetings Act and the Administrative Procedure Act. The study will examine these public notice regulations, and upon completion, the committee is required to prepare a comprehensive report detailing its findings and recommendations, which will be submitted to the Legislative Council or the full Legislature. An interim study is a legislative research process typically undertaken between regular legislative sessions to gather information, analyze issues, and develop potential policy recommendations for future legislative action.
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Bill Summary: Interim study to investigate public notice requirements in Nebraska, including those mandated under the Open Meetings Act and the Administrative Procedure Act
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• Introduced: 05/14/2025
• Added: 05/15/2025
• Session: 109th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Rita Sanders (NP)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 05/14/2025
• Last Action: Notice of hearing for October 03, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1607 • Last Action 08/01/2025
FREEDOM TRAILS COMMISSION
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission, a state-level organization dedicated to exploring, researching, and commemorating the Underground Railroad's history in Illinois. The Commission will consist of 11 members (a chairperson and 10 additional members) appointed by the Governor for 4-year terms, representing diverse backgrounds and expertise in the subject. The Department of Natural Resources will provide administrative support, and the Commission will have several key responsibilities: creating an online resource website with maps and historical information, collaborating with organizations focused on Underground Railroad history, developing educational programs in partnership with the State Board of Education, creating a grant funding program, and supporting local activities that highlight the Underground Railroad's significance. The Commission will also develop guidelines for identifying and preserving Underground Railroad sites and landmarks, create an educational program for public schools that includes instruction on African American history and the Underground Railroad, and submit annual reports to the Governor and General Assembly. The bill includes provisions for public meetings, transparency, and allows the Commission to adopt administrative rules with the Department's approval. The Commission is set to be in place until January 1, 2037, and will take effect immediately upon becoming law.
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Bill Summary: Reinserts the provisions of the introduced bill with the following changes. Provides that the Department of Natural Resources (rather than the Department of Commercial and Economic Opportunity) shall provide administrative and other support to the Illinois Freedom Trails Commission. Sets forth provisions concerning the election of a chairperson and the conduct of meetings. Provides that, after consultation with and written approval by the Department, the Commission may adopt administrative rules as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of the Act. Repeals the Act on January 1, 2037. Amends the Historic Preservation Act to repeal provisions concerning the Amistad Commission. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 04/10/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 16 : Dave Koehler (D)*, Debbie Meyers-Martin (D)*, Doris Turner (D), Willie Preston (D), Elgie Sims (D), Kimberly Lightford (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Jil Tracy (R), Laura Murphy (D), Meg Loughran Cappel (D), Lakesia Collins (D), Chris Welch (D), Suzanne Ness (D), Will Davis (D), Anthony DeLuca (D), Nicolle Grasse (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 50
• Last Amended: 05/21/2025
• Last Action: Public Act . . . . . . . . . 104-0113
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #S2557 • Last Action 07/30/2025
Epstein Files Transparency Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Epstein Files Transparency Act," directs the Attorney General to release within 30 days a comprehensive set of unclassified documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. The bill requires the release of all investigative materials from the Department of Justice, including FBI and U.S. Attorney's Office files, covering a wide range of topics such as Epstein's investigations, Ghislaine Maxwell, flight logs, travel records, associated individuals and entities, immunity deals, and documentation of Epstein's detention and death. The Attorney General is specifically prohibited from withholding documents due to potential embarrassment or political sensitivity. However, the bill allows for limited redactions to protect victims' personal information, prevent disclosure of child pornography, protect ongoing investigations, shield graphic images of violence, and maintain national security classified information. When redactions are made, the Attorney General must provide a written justification published in the Federal Register and submitted to Congress. Additionally, the bill requires the Attorney General to declassify information to the maximum extent possible and provide an unclassified summary if full declassification is not feasible. Within 15 days of document release, the Attorney General must submit a detailed report to Congressional Judiciary Committees listing the released and withheld documents, explaining redactions, and identifying government officials, public figures, and foreign dignitaries mentioned in the documents.
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Bill Summary: A bill to direct the Attorney General to make publicly available documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 07/31/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 28 : Jeff Merkley (D)*, Ben Ray Luján (D), Dick Durbin (D), Chuck Schumer (D), Cory Booker (D), Adam Schiff (D), Martin Heinrich (D), John Hickenlooper (D), Richard Blumenthal (D), Chris Van Hollen (D), Ruben Gallego (D), Andy Kim (D), Mark Kelly (D), Angela Alsobrooks (D), Peter Welch (D), Mark Warner (D), Jack Reed (D), Jeanne Shaheen (D), Chris Coons (D), Ron Wyden (D), Mazie Hirono (D), Bernie Sanders (I), Tammy Duckworth (D), Michael Bennet (D), Tammy Baldwin (D), Catherine Cortez Masto (D), Lisa Murkowski (R), Rand Paul (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 08/08/2025
• Last Action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NC bill #S416 • Last Action 07/29/2025
Personal Privacy Protection Act
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Personal Privacy Protection Act, which restricts public agencies in North Carolina from collecting, disclosing, or releasing personal information about members, volunteers, and donors of nonprofit organizations (defined as 501(c) tax-exempt entities). The legislation prohibits public agencies from requiring nonprofit organizations to provide personal information, publicly disclose such information, or request lists of supported organizations from contractors or grantees. The bill defines personal information as any data that identifies a person's association with a nonprofit, excluding board members, officers, directors, and staff. There are specific exemptions to these restrictions, including court warrants, litigation discovery with protective orders, information voluntarily released by the organization, and certain statutory reporting requirements. Individuals who believe their privacy rights have been violated can bring civil actions seeking injunctive relief or damages, with potential compensation ranging from $2,500 to up to $7,500 for intentional violations. Additionally, knowingly violating the act constitutes a Class 2 misdemeanor. The law becomes effective on December 1, 2025, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date, providing a comprehensive framework to protect the privacy of nonprofit organization supporters.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT TO ENACT THE PERSONAL PRIVACY PROTECTION ACT.
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• Introduced: 03/24/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Warren Daniel (R)*, Ralph Hise (R)*, Tim Moffitt (R)*, Ted Alexander (R), Jim Burgin (R), Tom McInnis (R), Buck Newton (R)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 10 • Actions: 61
• Last Amended: 07/29/2025
• Last Action: Ch. SL 2025-79
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #SJRes68 • Last Action 07/23/2025
A joint resolution disapproving the action of the District of Columbia Council in approving the Open Meetings Clarification Temporary Amendment Act of 2025.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This joint resolution disapproves an action taken by the District of Columbia (D.C.) Council regarding the Open Meetings Clarification Temporary Amendment Act of 2025, which was enacted on June 26, 2025, and transmitted to Congress on July 7, 2025, as required by the District of Columbia Home Rule Act. By passing this resolution, Congress is exercising its oversight authority over D.C. local legislation, specifically rejecting the temporary amendment to open meetings laws. The resolution reflects the constitutional mechanism that allows Congress to review and potentially nullify legislation passed by the D.C. Council, which is a unique feature of the District's governance structure due to its status as a federal district without full congressional representation. While the specific details of the Open Meetings Clarification Temporary Amendment are not provided in the resolution text, the action suggests there might have been concerns about how the D.C. Council was proposing to modify rules governing public meetings and transparency.
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Bill Summary: A joint resolution disapproving the action of the District of Columbia Council in approving the Open Meetings Clarification Temporary Amendment Act of 2025.
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• Introduced: 07/24/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Lee (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 07/24/2025
• Last Action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0307 • Last Action 07/22/2025
Open Meetings Clarification Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2025
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to clarify and modify several key provisions regarding public meetings in the District of Columbia. The definition of a "meeting" is expanded to include any gathering of a quorum of public body members where public business is discussed, while specifically excluding chance social gatherings and press conferences. The bill provides new flexibility for public bodies, allowing them to hold meetings that can be viewed or heard by the public, either in real-time or as soon as technologically feasible. It creates a specific exemption for meetings between the Council and the Mayor, provided no official action is taken. The bill also allows public bodies to discuss potential terrorist or public health threats without violating open meeting rules, and gives the Council authority to adopt its own rules for ensuring open meeting policies. For the Council specifically, a "meeting" is defined as a regular or additional legislative meeting where votes are taken. The bill is an emergency measure that will apply from July 5, 2025, and remain in effect for up to 90 days, reflecting the need for immediate clarification of open meeting procedures while maintaining transparency in government operations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on an emergency basis, due to congressional review, the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of meeting, to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken, to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings, and to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 06/30/2025
• Added: 07/01/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 07/01/2025
• Last Action: Enacted without Mayor's Signature with Act Number A26-0110, Expires on Oct 20, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB604 • Last Action 07/17/2025
Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill authorizes Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to facilitate professional counselors' ability to practice across state lines more easily. The compact creates a framework for licensed professional counselors to obtain a "Privilege to Practice" in other member states without obtaining multiple individual state licenses. Key provisions include establishing uniform licensure requirements, creating a national data system to track counselors' credentials and disciplinary actions, and setting up a Counseling Compact Commission to oversee implementation. The compact aims to increase public access to counseling services, support military families by allowing easier relocation, enable telehealth practice across state borders, and maintain high professional standards through shared oversight. Counselors must meet specific criteria to practice across state lines, such as holding an unencumbered license in their home state, passing a national exam, completing required education and supervised experience, and adhering to each state's specific practice laws. The compact will take effect once ten states have enacted it, and member states can withdraw with a six-month notice, ensuring flexibility while maintaining a coordinated approach to professional counseling regulation.
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Bill Summary: Authorizing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to join the Counseling Compact; and providing for the form of the compact.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 04/10/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 12 : Lisa Boscola (D)*, Judy Schwank (D), Wayne Fontana (D), Carolyn Comitta (D), Rosemary Brown (R), Tracy Pennycuick (R), Greg Rothman (R), Kristin Phillips-Hill (R), Jay Costa (D), Judy Ward (R), Amanda Cappelletti (D), Nickolas Pisciottano (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Professional Licensure
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB790 • Last Action 07/16/2025
In agency response, providing for vexatious requesters.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law by establishing a formal process for agencies to seek relief from "vexatious requesters" who submit public records requests that are deemed to be intentionally burdensome or harassing. Agencies can petition the Office of Open Records (OOR) to limit a requester's ability to file future requests if they can demonstrate, through clear and convincing evidence, that the requester's actions constitute vexatious conduct. Factors considered may include the number and complexity of requests, their content, and evidence of intent to harass or burden the agency. The bill provides specific procedural safeguards, such as requiring the OOR to notify the requester, establish a briefing schedule, and potentially hold a hearing. If the petition is granted, the agency can be authorized to limit the requester's future records requests for up to one calendar year, though any relief must be narrowly tailored and use the least restrictive means necessary. The bill explicitly protects certain requesters from being labeled vexatious, such as parents inquiring about school policies or candidates seeking election-related information. The determination process must remain content-neutral, and aggrieved parties can appeal the OOR's decision to Commonwealth Court within 15 calendar days. The law will take effect 120 days after its passage.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in agency response, providing for vexatious requesters.
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• Introduced: 05/28/2025
• Added: 05/29/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Cris Dush (R)*, Michele Brooks (R), Dan Laughlin (R), Wayne Fontana (D), Pat Stefano (R), Lynda Schlegel-Culver (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 05/28/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table (Pursuant to Senate Rule 9)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB259 • Last Action 07/15/2025
Open meetings: local agencies: teleconferences.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill extends the alternative teleconferencing procedures for local government meetings in California until January 1, 2030, maintaining flexibility introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill allows local agencies to continue holding meetings where some members participate remotely under specific conditions, such as members being able to participate via teleconference for up to two to seven meetings per year depending on the frequency of their regular meetings. Members can participate remotely for "just cause" (such as childcare needs, illness, disability, or official travel) or emergency circumstances, with requirements that they publicly disclose if other individuals are present at their remote location and participate through both audio and visual technology. The bill ensures public access by mandating that meetings provide ways for the public to remotely hear, observe, and comment on meetings, such as through two-way audiovisual platforms or telephonic services. The legislation aims to balance accessibility and public participation with transparency, requiring that at least a quorum of members participate from a physical location that is open to the public and situated within the agency's jurisdiction. By extending these provisions, the bill seeks to provide local agencies with continued flexibility in conducting meetings while preserving the public's right to access government proceedings.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend and repeal Sections 54953 and 54954.2 of the Government Code, relating to local government.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Blanca Rubio (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 04/21/2025
• Last Action: Senate Judiciary Hearing (09:30:00 7/15/2025 State Capitol, Room 112)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB370 • Last Action 07/14/2025
California Public Records Act: cyberattacks.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the California Public Records Act to modify how state and local agencies handle public records requests during unusual circumstances, specifically focusing on cyberattacks and states of emergency. The bill expands the definition of "unusual circumstances" to include situations where an agency cannot access its electronic servers or systems due to a cyberattack, allowing agencies to extend their response time to public records requests until they regain access to their systems. For states of emergency, the bill requires that the emergency not just currently affect the agency's ability to respond to records requests, but also directly affect it. The bill clarifies that during a cyberattack, agencies must still respond to records requests if the requested documents are available in non-electronic formats or located in unaffected systems. The legislation aims to balance the public's right to access government records with agencies' operational challenges during emergencies or cyber incidents, ensuring that agencies have reasonable flexibility to respond to records requests while maintaining transparency. The bill also includes legislative findings affirming that these modifications are consistent with constitutional requirements for public access to government records and do not require additional state reimbursement to local agencies.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 7922.535 of the Government Code, relating to public records.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Juan Carrillo (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 07/14/2025
• Last Action: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 34, Statutes of 2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB145 • Last Action 07/14/2025
Modifies provisions of the sunshine law
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Missouri's sunshine law to enhance privacy protections for court-related officers by expanding the definition of who is considered a court-related officer (now including judges, prosecutors, court clerks, and juvenile officers, among others) and establishing new procedures for protecting their personal information. The bill allows court-related officers to submit written requests to government agencies, businesses, and internet platforms to prevent the public posting or displaying of their personal information, such as home addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers. If a government agency or entity fails to comply with such a request, the court-related officer can seek injunctive relief and potentially recover legal costs. The bill also specifically addresses how county recorders of deeds must handle documents containing personal information of court-related officers, requiring them to shield electronic documents and indexes when requested. Additionally, the bill expands exemptions to public records disclosure requirements, adding several new categories of information that can be kept confidential, such as individually identifiable information about minors and the specific locations of endangered species. These changes aim to protect the privacy and safety of court-related officers and their families by limiting the public availability of their personal information.
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Bill Summary: Modifies provisions of the sunshine law
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• Introduced: 12/03/2024
• Added: 12/04/2024
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Bill Falkner (R)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 59
• Last Amended: 05/12/2025
• Last Action: Delivered to Secretary of State (G)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #PR26-0262 • Last Action 07/11/2025
Open Meetings Clarification Congressional Review Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This resolution is an emergency declaration by the District of Columbia Council regarding modifications to the Open Meetings Act, which aims to prevent a potential legal gap in the existing open meetings regulations. Specifically, the resolution notes that an emergency amendment act was adopted on April 1, 2025, which is set to expire on July 6, 2025, and a subsequent temporary amendment act was enacted on June 25, 2025, which is currently pending congressional review. The Council finds that these circumstances constitute an emergency requiring the immediate adoption of the Open Meetings Clarification Congressional Review Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, which will be implemented after a single reading. The purpose is to ensure continuity in the legal framework governing public meetings, allowing for clarifications such as how meetings can be conducted, what constitutes an open meeting, and providing exceptions for certain types of governmental briefings and discussions. The resolution will take effect immediately upon adoption, preventing any potential lapse in the regulatory framework for open meetings in the District of Columbia.
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Bill Summary: July 1, 2025 To declare the existence of an emergency, due to congressional review, with respect to the need to amend the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of meeting, to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken, to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings, and to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 06/30/2025
• Added: 07/01/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 07/01/2025
• Last Action: Resolution R26-0155, Effective from Jul 01, 2025 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 007712
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1827 • Last Action 07/10/2025
An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning Public Records Requests
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Maine's public records request procedures by expanding protections for government agencies dealing with potentially burdensome records requests. Specifically, the bill allows agencies to seek court protection against a "series of requests" that they consider unduly burdensome, extending the previous law which only addressed single requests. The bill increases the timeframe for filing a protective action from 30 to 60 days and requires agencies seeking court intervention to provide detailed documentation, including a good faith estimate of the time and costs required to fulfill the request, a description of efforts to negotiate with the requester, and proof of providing notice of their intent to seek court protection. When reviewing such actions, courts can either limit or deny the request if good cause is demonstrated, or establish a deadline for providing the requested records. The bill aims to create a more balanced and transparent process for handling public records requests that might place significant administrative strain on government bodies, while still maintaining the principle of public access to government information.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning Public Records Requests
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• Introduced: 04/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Amy Kuhn (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 06/07/2025
• Last Action: House: C-A (H-244) - House: C-A (H-244)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S2102 • Last Action 07/07/2025
Relating to public access to historical records
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Section 7 of Chapter 66 of the Massachusetts General Laws to improve public access to historical records related to state institutions for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities or mental health conditions. Specifically, the bill mandates that records held by the state secretary from these institutions will become fully accessible to the public for inspection and copying after 75 years have passed since their original creation. This provision aims to increase transparency and allow researchers, historians, and the public to review historical documents about institutional care, potentially shedding light on past practices and conditions in these facilities. By setting a clear timeline for record accessibility, the bill provides a standard process for making these sensitive historical records available for public examination while also respecting potential privacy concerns by implementing a significant time delay before disclosure.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to facilitate access to public records. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Barrett (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
CA bill #AB409 • Last Action 07/02/2025
Open meetings: teleconferences: community college student body associations and student-run organizations.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing open meetings law to provide additional teleconferencing flexibility for community college student body associations and student-run organizations. Specifically, the bill extends until January 1, 2030 the current authorization for these student groups to use alternative teleconferencing provisions, which allow them to hold meetings remotely with fewer restrictions than traditional public bodies. The bill clarifies that these provisions apply to all community colleges within the California Community Colleges system and explicitly includes the Student Senate for California Community Colleges. Notably, the bill creates a special exemption for the California Online Community College, removing requirements for an in-person quorum and physical meeting location, recognizing the unique challenges of an exclusively online institution. The legislation aims to increase accessibility for student leaders who may face barriers to in-person meeting attendance, such as disabilities, caregiving responsibilities, transportation limitations, or other resource constraints. The bill allows these student groups to use teleconferencing with robust public access requirements, including providing call-in or internet-based options for public participation, ensuring real-time public comment opportunities, and maintaining transparency in remote meeting proceedings. By extending these provisions, the bill seeks to make student governance more inclusive and accessible across California's community colleges.
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Bill Summary: An act to amend Section 54953.9 of the Government Code, relating to open meetings.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joaquin Arambula (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 06/23/2025
• Last Action: Senate Local Government Hearing (09:30:00 7/2/2025 State Capitol, Room 113)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0144 • Last Action 07/02/2025
SCHOOL CODE-CHARTER SCHOOLS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois School Code to introduce several key provisions regarding charter schools. The bill prohibits granting a charter to any organization that operates a private, parochial, or non-public school or child care facility. It requires charter schools to spend at least 90% of their budget on direct-service costs for students. The bill establishes comprehensive requirements for school transition plans and public meetings in the event of a school action (such as closure), including mandating that the charter school's governing body work collaboratively with local educators and families to ensure successful student integration. For charter school closures, the bill guarantees that all students will receive a seat at a receiving school and all teachers will be guaranteed a job at a receiving school. The legislation requires detailed public notice and hearing procedures, including at least three opportunities for public comment, hearings conducted by an independent hearing officer, and publication of hearing summaries. The bill also includes provisions for supporting students during school transitions, such as providing social and emotional support services, transportation options, and informational briefings about school choices. Additionally, the bill implements a temporary moratorium on school closings, consolidations, and phase-outs until January 15, 2025, while still allowing for non-renewal of charter school contracts upon expiration.
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Bill Summary: Amends the School Code. Provides that for charter schools located in the Chicago school district, if a charter school proposes to close one or more campuses during the term of its contract, then (i) the charter school shall announce the proposal no later than September 1 of the year prior to the effective date of the closure, (ii) the charter school is subject to specified procedures in the Chicago School District Article, and (iii) the school board retains authority to approve or deny the closure. Provides that if the school board approves the closure, the governing body of the charter school shall work collaboratively with the school board, educators, and the families of students attending the campus of the charter school that is the subject of the closure to ensure successful integration of affected students into new learning environments. Provides that affected students who reside in the district shall be guaranteed a seat at a district school. Provides that upon the closing of a charter school located in the Chicago school district, the charter school's licensed teachers shall be guaranteed a similar position for which they are qualified at a district school with full recognition of prior service if they choose to work in the district. Provides that teachers in the closed charter school without an educator license shall be provided a pathway to a short-term license and preference in receiving a job at a district school.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Celina Villanueva (D)*, Ram Villivalam (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Laura Murphy (D), Omar Aquino (D), Javier Cervantes (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Senate Floor Amendment No. 2 Pursuant to Senate Rule 3-9(b) / Referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OR bill #SB16 • Last Action 06/27/2025
Relating to records of state agencies.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces new requirements for state agencies regarding public disclosure of records related to legislative testimony. Specifically, if an executive department agency takes a position (either through oral testimony before a legislative committee or by filing written testimony) supporting or opposing a proposed measure or amendment, the agency must disclose all public records in its custody that are related to its decision, regardless of existing exemption laws. The bill defines an "agency" broadly as any department, division, authority, board, commission, or bureau, and clarifies that "taking a position" means substantive testimony reflecting support or opposition to a measure. Importantly, the law practitioner-client privilege cannot be used to prevent disclosure, though records that would be prohibited from disclosure under federal law remain protected. The bill aims to increase transparency by ensuring that the public can access the background and reasoning behind an agency's legislative stance, thus providing greater insight into governmental decision-making processes.
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Bill Summary: The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards. Digest: The Act says a state agency’s public records about being in favor of or against a bill must be made public if the agency has also urged to pass or not pass the bill. (Flesch Readability Score: 60.5). Requires, if an executive department agency testifies in support of or opposition to a proposed measure or amendment to the measure, the agency to disclose all public records in the agency’s custody that relate to the agency’s decision to support or oppose the measure or amendment, notwithstanding any other law providing an exemption from the required disclosure. Provides that the law practitioner-client privilege may not serve as a basis for the agency’s refusal to disclose the records.
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• Introduced: 01/11/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Legislative Measures
• Sponsors: 4 : Kim Thatcher (R)*, Suzanne Weber (R), Ed Diehl (R), Bobby Levy (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/11/2025
• Last Action: In committee upon adjournment.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0340 • Last Action 06/26/2025
Law enforcement: records; reference to the law enforcement officer separation of service record act in the Bullard-Plawecki employee right to know act; update and include release of provisional service records. Amends secs. 7 & 9 of 1978 PA 397 (MCL 423.507 & 423.509). TIE BAR WITH: SB 339'25
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Bullard-Plawecki employee right to know act to modify how employers, particularly law enforcement agencies, handle personnel records and investigation files. The bill updates existing provisions to allow for the release of certain law enforcement officer service records, including provisional service records, which were previously restricted. Specifically, the bill modifies two key sections: Section 7 and Section 9. Under the revised law, employers must review personnel records before releasing them to third parties and continue to delete disciplinary records over 4 years old, but now with expanded exceptions for releasing records related to law enforcement officer service separations and provisional service records. For criminal justice agencies conducting investigations, the bill maintains provisions for maintaining confidential investigation files and specifies that if an investigation is unfounded or no disciplinary action is taken, the information cannot be used in future employment considerations. Importantly, the bill is tied to another piece of legislation (Senate Bill 339) and will only take effect if that bill is also enacted into law. The changes aim to provide more transparency and standardization in how law enforcement personnel records are managed and shared between agencies.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1978 PA 397, entitled"Bullard-Plawecki employee right to know act,"by amending sections 7 and 9 (MCL 423.507 and 423.509), as amended by 2018 PA 521.
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• Introduced: 05/29/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 11 : Roger Victory (R)*, Sarah Anthony (D), Jeff Irwin (D), Stephanie Chang (D), Erika Geiss (D), Sylvia Santana (D), Mallory McMorrow (D), Rosemary Bayer (D), Sue Shink (D), Mary Cavanagh (D), Darrin Camilleri (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 05/29/2025
• Last Action: Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety (12:00:00 6/26/2025 Room 1200, Binsfeld Office Building 201 Townsend St, Lansing, M)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB265 • Last Action 06/25/2025
Requiring that a public body's meeting minutes include start and end times of the meeting and the printed name of the recording secretary.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the existing law (Revised Statutes Annotated or RSA 91-A:2, II) regarding public meeting documentation by requiring that meeting minutes now include two additional pieces of information: the start and end times of the meeting, and the printed name of the person who produced the minutes. Currently, meeting minutes must include the names of members present, persons appearing before the public body, a description of the subject matter discussed, and final decisions. The bill expands these requirements to provide more transparency about the duration of meetings and accountability for record-keeping. The new provisions will apply to all public meetings, whether held in person, by telephone, or through electronic communication, and will take effect 60 days after the bill's passage. This change aims to enhance public access to governmental records by providing more comprehensive and detailed meeting documentation.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires that public meeting minutes be documented with the start time, end time, and recording secretary's printed name.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Marjorie Smith (D)*, Bob Lynn (R), Katelyn Kuttab (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 17
• Last Amended: 04/17/2025
• Last Action: Signed by Governor Ayotte 06/23/2025; Chapter 112; eff.08/22/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0288 • Last Action 06/25/2025
Civil rights: open meetings; grounds for going into closed session when a public body consults with its attorney; modify. Amends sec. 8 of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.268).
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Michigan's Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which public bodies can hold closed (private) sessions. The key changes include allowing closed sessions for additional legal and administrative purposes, such as consulting with an attorney about potential litigation or legal opinions, considering settlement demands or offers, discussing potential lawsuits the public body might file, and consulting about criminal investigations involving a public body member or employee. The bill modifies existing provisions related to closed sessions for personnel matters, student disciplinary issues, collective bargaining negotiations, real estate transactions, employment applications, and higher education presidential searches. Notably, the bill provides more specific language about when attorneys can be consulted privately and clarifies that some closed session discussions must eventually transition to open meetings. The bill maintains existing protections, such as prohibiting the independent citizens redistricting commission from holding any closed sessions, and continues to require that most deliberative processes occur in public view. These modifications aim to provide public bodies with more flexibility in managing sensitive discussions while still preserving principles of governmental transparency.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending section 8 (MCL 15.268), as amended by 2021 PA 166.
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• Introduced: 05/07/2025
• Added: 05/07/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 3 : Veronica Klinefelt (D)*, Erika Geiss (D), Ed McBroom (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 06/25/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Government Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NC bill #H923 • Last Action 06/24/2025
Protect Personal Info/Judicial Personnel
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a process for certain judicial personnel to request the removal of their personal identifying information from public websites, online databases, and geographical information systems maintained by state, county, and city agencies. The bill defines "judicial official" broadly to include magistrates, judges, district attorneys, public defenders, United States attorneys, federal judges, and other legal professionals. Personal identifying information that can be removed includes residential addresses, phone numbers, birth and marriage certificates, and other specific identifying details (excluding the individual's name). Public agencies must develop a confidential process for these requests and are required to remove the specified information upon receiving a valid request. The removed information remains a public record but will not be available online unless the judicial official provides a written revocation. The bill also provides immunity to public agencies and their personnel for good-faith implementation of these removal requests. Agencies that provide online access to public records must comply with these new removal requirements, and the law will take effect on January 1, 2027, giving agencies time to develop the necessary processes and systems.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT TO REQUIRE REMOVAL OF PERSONAL IDENTIFYING INFORMATION FROM WEBSITES MAINTAINED BY THE STATE, COUNTIES, AND CITIES WHEN REQUESTED BY CERTAIN PROSECUTORS, PUBLIC DEFENDERS, AND JUDICIAL PERSONNEL.
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• Introduced: 04/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 12 : Allen Chesser (R)*, Mike Schietzelt (R)*, Vernetta Alston (D)*, Mary Belk (D), Becky Carney (D), Maria Cervania (D), Pricey Harrison (D), Brandon Lofton (D), Marcia Morey (D), Lindsey Prather (D), Phil Rubin (D), Bill Ward (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/29/2025
• Last Action: Judiciary 1 Hearing (13:00:00 6/24/2025 423 LOB)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB873 • Last Action 06/24/2025
In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the definition of "local agency" in the Right-to-Know Law (a Pennsylvania transparency law) to clarify and expand the types of entities considered local agencies subject to public information disclosure requirements. The updated definition now explicitly includes political subdivisions, educational institutions like intermediate units, charter schools, and vocational schools, as well as various local government entities such as authorities, councils, boards, and commissions. The bill also adds a specific reference to an existing statutory definition related to associations under Pennsylvania law. By broadening and specifying the definition of local agency, the bill aims to ensure more comprehensive public access to government information by including a wider range of governmental and quasi-governmental organizations under the law's transparency provisions. The amendment will take effect 60 days after its enactment, giving agencies time to prepare for the expanded definition.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.
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• Introduced: 06/24/2025
• Added: 06/25/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Camera Bartolotta (R)*, Rosemary Brown (R), Jay Costa (D), Elder Vogel (R), Doug Mastriano (R), Marty Flynn (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/24/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1468 • Last Action 06/24/2025
PRIVACY-PUBLIC SAFETY/JUSTICE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Public Safety and Justice Privacy Act, which provides comprehensive protections for personal information of certain public safety and government officials, including first responders, members of the Illinois General Assembly, prosecutors, public defenders, and probation officers. The bill defines "personal information" and establishes procedures for officials to request that their home addresses and other sensitive personal details be kept private. Specifically, governmental agencies, businesses, and individuals are prohibited from publicly posting an official's personal information if they receive a written request not to do so. The bill mandates that such agencies remove personal information within 5 business days of receiving a request and imposes criminal penalties for knowingly and publicly posting an official's personal information in a way that poses an imminent threat to their health and safety. The legislation makes these protections a Class 3 felony and allows officials to seek injunctive or declaratory relief if their personal information is improperly disclosed. The bill also amends several existing laws to allow officials to use work addresses instead of home addresses on various official documents, such as identification cards and vehicle registrations, further protecting their personal privacy. Importantly, the bill is designed to be broadly interpreted to favor protecting officials' personal information, with specific exemptions for governmental employees acting in good faith during the ordinary course of their work.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Public Safety and Justice Privacy Act. Defines terms. Provides that governmental agencies, persons, businesses, and associations shall not publicly post or display publicly available content that includes a first responder's, member or former member of the Illinois General Assembly's, prosecutor's, public defender's, or probation officer's ("officials") personal information, provided that the governmental agency, person, business, or association has received a written request from the person that it refrain from disclosing the person's personal information. Provides injunctive or declaratory relief if the Act is violated. Includes procedures for a written request. Provides that it is a Class 3 felony for any person to knowingly and publicly post on the Internet the personal information of an official or an official's immediate family under specified circumstances. Excludes criminal penalties for employees of governmental agencies who publish information in good faith during the ordinary course of carrying out public functions. Provides that the Act and any rules adopted to implement the Act shall be construed broadly to favor the protection of the personal information of officials. Amends various Acts and Codes allowing an official to list a business address rather than a home address. Makes conforming changes. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 19 : Nicole La Ha (R)*, Tony McCombie (R), Amy Elik (R), Amy Grant (R), Jackie Haas (R), Jennifer Sanalitro (R), Regan Deering (R), Norine Hammond (R), Jeff Keicher (R), C.D. Davidsmeyer (R), Ryan Spain (R), Dan Ugaste (R), Brad Stephens (R), Kevin Schmidt (R), Patrick Sheehan (R), Brandun Schweizer (R), Brad Fritts (R), Mike Coffey (R), Travis Weaver (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 01/21/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Travis Weaver
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1091 • Last Action 06/24/2025
An Act to Reinforce Free Speech at Town Meetings by Requiring Opportunity for Public Comment
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Maine state law by adding a new section (§2608) to the municipal governance statutes that requires municipal officers to provide a "reasonable opportunity for public comment" during regularly scheduled public meetings. Specifically, the law mandates that citizens must be allowed to speak and provide input on matters being addressed by the municipal governing body. The bill includes two key limitations: first, the requirement does not apply to subcommittee meetings, and second, municipalities retain the right to establish and enforce reasonable standards for public comments, such as setting time limits and establishing conduct guidelines. By creating this new legal provision, the bill aims to enhance citizen participation in local government proceedings and ensure that residents have a structured chance to voice their opinions during official municipal meetings.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Reinforce Free Speech at Town Meetings by Requiring Opportunity for Public Comment
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• Introduced: 03/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 8 : Ben Hymes (R)*, David Boyer (R), Alicia Collins (R), Gary Drinkwater (R), Matt Harrington (R), Craig Hickman (D), Reagan Paul (R), Tracy Quint (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 06/25/2025
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Unsigned, Jun 24, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB869 • Last Action 06/18/2025
In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in access, further providing for open-records officer and for retention of records; and, in judicial review, further providing for civil penalty.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Right-to-Know Law to enhance record-keeping and transparency requirements for government agencies. The bill expands the definition of "record" to include communications sent by a public official to less than a quorum of a governing body. It mandates that agencies register their open-records officer with the Office of Open Records within 30 days of designation and requires these officers to complete a training course within 30 days of appointment, with subsequent annual training. The bill also establishes new record retention requirements, compelling agencies to keep electronic records for at least two years, with exceptions for spam and non-substantive communications. Additionally, when an employee leaves an agency, they must confirm that all agency records, including those on personal devices, have been provided to the agency. The bill introduces a significant penalty provision, allowing courts to impose a civil penalty of up to $1,500 and award attorney fees if an agency or its members fail to retain records willfully or in bad faith. Notably, the agency cannot reimburse employees for fines resulting from record retention violations. The legislation aims to improve government accountability and ensure proper documentation of agency activities, with the changes taking effect 60 days after enactment.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in access, further providing for open-records officer and for retention of records; and, in judicial review, further providing for civil penalty.
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• Introduced: 06/19/2025
• Added: 06/19/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jarrett Coleman (R)*, Pat Stefano (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/19/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A08869 • Last Action 06/17/2025
Authorizes the denial of access to certain public records which relate to civil investigations; requires the superintendent of state police to provide the department of law with direct, real-time access to the criminal gun clearinghouse; relates to the enforcement powers of the attorney general; authorizes the attorney general to investigate and bring any civil action addressing repeated or persistent discrimination in elementary and secondary schools; requires the compromise of any claim which
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several significant changes to New York state law across multiple areas. It expands public records confidentiality protections to include civil investigations, requiring that confidential sources and investigative techniques in civil investigations remain protected from public disclosure. The bill mandates that the state police superintendent provide the Department of Law with direct, real-time access to the criminal gun clearinghouse, which tracks guns seized or recovered in criminal investigations. It also significantly enhances the Attorney General's enforcement powers by authorizing investigations and civil actions in cases of repeated or persistent discrimination, particularly in elementary and secondary schools. Specifically, the Attorney General can now bring civil actions with damages and injunctive relief when discriminatory practices are found to be recurring or ongoing, covering a wide range of protected characteristics like race, gender, disability, and sexual orientation. Additionally, the bill modifies provisions related to compromising state claims in medical and hospital settings, removing the requirement for prior Attorney General approval and instead establishing parameters through the Attorney General's office. These changes aim to strengthen investigative capabilities, protect sensitive information, and provide more robust tools to combat discrimination in educational settings.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to the denial of access to public records that relate to civil investigations; to amend the executive law, in relation to requiring the superintendent of state police to provide the department of law with direct, real-time access to the criminal gun clearinghouse; to amend the executive law and the civil rights law, relating to the enforcement powers of the attorney general; to amend the education law, in relation to authorizing the attorney general to enforce the provisions of the education law against covered entities who engage in discrimination and the powers and duties of state university trustees; and to amend the public health law, in relation to the compromise of certain claims the state may have
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• Introduced: 06/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Gabriella Romero (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 06/09/2025
• Last Action: substituted by s8411
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0427 • Last Action 06/17/2025
Civil rights: open meetings; remedies for violations of the open meetings act; revise. Amends sec. 11 of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.271).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Michigan's Open Meetings Act to expand legal remedies for violations of public meeting transparency requirements. The bill allows persons to file civil actions against public bodies for various purposes, including seeking a declaratory judgment that a violation occurred, obtaining mandamus or injunctive relief to compel compliance, and potentially recovering court costs and attorney fees. The bill specifies that actions against local public bodies must be filed in circuit court, while actions against state public bodies must be filed in the Court of Claims, with actions for mandamus to be filed in the Court of Appeals. Importantly, the bill introduces new criteria for awarding attorney fees, such as if the public body has previously violated the Open Meetings Act, intentionally limited public access, caused irreparable harm, or the violation involved significant public interest. The bill also establishes a 180-day statute of limitations for filing such actions, and the amendments will take effect 90 days after enactment. These changes aim to strengthen enforcement of public meeting transparency and provide more robust legal mechanisms for holding public bodies accountable for Open Meetings Act violations.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending section 11 (MCL 15.271).
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• Introduced: 06/17/2025
• Added: 06/18/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 5 : Dan Lauwers (R)*, Jim Runestad (R), Jeff Irwin (D), Ruth Johnson (R), Ed McBroom (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 06/17/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Local Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF388 • Last Action 06/16/2025
A bill for an act relating to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body.(Formerly SSB 1087.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the public notice requirements for meetings of governmental bodies in Iowa, enhancing transparency and accessibility of government meetings. The bill requires governmental bodies to provide notice of meetings through three specific methods: (1) advising news media who have requested notice, (2) posting a notice in a prominent and conspicuous place that is designated annually and visible at all times, and (3) posting the notice on any associated internet site maintained by the governmental body. The bill introduces additional requirements for meeting notices, including marking amended agendas as "AMENDED" and identifying specific changes when an agenda is modified. Furthermore, the bill now mandates that governmental bodies provide notice if a meeting is canceled, with the notice to be given at least 24 hours prior to the meeting's start or cancellation, or as soon as reasonably possible if giving advance notice is impossible. These changes aim to improve public access to information about governmental meetings by ensuring more comprehensive and timely notification methods.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body. The bill requires the act of giving notice of a meeting of a governmental body to include (1) advising the news media who have filed a request for notice with the governmental body as provided under current law, (2) posting the notice in a prominent and conspicuous place that is designated annually by the governmental body, in a manner such that the notice is visible at all times, and (3) posting the notice on any associated internet site as specified in the bill. If a tentative agenda has been posted and is amended, the amended agenda shall be marked “AMENDED”, the amended provisions identified, and a new notice provided. The bill requires a governmental body to provide notice if a meeting is canceled. The notice must be given at least 24 hours prior to the start of the meeting or, for good cause shown, as soon as reasonably possible. By operation of law, notice for electronic meetings of governmental bodies as provided in Code section 21.8 (electronic meetings) shall comply with the notice requirements in Code section 21.4 (public notice). In addition, the bill applies to notices for public appointment and employment under Code section 35C.1 (veterans preference —— appointments and employment —— applications) and notices for whole grade sharing agreements under Code section 282.11 (procedure for whole grade sharing agreements).
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/20/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government. S.J. 1057.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A03425 • Last Action 06/16/2025
Relates to the maximum allowable time frames to respond to requests for records under the freedom of information act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to establish more specific time frames for government agencies to respond to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Under the new provisions, agencies must make records available within increasingly shorter time periods: 180 days for requests made before the end of 2026, 90 days for requests made in 2027, and 60 days for requests made in 2028 and beyond. If an agency cannot meet these time frames due to specific circumstances like federal restrictions, employee safety concerns, or the volume of records, they must provide a detailed written explanation to the requester and the Committee on Open Government, signed by the agency's commissioner. The agency must also provide monthly updates on their progress in processing the request. Additionally, the bill requires state agencies with websites to provide online submission options for record requests and mandates that agencies use electronic methods to retrieve records when possible. The new provisions aim to improve transparency and efficiency in government record access, with a phased implementation starting in January 2026.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to time frames for responding to requests for records under the freedom of information act
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• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 12 : Steven Raga (D)*, Jessica González-Rojas (D), Ron Kim (D), Maryjane Shimsky (D), Tony Simone (D), Anna Kelles (D), Harvey Epstein (D), George Alvarez (D), Phil Steck (D), Noah Burroughs (D), Karines Reyes (D), Angelo Santabarbara (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/27/2025
• Last Action: substituted by s2520b
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF389 • Last Action 06/16/2025
A bill for an act relating to public records requests.(Formerly SSB 1086.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Iowa's public records law to establish more specific requirements for government agencies when responding to public records requests. The bill requires that when a government agency (referred to as the "lawful custodian") receives a public records request, they must: (1) promptly acknowledge the request, which is defined as using reasonable, good-faith efforts to respond within the context of the current circumstances, and provide contact information for the designated representative handling the request; (2) provide an estimated date for when they will give the requester an estimate of expenses and either release the requested records or respond to the request; and (3) inform the requester about any anticipated delays in producing the requested records. The bill also reinforces existing provisions that agencies should make reasonable efforts to provide records at no cost beyond basic copying expenses, especially for requests that take less than 30 minutes to fulfill. These changes aim to improve transparency and communication in the public records request process by setting clear expectations for both government agencies and citizens seeking access to public information.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that upon receipt of a public records request, the lawful custodian shall (1) promptly, as defined in the bill, acknowledge the request and provide the contact information of the lawful custodian’s authorized designee, (2) provide an approximate date for a response and an estimate of any reasonable fees associated with the request, and (3) inform the requester of any expected delay in production of the public record.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/20/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government. S.J. 1057.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF259 • Last Action 06/16/2025
A bill for an act relating to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body.(Formerly HSB 75.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the public meeting notice requirements for governmental bodies in Iowa, expanding and clarifying the existing rules for providing public notice. The bill requires governmental bodies to give notice of meeting time, date, place, and tentative agenda through three specific methods: (1) advising news media who have requested notice, (2) posting a notice in a prominently and conspicuously designated location that is visible at all times, and (3) posting the notice on the governmental body's internet site or online presence if one exists. Additionally, the bill mandates that if a tentative agenda is amended, the governmental body must mark the agenda as "AMENDED" and identify the specific changes, then re-issue notice through the same channels. The bill also slightly modifies the existing notice timeline, specifying that notice must be given at least twenty-four hours prior to a meeting's commencement or cancellation, with an exception for circumstances where providing such notice is impossible or impractical. These changes aim to improve transparency and ensure that the public has more consistent and accessible information about governmental meetings.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body. The bill requires the act of giving notice of a meeting of a governmental body to include (1) advising the news media who have filed a request for notice with the governmental body as provided under current law, (2) posting the notice in a prominent and conspicuous place that is designated annually by the governmental body, in a manner such that the notice is visible at all times, and (3) posting the notice on any associated internet site as specified in the bill. If a tentative agenda has been posted and is amended, the amended agenda shall be marked “AMENDED”, the amended provisions identified, and a new notice provided. The bill requires a governmental body to provide notice if a meeting is canceled. The notice must be given at least 24 hours prior to the start of the meeting or, for good cause shown, as soon as reasonably possible. By operation of law, notice for electronic meetings of governmental bodies as provided in Code section 21.8 (electronic meetings) shall comply with the notice requirements in Code section 21.4 (public notice). In addition, the bill applies to notices for public appointment and employment under Code section 35C.1 (veterans preference —— appointments and employment —— applications) and notices for whole grade sharing agreements under Code section 282.11 (procedure for whole grade sharing agreements).
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government. S.J. 1057.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
FL bill #H0325 • Last Action 06/16/2025
Court-ordered Sealing of Criminal History Records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Florida's existing law regarding court-ordered sealing of criminal history records by expanding eligibility and clarifying sealing procedures. The bill allows courts to seal criminal history records under new conditions, specifically permitting sealing of records related to misdemeanor offenses that are not violent or domestic violence-related. It also introduces a provision allowing courts to seal up to three records of adjudication of guilt, with the possibility of sealing additional records if they directly relate to the original adjudication. The bill revises the circumstances under which individuals can petition to seal their criminal records, including modifications to previous restrictions on prior adjudications and sealing attempts. Importantly, the bill maintains existing protections that require individuals to disclose sealed records in specific situations, such as when applying for certain jobs involving vulnerable populations, seeking professional licenses, or purchasing firearms. The changes aim to provide more flexibility in record sealing while maintaining public safety considerations. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving legal systems and agencies time to prepare for the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to court-ordered sealing of criminal history records; amending s. 943.059, F.S.; revising eligibility requirements for the court-ordered sealing of certain criminal history records; authorizing courts to seal additional adjudications of guilt in certain circumstances; providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/30/2025
• Added: 04/23/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Traci Koster (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/30/2025
• Last Action: Died in Criminal Justice Subcommittee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0059 • Last Action 06/13/2025
An act relating to amendments to Vermont’s Open Meeting Law
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Vermont's Open Meeting Law to enhance transparency and accessibility of public meetings. The key provisions include requiring state public bodies (except advisory bodies) to hold hybrid meetings with both physical and electronic platforms, electronically record all meetings, and post those recordings for at least 30 days after the meeting. The bill clarifies the definition of "undue hardship" when complying with meeting requirements, and expands the reasons for holding executive sessions to include cybersecurity and confidential business information related to publicly financed loans. The bill also modifies notice requirements for special meetings, mandating that agendas contain sufficient details and be posted in multiple locations. Additionally, it expands annual training requirements to include members of certain advisory bodies and updates the definition of disorderly conduct at public meetings to more precisely describe actions that can substantially impair the effective conduct of an assembly or meeting. These changes aim to increase public access to government proceedings, improve meeting transparency, and provide clearer guidelines for public bodies when conducting meetings.
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Bill Summary: An act relating to amendments to Vermont’s Open Meeting Law.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2025
• Added: 02/11/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ruth Hardy (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 55
• Last Amended: 06/12/2025
• Last Action: Senate Message: Signed by Governor June 9, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S05000 • Last Action 06/13/2025
Requires entities that submit records to state agencies that are excepted from disclosure under FOIL to periodically re-apply for the exception.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the New York Public Officers Law to require entities that submit records to state agencies and request an exception from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) to periodically re-apply for that exception. Specifically, the bill introduces a requirement that submitters can only receive an exception for a defined period not exceeding three years, after which they must apply for a three-year extension. If a submitter fails to apply for an extension, the exception will automatically expire. The bill applies to various types of records, including those containing critical infrastructure information, and requires submitters to specifically identify which portions of their records should be excepted from disclosure. The process allows agencies to review extension requests and either grant or deny them, with a potential appeal process for denied extensions. This change aims to ensure that records exempted from public disclosure are periodically reviewed and validated, enhancing transparency while still protecting sensitive information. The bill amends existing law to incorporate these new periodic re-application requirements and provides a structured mechanism for maintaining and potentially extending record exemptions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring entities that submit records to state agencies that are excepted from disclosure under the freedom of information law to periodically re-apply for the exception
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• Introduced: 02/14/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : Brad Hoylman (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Cordell Cleare (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), Robert Jackson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/14/2025
• Last Action: COMMITTED TO RULES
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #SB69 • Last Action 06/12/2025
Relative to acceptance of or rejection of charitable contributions, gifts, or donations by local school boards, establishing a virtual early childhood readiness family engagement program, and specifying that library user information exempted from disclosure in the right-to-know law includes information regarding library cards and library membership status.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires local school boards in New Hampshire to discuss and vote on charitable contributions, gifts, or donations in a public session before rejecting them, and applies this requirement to multiple sections of state law related to school funding and resources. Specifically, the bill amends existing statutes covering innovation school plans, trust funds, epinephrine auto-injectors, bronchodilators, school district trust funds, public recreation areas, and regional career and technical education center programs. By mandating that any potential rejection of a donation must be done through a transparent, public vote, the legislation aims to increase accountability and provide more visibility into school board decision-making processes regarding financial contributions. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving school boards time to adjust their procedures to comply with the new requirement. The goal appears to be ensuring that potential donations are not arbitrarily refused without public deliberation and that the community has an opportunity to understand the reasoning behind any donation rejections.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires local school boards to discuss and vote in public session before rejecting any charitable contribution, gift, or donation.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 11/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Keith Murphy (R)*, Dan Innis (R), Kevin Avard (R), Rick Ladd (R), Joe Alexander (R), Lisa Mazur (R), Jason Osborne (R), Sheila Seidel (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 01/15/2025
• Last Action: Sen. Ward Moved Nonconcur with the House Amendment, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote; 06/12/2025; Senate Journal 16
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0359 • Last Action 06/12/2025
Consumer protection: privacy; personal data privacy act; create. Creates new act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive privacy protections for Michigan residents by creating the Personal Data Privacy Act, which governs how businesses collect, process, use, and share personal data. The legislation applies to businesses that process data for at least 100,000 consumers or 25,000 consumers if they derive revenue from selling personal data. Key provisions include requiring businesses to provide clear privacy notices, obtain consumer consent before processing sensitive data, and allow consumers to access, correct, delete, and opt out of data processing for targeted advertising or sales. The bill defines various types of personal data, including sensitive categories like biometric data, health information, and precise geolocation data, and provides special protections for minors and sensitive information. Businesses must implement data protection measures, limit data collection to what is necessary, and provide mechanisms for consumers to exercise their privacy rights. The Attorney General is granted exclusive enforcement authority, with the ability to investigate potential violations and impose civil fines up to $7,500 per violation. The bill also creates two new funds: a consumer privacy fund and a data broker registry fund, and requires data brokers to register annually with the state. Notably, the law will take effect one year after its enactment, giving businesses time to adapt to the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: A bill to establish the privacy rights of consumers; to require certain persons to provide certain notices to consumers regarding the collection, processing, sale, sharing, and retention of personal data; to provide for a universal opt-out mechanism; to prohibit certain acts and practices concerning the collection, processing, sale, sharing, and retention of personal data; to establish standards and practices regarding the collection, processing, sale, sharing, and retention of personal data; to require the registration of data brokers; to provide for the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities; to create certain funds; and to provide civil sanctions and remedies.
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• Introduced: 06/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 9 : Rosemary Bayer (D)*, Stephanie Chang (D), Mary Cavanagh (D), Erika Geiss (D), Mallory McMorrow (D), Sue Shink (D), Sarah Anthony (D), Jeff Irwin (D), Sylvia Santana (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 06/05/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee Of The Whole
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00067 • Last Action 06/11/2025
Permits records required to be disclosed under the freedom of information law to have exempt parts of such documents be redacted before disclosure.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to clarify the process for disclosing records under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). Currently, agencies must make records available for public inspection, but they can withhold certain exempt portions. The bill explicitly allows agencies to redact or withhold specific portions of a record that are exempt from disclosure while still releasing the remaining non-exempt parts of the document. This means that if a record contains both public and confidential information, the agency can remove or black out the sensitive sections but must still provide access to the rest of the document. The bill emphasizes that denials of access cannot be based solely on the type of record and must have a specific, particularized justification for withholding information. This change aims to make government records more transparent while still protecting legitimate privacy and confidentiality concerns.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to permitting records required to be disclosed under the freedom of information law to have exempt parts of such documents be redacted before disclosure
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• Introduced: 12/20/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : James Skoufis (D)*, Leroy Comrie (D), Robert Jackson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: SUBSTITUTED BY A6613
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1813 • Last Action 06/09/2025
An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning State Boards and Commissions
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands public records and proceedings training requirements to include board members of commissions established under Title 5, Chapter 379, which appears to be a specific chapter governing state boards and commissions. The bill mandates that these board members complete a training course within 120 days of assuming their duties, focusing on legal requirements related to public records and proceedings. The training must be less than two hours and cover topics such as legal requirements for public records, procedures for handling record requests, and potential penalties for non-compliance. Board members can meet this requirement by thoroughly reviewing state-provided online guidance about open government. Additionally, the bill requires board members to provide written or electronic certification of their training completion and file this documentation with their respective public entity. The legislation also requires each agency or office to designate a public access officer who can serve multiple boards or commissions within the same office, and mandates that all agencies and commissions acknowledge and respond to public record requests, regardless of whether they are directed to the specific public access officer.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning State Boards and Commissions
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• Introduced: 04/25/2025
• Added: 04/25/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Amy Kuhn (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 06/12/2025
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Unsigned, Jun 9, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1797 • Last Action 06/09/2025
An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning Denials of Public Records Requests
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Maine's public records law by requiring government bodies, agencies, or officials to provide more detailed written notices when denying public records requests. Specifically, when a public records request is denied, the responding entity must now include a specific citation to the legal statute that justifies their denial, in addition to the existing requirement of providing written notice within 5 working days explaining the reason for the denial. This change aims to increase transparency by ensuring that requestors understand the precise legal basis for withholding public records. The bill preserves existing provisions that allow for denials based on requests being unduly burdensome, provided that certain procedural steps are followed, and maintains the current appeals process for requestors who believe their public records request has been improperly denied. The modification is part of recommendations from the Right to Know Advisory Committee and amends section 408-A of Title 1 of the Maine Revised Statutes.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning Denials of Public Records Requests
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• Introduced: 04/23/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Amy Kuhn (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 06/12/2025
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Unsigned, Jun 9, 2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00455 • Last Action 06/09/2025
Provides that, for a quorum, an advisory board may require that at a minimum, one quarter of the members and the presiding officer of a community board physically be present at a location where the public can attend for such board to conduct videoconferencing.
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the existing public officers law to provide more flexibility for advisory bodies, specifically community boards in large cities like New York City, when conducting videoconferenced meetings. The bill allows advisory bodies to have a lower quorum requirement, mandating that only one quarter of the members and the presiding officer must be physically present at a public location during videoconference meetings, instead of requiring a full quorum to be physically present. The bill defines an "advisory body" as an entity involved in an advisory capacity only, such as policy development, program planning, and evaluation, which may or may not have voting power to determine final outcomes. This change aims to make meetings more accessible and convenient for advisory board members while still maintaining some in-person presence to ensure public transparency and engagement. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage, with the amendments being considered temporary and subject to potential future repeal.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to lowering quorum requirements for meetings of community boards held by videoconferencing
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• Introduced: 12/31/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Brad Hoylman (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: referred to governmental operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF706 • Last Action 06/06/2025
A bill for an act relating to open meetings and open records, providing penalties, and making penalties applicable. (Formerly HF 416.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Iowa's open meetings and open records laws with several key provisions. First, it increases potential financial penalties for governmental body members who violate open meeting laws, raising maximum damages from $2,500 to $12,500 for knowingly violating the law, while also slightly adjusting minimum damage amounts. The bill introduces a new mandatory education requirement for newly elected or appointed public officials, mandating they complete a 1-2 hour training course within 90 days of taking office regarding open meetings and records responsibilities. This training will be managed by the Iowa Public Information Board, which must ensure at least one no-cost training option is available. The bill also adds two new exemptions to public records disclosure: information from legislative branch security cameras and state employee identification card access systems for state-owned or leased buildings. Additionally, the bill expands the Iowa Public Information Board's authority to issue orders and impose civil penalties, explicitly including the new member education requirements in its enforcement scope. These changes aim to improve transparency, accountability, and understanding of open government laws among public officials, with an effective date of July 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to open meetings and open records, providing penalties, and making penalties applicable.
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• Introduced: 02/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 04/24/2025
• Last Action: Signed by Governor. H.J. 1226.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR188 • Last Action 06/06/2025
Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the open meetings requirements for Amtrak's Board of Directors by amending existing federal law. Specifically, the bill requires Amtrak to comply with most open meetings and public disclosure rules under sections 552 and 552b of title 5, with several important exceptions. These exceptions allow Amtrak to keep certain discussions private when they involve sensitive business matters such as contract negotiations, collective bargaining agreements, personnel issues, and confidential commercial information. The bill explicitly protects Amtrak's ability to withhold information that could compromise its competitive position or potentially risk the safety of customers and employees. Additionally, the legislation ensures that Amtrak can still maintain its ability to honor existing contracts, comply with legal requirements, and conduct normal business activities consistent with its organizational mission. The bill aims to balance transparency with the practical operational needs of Amtrak as a quasi-public transportation entity, providing nuanced guidelines for when and how meetings and information can be kept confidential.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To require that the Amtrak Board of Directors comply with the open meetings requirements of section 552b of title 5, United States Code, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 2 : Troy Nehls (R)*, Sam Graves (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 06/07/2025
• Last Action: Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 113.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #A00173 • Last Action 06/06/2025
Relates to the applicability of open meetings and freedom of information laws to certain not-for-profit corporations.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends New York's Not-for-Profit Corporation Law and Public Authorities Law to clarify when certain not-for-profit corporations are subject to open meetings and freedom of information laws, which are collectively known as transparency laws. Specifically, it requires that when a not-for-profit corporation is incorporated on behalf of or at the direction of a municipal corporation, state or local authority, or district, or if certain government officials select a majority of its board or chief executive, it must disclose this relationship during incorporation and may require consent from the director of the authorities budget office. Furthermore, the bill expands the definition of "local authority" to include not-for-profit corporations that have issued or can issue tax-exempt debt or provide tax exemptions, and it clarifies that all state and local authorities, along with their subsidiaries and affiliates, are subject to open meetings and freedom of information laws, requiring them to stream meetings online and post recordings. The bill also makes changes to the terms and notice requirements for sales or leases of property by local development corporations to municipalities, limiting lease terms to twenty-five years and requiring more detailed public notice for such transactions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the not-for-profit corporation law and the public authorities law, in relation to the applicability of open meetings and freedom of information laws to certain not-for-profit corporations
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• Introduced: 12/23/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 5 : Amy Paulin (D)*, Steve Otis (D), Jonathan Jacobson (D), Maryjane Shimsky (D), George Alvarez (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: substituted by s6165
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF588 • Last Action 06/06/2025
A bill for an act concerning local government notice requirements on certain actions. (Formerly SSB 1116.) Effective date: 07/01/2025.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies notice requirements for various local government actions across multiple sections of Iowa law, primarily standardizing public hearing notice procedures by referencing section 362.3, which generally governs municipal publication requirements. The bill removes specific time frames for notice publication (such as "not less than ten nor more than twenty days") and instead directs cities to follow the standard notice guidelines in section 362.3. These changes affect a wide range of local government processes, including budget hearings, city council restructuring, utility connection fee establishment, civil service commissioner appointments, zoning regulation amendments, and city discontinuance proceedings. The modifications aim to streamline and simplify public notice requirements across different types of municipal actions, potentially making it easier for local governments to comply with notification rules while still ensuring public transparency. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving local governments time to adjust to the new standardized notice procedures.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT CONCERNING LOCAL GOVERNMENT NOTICE REQUIREMENTS ON CERTAIN ACTIONS.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Local Government
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 14
• Last Amended: 04/10/2025
• Last Action: Signed by Governor. S.J. 1052.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1824 • Last Action 06/03/2025
An Act to Prohibit the Public Release of Information Regarding a Railroad Fatality
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Maine's public records law to prohibit the public release of certain law enforcement reports and communications related to fatal railroad accidents during the course of an investigation. Specifically, the bill creates a new confidentiality provision that prevents the disclosure of law enforcement reports about a railroad fatality and any communications between law enforcement and railroad company employees involved in the accident. However, the bill does provide limited exceptions to this confidentiality rule, allowing access to these reports and records by: (1) the railroad company responsible for the accident, (2) a railroad company whose employee is mentioned in the documents, and (3) individuals authorized by a judicial order who need the information to perform their duties. The bill also defines key terms such as "railroad," "railroad company," and "railroad line" by referencing existing state law definitions. This legislation aims to protect the sensitivity of ongoing investigations into fatal railroad accidents while still allowing necessary access to relevant parties.
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Bill Summary: This bill excludes from the definition of "public record" reports of a law enforcement agency regarding an accident resulting in a fatality involving a railroad or railroad line and all records of communication between the law enforcement agency and a railroad company employee involved in that accident. The exclusion applies only during the course of an investigation of such an accident. The bill provides certain exceptions to the confidentiality of the reports and records.
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• Introduced: 04/28/2025
• Added: 04/29/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 4 : Joe Rafferty (D)*, Joe Baldacci (D), Sheila Lyman (R), Jeff Timberlake (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 04/28/2025
• Last Action: Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB1651 • Last Action 06/03/2025
Relating To Public Meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill addresses transparency in public meetings by modifying Hawaii's existing law regarding board packet availability and public notice. Specifically, the bill requires government boards to post their meeting packets at least three full business days before a meeting, closing a previously exploited legal loophole where some agencies were posting packets late in the evening of the second business day, effectively reducing public review time. The bill defines a "board packet" as documents distributed to board members before a meeting that are considered public under state law, with some exceptions like executive session minutes and license applications. Additionally, the legislation mandates that boards must provide notification to individuals who have requested meeting updates at the same time the board packet is made available for public inspection. The legislature's intent is to ensure more meaningful public access to government meeting materials by extending the advance notice period and clarifying notification requirements, thus promoting government transparency and allowing citizens more time to review important documents before public meetings.
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Bill Summary: Requires board packets to be posted at least three full business days before a public meeting. Requires boards to provide notice to persons who have requested notification of meetings at the time the board packet is made available for public inspection. (CD1)
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Karl Rhoads (D)*
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 51
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Act 169, on 06/03/2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1269).
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2172 • Last Action 06/02/2025
FOIA-PUBLIC INFORMATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), a law that ensures public access to government information, by changing how public bodies share information about themselves. Specifically, the bill requires each public body to post a brief description of its organization on its website, instead of displaying this information at its administrative or regional offices. The description must include details such as the body's purpose, organizational structure, total operating budget, number and location of offices, employee count, and information about any advisory boards or committees that influence its operations. If a public body does not have a website, it must still display this information at its administrative or regional offices. This change aims to make government information more accessible to the public by leveraging online platforms, which can reach a broader audience more quickly and efficiently than traditional physical postings.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides the each public body shall post a brief description of itself and other specified information on its website (rather than at each of its administrative or regional offices). Provides that, if a public body does not maintain a website, it shall also post that information at each of its administrative or regional offices.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*, Seth Lewis (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2436 • Last Action 06/02/2025
FOIA-NUCLEAR SECURITY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to add a new exemption for certain nuclear security-related documents. Specifically, the bill creates an exemption for documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under a 1987 agreement between the State of Illinois and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), and in accordance with the National Materials Program. These documents include information classified as safeguards, safeguards-modified, and sensitive unclassified nonsafeguards information, as identified in NRC regulatory information summaries, security advisories, and other communications or regulations related to the control and distribution of security-sensitive information. This means that such documents would be exempt from public inspection and copying under the Freedom of Information Act, protecting potentially sensitive nuclear-related information from public disclosure. The exemption is designed to maintain security standards and protect critical nuclear-related documentation from potential misuse or unauthorized access.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under certain requirements related to the U.S. Nuclear Regulation Commission and National Materials Program are exempt from inspection and copying under the Act.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Karina Villa (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2173 • Last Action 06/02/2025
FOIA-EMPLOYEE LIABILITY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand liability protection for public bodies and their employees when disclosing records. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 9.5 of the existing law to clarify that not only public bodies, but also individual officers and employees of public bodies, will be immune from legal liabilities when they disclose records in accordance with an opinion issued by the Attorney General. This means that if a public body or its employees release documents based on guidance from the Attorney General through the Public Access Counselor's review process, they cannot be sued or penalized for that disclosure. The bill provides additional legal protection for government officials who are working to comply with transparency requirements, ensuring they can fulfill FOIA requests without fear of personal or institutional legal consequences when they follow official guidance. The change aims to encourage more open and confident handling of public records requests by removing potential personal liability for government workers.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a public body and any officer or employee of a public body (rather than only a public body) that discloses records in accordance with an opinion of the Attorney General is immune from all liabilities by reason thereof and shall not be liable for penalties under the Act.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2169 • Last Action 06/02/2025
FOIA-CLOSED MTG MINUTES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify the process for filing lawsuits when a public body denies access to certain meeting records. Specifically, the bill introduces a new requirement that if a requester wants to sue for access to minutes or a verbatim record of a closed meeting that have not been previously available for public inspection, they must wait 60 days after either (1) the public body receives the request or (2) the Public Access Counselor issues a binding or non-binding opinion, whichever occurs later. This waiting period is intended to allow time for review of the requested records under the Open Meetings Act. The change aims to provide public bodies with an opportunity to review and potentially release requested documents before litigation begins, potentially reducing unnecessary legal proceedings and giving agencies a chance to resolve access disputes internally. The bill preserves the existing framework of FOIA that allows individuals to challenge denials of public records, but adds this procedural step specifically for meeting minutes from closed sessions.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, if the denial of a request includes a request for minutes or a verbatim record of a meeting of the public body closed to the public as provided in the Open Meetings Act that have not been previously made available for public inspection, suit may be filed under a specified provision only after a 60-day period following (i) the receipt of the request by the public body or (ii) the issuance of a binding or non-binding opinion from the Public Access Counselor, whichever is later, to allow for review of the requested records as provided under the Open Meetings Act.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2167 • Last Action 06/02/2025
FOIA-FEES AND COSTS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by modifying the provisions related to fees for requesting public records. Specifically, the bill removes the requirement for public bodies to provide an accounting of personnel hours when charging fees for voluminous electronic record requests. Under the current law, when a public body imposes fees for voluminous electronic records (such as PDF or non-PDF files), they must provide a detailed breakdown of fees, costs, and personnel hours. The new bill eliminates the requirement to report personnel hours, while still maintaining the requirement to account for fees and costs. The bill preserves existing provisions that allow public bodies to charge for actual costs of reproducing records, with some exceptions such as waiving fees for requests in the public interest or providing the first 50 pages of black and white copies free of charge. For commercial requests, the bill maintains the ability to charge up to $10 per hour for searching and retrieving records after the first 8 hours. These changes aim to streamline the fee reporting process for public bodies when responding to public records requests.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. In provisions regarding the authority to charge fees and the imposition of a fee for a voluminous request, removes requirements for an accounting of all personnel hours in connection with the request for public records.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1489 • Last Action 06/02/2025
FOIA-CRIM JUSTICE AGENCY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand an existing exemption for law enforcement records in shared electronic record management systems. Specifically, the bill modifies the exemption to allow a criminal justice agency, in addition to a law enforcement agency, to withhold a record from disclosure if three conditions are met: (1) the agency receiving the request did not create the original record, (2) the agency did not participate in or have a role in the events described in the record, and (3) the agency only has access to the record through a shared electronic record management system. This change broadens the types of agencies that can claim this exemption, potentially making it easier for criminal justice agencies to protect certain sensitive law enforcement records from public disclosure. The amendment aims to provide additional privacy protections for records that an agency has minimal involvement with and has accessed only through a shared electronic system.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from inspection and copying a law enforcement record created for law enforcement purposes and contained in a shared electronic record management system if the law enforcement agency or criminal justice agency (rather than only the law enforcement agency) that is the recipient of the request did not create the record, did not participate in or have a role in any of the events which are the subject of the record, and only has access to the record through the shared electronic record management system.
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• Introduced: 01/31/2025
• Added: 02/01/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Mary Edly-Allen (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 01/31/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2166 • Last Action 06/02/2025
OPEN MTGS-ATTENDANCE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which members of a public body can attend meetings remotely. Currently, members can attend meetings by video or audio conference if they are unable to be physically present due to personal illness, disability, employment purposes, business of the public body, family emergencies, or unexpected childcare obligations. The bill adds a new provision allowing attendance by other means for "any other reason" as designated in rules adopted by the public body. The bill requires that a quorum of members must still be physically present, and the member seeking to attend remotely must notify the recording secretary or clerk before the meeting unless advance notice is impractical. The public body must adopt rules that specify the conditions and extent of remote attendance, which may include additional notice requirements or ways to facilitate public access. The bill maintains existing provisions for extraordinary circumstances, such as during a declared public health disaster, where meetings can be conducted entirely remotely under specific conditions like ensuring public access to discussions and conducting roll call votes. This change provides public bodies with more flexibility in managing meeting attendance while maintaining transparency and public participation.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Allows attendance by a means other than physical presence under certain circumstances if a member of a public body is prevented from physically attending because of any reason designated in rules adopted by the public body in accordance with certain provisions in the Act.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1576 • Last Action 06/02/2025
I VOTED STICKER CONTEST
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the "I Voted" Sticker Commission to develop and manage a statewide contest for creating new voting stickers to be used in the 2026 General Election. The Commission will consist of 22 members, including representatives from various state government offices and leadership positions, who will serve without compensation. The Commission's key responsibilities include creating guidelines for the sticker design contest, establishing a public website for submissions and voting, engaging in a public awareness campaign, and selecting up to 50 initial submissions that engage voters. By July 1, 2026, the Commission will conduct a public survey to choose 10 final sticker designs that will be used by election authorities across Illinois. The process will involve creating an online platform where residents can submit and vote on designs, with a particular emphasis on incorporating input from children and young people. The Commission is required to submit a detailed report to the General Assembly by February 2, 2026, describing the submissions and selection process. The entire initiative is set to be repealed on January 1, 2027, and the State Board of Elections will provide administrative support throughout the contest.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Election Code. Creates the "I Voted" Sticker Commission. Provides that the purposes of the Commission are to develop guidelines for the "I Voted" Sticker Contest and to select sticker designs to be used by election authorities in the State for the 2026 General Election. Provides that the Commission shall establish a process for the submission of proposed designs for the "I Voted" Sticker Contest and guidelines for the assessment of those proposed designs. Provides that, on or before July 1, 2026, the Commission shall conduct a public survey to select the 10 designs that will be used by election authorities in the State for the 2026 General Election. Sets forth provisions concerning membership; terms; compensation; and administrative support. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Doris Turner (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0105 • Last Action 06/02/2025
OPEN MEETINGS ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to make several key changes regarding public meetings, with a particular focus on Police District Councils in Chicago. For 3-member public bodies, the bill now defines a quorum as 2 members, and allows decisions to be made with the affirmative vote of those 2 members. The bill adds a new provision that allows Police District Councils to hold closed meetings related to public safety concerns, specifically when discussing ongoing law enforcement investigations, misconduct allegations, or topics that could compromise an investigation or individuals' safety. The legislation also updates notice requirements, stipulating that meeting agendas must be posted at a public body's principal office if one exists, and clarifies that for public bodies with websites maintained by full-time staff but without a central office, posting the agenda online satisfies the notice requirement. Additionally, the bill modifies rules for Police District Councils, excluding gatherings of 2 members from the definition of a "meeting" in most circumstances and allowing these councils to conduct meetings via audio or video conference, with some exceptions for regularly scheduled meetings. These changes aim to provide more flexibility for public bodies while maintaining transparency in government operations.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that for a 3-member body, 2 members of the body constitute a quorum, and the affirmative vote of 2 members is necessary to adopt any motion, resolution, or ordinance unless a greater number is otherwise provided. Provides that a Chicago Police District Council may hold a closed meeting involving public safety concerns to discuss (i) an ongoing, prior, or future law enforcement or official misconduct investigation or allegation thereof involving specific individuals or (ii) other topics that if discussed in an open meeting would pose an unreasonable risk to an ongoing criminal investigation or an unreasonable risk to the safety of specific individuals. Provides that an agenda for each regular meeting of a public body must be posted the principal office of the public body if such an office exists. Provides that if a public body has a website that is maintained by its full-time staff but does not have a principal office or single building where meetings are regularly held, that body is deemed to have complied with the requirement to post physical notice at the office or building of the meeting if the notice is timely posted on the public body's website. Excludes from the definition of "meeting" for a Chicago Police District Council a gathering of 2 members, except if gathered for a regularly scheduled meeting or otherwise gathered to adopt any motion, resolution, or ordinance. Provides a Chicago Police District Council may hold meetings by audio or video conference without the physical presence of the members under certain conditions except for required regularly scheduled meetings.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Sara Feigenholtz (D)*, Robert Peters (D), Ram Villivalam (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1965 • Last Action 06/02/2025
OMA-ACCESSIBILITY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to enhance accessibility for electronic training programs. Specifically, it requires the Public Access Counselor to conduct a comprehensive accessibility review of the electronic training curriculum within 30 days of the bill's effective date, ensuring compliance with the Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act. If any part of the training, including the registration page, is found to be inaccessible, the Public Access Counselor must take steps to bring it into compliance within 30 days, which may include contracting with third-party vendors. Additionally, the bill mandates the establishment of an accessibility helpline within 180 days, which must be available either through live calls 24/7 or with a guaranteed response within 3 calendar days. The helpline's purpose is to assist individuals with disabilities or those who have difficulty independently registering for and completing the electronic training. Helpline operators are required to provide assistance, including remote desktop access with the individual's permission, to ensure that all public body members can successfully complete the required Open Meetings Act training.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. In provisions regarding training, requires the Public Access Counselor to complete an accessibility review for electronic training under the Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act and rules adopted under that Act. Provides for procedures to bring the training into compliance with the Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act. Requires the establishment of an accessibility helpline, with certain requirements.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Cristina Castro (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1706 • Last Action 06/02/2025
OMA-POLICE OFFICERS PENSION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to specifically exempt committees of the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund from the requirement that a quorum (the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business) must be physically present at a meeting location. Currently, the law generally requires public bodies to have members physically present at meetings, with some exceptions for certain types of government entities with large jurisdictional areas. By adding language about the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund committees, the bill allows these specific committees to hold meetings where members can participate remotely without needing to be physically in the same location, as long as they provide appropriate public notice and access. This change provides more flexibility for these pension-related committees to conduct their business, potentially making scheduling and participation easier for committee members.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that the requirement that a quorum be physically present at the location of an open meeting does not apply to committees of the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Bill Cunningham (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1632 • Last Action 06/02/2025
OPEN MTGS-LICENSING BOARDS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which licensing boards authorized by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (DFPR) can hold meetings with members participating through interactive video conference. Specifically, the bill allows these licensing boards to hold open meetings simultaneously at multiple locations within public buildings, with members at each location counting towards the meeting's quorum. The bill requires that public notice and access be provided for all meeting locations. Previously, most public bodies were required to have a quorum physically present at the meeting location, with only a few specific types of organizations (such as statewide bodies or those covering large geographic areas) exempt from this requirement. By adding licensing boards to this list, the bill provides more flexibility for these professional regulatory boards to conduct meetings, potentially making it easier for board members to participate remotely while still maintaining transparency through public notice and access requirements. The term "public building" is defined in the bill as any building or portion of a building owned or leased by a public body.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that if an open meeting of a public body that is a licensing board authorized by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation is held simultaneously at one of its offices and one or more other locations in a public building, which may include other of its offices, through an interactive video conference and the public body provides public notice and public access as required under the Act for all locations, then members physically present in those locations all count towards determining a quorum.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dave Koehler (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2483 • Last Action 06/02/2025
AFN COMMITTEE TELECONFERENCE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act to modify the meeting procedures for the Access and Functional Needs (AFN) Advisory Committee. Specifically, the bill allows committee members to attend meetings remotely via video or audio conference, with all remotely attending members counting toward the meeting's quorum, while still requiring at least one member to be physically present at the publicly posted meeting location. The bill maintains the committee's existing responsibilities, which include coordinating meetings at least three times per year, researching and recommending strategies for supporting people with disabilities during emergencies, and providing annual reports to the General Assembly, Governor's Office, and Illinois Emergency Management Agency. The Advisory Committee is composed of representatives from various state agencies and appointed members from the disability community, first responders, and local emergency management agencies. By exempting the committee from the traditional Open Meetings Act requirement of physical quorum presence, the bill provides more flexibility for committee members to participate in meetings, potentially improving accessibility and participation for members who may have mobility challenges or geographic constraints.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Act. In provisions regarding the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee, provides that the Advisory Committee shall comply with all provisions of the Open Meetings Act except that the Advisory Committee is exempt from the provisions that specifically require a quorum of members of a public body to be physically present at the location of an open meeting. Allows Advisory Committee members to attend meetings of the Access and Functional Needs Advisory Committee remotely by video or audio conference with all attending members counting toward a quorum, provided there is at least one member in physical attendance at the publicly posted physical location of the meeting.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Laura Fine (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD101 • Last Action 05/29/2025
Resolve, to Convene a Working Group to Examine the Classification of and Access to Public Records Maintained by Certain State Agencies
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a working group to examine the classification and accessibility of public records maintained by certain state agencies, specifically the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Department of Marine Resources, and Department of Public Safety. The working group will consist of members appointed by these agencies, including two representatives from the Right to Know Advisory Committee (a public records oversight body), and will be chaired by a representative from the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The group's primary duties include reviewing the current Freedom of Access Act, determining which records are subject to public disclosure, identifying categories of information that can be designated as confidential, evaluating fees for processing public records requests, and considering broader issues related to public records management. By January 14, 2026, the working group is required to submit a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations to several legislative committees, with each committee having the option to propose related legislation in the subsequent legislative session. The bill aims to improve transparency and balance public access to information with administrative considerations for state agencies.
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Bill Summary: Resolve, to Convene a Working Group to Examine the Classification of and Access to Public Records Maintained by Certain State Agencies |
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Tiffany Roberts (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 05/30/2025
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Signed, May 29, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2163 • Last Action 05/29/2025
Open records; public access counselor; review; subpoena; Attorney General; binding opinion; advisory opinion; emergency.
Status: Veto Overridden
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a Public Access Counselor Unit within the Oklahoma Attorney General's Office to help resolve disputes related to open records requests. The new law allows individuals who have been denied access to public records to file a review request with the Public Access Counselor within 30 calendar days of the denial. The Counselor will review the request and can forward it to the public body, which must respond within seven business days. The Attorney General will then issue an advisement within 60 calendar days, either directing the public body to comply with open records laws or explaining why no further action is required. The bill prohibits commercial purpose requests and allows the Counselor to deny future reviews for multiple frivolous requests. Additionally, the bill modifies the Attorney General's duties to explicitly include investigating and prosecuting civil or criminal actions related to violations of the Oklahoma Open Records Act and Open Meeting Act. The legislation aims to improve transparency and provide a clear process for resolving public records access disputes, with protections for both requesters and public bodies, and grants the Attorney General more specific enforcement powers in open records matters.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to open records; creating the Public Access Counselor within the Office of the Attorney General; allowing certain persons to file review of denial of open records requests with the Public Access Counselor; providing instructions for filing; prohibiting filings made for a commercial purpose; establishing procedures for review of requests; directing Public Access Counselor to notify public body; requiring certain furnishing of records; permitting subpoena by the Attorney General; prohibiting disclosure of certain protected information; allowing public body chance to respond to request; directing binding opinions be made within certain time frame; permitting Attorney General to choose other means for resolving review requests; permitting parties to file in district court; directing for notification of certain proceedings; permitting the Attorney General to issue advisory opinions to public bodies regarding compliance; exempting certain failures to comply made under good faith; 74 O.S. 2021, Section 18b, as last amended by Section 170, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 18b), which relates to duties of the Attorney General; modifying duties related to violations of the Oklahoma Open Records Act and the Oklahoma Open Meetings Act; providing for codification; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Open records
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : John Pfeiffer (R)*, Brent Howard (R)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 9 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 05/06/2025
• Last Action: Filed with Secretary of State
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2289 • Last Action 05/28/2025
Judicial and elected official security and privacy; creating the Oklahoma Elected Official and Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2025; effective date; emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates the Oklahoma Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2023, renaming it the Oklahoma Elected Official and Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2025, and expands its protections to include currently elected federal officials and statewide elected state officials. The bill modifies definitions of key terms like "at-risk individual" and "covered information," which now includes a broader range of personal data such as home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and family-related information. State agencies will be required to keep this covered information private, removing it from public content within 72 hours of receiving a request from an at-risk individual. The bill also updates provisions for sharing protected information, allowing disclosure only with a signed release, under specific federal regulations, or through a confidentiality agreement. Additionally, the Administrative Director of the Courts must submit a biennial report to the Legislature detailing expenditures on protecting officials' information, where such information was found, and any new types of personal data used to identify potentially threatened officials. The act will become effective on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause indicating its immediate importance for public safety.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to judicial and elected official security and privacy; amending Sections 1, 2, 3, and 5, Chapter 350, O.S.L. 2023 (20 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 3011, 3012, 3013, and 3015), which relate to the Oklahoma Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2023; creating the Oklahoma Elected Official and Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2025; modifying short title; modifying definitions; modifying certain exception for access to certain records; modifying required contents of certain report; amending 26 O.S. 2021, Section 4-115.2, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2023 (26 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 4-115.2), which relates to confidentiality of residence and mailing address; adding elected federal and state officials to certain class; updating statutory references; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Judicial and elected official security and privacy
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Kyle Hilbert (R)*, Lonnie Paxton (R)*
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 38
• Last Amended: 05/21/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/28/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1683 • Last Action 05/28/2025
An Act to Make a Freedom of Access Act Request Free of Charge upon Petition
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Access Act (FOAA), a law that governs public access to government records, to provide a mechanism for citizens to obtain public records without paying fees. Specifically, if a public records request is accompanied by a petition signed by at least 150 registered voters in the state making the same request, the government agency or official in possession of the records must provide those records at no charge to the requestor. Additionally, the bill requires that the agency provide an update on the status of the request every 30 working days, which is a change from the current law that only requires a "good faith effort" to comply with the request. This provision aims to increase transparency and accountability by ensuring that large-scale public information requests are processed more efficiently and without financial barriers, potentially making government information more accessible to citizens who can demonstrate significant public interest in a particular set of records.
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Bill Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Access Act by: 1. Prohibiting the charging of a fee by an agency or official that has custody or control of a public record that is requested if that request is accompanied by a petition signed by at least 150 individuals registered to vote in this State making the same request; and 2. Requiring that the agency or official to provide an update regarding the status of the request at least every 30 working days; current law requires the agency or official to make a good faith effort to comply with the request within the nonbinding estimate of time provided by the agency or official.
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• Introduced: 04/16/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 9 : Quentin Chapman (R)*, David Boyer (R), Billy Bob Faulkingham (R), Ann Fredericks (R), David Haggan (R), Rachel Henderson (R), Craig Hickman (D), Laurel Libby (R), Jeff Timberlake (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 04/16/2025
• Last Action: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant To Joint Rule 310, May 28, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1645 • Last Action 05/28/2025
An Act to Improve Legislative Access to Public Information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Access Act by creating a new expedited process for public record requests made by legislators. Specifically, if at least three legislators from the government oversight committee (including at least one committee chair) submit a request for public records, the agency or official in possession of those records must respond and provide the requested documents within 20 working days. This is a change from the current law, which previously only required agencies to make a "good faith effort" to respond within a non-binding estimated timeframe. The bill aims to increase legislative transparency and provide a more structured mechanism for legislators to access public information by establishing a clear, time-bound requirement for responding to records requests from key legislative oversight members.
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Bill Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Access Act by requiring a request submitted by 3 or more Legislators to be complied with within 20 working days as long as at least 3 of the Legislators are members of the Legislature's government oversight committee and one of those 3 members is one of the chairs of that committee. Current law requires the agency or official receiving the request to make a good faith effort to comply with the request within a nonbinding estimate of time provided by the agency or official.
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• Introduced: 04/11/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 3 : Mike Tipping (D)*, Gary Friedmann (D), Dan Sayre (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 04/11/2025
• Last Action: Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3779 • Last Action 05/28/2025
UTIL-TIME-OF-USE PRICING
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: Here is a summary of the bill: This bill creates the Municipal and Cooperative Electric Utility Planning and Transparency Act, which requires electric cooperatives, municipal power agencies, and municipalities to file integrated resource plans with the Illinois Power Agency every three years beginning in 2025. The plans must provide a comprehensive description of the utility's current electricity generation portfolio, forecast future load changes, and outline steps to reduce customer costs and environmental impacts. Key provisions include: 1. Utilities must conduct stakeholder meetings and provide public notice before submitting their plans. 2. The plans must include detailed information about existing generation facilities, power purchase agreements, demand-side programs, transmission facilities, and capital expenditures. 3. Utilities must develop a 5-year action plan for meeting forecasted load while minimizing costs and environmental impacts. 4. Utilities must develop plans to increase renewable energy resources, with goals of 25% renewable energy by 2026, increasing to 40% by 2030, and 100% renewable energy by 2045. 5. The plans must include strategies for worker transition and minimizing economic impacts when retiring generation resources. 6. Utilities must identify available federal incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act and describe plans to utilize them. 7. The bill also includes provisions for stakeholder engagement, public comment periods, and independent evaluation of the plans. The goal is to increase transparency, promote long-term planning, and support the transition to clean energy while considering economic and workforce impacts.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Municipal and Cooperative Electric Utility Planning and Transparency Act. Provides that, by November 1, 2025, and by November 1 every 3 years thereafter, all electric cooperatives with members in the State, municipal power agencies, and municipalities shall file with the Illinois Power Agency an integrated resource plan. Sets forth provisions concerning the plan. Amends the Illinois Power Agency Act. Authorizes the Illinois Power Agency to develop capacity procurement plans and conduct competitive procurement processes for the procurement of capacity needed to ensure environmentally sustainable long-term resource adequacy across the State at the lowest cost over time. Amends the Public Utilities Act. Changes the cumulative persisting annual savings goals for electric utilities that serve less than 3,000,000 retail customers but more than 500,000 retail customers for the years of 2025 through 2030. Provides that the cumulative persisting annual savings goals beyond the year 2030 shall increase by 0.9 (rather than 0.6) percentage points per year. Changes the requirements for submitting proposed plans and funding levels to meet savings goals for an electric utility serving more than 500,000 retail customers (rather than serving less than 3,000,000 retail customers but more than 500,000 retail customers). Provides that an electric utility that has a tariff approved within one year of the amendatory Act shall also offer at least one market-based, time-of-use rate for eligible retail customers that choose to take power and energy supply service from the utility. Sets forth provisions regarding the Illinois Commerce Commission's powers and duties related to residential time-of-use pricing. Provides that each capacity procurement event may include the procurement of capacity through a mix of contracts with different terms and different initial delivery dates. Sets forth the requirements of prepared capacity procurement plans. Requires each alternative electric supplier to make payment to an applicable electric utility for capacity, receive transfers of capacity credits, report capacity credits procured on its behalf to the applicable regional transmission organization, and submit the capacity credits to the applicable regional transmission organization under that regional transmission organization's rules and procedures. Makes other changes.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 11 : Ann Williams (D)*, Lisa Davis (D), Anne Stava-Murray (D), Joyce Mason (D), Margaret Croke (D), Will Guzzardi (D), Anna Moeller (D), Terra Costa Howard (D), Barbara Hernandez (D), Kevin Olickal (D), Camille Lilly (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Camille Y. Lilly
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB805 • Last Action 05/28/2025
Professions and occupations; enacting the Dietitian Licensure Compact; authorizing the Governor to enter into Compact with certain jurisdictions. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Dietitian Licensure Compact, a multi-state agreement designed to streamline professional licensing for dietitians across participating states. The compact aims to increase public access to dietetics services by creating a system that allows licensed dietitians to practice across state lines more easily, reducing administrative burdens and eliminating the need for multiple state licenses. Key provisions include establishing a centralized data system for tracking licensee information, creating a uniform set of professional standards, and facilitating interstate practice while maintaining each state's regulatory authority to protect public health and safety. The bill requires applicants to meet specific educational and professional requirements, including holding a relevant degree, completing an approved professional experience program, and submitting to a national fingerprint-based background check. The compact will be implemented when seven states have enacted it, and a Dietitian Licensure Compact Commission will be created to oversee its administration, develop rules, and manage interstate cooperation. The bill also amends existing Oklahoma law to authorize criminal background checks for dietitian license applicants and adds fingerprint submission as a requirement for licensing, with the goal of ensuring professional competence and public safety.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 805 By: Pugh of the Senate and Osburn of the House An Act relating to professions and occupations; enacting the Dietitian Licensure Compact and authorizing the Governor to enter into the Compact with certain jurisdictions; setting forth form of the Compact; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 1727, which relates to Licensed Dietitian Board, rules, and duties; authorizing criminal background checks; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 1730, which relates to application for Dietitian License and qualifications; adding fingerprint requirement for application; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Dietetics
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Adam Pugh (R)*, Mike Osburn (R)*
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 05/21/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/28/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB535 • Last Action 05/27/2025
Oklahoma Open Records Act; modifying requirements for public body to complete certain records requests. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's Open Records Act by introducing several key changes to how public bodies handle records requests. The bill expands the definition of "law enforcement agency" to include state and local fire marshals when investigating potential criminal law violations, and updates various statutory references. It authorizes public bodies to require advance payment for records requests that are estimated to cost over $75 or when a requestor has outstanding fees, with any overpayment to be returned. The bill also allows public bodies to require requestors to complete a standardized records request form and gives them the right to ask for clarification on requests that lack specificity. To be considered specific, a records request must now include a general time frame for record creation, seek identifiable records rather than general information, and include sufficiently specific search terms. If a public body has attempted to help a requestor clarify their request by providing potential topics or record lists, they may deny the request if it remains insufficiently specific. The bill maintains existing provisions about protecting confidential information and limiting copying fees, while providing public bodies more flexibility in managing records requests. The changes will take effect on November 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 535 By: Daniels of the Senate and Pae of the House An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Sections 24A.3, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 358, O.S.L. 2024, and 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 116, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 24A.3 and 24A.5), which relate to definitions and inspection and copying of records; modifying definition; authorizing public body to require advance payment for certain records requests; requiring return of portion of advance payment under certain circumstances; authorizing use of form for records requests; authorizing public body to request clarification for certain records requests; establishing requirements for specificity of records requests; allowing denial of records requests under certain circumstances; updating statutory references; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Open Records Act
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Julie Daniels (R)*, Daniel Pae (R)*
• Versions: 10 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 33
• Last Amended: 05/19/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/26/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1664 • Last Action 05/27/2025
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; exempting certain activities for county commissioners from Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; authorizing Statewide Independent Living Council to conduct executive sessions by videoconference; emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to provide several key exemptions and clarifications. For county commissioners, the bill now allows attendance at conferences, trainings, educational events, press events, and social events without violating open meeting laws, as long as no official action is taken and discussions of county business are incidental. The bill also permits county commissioners to attend legislative proceedings without triggering open meeting restrictions. Additionally, the bill authorizes the Statewide Independent Living Council to conduct executive sessions via videoconference, with new requirements such as indicating remote participation in meeting notices. The bill updates definitions related to public bodies and videoconferencing, including modifying language around electronic material sharing and allowing more flexibility for certain types of meetings. Specifically for videoconferences, the bill maintains most existing requirements like maintaining a quorum, recording meetings, and allowing public access, but adds some nuanced exceptions for specific organizations like virtual charter schools and the Independent Living Council. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage, indicating its perceived urgency and importance for governmental operations.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 326, which relates to meetings; exempting certain activities of county commissioners from the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Sections 304, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024, and 307.1, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 246, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 304 and 307.1), which relate to definitions, videoconferences, and teleconferences; modifying definitions; providing confidentiality exception for requirement to share certain materials with the public; authorizing Statewide Independent Living Council to conduct executive sessions by videoconference technology; establishing requirements for executive sessions conducted by videoconference technology; updating statutory language; updating statutory reference; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Open Meeting Act
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Josh Cantrell (R)*, Jerry Alvord (R)*
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 8 • Actions: 36
• Last Amended: 05/19/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/25/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #SB82 • Last Action 05/27/2025
Specify election official status for public records law purposes
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Ohio's public records law to specify that election officials (except precinct election officials and temporary or part-time board of elections employees) are now considered "designated public service workers" for the purposes of public records protection. Under the existing law, designated public service workers have certain personal information protections, such as keeping their residential address confidential. By adding election officials to this category, the bill provides these workers with additional privacy safeguards. The amendment is part of section 149.43 of the Ohio Revised Code, which defines various terms related to public records and outlines the rules for accessing and protecting public records. The bill aims to recognize the sensitive nature of election officials' work and provide them with enhanced personal information protections similar to those afforded to other public service workers like peace officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel.
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Bill Summary: To amend section 149.43 of the Revised Code to specify that certain election officials are designated public service workers for purposes of the public records law.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Bill DeMora (D)*, Theresa Gavarone (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Senate General Government 3rd Hearing, Proponent/Opponent/Interested Party (14:00:00 5/27/2025 South Hearing Room)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD251 • Last Action 05/23/2025
An Act to Protect the Confidentiality of Information of Individual Customers of a Public Utility
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Maine's public records law to enhance the confidentiality of customer information for public utilities and public sewer systems. Specifically, the bill creates new protections for individual customer information held by public utilities, the Public Utilities Commission, and public sewer systems. For water utilities, the bill allows the Public Utilities Commission to designate certain customer information as confidential. For public sewer systems, the bill establishes comprehensive confidentiality provisions that protect customers' personal details, including names, addresses, contact information, utility usage, payment history, and sensitive financial or medical information. The bill outlines limited exceptions to these confidentiality rules, such as when a customer provides consent, when disclosure is needed for debt collection or utility billing, during emergency situations, or when required by law enforcement through proper legal processes. The legislation aims to protect individual customers' privacy while still allowing necessary information sharing in specific, controlled circumstances. The bill applies to various types of public utilities and sewer systems, including municipal sewer departments, sewer districts, and systems that collect stormwater.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Protect the Confidentiality of Information of Individual Customers of a Public Utility
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark Lawrence (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 06/01/2025
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Signed, May 23, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD1828 • Last Action 05/23/2025
An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning Public Records Exceptions
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill implements several changes to confidentiality provisions across various state statutes, primarily focusing on protecting personal information and clarifying which types of records are considered confidential. The bill modifies existing laws to explicitly state that certain types of personal information such as home addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses are confidential and cannot be publicly disclosed. For example, in the context of permit applications, job applications, and professional licensing, the bill ensures that personal contact information remains private. The changes affect multiple areas including concealed handgun permits, museum research materials, employment applications, and professional licensing records. Notably, the bill does not completely prevent all access to these records, but rather restricts public disclosure while still allowing appropriate use by government agencies, law enforcement, and other authorized entities. The modifications aim to provide clearer guidelines about what constitutes confidential information and to protect individuals' privacy by preventing unnecessary public exposure of personal details. These changes are part of the recommendations from the Right to Know Advisory Committee, which appears to be seeking a balanced approach to public records access that respects personal privacy.
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Bill Summary: An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Right to Know Advisory Committee Concerning Public Records Exceptions
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• Introduced: 04/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Amy Kuhn (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 05/31/2025
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Signed, May 23, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB80 • Last Action 05/22/2025
Allowing a public body member's presence at a meeting by electronic or other means of communication only if physical presence is unavoidable.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the existing law (RSA 91-A:2) regarding public body meeting attendance and voting procedures, making two key changes: First, it narrows the circumstances under which a public body member can participate electronically, replacing the previous language of "not reasonably practical" with "unavoidable" when describing situations where in-person attendance is impossible. This means members must make a more compelling case for remote participation and must explicitly state the reason for their unavoidable absence in the meeting minutes. Second, the bill stipulates that members participating electronically are not considered present for voting purposes, effectively requiring physical attendance to cast a vote. All votes taken during meetings where members are participating remotely must be conducted by roll call vote. These changes aim to ensure more direct, in-person participation and transparency in public meetings. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving public bodies time to adjust to the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires a public body's member to be physically present at a meeting unless physical presence is unavoidable and provides that physical presence is required for voting.
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• Introduced: 12/23/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Len Turcotte (R)*, Aidan Ankarberg (I), Claudine Burnham (R), Kelley Potenza (R), Michael Granger (R), Glenn Bailey (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 01/04/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote === BILL KILLED ===; 05/22/2025; Senate Journal 14
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB376 • Last Action 05/22/2025
Specifying that library user information exempted from disclosure in the right-to-know law includes information regarding library cards and library membership status.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends New Hampshire's Right-to-Know law (RSA 91-A:5) to explicitly clarify that library user information, specifically including library cards and library membership status, is exempt from public disclosure. The amendment adds language to an existing provision that protects various confidential records from being released under public records laws. The modification means that details about an individual's library card and membership cannot be shared without the user's consent, which helps protect personal privacy. By specifically mentioning library cards and membership status, the bill provides clearer protection for library patrons' personal information. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving libraries and government agencies time to understand and implement the new provision. This change is part of broader privacy protections in the Right-to-Know law, which aims to balance public transparency with individual privacy rights.
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Bill Summary: This bill exempts library card and library membership files and information from disclosure under the right-to-know law.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Lisa Mazur (R)*, Joe Alexander (R), Ross Berry (R), Henry Giasson (R), Sherri Reinfurt (R), Sheila Seidel (R), Keith Murphy (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 12
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote === BILL KILLED ===; 05/22/2025; Senate Journal 14
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB912 • Last Action 05/21/2025
Space Industry Development Act; modifying number of members of the Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission; providing for certain Commission to become Board of Directors of the Space Industry Development Authority. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Act by making several key changes to the state's aerospace and aeronautics governance structure. The bill increases the Oklahoma Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission from seven to nine members, with seven members appointed by the Governor, one by the Senate President Pro Tempore, and one by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The two new members must have at least three years of experience in the commercial space industry, a space agency, or space administration. Importantly, the bill transforms the existing Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission into the Board of Directors of the Space Industry Development Authority, effectively merging the two entities. The Director of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics will now serve as the chief executive officer of the Space Industry Development Authority, and all personnel of the Authority will be transferred to the Department. The bill also updates various statutory references, definitions, and administrative procedures related to the space industry development, and includes provisions to ensure the separate accounting of funds between the Department and the Authority. Additionally, the bill recodifies numerous sections of existing law and repeals a section related to the activation of the Space Industry Development Authority, with the changes set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 912 By: Rosino and Haste of the Senate and Archer, Blancett, and Menz of the House An Act relating to the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Act; amending 3 O.S. 2021, Section 84, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 126, O.S.L. 2023 (3 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 84), which relates to the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Act; modifying number of members of the Oklahoma Aerospace and Aeronautics Commission; granting certain appointing authority to President Pro Tempore of the Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives; providing qualifications for certain members of Commission; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Sections 5202, 5204, 5205, 5207, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 222, O.S.L. 2023, 5208.1, 5209, 5219, 5220, 5225, 5226, 5227, 5228, 5229, 5231, 5234, and 5235 (74 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 5207), which relate to the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Act; defining terms; providing for certain Commission to become Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority; allowing certain authority to contract with certain department for certain purposes; designating Executive Director of certain department as chief executive officer of certain authority; repealing 74 O.S. 2021, Section 5206, which relates to the activation of the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; providing for recodification; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Space Industry Development Act
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Paul Rosino (R)*, Nick Archer (R)*, Meloyde Blancett (D), Annie Menz (D), John Haste (R)
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 9 • Actions: 38
• Last Amended: 05/14/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/21/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB405 • Last Action 05/19/2025
Relating To Neighborhood Board Meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the rules for neighborhood board meetings in Hawaii by allowing government officials to provide third-party reports during meetings, even if those reports were not originally included in the public meeting notice. Specifically, the bill amends Section 92-81 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to permit neighborhood boards to receive and discuss information from government officials during the public input portion of a meeting, without being limited to items specifically listed on the agenda. However, the bill maintains a key procedural constraint: while boards can discuss and receive information about matters raised during public input or through third-party government reports, they cannot make decisions on those matters during the same meeting. Instead, any decisions must be postponed to a subsequent meeting where the agenda explicitly provides notice that a decision will be made on the specific matter. This approach ensures transparency and gives board members and the public advance notice of potential decision-making, while also providing flexibility for boards to hear and consider information from government sources during their meetings.
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Bill Summary: Allows neighborhood boards to discuss and receive information on matters raised by third-party reports from any government official not included in a publicly noticed agenda. Requires neighborhood boards to make decisions on matters raised by third-party reports from any government official at a later meeting where the agenda gives notice of decision-making on the matter. (CD1)
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Karl Rhoads (D)*
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 48
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Act 072, on 05/19/2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1172).
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB491 • Last Action 05/19/2025
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; authorizing executive session for discussion of certain sale, lease, or acquisition; limiting parties allowed to participate in executive session for certain purposes. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to modify provisions related to executive sessions for public bodies, specifically expanding the circumstances under which a public body can hold a closed-door meeting regarding real property transactions. The bill allows executive sessions for discussing the sale, purchase, lease, or acquisition of real property, and limits participation in such sessions to members of the public body, their attorney, and immediate staff. Importantly, the bill explicitly prohibits individuals who might financially benefit from the proposed transaction (such as real estate brokers, developers, or landowners) from being present during these discussions, with a narrow exception for those already operating under an existing representation agreement with the public body. The bill maintains existing procedural requirements for executive sessions, including noting the session on the agenda, obtaining a majority vote, and ensuring that any final actions are taken in a public meeting with votes publicly recorded. The legislation will become effective on November 1, 2025, and continues to uphold the principles of transparency in government while providing some flexibility for sensitive property-related discussions.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 491 By: Guthrie of the Senate and Hildebrant of the House An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 307, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 180, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 307), which relates to executive sessions; authorizing executive session for discussion of certain sale, lease, or acquisition; limiting parties allowed to participate in executive session for certain purposes; updating statutory reference; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Open Meeting Act
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• Introduced: 01/10/2025
• Added: 01/11/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Brian Guthrie (R)*, Derrick Hildebrant (R)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 05/12/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/19/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #S0077 • Last Action 05/19/2025
Streaming of School Board Meetings
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all public school governing bodies, including those of charter and special schools, to livestream their meetings and make them accessible to the public, in line with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act. Under the proposed legislation, if a governing body cannot provide livestream access, they must record the entire meeting and post it on their website within seven days. The State Board of Education must develop a model policy that outlines best practices for livestreaming, including technical recommendations, public notification strategies, guidelines for executive sessions, and potential penalties for non-compliance (up to one percent of state funds). School boards must adopt their own local policies within three months of the state's model policy, which cannot prevent in-person public participation. The policies must be submitted to the State Superintendent of Education for approval, and the state will provide funding to districts without streaming capabilities as of the 2024-2025 school year. The bill mandates implementation by January 1, 2026, and will take effect upon the Governor's approval, with provisions for schools in areas with limited broadband access to request additional time to comply.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 59-19-85 So As To Promote Public Access To School Board Meetings By Requiring School Boards To Adopt And Implement Policies That Provide Livestream Or Alternate Electronic Means Transmission Of Such Meetings, And To Provide Related Requirements Of The State Board Of Education; And To Require The Provisions Of This Act Must Be Implemented Before January 1, 2026. - Ratified Title
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• Introduced: 12/11/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Greg Hembree (R)*, Larry Grooms (R), Jeffrey Zell (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 05/06/2025
• Last Action: Act No. 28
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0088 • Last Action 05/16/2025
Virtual Open Meetings Authority Extension Temporary Amendment Act of 2025
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill temporarily amends the Open Meetings Act to provide more flexibility for public bodies in holding open meetings. Specifically, the bill allows a meeting to be considered "open to the public" if the public body takes reasonable steps to enable public viewing or hearing of the meeting while it is happening, or as soon as possible afterward if live streaming is not technologically feasible. The amendment modifies existing provisions to explicitly include these alternative methods of public access, expanding the ways in which government meetings can be made transparent. The bill is temporary, set to expire 225 days after taking effect, and will require approval by the Mayor and a 30-day congressional review period. This change appears designed to provide government bodies with more options for conducting public meetings, particularly in situations where traditional in-person attendance might be challenging, such as during pandemic-related restrictions or technological limitations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on a temporary basis, the Open Meetings Act to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 02/04/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/18/2025
• Last Action: Law L26-0005, Effective from May 06, 2025 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 005854, Expires on Dec 17, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ND bill #SB2180 • Last Action 05/16/2025
The opportunity to provide public comment at a meeting of a public entity.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new requirement for public entities in North Dakota, including cities, counties, townships, school districts, park districts, and water resource districts, to include a public comment opportunity during their regular meetings. The bill mandates that individuals providing comments must submit their name and address in writing, with the address being kept confidential. Public entities may implement reasonable limitations on public comments, such as setting time limits per speaker or total comment time, and restricting comments to agenda topics from the current and previous meetings. Each governing body must develop a policy for public comments that ensures comments are pertinent to the public entity, do not disrupt the meeting, and are not defamatory, abusive, harassing, or unlawful. The bill also allows entities to prohibit comments that have alternative procedures for submission, contain confidential information, or are otherwise prohibited by law. This legislation aims to enhance public participation and transparency in local government meetings while maintaining an orderly and productive meeting environment.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to create and enact a new section to chapter 44-04 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the opportunity to provide public comment at a meeting of a public entity.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 69th Legislative Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Bob Paulson (R)*, Larry Luick (R)*, Kent Weston (R)*, Daniel Johnston (R), Scott Louser (R), Dan Ruby (R)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 44
• Last Amended: 04/28/2025
• Last Action: House Amendment 25.0269.04000 - House Amendment 25.0269.04000
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD379 • Last Action 05/16/2025
An Act Regarding Confidential Information Gathered for Forest Fire Emergency Response and Planning
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Maine state law regarding emergency forest fire planning by creating new confidentiality provisions for specific types of sensitive information. Specifically, the bill establishes that emergency action plans containing personal contact information, details about accessing private property gates or roads, proprietary landowner information, and emergency response information gathered during forest fire preparedness activities are now considered confidential and exempt from public records disclosure requirements. While these details are typically considered public information, they will now be protected from general public access. The bill also includes a provision allowing the director of forest fire planning to share this confidential information with other state agencies when it is necessary for emergency response and planning purposes. This approach aims to protect private landowners' sensitive information while still maintaining the ability of state agencies to coordinate effectively during potential forest fire emergencies. The confidentiality provisions are being added to Title 12, section 8904 of the Maine Revised Statutes Annotated (MRSA).
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Bill Summary: An Act Regarding Confidential Information Gathered for Forest Fire Emergency Response and Planning
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Russell Black (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 05/20/2025
• Last Action: Governor's Action: Signed, May 16, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0152 • Last Action 05/15/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to meetings conducted with electronic participation.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee state law to allow members of county and municipal legislative bodies to participate in scheduled meetings electronically under specific circumstances. Electronic participation would be permitted only for family or medical emergencies, military service, or inability to attend due to inclement weather, and would require a two-thirds majority vote by the legislative body to implement. The bill sets strict guidelines for such electronic participation, including limiting electronic participants to no more than 20% of the total membership (or three members), restricting each member to no more than two electronic meetings per year, and mandating that a quorum must be physically present at the meeting location. Additionally, the bill requires all electronically conducted meetings to remain fully accessible to the public through real-time audio or video access, with a recording of the meeting made available within two business days. The legislative body must develop a policy for electronic participation and provide public notice with information on how to access the meeting. These provisions are set to expire on July 1, 2028, providing a sunset clause that allows for future reassessment of the electronic meeting guidelines.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes a member of a local government's legislative body to participate in a scheduled meeting by electronic means if the member is dealing with a family or medical emergency, has been called into military service, or is unable to attend in person due to inclement weather. - Amends TCA Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Dave Wright (R)*, John Crawford (R), Dan Howell (R), Kelly Keisling (R), Johnny Shaw (D), Elaine Davis (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 36
• Last Amended: 05/14/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 411
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #HB158 • Last Action 05/15/2025
Adds provisions relating to the confidentiality of juvenile court records
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Missouri's juvenile court records confidentiality law by expanding and clarifying provisions for when and how juvenile court records can be accessed or disclosed. The bill maintains the general principle that juvenile court records are confidential, but creates several specific exceptions. These include allowing juvenile officers to share information with certain officials, victims, and school authorities without court order; permitting public access to dispositional hearing records for serious felony offenses; and introducing a new provision that allows releasing a child's name and photograph if they escape from a juvenile detention facility while detained for a dangerous felony. The bill also preserves existing provisions that allow for record destruction or sealing after a child turns 18, permit statistical data compilation, and enable sharing of general case information with victims. Additionally, the bill adds a provision allowing a child's name and photograph to be released to the public if they escape from a juvenile detention facility while in custody for a dangerous felony. The overall intent appears to balance protecting juvenile privacy with ensuring public safety and transparency in certain circumstances.
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Bill Summary: Adds provisions relating to the confidentiality of juvenile court records
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• Introduced: 12/03/2024
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Justin Sparks (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/02/2024
• Last Action: Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SB869 • Last Action 05/15/2025
Relating To Community Outreach Boards.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to expand and clarify the legal status of community outreach boards in Hawaii's Sunshine Law (the state's open meetings law). Specifically, the bill defines a "community outreach board" as a board established to serve in an advisory capacity under a county commission or department. The legislation broadens existing provisions related to neighborhood boards to explicitly include community outreach boards, ensuring they have similar rights and responsibilities. Key changes include allowing community outreach board members to attend public meetings and presentations related to official board business statewide, without geographic restrictions that previously limited such interactions to Oahu. The bill recognizes that these boards serve as important intermediaries between residents and government leaders, helping to gather and disseminate local information, understand community concerns, and collaboratively develop solutions. By providing a clear legal definition and extending existing protections, the bill aims to support grassroots community engagement and ensure transparency in local government advisory processes. The changes will take effect immediately upon the bill's approval, making it easier for community outreach boards to function effectively across Hawaii's counties.
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Bill Summary: Defines community outreach board to mean a board established to serve in a community advisory capacity under a county commission or a county department. Includes community outreach boards in existing provisions of the Sunshine Law relating to neighborhood boards. Authorizes neighborhood board and community outreach board members to attend meetings or presentations related to official board business statewide. (HD1)
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Dru Kanuha (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Mike Gabbard (D), Les Ihara (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 41
• Last Amended: 03/28/2025
• Last Action: Act 053, on 05/15/2025 (Gov. Msg. No. 1153).
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AK bill #HB146 • Last Action 05/15/2025
Public Employee Personal Information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill enhances protections for public employees' personal information by establishing new restrictions on what information public employers can disclose. Specifically, the bill prohibits employers from revealing sensitive personal details including home addresses, dates of birth, personal phone numbers, personal email addresses, labor organization membership status, and communications between labor representatives and employees. The legislation amends existing labor laws to make disclosure of such information an unfair labor practice, and also modifies the state's Public Records Act to exempt these types of personal information from public disclosure. If an employer receives a request for protected employee information, they must notify the employee's labor representative promptly and provide a copy of the request. The bill includes exceptions for disclosures required by law, authorized by the employee, or made to the employee's representative. The provisions will apply to new collective bargaining agreements and employer actions moving forward, ensuring ongoing protection of public employees' personal data and privacy rights.
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Bill Summary: An Act prohibiting public employers from disclosing certain public employee personal information; making disclosure of certain public employee personal information an unfair labor practice; and creating an exception to the Public Records Act for certain public employee personal information.
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 34th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Carolyn Hall (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 03/21/2025
• Last Action: House State Affairs Hearing (15:15:00 5/15/2025 Gruenberg 120)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0145 • Last Action 05/15/2025
An act relating to the disruption of proceedings governed by Vermont’s Open Meeting Law
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Vermont's Open Meeting Law and disorderly conduct statute to provide clearer guidelines for managing public meetings and addressing disruptive behavior. Specifically, the bill expressly authorizes chairs of public bodies to establish rules governing public comments and meeting conduct, and allows them to remove individuals who violate these rules. The legislation aims to balance citizens' speech rights and freedom of assembly with the need for efficient governmental proceedings. Under the new provisions, public bodies can adopt rules prohibiting meeting disruptions, and they may require a disruptive individual to leave a meeting, with the potential to bar in-person attendance for up to 60 days (while still allowing electronic participation). Additionally, the bill amends the disorderly conduct statute to include "substantially impairing the effective conduct of a meeting of a public body" as a potential offense. The legislative intent emphasizes that while public meetings should be open to diverse viewpoints and peaceful participation, obstructive conduct that prevents meaningful discussion should not be tolerated. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing public bodies time to prepare and implement the new guidelines.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to expressly authorize the chairs of public bodies to adopt rules governing public comment and the disruption of a meeting by a member of the public. This bill also proposes to allow public bodies to remove an individual from a meeting when the individual engages in conduct that violates the rules governing public comment and the disruption of meetings. This bill further proposes to amend the statute governing disorderly conduct to add substantial impairment of the effective conduct of a meeting as a basis for a disorderly conduct violation.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : James Harrison (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: House Committee on Judiciary Hearing (00:00:00 5/15/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1738 • Last Action 05/15/2025
Public health and safety; Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; Oklahoma Open Records Act; public trust hospitals; exemptions; effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates a new law that provides exemptions for public trust hospitals from the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and Oklahoma Open Records Act under specific circumstances. Specifically, when a public trust hospital enters into a joint venture with or acquires an interest in a not-for-profit entity to support its mission, that entity will be exempt from these open meeting and records transparency requirements. The bill protects certain confidential information submitted to or compiled by the public trust, including marketing plans, financial statements, trade secrets, research concepts, and other proprietary information. The trust can hold executive sessions to discuss these materials if necessary. However, the bill explicitly does not exempt budgetary information related to appropriations or the appropriations process. The legislation defines a "public trust hospital" as any hospital created under specific sections of Oklahoma statutes related to hospital creation. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, and aims to provide more flexibility and privacy for public trust hospitals in certain business and strategic planning activities.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to public health and safety; exempting public trust hospitals from the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and Oklahoma Open Records Act under certain circumstances; authorizing executive sessions; providing exception related to budget information; defining term; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Public health and safety
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Stacy Jo Adams (R)*, Avery Frix (R)*, Anthony Moore (R)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 05/08/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/15/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0136 • Last Action 05/15/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to meetings conducted with electronic participation.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to allow members of county and municipal legislative bodies to participate in scheduled meetings electronically under specific circumstances. Specifically, a member can join a meeting remotely if they are experiencing a family or medical emergency, have been called to military service, or are unable to attend due to inclement weather. To participate electronically, the member must be visually identifiable by the meeting chair, and the legislative body must first approve electronic participation by a two-thirds majority vote. The bill establishes several important restrictions: no more than 20% of the legislative body (or three members, whichever is less) can participate electronically, each member can only participate electronically twice per year, and a quorum must be physically present at the meeting location. Additionally, the bill requires that electronic meetings remain fully accessible to the public through real-time audio or video access, with a recording of the meeting made available within two business days. The municipal and county legislative bodies must develop policies for electronic participation, and these provisions will automatically expire on July 1, 2028, requiring future legislative action to continue the practice.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes a member of a local government's legislative body to participate in a scheduled meeting by electronic means if the member is dealing with a family or medical emergency, has been called into military service, or is unable to attend in person due to inclement weather. - Amends TCA Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 8, Chapter 44.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Richard Briggs (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 05/14/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/09/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1934 • Last Action 05/15/2025
Concerning the disclosure of information pertaining to complainants, accusers, and witnesses in an employment investigation.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the existing public records law to provide additional protections for complainants, accusers, and witnesses in employment investigations. Specifically, the bill expands privacy safeguards for individuals involved in investigations of potential workplace discrimination, harassment, or policy violations. When an employment investigation is complete, the records may be disclosed, but with significant redactions: names, images, job titles, email addresses, and phone numbers of complainants, accusers, and witnesses must be removed. Additionally, any audio recordings must have voices altered to preserve tone and inflection while maintaining anonymity. The only exception is if a complainant consents to disclosure of their information, or if the complainant is an elected government official, in which case their name and title would not be redacted. The bill also provides protections for employees who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment, allowing them to request anonymization of certain personal work-related information. These provisions aim to protect the privacy and safety of individuals involved in workplace investigations while still maintaining some level of transparency in public records.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to the disclosure of information pertaining to 2 complainants, accusers, and witnesses in an employment investigation; 3 and reenacting and amending RCW 42.56.250. 4
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Rob Chase (R)*, Beth Doglio (D), Suzanne Schmidt (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 05/23/2025
• Last Action: Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3325 • Last Action 05/14/2025
Data request and retention provisions modified, and fee waiver for certain data requests provided.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies several provisions related to data practices and record retention in Minnesota. It introduces a new fee waiver process for government data requests, where state agencies must evaluate requests based on factors such as the public's understanding of government operations, the potential contribution to public knowledge, and whether the request is primarily for commercial interests. The bill also strengthens requirements for state agencies regarding data request responses, mandating that agencies provide a response within 30 days and report to the Legislative Commission on Data Practices if they cannot meet this timeline. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "correspondence" to include various forms of electronic communication related to agency business and requires state agencies to digitize and retain correspondence for at least 25 years. The legislation also modifies provisions for the Records Disposition Panel, allowing more flexibility in record management and preservation. Finally, the bill adjusts the potential penalties for non-compliance with data practices, changing language from "may" to "shall" impose a civil penalty of up to $1,000 against government entities that fail to comply with data request regulations.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; modifying certain data request and retention provisions; providing a fee waiver for certain data requests; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.03, subdivision 3, by adding a subdivision; 13.08, subdivision 4; 138.17, subdivisions 1, 7.
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• Introduced: 05/14/2025
• Added: 05/14/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Kristi Pursell (D)*, Leigh Finke (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/13/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Judiciary Finance and Civil Law
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB927 • Last Action 05/14/2025
State Medicaid program; modifying appointment procedures for the Medicaid Drug Utilization Review Board. Effective date.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the appointment procedures for the Medicaid Drug Utilization Review Board (DUR Board), which is part of the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. The bill makes several key changes to the board's composition and selection process: it adjusts the number of names required for physician nominations from six to three for the Oklahoma State Medical Association, changes "Pharmaceutical" to "Pharmacists" in the association name, and updates language referring to board members' state residency. The board will continue to consist of 10 members, including four physicians (three from the State Medical Association and one from the Osteopathic Association), four licensed pharmacists, one lay community representative with healthcare expertise, and one pharmaceutical industry representative. Board members will still serve three-year terms, with initial staggered two-year appointments for some members, and can be reappointed for up to three full terms plus one partial term. The bill maintains provisions for geographic balance in appointments and requires the board to comply with open meeting and administrative procedures. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, and primarily focuses on technical updates to the board's nomination and appointment processes.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 927 By: Hicks of the Senate and Munson and Pittman of the House An Act relating to the state Medicaid program; amending 63 O.S. 2021, Section 5030.1, which relates to the Medicaid Drug Utilization Review Board; modifying appointment procedure for certain members; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Medicaid
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Carri Hicks (D)*, Cyndi Munson (D)*, Ajay Pittman (D)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 05/08/2025
• Last Action: Vetoed 05/14/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #HB516 • Last Action 05/14/2025
State government; authorize county and regional library boards to conduct meetings via teleconference
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes two primary changes to Georgia state law. First, it designates the Attorney General as the elected representative authorized to approve private activity bonds for state charter school facilities, establishing a clear process for public hearings and bond issuance within specific timeframes (60 days for holding a hearing, 30 days for approval after the hearing). These bonds must be for charter schools authorized under state law and meeting certain federal tax-exempt organization criteria. Second, the bill expands the types of public bodies allowed to conduct teleconference meetings, specifically adding county and regional library boards and community service boards to the list of authorized entities. For these two types of boards, the bill requires that at least 50 percent of board members be physically present at the meeting location and that the public must be provided methods to view and comment on the meetings remotely. These changes aim to provide more flexibility for public meetings while maintaining transparency and public access.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to state government, so as to designate the Attorney General as an applicable elected representative who may approve issuance of certain private activity bonds; to establish procedures for public notices and hearings relative to such bonds; to authorize county and regional library boards and community service boards to conduct teleconference meetings under certain circumstances; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Kimberly New (R)*, Lee Hawkins (R)*, Bethany Ballard (R)*, Mitchell Scoggins (R)*, Holt Persinger (R)*, Rob Leverett (R)*, Jason Anavitarte (R)
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 04/07/2025
• Last Action: Effective Date 2025-07-01
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #SB12 • Last Action 05/14/2025
Inspection of Public Records; documents and records in the possession of private persons or entities; revise provisions
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Georgia's public records law to clarify and expand provisions related to accessing public records, particularly those held by private entities. The legislation introduces a new definition for "custodian" or "lawful custodian" as the agency that has charge and control over a public record, or a designated employee responsible for the agency's records. It further specifies that all public record inspection requests must be made to a custodian, and requires private persons or entities who have prepared, maintained, received, or been transferred public records on behalf of an agency to produce those records when requested by the custodian. The bill mandates that such private entities must provide the records within the timeframe specified by statutory document retention guidelines or as defined in their agreement with the agency, whichever is later. The purpose of these changes appears to be ensuring broader access to public records, even when those records are temporarily held or managed by private entities, while establishing clear procedures for how and when such records must be made available. The bill will become effective upon the Governor's approval or when it becomes law without approval.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Article 4 of Chapter 18 of Title 50 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to inspection of public records, so as to revise provisions related to public records in the possession of private persons or entities; to revise definitions; to provide for related matters; to provide an effective date; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 20 : Frank Ginn (R)*, Randy Robertson (R)*, Carden Summers (R)*, Clint Dixon (R)*, Shawn Still (R)*, Bill Cowsert (R)*, Ben Watson (R)*, Blake Tillery (R)*, Bo Hatchett (R)*, John Albers (R)*, Matt Brass (R)*, Kay Kirkpatrick (R)*, Russ Goodman (R)*, Steve Gooch (R)*, Sam Watson (R)*, Emanuel Jones (D)*, Kenya Wicks (D)*, Brandon Beach (R)*, Chuck Payne (R)*, Victor Anderson (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 04/07/2025
• Last Action: Effective Date 2025-05-14
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #HB199 • Last Action 05/14/2025
Courts; protection of personally identifiable information of judges and their spouses; modify provisions
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Georgia law to enhance privacy protections for judges and their spouses by establishing new procedures for restricting personally identifiable information from public disclosure. The bill eliminates the requirement for the Administrative Office of the Courts to maintain a database of protected persons and instead creates a state-wide form that judges and their spouses can use to request information restrictions. Under the new provisions, state and local government entities must restrict public access to personal information like phone numbers, home addresses, and property records when requested by a protected person, which now includes current and former judges from state and federal courts. The bill broadens the definition of "personally identifiable information" and "publicly available content" and requires government entities to remove such information within 30 days of receiving a valid request. Additionally, the bill allows a protected person to bring legal action against any government officer or employee who fails to comply with these information restriction requirements, with relief limited to injunctive action. The changes aim to provide judges and their spouses with greater control over the public accessibility of their personal information, enhancing their personal security and privacy.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Chapter 5 of Title 15 the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to administration of courts of record generally, so as to modify provisions related to protection of personally identifiable information of judges and their spouses; to abolish the requirement for the Administrative Office of the Courts to maintain a data base of protected persons and information; to provide for a state-wide form to be used by protected persons seeking to have information restricted from public disclosure; to require state and local governments to restrict from public disclosure personally identifiable information when requested by a protected person; to provide procedures for such requests; to revise definitions; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/30/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Trey Kelley (R)*, Matt Reeves (R)*, Joseph Gullett (R)*, Stan Gunter (R)*, Sam Park (D)*, Tyler Smith (R)*, Blake Tillery (R)
• Versions: 5 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 04/01/2025
• Last Action: Effective Date 2025-07-01
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1114 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5, relative to public records requests.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill removes a specific provision within the Tennessee Code Annotated that was set to automatically expire on July 1, 2025, which previously allowed government records custodians to seek legal injunctions against individuals who submit public records requests with the apparent intent of disrupting government operations. By deleting the subdivision in Section 10-7-503(a)(7)(C)(vi), the bill effectively makes this injunction authority a permanent part of Tennessee law, rather than allowing it to sunset in 2025. The legislation appears to be designed to provide ongoing protection for government agencies against potentially frivolous or deliberately obstructive public records requests, while maintaining the broader principle of public access to government information. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as stated in Section 2, which emphasizes the urgency of the legislative change for the "public welfare."
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Bill Summary: As enacted, deletes the automatic repeal on July 1, 2025, of a provision that authorizes records custodians to seek an injunction against a person who makes requests to view or copy public records with the intent to disrupt government operations. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Ferrell Haile (R)*, Adam Lowe (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/05/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0418 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-504, relative to comptroller survey records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Section 10-7-504 to provide more clarity around the confidentiality and potential publication of survey records collected by the comptroller of the treasury. Specifically, the bill allows the comptroller to publish aggregate survey data and survey responses that do not reveal the identity of individual respondents, while maintaining confidentiality for survey records, responses, identifying information, and internal communications. The legislation explicitly excludes surveys conducted by the office of open records counsel from these provisions. The change aims to balance transparency by allowing the publication of generalized survey information while protecting the privacy of individual survey participants. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, with the stated purpose of serving the public welfare.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes the comptroller of the treasury to publish certain survey data that is otherwise deemed confidential. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-504.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Richard Scarbrough (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 365
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0857 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6, relative to the office of open records counsel.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to expand the responsibilities of the office of open records counsel regarding the advisory committee on open government. Specifically, the bill requires the office to "facilitate" the committee's meetings in several key ways: selecting a meeting date if the committee fails to elect co-chairs and a majority of members request assistance, reserving a meeting room in the comptroller's offices, posting meeting notices, minutes, and agendas on the comptroller's website, and creating meeting agendas based on member submissions. The bill also mandates that members submit agenda items at least 72 hours before the meeting and requires the office to provide an electronic method for committee members to participate remotely. This legislation aims to ensure more structured and accessible meetings for the advisory committee on open government by giving the office of open records counsel a more active role in organizing and supporting the committee's work.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, requires the office of open records counsel to facilitate the convening of meetings of the advisory committee on open government, including selecting a date for the required annual meeting in the absence of co-chairs. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Tom Leatherwood (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 370
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AZ bill #HB2927 • Last Action 05/13/2025
Public meetings; records; requirements; penalties
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates Arizona's open meetings and public records laws to improve transparency and accessibility. The bill modifies several key definitions and requirements for public bodies, including expanding the definition of a "meeting" to include electronic communications that propose legal action or involve deliberations among a quorum of members. It requires public bodies to post meeting minutes and recordings online within three working days, make these records available indefinitely, and ensures that cities and towns with over 2,500 people post meeting statements or recordings on their websites within specific timeframes. The bill also adds a new requirement that if a public body holds a meeting exclusively through technological devices, they must provide an option for the public to view the meeting both remotely and at a physical location. Additionally, the bill clarifies the process for public records requests, mandating that records be provided in the least expensive manner possible, preferably electronically, with charges based only on material costs. The legislation also strengthens investigative powers for the attorney general and county attorneys in enforcing open meeting laws, including a requirement to respond to complaints within 120 days and providing more detailed guidelines for investigating potential violations.
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Bill Summary: An Act amending sections 38-431, 38-431.01, 38-431.02, 38-431.06, 39-121.01 and 39-121.02, Arizona Revised Statutes; relating to public meetings and records.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 02/11/2025
• Session: Fifty-seventh Legislature - First Regular Session (2025)
• Sponsors: 3 : Michael Carbone (R)*, Neal Carter (R), Michael Way (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 12 • Actions: 41
• Last Amended: 04/10/2025
• Last Action: Governor Vetoed
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1293 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5, relative to public records requests.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's public records law by removing a specific sunset (expiration) provision in Section 10-7-503(a)(7)(C)(vi). Specifically, the bill eliminates the automatic repeal date of July 1, 2025, for a provision that allows government records custodians to seek legal injunctions against individuals who submit public records requests with the apparent intent of disrupting government operations. By removing the sunset clause, the authorization for records custodians to seek such injunctions becomes permanent, giving government agencies a continuing legal tool to prevent intentional disruption of public record access processes. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law, which means the change will be implemented as soon as it is signed by the appropriate state official. This legislative action appears designed to provide a long-term mechanism for protecting government administrative functions from potentially frivolous or deliberately obstructive public records requests.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: As enacted, deletes the automatic repeal on July 1, 2025, of a provision that authorizes records custodians to seek an injunction against a person who makes requests to view or copy public records with the intent to disrupt government operations. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Rick Eldridge (R)*, Jason Powell (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 392
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0212 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 8-44-110, relative to agendas for meetings of governing bodies.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's existing law about public meeting agendas by expanding the definition of "local governmental body" and strengthening requirements for agenda transparency. Specifically, the bill modifies Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 8-44-110, by changing the language from "may" to "shall" regarding website agenda posting, which means nonprofit organizations that previously had discretionary posting requirements will now be mandatory. The bill broadens the definition of "local governmental body" to include various public entities such as city and county legislative bodies, planning commissions, zoning boards, public utility boards, industrial development corporation boards, housing authorities, airport authorities, election commissions, and budget committees. By replacing "state governing body or a local government legislative body" with "state governing body or a local governmental body", the bill appears to create a more comprehensive and inclusive definition that will require a wider range of organizations to provide public access to their meeting agendas. The changes aim to increase government transparency by ensuring that more public and quasi-public organizations proactively share their meeting plans with constituents. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, expands the requirement that state and local governing bodies make an agenda available to the public prior to regular public meetings of the body to include the governing bodies of certain nonprofit organizations, including nonprofit community organizations that receive federal funding, nonprofit organizations that receive community grant funds from this state or certain funding from local governments, nonprofit organizations created for the benefit of local governments, and nonprofit organizations that provide the metropolitan government of Nashville/Davidson County with certain utility services; requires, rather than permits, such governing bodies that maintain a website to post the agenda to the website. - Amends TCA Section 8-44-110.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Todd Gardenhire (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 37
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/05/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0390 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-504, relative to comptroller survey records.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to modify how the comptroller of the treasury can handle survey records. Specifically, the bill allows the comptroller to publish certain survey data that was previously considered confidential. Under the new provisions, the comptroller can now release aggregate survey data and survey responses that do not reveal the identity of individual respondents. The bill maintains confidentiality protections for identifying information, intra-agency and interagency communications, and other sensitive survey-related records. An important exception is noted: this provision does not apply to surveys conducted by the office of open records counsel. The change aims to provide more transparency while still protecting individual privacy by preventing the publication of personally identifiable survey information. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, with the stated purpose of serving the public welfare.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes the comptroller of the treasury to publish certain survey data that is otherwise deemed confidential. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-504.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Paul Rose (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/05/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0623 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6, relative to the office of open records counsel.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to specify the responsibilities of the office of open records counsel in facilitating meetings of the advisory committee on open government. Specifically, the bill requires the office to select a meeting date if the committee fails to elect co-chairs and receives a majority request, reserve a meeting room in the comptroller's offices, post meeting notices, minutes, and agendas on the comptroller's website, and create meeting agendas based on member submissions. The bill also mandates that committee members submit agenda items at least 72 hours before the meeting and provides for electronic participation in the meeting. These provisions aim to ensure more structured and transparent operations of the advisory committee when leadership is not actively managing meeting logistics. The changes will help maintain the committee's ability to function effectively even in the absence of elected co-chairs, and improve public access to information about the committee's activities.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: As enacted, requires the office of open records counsel to facilitate the convening of meetings of the advisory committee on open government, including selecting a date for the required annual meeting in the absence of co-chairs. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 4, Part 6.
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• Introduced: 01/31/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Richard Briggs (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 05/05/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0885 • Last Action 05/13/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 8-44-110, relative to agendas for meetings of governing bodies.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's existing law regarding public meeting agendas by expanding the definition of "local governmental body" and strengthening requirements for agenda transparency. Specifically, the bill changes the language from "may" to "shall" regarding website posting of meeting agendas, which means that governing bodies with websites will now be required, rather than just permitted, to post their agendas online. The bill also significantly broadens the definition of "local governmental body" to include not just traditional government entities like city councils and county commissions, but also various boards and authorities such as public utility boards, housing authorities, airport authorities, and industrial development corporation boards. While the government-provided summary suggests the bill would also include certain nonprofit organizations in these transparency requirements, the specific XML text does not explicitly detail those nonprofit provisions. The changes are designed to increase public access to information about meetings of various governmental and quasi-governmental bodies, making their planning and decision-making processes more transparent to citizens. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, expands the requirement that state and local governing bodies make an agenda available to the public prior to regular public meetings of the body to include the governing bodies of certain nonprofit organizations, including nonprofit community organizations that receive federal funding, nonprofit organizations that receive community grant funds from this state or certain funding from local governments, nonprofit organizations created for the benefit of local governments, and nonprofit organizations that provide the metropolitan government of Nashville/Davidson County with certain utility services; requires, rather than permits, such governing bodies that maintain a website to post the agenda to the website. - Amends TCA Section 8-44-110.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Chris Todd (R)*, G.A. Hardaway (D), Rusty Grills (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 22
• Last Amended: 05/07/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 360
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB987 • Last Action 05/12/2025
Oklahoma Department of Commerce; creating the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Board; providing for qualifications for Board members. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Board, a nine-member advisory oversight board that will fundamentally change how the Oklahoma Department of Commerce is managed. The board will consist of members appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Governor, with the Secretary of Commerce serving as chair. Board members must have at least five years of private sector experience and expertise in areas like economic development, finance, technology, or specific industries. Members will serve staggered three-year terms, with the initial appointments having shorter terms. The board will have significant responsibilities, including approving the department's strategic plan and budget, advising on the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer, and reviewing economic projects. The bill shifts the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer from the Governor to this new board and requires the board to follow open meeting and records laws. Board members will not receive a salary but can receive travel reimbursements and are allowed to serve on other state boards. The board can also create working groups, solicit funds from various sources, and must provide an annual report to the Governor and Legislature. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2026, marking a significant restructuring of Oklahoma's economic development governance.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 987 By: Thompson of the Senate and Osburn and Blancett of the House An Act relating to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 5003.4, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 377, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 5003.4), which relates to definitions; defining terms; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 5003.5, as last amended by Section 4, Chapter 377, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 5003.5), which relates to the Chief Executive Officer of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce; modifying appointment procedures; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 5003.7, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 377, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 5003.7), which relates to the five-year economic development plan; designating who approves strategic plan; updating statutory reference; creating the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Board; providing for membership; stating quorum; providing for qualifications for Board members; stating appointment terms; establishing Board procedures for election of chair and vice chair and presiding of meetings; allowing for certain reimbursement; permitting members to serve on other boards and commissions; subjecting Board to the provisions of the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act and Oklahoma Open Records Act; providing for use of executive sessions by Board; stating other duties of the Board; providing for codification; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Oklahoma Department of Commerce
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Kristen Thompson (R)*, Mike Osburn (R)*, Meloyde Blancett (D)
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 05/06/2025
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/09/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB522 • Last Action 05/12/2025
Medical marijuana; promulgating certain Advisory Council to establish certain task force; requiring certain final report. Effective date.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the existing law regarding the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority Executive Advisory Council by adding a new requirement for the council to establish a task force focused on researching and providing recommendations about purchase and possession limits for licensed medical marijuana patients. The task force will be required to consult with various professionals and stakeholders, including physicians, medical licensing boards, patients, veterans, and medical marijuana business owners. The task force must submit a final report of its findings and recommendations to the Authority by November 1, 2026. The bill maintains the existing structure of the Advisory Council, which consists of six members appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and President Pro Tempore of the Senate, representing different perspectives including medical marijuana patients and business license holders. The council will continue to meet at least four times per year and prepare an annual report to key state officials. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, and ensures that the task force's work will help inform future policy decisions related to medical marijuana in Oklahoma.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 522 By: Coleman of the Senate and Marti of the House An Act relating to medical marijuana; amending Section 1, Chapter 321, O.S.L. 2024 (63 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 427.29), which relates to the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority Executive Advisory Council; directing Advisory Council to establish certain task force; requiring certain final report; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Medical marijuana advisory council
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/13/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Bill Coleman (R)*, T.J. Marti (R)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 05/06/2025
• Last Action: Vetoed 05/09/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB929 • Last Action 05/12/2025
Practice of osteopathic medicine; amending various provisions of the Oklahoma Osteopathic Medicine Act. Emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Osteopathic Medicine Act to update various provisions related to the practice of osteopathic medicine, licensing, and regulation. Key changes include expanding and clarifying definitions of osteopathic medicine and osteopathic physicians, modifying the State Board of Osteopathic Examiners' composition and mission, and establishing new reporting requirements and disciplinary procedures. The bill creates new license types such as an osteopathic faculty license, adds more detailed requirements for license renewal, and mandates professional malpractice liability insurance for most practicing osteopathic physicians. The bill also broadens the Board's powers to investigate and take disciplinary action against physicians, including new grounds for potential license suspension or revocation, such as breaching the American Osteopathic Association Code of Ethics. Additionally, the legislation requires physicians to report various professional actions and investigations, creates a system for license reinstatement after disciplinary action, and grants the Board quasi-judicial powers to enforce disciplinary actions. The bill aims to enhance public safety, maintain professional standards, and provide more comprehensive oversight of osteopathic medical practice in Oklahoma.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 929 By: Haste of the Senate and Newton of the House An Act relating to the practice of osteopathic medicine; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 621, which relates to definitions; adding and modifying definitions; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 622, which relates to osteopathic physician license; modifying certain license requirements and procedures; prohibiting certain representation as board-certified specialist; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 624, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 190, O.S.L. 2024 (59 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 624), which relates to the State Board of Osteopathic Examiners; modifying membership of the Board; specifying mission of the Board; deleting certain Board requirement; providing for quorum; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 625, which relates to oath of members; removing certain oath and membership requirements; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 626, which relates to organization of the Board; modifying title and duties of certain position; modifying provisions relating to hiring and compensation; providing for Board subpoena; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 627, which relates to record of proceedings; modifying and removing requirements related to publicly available records; requiring certain notice by physician; establishing powers and duties of the Board; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 632, which relates to examination; modifying and removing certain examination requirements; authorizing criminal history record checks for certain purpose; providing record check procedures; limiting applicability of certain provisions and disclosure of certain information; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 633, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 262, O.S.L. 2022 (59 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 633), which relates to licensure; modifying, adding, and removing special license types; providing for certain restrictions; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 634, which relates to reciprocal license; removing certain exception; making language gender neutral; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 635.1, which relates to special volunteer medical license; removing certain exception; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 635.3, which relates to resident training license; expanding term of license; creating osteopathic faculty license; stating minimum requirements; limiting effect and term of license; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 637, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 150, O.S.L. 2023 (59 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 637), which relates to disciplinary action; broadening certain powers of the Board; adding grounds for disciplinary action; stipulating certain requirements and procedures for assessment of penalties; specifying certain burdens of proof; limiting availability of license reinstatement; modifying certain rulemaking authority; providing for reconsideration of certain orders; authorizing certain appeals; granting quasi- judicial powers to the Board; authorizing certain penalties; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 641, which relates to license renewal; conforming language; authorizing certain rules; providing for late renewal; requiring certain attestation; providing for establishment of certain system and investigations; requiring certain malpractice liability insurance; providing exceptions; authorizing promulgation of certain rules; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 642, which relates to penalties; modifying conditions for license reinstatement; providing for certain appeals; imposing certain reporting duties on licensees and the Board; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 643, which relates to use of funds; broadening allowed uses; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 644, which relates to the State Board of Osteopathic Examiner’s Revolving Fund; conforming language; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 645, which relates to rules; authorizing and requiring promulgation of certain rules; updating ENR. S. B. NO. 929 statutory language and references; repealing 59 O.S. 2021, Section 631, which relates to definition; providing for codification; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Osteopathic medicine
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : John Haste (R)*, Carl Newton (R)*
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 05/05/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/12/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB752 • Last Action 05/12/2025
County purchasing; authorizing county purchasing agents to establish online bidding process with certain vendors. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma state law to expand the authority of county purchasing agents in managing procurement processes. Specifically, the bill allows county purchasing agents to establish an online bidding process with vendors, removing the previous requirement that these vendors be authorized by the Office of Management and Enterprise Services. The new provisions enable county commissioners to conduct online bidding with additional flexibility, including requiring potential bidders to register before the bid opening, agreeing to specific terms and conditions, and potentially prequalifying bidders. The bill maintains existing requirements for bid notices, such as designating opening and closing dates, and mandates that online bids be opened in an open meeting of county commissioners alongside other sealed bids. The changes aim to modernize county purchasing procedures by embracing electronic commerce and providing more flexible procurement methods. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, and contains an emergency clause, which means it can be implemented immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 752 By: Stewart of the Senate and Boles of the House An Act relating to county purchasing; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1500.1, which relates to the authority of county purchasing agents; authorizing county purchasing agents to establish online bidding process with certain vendors; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: County purchasing
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jack Stewart (R)*, Brad Boles (R)*
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 05/05/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/12/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S45 • Last Action 05/12/2025
Establishing the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act, creating comprehensive data privacy protections for residents by introducing two new chapters to the state's General Laws. The first chapter (Chapter 93M) establishes broad data privacy requirements for covered entities, defining key terms and outlining specific obligations for businesses handling personal data. Key provisions include requiring clear consent for data collection, giving individuals rights to access, correct, and delete their personal data, and prohibiting deceptive data practices. The bill defines "covered data" as information that can identify an individual, with special protections for sensitive data like biometric information, location data, and data related to minors. The second chapter (Chapter 93N) focuses specifically on location information, creating strict rules for how businesses can collect, process, and disclose an individual's location data. Businesses must obtain explicit consent before collecting location information, can only use it for specific "permissible purposes," and are prohibited from selling or misusing such data. The bill requires businesses to maintain transparent location privacy policies and gives individuals the right to opt out of location data collection and targeted advertising. The legislation provides robust enforcement mechanisms, including a private right of action for individuals and the ability for the Attorney General to bring civil actions. Violations can result in significant financial penalties, with potential fines up to 4% of a company's annual global revenue or $20 million. The bill will take effect one year after its enactment, giving businesses time to adapt to the new requirements. Overall, the bill aims to give Massachusetts residents greater control over their personal data and protect their privacy in an increasingly digital world.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to establish the Massachusetts Data Privacy Protection Act. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Mike Moore (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see S2516
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB875 • Last Action 05/12/2025
State Medicaid program; making contracted entities ineligible for capitated contracts for failure to meet certain minimum expense requirement. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's Medicaid program by establishing new requirements and penalties for contracted healthcare entities, specifically focusing on primary care service spending. Under the new provisions, Medicaid contracted entities will be required to spend at least 11% of their total healthcare expenses on primary care services by the end of the fourth year of their initial contracting period. If a contracted entity fails to meet this requirement, they will face consequences such as paying liquidated damages to the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, with those proceeds specifically earmarked for primary care services. Furthermore, if an entity fails to allocate at least 8% of healthcare expenses to primary care, they will be ineligible for a capitated contract in the subsequent procurement cycle. The bill also expands the duties of the Medicaid Delivery System Quality Advisory Committee to include developing recommendations for how liquidated damages should be used. The changes aim to incentivize and ensure meaningful investment in primary care services within Oklahoma's Medicaid program, with the new requirements set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 875 By: Rosino of the Senate and Stinson, Deck, and Menz of the House An Act relating to the state Medicaid program; amending Section 4, Chapter 395, O.S.L. 2022, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 448, O.S.L. 2024 (56 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 4002.3b), which relates to capitated contracts; establishing certain penalties; amending 56 O.S. 2021, Section 4002.12, as last amended by Section 7, Chapter 448, O.S.L. 2024 (56 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 4002.12), which relates to minimum rates of reimbursement; defining terms; establishing certain penalties; specifying allowed use of certain proceeds; amending 56 O.S. 2021, Section 4002.13, as amended by Section 18, Chapter 395, O.S.L. 2022 (56 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 4002.13), which relates to the Medicaid Delivery System Quality Advisory Committee; modifying powers and duties of the Committee; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Medicaid
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 03/27/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Paul Rosino (R)*, Preston Stinson (R)*, Jared Deck (D), Annie Menz (D)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 31
• Last Amended: 05/06/2025
• Last Action: Vetoed 05/09/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1418 • Last Action 05/12/2025
Adding two voting members that are transit users to the governing body of public transportation benefit areas.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the composition of governing bodies for public transportation benefit areas by adding two new voting members who are transit users. Specifically, the bill allows for two additional voting members to be appointed to the governing body of a public transportation benefit area, with one member primarily relying on public transportation and the other representing a community-based organization and occasionally using public transit. These transit-using members cannot be employees of the transit agency and are subject to specific requirements, including being appointed by the elected official voting members. The bill stipulates that for single-county areas, the governing body can now have up to 11 voting members (increased from 9), and for multicounty areas, up to 17 voting members (increased from 15). To support these new members' participation, the bill requires that governing body meetings be held at times and locations accessible by transit, and that the transit-using members receive comprehensive training on open meetings, public records, and ethics laws. The provision does not apply to transportation benefit areas that already have retained citizen positions on their governing body. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, aiming to increase direct transit user representation in transportation governance.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to adding two voting members that are transit 2 users to the governing body of public transportation benefit areas; 3 amending RCW 36.57A.050; and providing an effective date. 4
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Joe Timmons (D)*, Alex Ramel (D), Davina Duerr (D), Tarra Simmons (D), Lisa Parshley (D), Julia Reed (D), Beth Doglio (D), Gerry Pollet (D), Natasha Hill (D), Brandy Donaghy (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 35
• Last Amended: 05/16/2025
• Last Action: Effective date 1/1/2026.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S29 • Last Action 05/12/2025
To establish the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Massachusetts Data Privacy Act, creating comprehensive privacy protections for Massachusetts residents' personal data. The legislation introduces two new chapters to the General Laws: Chapter 93M (Massachusetts Data Privacy Protection Act) and Chapter 93N (Privacy Protections for Location Information Derived from Electronic Devices). The bill defines key terms like "covered data" and "sensitive covered data" and establishes robust rights for individuals, including the ability to access, correct, delete, and export their personal information. Covered entities (businesses collecting data) must obtain clear consent before collecting or processing data, provide transparent privacy policies, and are prohibited from using deceptive practices or "dark patterns" to manipulate user choices. The bill restricts the collection and transfer of sensitive data, bans targeted advertising to minors, and requires data brokers to register with the state. Enforcement mechanisms include both private right of action and potential action by the Attorney General, with potential penalties of up to 4% of a company's annual global revenue or $20 million per action. The legislation aims to give individuals more control over their personal information, protect their privacy, and hold companies accountable for responsible data handling practices. The bill will take effect one year after its enactment, giving businesses time to adapt to the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to establish the Massachusetts Data Privacy Protection Act. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
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• Introduced: 03/11/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : Cynthia Creem (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see S2516
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MA bill #S33 • Last Action 05/12/2025
Establishing the Comprehensive Massachusetts Consumer Data Privacy Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Comprehensive Massachusetts Consumer Data Privacy Act, which creates comprehensive data privacy protections for Massachusetts residents. The bill applies to businesses that process personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or 25,000 consumers while deriving over 25% of their gross revenue from selling personal data. Key provisions include giving consumers the right to confirm what personal data is being processed about them, access that data, correct inaccuracies, delete personal data, obtain a copy of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain automated profiling. The bill imposes significant obligations on businesses (called "controllers") to limit data collection, obtain consent for processing sensitive data, protect children's data, and provide clear privacy notices. Controllers must obtain parental consent for processing data of children under 13 and are prohibited from certain practices that could harm minors, such as targeted advertising to children. The bill requires businesses to conduct data protection assessments for high-risk processing activities and implement reasonable data security practices. Enforcement is exclusively through the Massachusetts Attorney General, with a cure period from July 2026 to December 2027 that allows businesses to address violations before facing potential action. The law will take effect on July 1, 2026, and violations are considered unfair trade practices under existing Massachusetts law.
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Bill Summary: For legislation to establish the comprehensive Massachusetts consumer data privacy act. Advanced Information Technology, the Internet and Cybersecurity.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 194th General Court
• Sponsors: 1 : William Driscoll (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Accompanied a new draft, see S2516
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB66 • Last Action 05/08/2025
Relative to material subject to disclosure under the right to know law.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill expands New Hampshire's Right to Know law by making several key changes to public records access. It replaces references to "citizens" with "any person," which means that anyone, not just New Hampshire residents, can request governmental records. The bill now requires public bodies to disclose preliminary drafts of documents that have been distributed to a quorum or majority of the public body, broadening the scope of available records. The legislation also introduces more flexible methods for requesting documents, allowing people to request records electronically or by mail without physically appearing at government offices. Public bodies must provide electronic records in their existing format, though they are not required to convert records to new formats or provide electronic access if doing so would be technologically challenging or compromise their record-keeping system. Additionally, the bill modifies the appeals process for Right to Know ombudsman decisions, ensuring that the ombudsman's ruling is attached to and considered in any superior court appeal, and eliminating filing fees for such appeals. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage and is expected to potentially increase administrative workload for government agencies, though the fiscal impact is considered indeterminable.
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Bill Summary: This bill allows any person to invoke the right to know law, includes preliminary drafts of documents that are distributed to a quorum of a body among the materials that must be disclosed, allows persons to request documents in either paper or electronic form, and modifies the manner in which the right to know ombudsman's ruling may be appealed to superior court.
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• Introduced: 12/23/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Bob Lynn (R)*, Jess Edwards (R), Katelyn Kuttab (R), Marjorie Smith (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 26
• Last Amended: 01/04/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote === BILL KILLED ===; 05/08/2025; Senate Journal 12
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB522 • Last Action 05/08/2025
Relative to the expectation of privacy in personal information maintained by the state.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a comprehensive privacy protection framework for personal information maintained by government entities in New Hampshire. The bill defines personal information broadly, including sensitive data like social security numbers, biometric identifiers, financial records, and contact information. It creates a legal expectation of privacy for individuals by prohibiting government entities from acquiring, collecting, retaining, or using personal information from third-party providers without specific exceptions. These exceptions include situations involving state regulatory agencies, judicial warrants, emergency services, imminent dangers, legally authorized requests, and cases where individuals directly provide or authorize access to their information. The bill imposes criminal penalties for knowingly violating these privacy protections and allows individuals who suffer injury due to violations to seek damages of at least $1,000 per violation, plus legal costs. Importantly, the bill does not create a cause of action against non-government entities providing information and includes provisions for federal law preemption. The new privacy protections will take effect on January 1, 2026, and amend existing state regulations regarding biometric data collection and privacy expectations.
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Bill Summary: This bill establishes an expectation of privacy in personal information maintained by the state.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Keith Erf (R)*, Bob Lynn (R), Tim Lang (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 01/15/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote === BILL KILLED ===; 05/08/2025; Senate Journal 12
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB646 • Last Action 05/08/2025
Judicial and federal official security and privacy; creating the Oklahoma Federal Official and Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2025. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill updates the Oklahoma Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2023, expanding its scope to include elected federal officials and creating the Oklahoma Federal Official and Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2025. The bill modifies definitions of key terms like "at-risk individual" to now include current elected federal officials, and broadens the definition of "covered information" to protect personal details such as home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, vehicle registration information, and family details. State agencies are now required to keep this covered information private, removing it from public content within 72 hours of receiving a written request from an at-risk individual. The bill also updates provisions for sharing confidential information, allowing access only with a signed release, a court order, or under specific confidentiality agreements. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Administrative Director of the Courts submit a biennial report to the Legislature detailing expenses related to protecting covered information, its sources, and any new types of personal data used to identify federal officials or judges who have received threats. The legislation will become effective on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause to emphasize its immediate importance for public safety.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to judicial and federal official security and privacy; amending Sections 1, 2, 3, and 5, Chapter 350, O.S.L. 2023 (20 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 3011, 3012, 3013, and 3015), which relate to the Oklahoma Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2023; creating the Oklahoma Federal Official and Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2025; modifying short title; modifying definition; modifying certain exception for access to certain records; modifying required contents of certain report; amending 26 O.S. 2021, Section 4-115.2, as amended by Section 2, Chapter 147, O.S.L. 2023 (26 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 4-115.2), which relates to confidentiality of residence and mailing address; adding elected federal officials to certain class; updating statutory references; updating statutory language; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Lonnie Paxton (R)*, Dell Kerbs (R)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 25
• Last Amended: 04/22/2025
• Last Action: Remove Representative Hilbert as principal House author and substitute with Representative Kerbs
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1185 • Last Action 05/07/2025
In auditors and accountants, further providing for surcharge by auditors; and, in township manager, further providing for township manager, appointment, removal, powers and duties, compensation and bond.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes two key modifications to the Second Class Township Code: First, it expands protections for township officers against financial surcharges by allowing them to avoid penalties if they act in good faith based on a written, nonconfidential legal opinion from the township solicitor, including a special counsel appointed for a specific matter, as long as the opinion was not rendered under duress or through collusion. Second, the bill broadens the definition and appointment process for township managers, now allowing the board of supervisors to appoint not just an individual, but also a partnership, limited partnership, association, or professional corporation as township manager. The bill also allows for employment or professional services agreements that can specify terms of employment and potential severance conditions, while explicitly stating that such agreements cannot guarantee retention or provide legal remedies for specific performance. Additionally, the bill clarifies that township managers (whether individuals or organizations) and their employees directly providing services are considered public officials subject to certain activity restrictions, and maintains existing restrictions on holding multiple township offices. The changes aim to provide more flexibility in township management and legal protections while maintaining professional standards.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of May 1, 1933 (P.L.103, No.69), entitled "An act concerning townships of the second class; and amending, revising, consolidating and changing the law relating thereto," in auditors and accountants, further providing for surcharge by auditors; and, in township manager, further providing for township manager, appointment, removal, powers and duties, compensation and bond.
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• Introduced: 04/09/2025
• Added: 04/10/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Lee James (R)*, Bob Freeman (D), Christina Sappey (D), Izzy Smith-Wade-El (D), Brett Miller (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Laid on the table
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB497 • Last Action 05/07/2025
Criminal procedure; requiring Forensic Review Board to provide certain notice to district attorney. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's criminal procedure regarding individuals found not guilty by reason of mental illness or guilty with mental defect, specifically focusing on the responsibilities of the Forensic Review Board. The key change requires the Board to provide notice to the district attorney at least 45 days before meeting to determine an individual's eligibility for therapeutic visits, conditional release, or discharge. The bill maintains the existing complex process for evaluating mentally ill individuals who have been involved in criminal proceedings, including detailed examinations by mental health professionals, court hearings to assess dangerousness, and potential conditional release or hospitalization. The Forensic Review Board, composed of seven members including mental health professionals, an attorney, a retired judge, and an at-large member, continues to play a crucial role in reviewing cases and making recommendations about treatment and potential release. The bill provides precise definitions for terms like "mental illness," "dangerous," and "person requiring treatment," ensuring a comprehensive and nuanced approach to handling individuals with mental health challenges within the criminal justice system. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving institutions time to prepare for the new notification requirements.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 497 By: Weaver of the Senate and Turner of the House An Act relating to criminal procedure; amending 22 O.S. 2021, Section 1161, which relates to acts committed by persons with mental illness or mental defect; requiring Forensic Review Board to provide certain notice to district attorney; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Forensic Review Board
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Darrell Weaver (R)*, Tim Turner (R)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 05/01/2025
• Last Action: Approved by Governor 05/06/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB403 • Last Action 05/07/2025
County purchasing; modifying duties of county purchasing agent related to bidders. Effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the duties and procedures of county purchasing agents in Oklahoma, making several key changes to how counties can purchase goods and services. The bill expands exceptions to standard bidding requirements, allowing more flexibility in purchasing, such as permitting counties to select the next lowest bidder if the original low bidder cannot perform, and enabling counties to purchase items from local vendors at or below state bid list prices. It clarifies procedures for soliciting bids, processing purchase orders, and receiving items, and updates language related to purchasing for various county departments and special circumstances. The bill also makes technical changes to references in existing law, such as updating statutory citations and removing mentions of specific information technology and telecommunication goods. Notably, the bill provides new options for county purchasing agents when original bidders cannot fulfill contracts, allows more discretion in selecting vendors, and streamlines some administrative processes. The changes aim to provide counties with more efficient and practical purchasing mechanisms while maintaining financial accountability. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 403 By: Stewart of the Senate and Cantrell of the House An Act relating to county purchasing; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Sections 1501, as amended by Section 1, Chapter 94, O.S.L. 2022, and 1505, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 94, O.S.L. 2022 (19 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 1501 and 1505), which relate to county purchasing agents and procedures; modifying duties of county purchasing agent related to bidders; establishing exceptions to certain requisition or purchase requirements; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: County purchasing
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 01/07/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Jack Stewart (R)*, Josh Cantrell (R)*
• Versions: 9 • Votes: 7 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 04/30/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/07/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF3487 • Last Action 05/06/2025
Meeting broadcasting through social media authorization
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's Open Meeting Law to provide clear guidelines for public bodies using social media to broadcast meetings. The bill allows public bodies to live broadcast meetings through social media platforms, but does not require them to enable comments during these broadcasts. If comments are allowed, the public body must establish rules for how these comments will be handled. The bill specifies that such comments are not automatically considered official government records unless the meeting notice explicitly states they will be part of the record. Public bodies must clearly state in their meeting notices that a social media broadcast will occur, provide access information, and outline any process for remote public comments. The bill also clarifies that social media cannot be used as a primary meeting platform if the technology does not meet existing interactive meeting requirements. Importantly, the bill distinguishes social media from email and provides a framework for transparent and controlled public meeting broadcasts in the digital age. The provisions will take effect immediately after being signed into law.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to Open Meeting Law; authorizing meeting broadcasting through social media; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13D.065.
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• Introduced: 05/05/2025
• Added: 05/06/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark Koran (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 05/05/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State and Local Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NC bill #H462 • Last Action 05/06/2025
Personal Data Privacy/Social Media Safety
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes two key initiatives: the North Carolina Personal Data Privacy Act and the Social Media Safety Act. For personal data privacy, the bill creates comprehensive regulations for how businesses collect, process, and protect consumer personal data, giving consumers significant rights including the ability to confirm what data is being collected, access their personal data, correct inaccuracies, request data deletion, and opt out of certain data processing activities like targeted advertising or data sales. The bill applies to businesses that process data for at least 35,000 consumers or derive over 20% of their revenue from data sales, with specific requirements for data security, consent, and transparency. For social media safety, the bill mandates that social media companies verify the age of North Carolina users, requiring parental consent for minors to create accounts and implementing reasonable age verification methods like government ID checks. Social media companies that fail to comply can face significant penalties, including criminal misdemeanor charges and civil liability of up to $2,500 per violation. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with the North Carolina Department of Justice required to begin public outreach about the new regulations by July 1, 2025. The bill aims to protect consumer privacy and protect minors from potentially harmful social media interactions by establishing clear legal frameworks for data handling and platform access.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT TO PROTECT NORTH CAROLINIANS BY ENACTING THE PERSONAL DATA PRIVACY ACT AND SOCIAL MEDIA SAFETY ACT.
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• Introduced: 03/19/2025
• Added: 03/27/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 25 : Terry Brown (D)*, Allen Chesser (R)*, Neal Jackson (R)*, Tim Longest (D)*, Eric Ager (D), Vernetta Alston (D), Amber Baker (D), Cynthia Ball (D), Mary Belk (D), Gloristine Brown (D), Tracy Clark (D), Mike Colvin (D), Carla Cunningham (D), Allison Dahle (D), Pricey Harrison (D), Zack Hawkins (D), Frances Jackson (D), Monika Johnson-Hostler (D), Carolyn Logan (D), Jordan Lopez (D), Nasif Majeed (D), Ray Pickett (R), Garland Pierce (D), Lindsey Prather (D), James Roberson (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 04/29/2025
• Last Action: Commerce and Economic Development Hearing (10:00:00 5/6/2025 643 LOB)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2165 • Last Action 05/06/2025
Counties and county officers; procedures for operation of county government; interlocal agreements; effective date.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma state law regarding county government purchasing procedures, with a key new provision allowing counties to enter into interlocal agreements with Circuit Engineering Districts (CEDs). The bill provides detailed guidelines for how counties should handle requisitions, bidding, purchasing, receiving, and inventory of supplies, materials, equipment, and services. Specifically, the bill outlines step-by-step processes for county purchasing agents, including how to solicit bids, compare prices with state contract rates, select vendors, process purchase orders, receive goods, and manage inventory. The bill introduces a new section (Section L) that explicitly permits counties to request and enter into interlocal agreements with Circuit Engineering Districts for services, which was not clearly allowed in previous versions of the law. This change provides counties with more flexibility in obtaining services through cooperative agreements. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving counties time to adapt to the new provisions. The comprehensive nature of the bill aims to standardize and improve transparency in county government purchasing processes.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to counties and county officers; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 1505, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 94, O.S.L. 2022 (19 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 1505), which relates to the procedures for the operation of county government; permitting certain interlocal agreements; and providing an effective date. SUBJECT: Counties and county officers
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : John Pfeiffer (R)*, Casey Murdock (R)*, Josh Cantrell (R)
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 27
• Last Amended: 04/28/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/06/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1360 • Last Action 05/06/2025
Protection from domestic abuse; personal information confidential; Attorney General; Address Confidentiality Program to request certain information to not be made public; effective date; emergency.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Oklahoma state law to expand protections for personal information confidentiality by allowing the program manager of the Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) to request that certain personal information be kept confidential and not publicly available online. Specifically, the bill permits the ACP program manager to ask county assessors to keep personal information of certified program participants secure and not displayed on the internet, similar to existing protections for elected county officials and law enforcement officers. To do this, ACP participants must obtain a court order based on a sworn affidavit that justifies the need for confidentiality. The bill defines "personal information" as home addresses of an individual, their spouse, domestic partner, or minor children, as well as telephone numbers and email addresses. The legislation will become effective on July 1, 2025, and is being introduced with an emergency clause, indicating its immediate importance for public safety. The bill is particularly significant for protecting victims of domestic abuse who are enrolled in the Address Confidentiality Program, helping to keep their location and contact information private and secure.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to protection from domestic abuse; amending 68 O.S. 2021, Section 2899.1, which relates to requests to keep personal information confidential; permitting program manager of the Address Confidentiality Program to request certain information be inaccessible to the public; requiring certain participants to obtain a court order to keep records confidential; providing definition; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Protection from domestic abuse
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Toni Hasenbeck (R)*, Jerry Alvord (R)*, Trish Ranson (D)
• Versions: 8 • Votes: 6 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 04/29/2025
• Last Action: Becomes law without Governor's signature 05/06/2025
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB726 • Last Action 05/05/2025
In open meetings, further providing for use of equipment during meetings and for General Assembly meetings covered.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Pennsylvania's open meetings laws to enhance transparency and public access to General Assembly proceedings. Specifically, it updates provisions related to recording and broadcasting meetings of the Senate and House of Representatives. The bill clarifies that while the Senate and House can adopt their own rules about recording and broadcasting sessions, they are now required to record and post all committee meetings and hearings on a publicly accessible website. Furthermore, the bill mandates that when technically feasible, these meetings and hearings must be available through live stream video. The legislation explicitly excludes caucuses and ethics committee meetings from these requirements. These changes aim to increase governmental transparency by providing citizens with broader digital access to legislative proceedings. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment, giving the General Assembly time to implement the new recording and streaming requirements.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 65 (Public Officers) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in open meetings, further providing for use of equipment during meetings and for General Assembly meetings covered.
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• Introduced: 05/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Pat Stefano (R)*, Kristin Phillips-Hill (R), Tracy Pennycuick (R), Jay Costa (D), Tim Kearney (D), Maria Collett (D), Tina Tartaglione (D), Carolyn Comitta (D), Nick Miller (D), Art Haywood (D), Rosemary Brown (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 05/05/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3287 • Last Action 05/01/2025
Open Meeting Law; classification of school district superintendent and school principal applicant data as private authorized, and closed meetings for school district superintendent and school principal interviews authorized.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's Open Meeting Law and data privacy statutes to provide new provisions for handling job applicant data and interview processes specifically for school district superintendents and school principals. The bill allows government entities to classify personnel data for these two positions as private at any stage of the search or hiring process, with the private classification expiring once an applicant accepts an employment offer. Additionally, the bill authorizes public bodies to conduct closed meetings when interviewing candidates for school district superintendent and school principal positions, with the important caveat that the meeting must be opened if the candidate being interviewed requests it. These changes are designed to provide more flexibility and confidentiality in the hiring process for key educational leadership positions, recognizing the sensitive nature of these searches and the potential impact on candidates' current employment situations. The bill will take effect the day after its final enactment, allowing school districts and other public bodies to immediately implement these new provisions in their hiring practices.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to the Open Meeting Law; authorizing the classification of school district superintendent and school principal applicant data as private; authorizing closed meetings for school district superintendent and school principal interviews; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.43, subdivision 3; 13D.05, subdivision 3.
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• Introduced: 05/01/2025
• Added: 05/01/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Julie Greene (D)*, Mary Clardy (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/30/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Education Policy
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0208 • Last Action 05/01/2025
An act relating to consumer data privacy and online surveillance
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to establish the Vermont Data Privacy and Online Surveillance Act, a comprehensive law designed to protect consumers' personal data and provide them with greater control over how their information is collected, used, and shared online. The bill defines key terms like "personal data," "sensitive data," and "consumer" and establishes several important rights for Vermont residents, including the ability to confirm what data companies have collected about them, request corrections or deletions of their personal data, opt out of targeted advertising and data sales, and receive clear privacy notices. Companies (referred to as "controllers") must limit data collection, obtain meaningful consent, protect sensitive data, and avoid discriminatory practices. The law will apply to businesses that process data from a significant number of consumers or derive substantial revenue from data sales. The Attorney General will have exclusive enforcement authority, with a limited private right of action for consumers in certain circumstances. The bill also requires the Attorney General to develop public education programs about data privacy and conduct a study on the law's effectiveness. The law will be implemented in stages, with full implementation by July 1, 2026, and gradual expansion of its applicability to smaller businesses over subsequent years.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to provide data privacy and online surveillance protections to Vermonters.
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• Introduced: 02/12/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 51 : Monique Priestley (D)*, Michael Marcotte (R), Angela Arsenault (D), Sarita Austin (D), Daisy Berbeco (D), Michelle Bos-Lun (D), David Bosch (R), Lucy Boyden (D), Jana Brown (D), Mollie Burke (D), Elizabeth Burrows (D), Scott Campbell (D), Emily Carris-Duncan (D), Conor Casey (D), Ela Chapin (D), Brian Cina (D), Esme Cole (D), Mari Cordes (D), Anne Donahue (I), Abbey Duke (D), Zon Eastes (D), Leslie Goldman (D), Edye Graning (D), William Greer (D), Leanne Harple (D), Troy Headrick (D), Rebecca Holcombe (D), Emilie Krasnow (D), Jed Lipsky (I), Jim Masland (D), Kate McCann (D), Jubilee McGill (D), Anthony Micklus (R), Marc Mihaly (D), Brian Minier (D), Mike Mrowicki (D), Kate Nugent (D), John O'Brien (D), Carol Ode (D), Herb Olson (D), Gayle Pezzo (D), Phil Pouech (D), Barbara Rachelson (D), Larry Satcowitz (D), Laura Sibilia (I), Tom Stevens (D), Heather Surprenant (D), Chloe Tomlinson (D), Dara Torre (D), Edward Waszazak (D), Kirk White (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/12/2025
• Last Action: House Committee on Commerce and Economic Development Hearing (00:00:00 5/1/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1024 • Last Action 04/29/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 14; Title 49, Chapter 4; Title 49, Chapter 50; Title 49, Chapter 7; Title 49, Chapter 8 and Title 49, Chapter 9, relative to education.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee state law regarding state university board meetings by requiring that all board meetings be made available for public viewing through streaming video on the respective institution's website, with archived videos also accessible online. The bill introduces a nuanced approach to transparency by allowing boards to conduct private meetings when discussing sensitive topics like senior administration, personnel positions, and contracts, but explicitly prohibits taking any formal actions during these private sessions. Essentially, this legislation seeks to balance the public's right to access information about state university governance with the need for confidential deliberations on certain administrative matters. The new provision mandates that while discussions about personnel and contracts can occur privately, any decisions must be made in an open, publicly viewable setting, thereby promoting governmental transparency while protecting the deliberative process.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes a state university board of trustees to conduct private meetings to discuss or deliberate on matters related to senior administration, personnel positions, and contracts, without taking action on such matters in a private meeting. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 14; Title 49, Chapter 4; Title 49, Chapter 50; Title 49, Chapter 7; Title 49, Chapter 8 and Title 49, Chapter 9.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Shane Reeves (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 04/24/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1036 • Last Action 04/29/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, Chapter 14; Title 49, Chapter 4; Title 49, Chapter 50; Title 49, Chapter 7; Title 49, Chapter 8 and Title 49, Chapter 9, relative to education.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the transparency requirements for state university board meetings in Tennessee. Specifically, it mandates that all state university board meetings must be livestreamed on the institution's website and have archived video recordings available for public viewing. However, the bill also introduces an important exception allowing boards to conduct private meetings when discussing senior administration, personnel positions, and contracts. Critically, while these private discussions are permitted, the bill explicitly prohibits boards from taking any official actions during these closed sessions. The provision aims to balance public transparency with the need for confidential deliberations, ensuring that important decision-making remains open to public scrutiny while allowing boards to have frank, private discussions about sensitive personnel and administrative matters. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as determined by the Tennessee General Assembly.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, authorizes a state university board of trustees to conduct private meetings to discuss or deliberate on matters related to senior administration, personnel positions, and contracts, without taking action on such matters in a private meeting. - Amends TCA Title 49, Chapter 14; Title 49, Chapter 4; Title 49, Chapter 50; Title 49, Chapter 7; Title 49, Chapter 8 and Title 49, Chapter 9.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Charlie Baum (R)*, Mike Sparks (R), G.A. Hardaway (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 267
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4386 • Last Action 04/29/2025
State agencies (proposed): boards and commissions; commission on Middle Eastern American affairs; establish. Creates new act.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs in Michigan, creating a 15-member body appointed by the governor to serve 3-year terms and focus on supporting and advancing the interests of Middle Eastern Americans in the state. The commission's primary responsibilities include advising the governor and state departments on policy matters affecting Middle Eastern American communities, recommending changes to state programs and policies, promoting equal access to state services and education, and serving as a reporting agency for anti-Middle Eastern American harassment. Commissioners will work to raise awareness about Middle Eastern American culture, history, and contributions, develop unified policies to serve community needs, and collaborate with other state commissions focused on diverse populations such as Asian Pacific, Hispanic/Latino, Black, LGBTQ+, immigrant, and women's groups. The Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity will provide administrative support, including maintaining meeting records and potentially providing staff and office space. The bill defines a "Middle Eastern American" as an individual with ancestral ties to Middle Eastern countries who resides in Michigan, and establishes governance rules such as requiring quarterly meetings, adopting bylaws within 90 days, and operating under open meetings and freedom of information guidelines.
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Bill Summary: A bill to declare the powers and duties of the commission on Middle Eastern American affairs; and to prescribe the powers and duties of certain state governmental officers and entities.
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• Introduced: 04/24/2025
• Added: 04/25/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 5 : Alabas Farhat (D)*, Erin Byrnes (D), Carrie Rheingans (D), Natalie Price (D), Jason Morgan (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 04/24/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 04/24/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #SB5102 • Last Action 04/29/2025
Establishing a public records exemption for the proprietary information of public risk pools.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the existing public records law (RCW 42.56.270) by adding a new exemption for certain proprietary information related to public risk pools. Specifically, the bill creates an exemption that protects the formulas and data used by public risk pools to calculate rates for member contributions or assessments, as well as actuarial analyses and reports prepared by or for these pools. A public risk pool is typically an organization that allows multiple public entities (like local governments or schools) to collectively purchase insurance or share risk, which helps reduce individual member costs. By keeping the detailed calculations and analyses confidential, the bill aims to protect sensitive financial information that could potentially be used to competitively disadvantage these pools if made publicly available. The exemption means that these specific types of financial and technical documents would be protected from public disclosure under Washington state's public records laws, maintaining the strategic and financial privacy of public risk pool operations.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to establishing a public records exemption for 2 the proprietary information of public risk pools; and amending RCW 3 42.56.270. 4
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• Introduced: 12/23/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Bob Hasegawa (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 05/02/2025
• Last Action: Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
AK bill #SB2 • Last Action 04/29/2025
Ai, Deepfakes, Cybersecurity, Data Xfers
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces comprehensive regulations addressing artificial intelligence (AI), deepfakes, and data transfers in Alaska, focusing on three main areas. First, it mandates disclosure requirements for election-related deepfakes, requiring any communication containing an AI-generated or manipulated video, audio, or image of a candidate to include a clear statement that the content has been artificially created, with specific visibility and disclosure rules depending on the communication's format. Second, the bill establishes stringent guidelines for state agencies' use of AI, requiring biennial inventories and impact assessments of AI systems used for consequential decisions, with provisions that mandate individual consent, notification, appeal processes, and prohibitions on using AI for biometric identification, emotion recognition, and social scoring. Lastly, the bill restricts data transfers between state agencies, requiring notice to individuals before sharing their personal information, and creates a mechanism for individuals to seek civil damages if they suffer harm from improper AI usage. The legislation includes detailed definitions of terms like "generative AI," "consequential decisions," and "sensitive personal data," and provides exemptions for certain public safety investigations. The overall goal is to promote transparency, protect individual privacy, and ensure responsible AI implementation in government operations.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to disclosure of election-related deepfakes; relating to use of artificial intelligence by state agencies; and relating to transfer of data about individuals between state agencies.
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• Introduced: 01/11/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 34th Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Shelley Hughes (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/10/2025
• Last Action: Senate State Affairs Hearing (15:30:00 4/29/2025 Beltz 105 (tsbldg))
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0271 • Last Action 04/29/2025
Civil rights: open meetings; provisions of open meetings act relating to virtual attendance and participation of members of public bodies at public meetings; revise. Amends secs. 3 & 7 of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263 & 15.267); adds sec. 3b & repeals sec. 3a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263a).
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to establish clear guidelines for virtual attendance and participation in public meetings across different types of public bodies. The bill creates three classes of public bodies (A, B, and C) with varying rules for remote participation: Class A public bodies (typically elected bodies with legislative powers) must have a quorum physically present and limit remote members from voting, while Class B public bodies allow full remote participation if at least one-third of members are physically present, and Class C public bodies can hold entirely virtual meetings. The bill requires that any remotely attending members maintain two-way communication throughout meetings and that electronic communications between members be transparent and shared with all meeting attendees. Public bodies must establish and publish reasonable procedures for remote public participation, ensuring that these procedures do not create undue barriers and comply with disability accommodation laws. The bill also eliminates previous COVID-19-specific meeting provisions and repeals a prior section of the act related to remote meeting attendance, effectively creating a more permanent and structured approach to virtual public meetings that balances accessibility, transparency, and operational flexibility for different types of governmental bodies.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending sections 3 and 7 (MCL 15.263 and 15.267), section 3 as amended by 2020 PA 254 and section 7 as amended by 1996 PA 464, and by adding section 3b; and to repeal acts and parts of acts.
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• Introduced: 04/29/2025
• Added: 04/29/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Ed McBroom (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 04/29/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Elections And Ethics
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0908 • Last Action 04/28/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 3, Part 5; Title 8, Chapter 44; Title 43, Chapter 1; Title 58; Title 68, Chapter 1 and Title 70, relative to public meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's open meetings law to include the Tennessee One Health Committee as a governing body subject to public meeting requirements. Specifically, the bill adds the Tennessee One Health Committee to the list of entities that must conduct open meetings, defining it as an organization that promotes health across humans, animals, and the environment through collaboration among local, state, and federal agencies, academic institutions, and outside partners. The bill expands the legal definition of a "meeting" to explicitly include gatherings of this committee, ensuring transparency by mandating that these meetings be open to the public. By making these changes, the bill aims to increase governmental transparency and provide citizens with greater access to information about the committee's activities and discussions. The legislation will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as determined by the Tennessee General Assembly.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: As enacted, specifies that the Tennessee One Health Committee is a governing body under the open meetings act; requires meetings of the committee to be open to the public. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 3, Part 5; Title 8, Chapter 44; Title 43, Chapter 1; Title 58; Title 68, Chapter 1 and Title 70.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Robert Harshbarger (R)*, Janice Bowling (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 286
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0425 • Last Action 04/28/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-504, relative to public employees.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Section 10-7-504, which relates to public records and exceptions to public disclosure. Specifically, the bill expands an existing exception to public records access by protecting the residential information of state, county, municipal, and other public employees. The residential information being shielded from public disclosure includes the street address, city, state, and zip code of these employees. This change means that personal address details of public employees would be kept confidential and not subject to public records requests, likely to protect the privacy and potential safety of government workers. The bill would take effect immediately upon becoming law, with the stated rationale of serving the public welfare by safeguarding the personal contact information of public employees.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, expands public records exception to include residential information of local government employees. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-504.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Shane Reeves (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 280
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0066 • Last Action 04/28/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-504, relative to public employees.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's public records law (specifically Section 10-7-504) to expand an existing exception to public disclosure by protecting the residential information of public employees. Currently, the law would have required residential details like street address, city, state, and zip code to be publicly available for state, county, municipal, and other government employees. The proposed change would create a blanket exemption that keeps such personal residential information confidential, effectively shielding public employees' home addresses from public view. This type of legislative amendment is typically aimed at protecting government workers' privacy and potentially preventing potential harassment or unauthorized intrusions into employees' personal lives. The bill would take effect immediately upon becoming law, as stated in Section 2 of the bill, with the rationale that it serves the public welfare by protecting government employees' personal information.
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Bill Summary: As enacted, expands public records exception to include residential information of local government employees. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-504.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Sparks (R)*, Bryan Terry (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 04/24/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0731 • Last Action 04/28/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 3, Part 5; Title 8, Chapter 44; Title 43, Chapter 1; Title 58; Title 68, Chapter 1 and Title 70, relative to public meetings.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's open meetings law to explicitly include the Tennessee One Health Committee as a governing body subject to public meeting requirements. Specifically, the bill adds the Tennessee One Health Committee to the list of bodies covered by the open meetings act, defining it as an organization that promotes and supports the health of humans, animals, and the environment through cooperation across local, state, and federal agencies, academic institutions, and outside partners. The bill also clarifies that "meeting" for this committee means any convening of its governing body, thus ensuring transparency by requiring these meetings to be open to the public. This change means that the Tennessee One Health Committee will now be required to follow the same public meeting guidelines as other government bodies, allowing citizens to observe and potentially participate in their discussions and decision-making processes.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: As enacted, specifies that the Tennessee One Health Committee is a governing body under the open meetings act; requires meetings of the committee to be open to the public. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 3, Part 5; Title 8, Chapter 44; Title 43, Chapter 1; Title 58; Title 68, Chapter 1 and Title 70.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 02/04/2025
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 10 : Bud Hulsey (R)*, Susan Lynn (R), Gary Hicks (R), Justin Lafferty (R), Dave Wright (R), David Hawk (R), Scott Cepicky (R), Debra Moody (R), Jay Reedy (R), Renea Jones (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 32
• Last Amended: 04/25/2025
• Last Action: Effective date(s) 04/24/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2095 • Last Action 04/24/2025
Oklahoma Open Records Act; thirty-day records request response time; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act by modifying the records request response procedures for public bodies. Specifically, the bill introduces a new requirement that public bodies must respond to records requests within thirty business days of receipt, which is a significant change to the existing law. The bill maintains the existing provisions of the Open Records Act, which require public records to be generally accessible during regular business hours, while preserving numerous existing exemptions for confidential information such as privileged legal documents, personal identification information, investigative files, and sensitive government records. The bill continues to limit copying fees (no more than 25 cents per page for standard documents and $1 per page for certified copies) and ensures that fees cannot be used to discourage information requests. The new response time requirement aims to provide more predictability and transparency in how public bodies handle open records requests, giving requestors a clear timeline for receiving the information they seek. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, allowing public bodies time to adjust their procedures to comply with the new 30-business-day response requirement.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 116, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 24A.5), which relates to the inspection, copying, and mechanical reproduction of records; modifying records response procedures; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Annie Menz (D)*, Julia Kirt (D)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 04/23/2025
• Last Action: Placed on General Order
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2154 • Last Action 04/24/2025
Charter schools; Oklahoma Charter Schools Act; exemptions; financial statements; contract requirements; effective date; emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Oklahoma Charter Schools Act by introducing two key changes to the existing regulations governing charter schools. First, the bill exempts charter schools from filing a written itemized statement of estimated needs and probable income, which was previously required under state financial reporting guidelines. Second, the bill mandates that charter school governing boards must approve a budget for the upcoming fiscal year before it begins, adding a new layer of financial planning and oversight. These changes aim to streamline administrative requirements for charter schools while ensuring they maintain proper financial planning and transparency. The bill retains most existing provisions about charter school operations, including requirements for governance, educational programming, testing participation, compliance with disability education laws, and performance evaluation. The modifications will take effect on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause indicating the immediate importance of these changes to public education in Oklahoma. The bill represents a nuanced adjustment to the state's charter school regulations, seeking to balance administrative efficiency with financial accountability.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to schools; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 3-136, as amended by Section 7, Chapter 323, O.S.L. 2023 (70 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 3-136), which relates to the Oklahoma Charter Schools Act; exempting certain financial statements from contract requirements; requiring the approval of charter school budgets before each fiscal year; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Rob Hall (R)*, Brian Guthrie (R)*
• Versions: 7 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 20
• Last Amended: 04/23/2025
• Last Action: Placed on General Order
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0342 • Last Action 04/23/2025
An act relating to protecting the personal information of certain public servants
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to protect the personal information of certain public servants by requiring data brokers to stop disclosing specific protected details upon receiving a notice from a covered person or their authorized agent. The bill defines "covered persons" broadly to include current and former judges, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, public defenders, and employees of various state departments and agencies, as well as their immediate family members. Protected information includes home addresses, telephone numbers, personal email addresses, Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and vehicle identifiers. When a covered person submits a notice to a data broker requesting cessation of information disclosure, the broker must stop sharing that information within 15 days. The bill establishes penalties for non-compliance, including civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation enforced by the Attorney General and the potential for private civil actions by covered persons. The legislation also includes provisions for an exemption if the data broker quickly ceases disclosure after being served with a lawsuit. Additionally, the bill mandates a study by the Agency of Digital Services to examine the potential impacts of similar disclosure restrictions on public agencies, with a report due by December 1, 2026. The private action provisions will take effect on January 1, 2026, and the overall act will become effective on July 1, 2025.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require data brokers to stop disclosing the protected personal information of certain public servants upon receiving a notice to stop disclosing the protected information.
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• Introduced: 02/24/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Monique Priestley (D)*, Conor Casey (D), Voranus Coffin (R), Troy Headrick (D), Mary Howard (D), Mike Mrowicki (D), Kate Nugent (D), Kirk White (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 39
• Last Amended: 04/01/2025
• Last Action: Senate Committee on Judiciary Hearing (00:00:00 4/23/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
WA bill #HB1222 • Last Action 04/21/2025
Concerning public inspection and copying of proprietary financial and security information submitted to or obtained by the gambling commission.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Washington State Public Records Act to expand protections for proprietary financial and security information submitted to the gambling commission. Specifically, the bill creates comprehensive exemptions from public disclosure for sensitive information related to gambling licenses and facilities. The exempted information includes detailed financial documents like auditor reports, bank records, and transaction details, as well as internal operational and security information about gaming facilities. This protection covers a wide range of sensitive materials such as security camera specifications, cash handling procedures, building access controls, network configurations, and gaming equipment details. The goal is to prevent the release of information that could compromise the security, efficiency, or competitive position of gambling businesses and tribal gaming operations. The bill explicitly states that while quarterly license reports remain public, most other financial and security-related documents can be kept confidential. By providing these expanded protections, the legislation aims to safeguard proprietary information while maintaining transparency in gambling regulation.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT Relating to public inspection and copying of proprietary 2 financial and security information submitted to or obtained by the 3 gambling commission; and amending RCW 42.56.270. 4
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Chris Stearns (D)*, Shelley Kloba (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 29
• Last Amended: 04/27/2025
• Last Action: Effective date 7/27/2025.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1238 • Last Action 04/17/2025
In pupils and attendance, providing for restricting possession and use by students of mobile devices.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to establish comprehensive regulations for student mobile device usage during school hours. The legislation requires school entities (including school districts, charter schools, and technical schools) to develop and implement a policy that restricts students from possessing or using mobile devices during instructional time within school buildings. The policy must include specific procedures for students to securely store their devices during class and retrieve them afterward, as well as establish communication protocols for students and parents. The bill provides several important exceptions to the mobile device restrictions, such as allowing usage for students who are volunteer emergency responders, have medical needs, have disabilities, are English language learners, or receive specific teacher permission for educational purposes. Schools must adopt these policies in an open meeting, allowing public feedback, and must inform parents, teachers, and students about the policy at the beginning of each school year. The bill defines key terms like "instructional time" (which excludes periods between classes, lunch, and recess) and "mobile device" (personal electronic communication devices not owned by the school). The new regulations will take effect 60 days after passage, giving schools time to develop and implement their specific mobile device policies.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), entitled "An act relating to the public school system, including certain provisions applicable as well to private and parochial schools; amending, revising, consolidating and changing the laws relating thereto," in pupils and attendance, providing for restricting possession and use by students of mobile devices.
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• Introduced: 04/15/2025
• Added: 04/18/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 15 : Barb Gleim (R)*, Valerie Gaydos (R), Jeffrey Olsommer (R), Tina Pickett (R), Milou Mackenzie (R), Craig Staats (R), Marc Anderson (R), Lee James (R), Donna Scheuren (R), Jason Ortitay (R), David Rowe (R), Andrew Kuzma (R), Jill Cooper (R), Rob Kauffman (R), Dave Zimmerman (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/18/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Education
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #SB0129 • Last Action 04/17/2025
Civil rights: open meetings; remote meeting participation of certain public body members with disabilities; provide for. Amends sec. 3a of 1976 PA 267 (MCL 15.263a).
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Michigan Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which public bodies can hold electronic meetings, with a significant new provision allowing remote participation for appointed members with disabilities. Specifically, the bill adds a new subsection permitting remote access for an appointed public body member with a disability, without requiring the member to disclose the nature of their disability. The accommodation is subject to several key restrictions: the member must be an appointed (not elected) member, must be physically present in Michigan during the meeting, and the remote participation is strictly for those with disabilities. The bill defines "disability" as a physical or mental characteristic that substantially limits one or more major life activities. The remote participation provisions do not apply to state legislative bodies taking formal votes. The bill also maintains existing requirements for electronic meetings, such as ensuring two-way communication, providing public notice at least 18 hours in advance, and allowing public participation. This change aims to increase accessibility for public body members with disabilities while maintaining the transparency and public participation principles of the Open Meetings Act.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 267, entitled"Open meetings act,"by amending section 3a (MCL 15.263a), as amended by 2023 PA 214.
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• Introduced: 03/06/2025
• Added: 03/06/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 10 : Sean McCann (D)*, Sarah Anthony (D), Stephanie Chang (D), Rosemary Bayer (D), Veronica Klinefelt (D), Dayna Polehanki (D), Sue Shink (D), Paul Wojno (D), John Cherry (D), Mallory McMorrow (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 04/17/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Government Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1491 • Last Action 04/15/2025
Education; meetings of the State Board of Education; authorizing members to add items to agendas; procedure for adding; emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma state education laws to give board members more flexibility in setting meeting agendas for both the State Board of Education and local school district boards. Specifically, the bill allows board members to add items to meeting agendas through a specific process: for the State Board of Education and school district boards with five or more members, at least two members must make a written request to add an item, while for boards with four or fewer members, a single member can make such a request. The item can be placed on the agenda for the next meeting or a subsequent meeting, in accordance with the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act. The bill also makes some technical changes to existing language about board meeting procedures, such as clarifying how agenda items can be added and removing previous restrictions on agenda modifications. For school district boards with larger student populations or serving larger communities, the bill maintains provisions allowing board members to receive a small stipend (up to $25) for attending up to four meetings per calendar month. The bill includes an emergency clause, meaning it would take effect immediately upon passage and approval.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to education; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 3-102, which relates to meetings of the State Board of Education; authorizing members to add items to agendas; providing procedure for adding requested item to an agenda; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Sections 5- 107B and 5-118, which relate to school district boards of education; authorizing members to add items to agendas; providing procedure for adding requested item to an agenda; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 03/06/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Ronny Johns (R)*, Lonnie Paxton (R)*, Cyndi Munson (D), Melissa Provenzano (D), John Waldron (D), Anthony Moore (R)
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 30
• Last Amended: 03/27/2025
• Last Action: Remove as author Senator Reinhardt; authored by Senator Paxton
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NV bill #AB51 • Last Action 04/12/2025
Revises provisions relating to public records. (BDR 19-430)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill revises provisions related to public records in Nevada, introducing several key changes to the existing Public Records Act. The bill allows governmental entities to charge a reasonable fee for using their personnel or technological resources when fulfilling a public records request, provided they adopt a written policy that outlines how the fee is calculated and requires providing written notice to the requester before preparing the requested information. The bill also mandates that public records requests must now be submitted in writing and must identify the person making the request. Additionally, the legislation requires both the requester and the governmental entity to make reasonable efforts to focus and narrow the scope of public records requests to facilitate more efficient processing. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for public records requests, give governmental entities more flexibility in managing such requests, and potentially offset some of the administrative costs associated with processing them. The bill maintains the fundamental principle that public records should be accessible, while introducing more structured procedures for requesting and providing access to these documents.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT relating to public records; authorizing a governmental entity to charge a person who requests a copy of a public record a reasonable fee for the use of its personnel or technological resources; requiring a request to inspect, copy or receive a copy of a public book or record to be in writing and identify the requester; requiring, under certain circumstances, a person who makes such a request to make a reasonable effort to assist the governmental entity in focusing the request; and providing other matters properly relating thereto.
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• Introduced: 11/19/2024
• Added: 12/02/2024
• Session: 83rd Legislature (2025)
• Sponsors: 0 : Government Affairs
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 11/22/2024
• Last Action: (Pursuant to Joint Standing Rule No. 14.3.1, no further action allowed.)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0199 • Last Action 04/11/2025
Open Meetings Clarification Emergency Amendment Act of 2025
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the District of Columbia's Open Meetings Act to clarify several key provisions regarding public meetings. The bill redefines "meeting" to include any gathering of a quorum of public body members where public business is discussed, while explicitly excluding chance social gatherings and press conferences. For the DC Council specifically, a meeting is defined as a regular or additional legislative meeting where votes are taken. The bill allows public bodies to discuss potential terrorist or public health threats in closed sessions if disclosure could endanger the public, and provides more flexibility in meeting accessibility by allowing meetings to be considered open if reasonable steps are taken to allow public viewing or hearing, either during the meeting or as soon as technologically feasible afterward. Additionally, the bill creates a specific exemption for meetings between the DC Council and the Mayor, provided no official action is taken during such meetings. The legislation also modifies notice requirements for public meetings, making them less stringent by changing language from mandatory provision to "attempting" to provide notice. This emergency amendment is designed to provide more clarity and pragmatic approaches to open meeting regulations while maintaining principles of governmental transparency.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on an emergency basis, the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of meeting, to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken, to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings, and to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 03/28/2025
• Added: 03/29/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 12 : Phil Mendelson (D)*, Christina Henderson (I)*, Brianne Nadeau (D)*, Matt Frumin (D)*, Zachary Parker (D)*, Wendell Felder (D)*, Kenyan McDuffie (I)*, Anita Bonds (D)*, Robert White (D)*, Brooke Pinto (D)*, Janeese George (D)*, Charles Allen (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 04/01/2025
• Last Action: Act A26-0041 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 004070, Expires on Jul 06, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2134 • Last Action 04/11/2025
Amending the Kansas open records act by limiting certain charges for furnishing records and employee time required to make records available and exempting certain records from disclosure and amending the Kansas open meetings act by providing for the membership calculation of subordinate groups and requiring public bodies or agencies that live stream meetings to ensure that the public is able to observe.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends several Kansas laws to modify open records and open meetings regulations, with a focus on reducing barriers to public information access. The bill limits charges for public records by prohibiting fees for electronic copies and for determining whether a record exists, and requires public agencies to use the lowest-cost staff available when calculating employee time charges. It mandates that agencies provide itemized cost statements when charging for records and establishes procedures for managing high-cost record requests. The bill also expands transparency requirements for public meetings, such as ensuring that live-streamed meetings are fully accessible and clarifying rules about subcommittees and subordinate groups. Additionally, the bill changes the reporting deadline for county and district attorneys regarding open records and open meetings complaints from January to October, and adds new exemptions to public records disclosure, including records from formally closed investigations with no found violations and records containing obscene material. The changes aim to balance public access to information with practical considerations for government agencies, providing more clarity and consistency in how public records are managed and shared.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning open records and open meetings; relating to the open records act; limiting certain charges for furnishing records and employee time required to make records available; exempting records compiled in the process of formally closed investigations with no found violations and records that contain material that is obscene from disclosure; requiring county or district attorneys to file reports of violations of the open records act and open meetings act with the attorney general in October instead of January; relating to the open meetings act; determining the membership calculation of subordinate groups; requiring public bodies or agencies that live stream meetings to ensure that the public is able to observe; amending K.S.A. 45-219, 75-7d01, 75-753 and 75-4318 and K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 45-221 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 04/05/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 4 • Actions: 28
• Last Amended: 04/10/2025
• Last Action: House Reengrossed on Monday, March 31, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3161 • Last Action 04/11/2025
FOIA exemptions
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by adding a new provision that prohibits jails, detention centers, correctional facilities, and other public bodies from disclosing recordings of telephone conversations between inmates and their visitors that are made by the facility where the inmate is incarcerated. The bill is designed to protect the privacy of inmates and their visitors by preventing these telephone conversation recordings from being released through public records requests. The new language will be added to Section 30-4-40 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which outlines exemptions to public disclosure requirements. The bill would take effect immediately upon receiving the Governor's approval, thereby creating a new statutory protection for inmate telephone recordings and limiting their potential public disclosure.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Section 30-4-40, Relating To Matters Exempt Or Prohibited From Disclosure Under The Freedom Of Information Act, So As To Prohibit The Disclosure Of Recordings Of Telephone Conversations Of Inmates And Their Visitors Made By The Facility In Which The Inmate Is Incarcerated.
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• Introduced: 12/10/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Todd Rutherford (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 04/11/2025
• Last Action: Scrivener's error corrected
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0226 • Last Action 04/11/2025
FOIA-LIST OF PUBLIC DOCUMENTS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to enhance public access to government records and databases. Specifically, the bill requires public bodies to expand their existing lists of public records by including detailed, plain-text descriptions of each type and category of information contained in every database field they maintain. Additionally, the bill mandates that public bodies provide comprehensive descriptions of their database structures that are clear enough to enable requesters to ask for specific database queries. This provision aims to make government information more transparent and accessible to citizens by removing technical barriers that might prevent individuals without specialized computer knowledge from understanding and requesting public records. The changes will help ensure that people can more easily navigate and request information from government databases, promoting greater openness and accountability in public record-keeping.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that a public body shall include in its list of records available under the Act the identification and a plain-text description of each of the types or categories of information of each field of each database of the public body. Provides that the public body shall provide a sufficient description of the structures of all databases under the control of the public body to allow a requester to request the public body to perform specific database queries.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Don DeWitte (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/22/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0202 • Last Action 04/11/2025
NO MEETINGS ON ELECTION DAYS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: Based on the provided information, here's a summary of the bill: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to prohibit local government units from holding or scheduling official meetings on election days. By preventing local government meetings during elections, the bill aims to ensure that government officials and citizens can fully focus on the electoral process without potential distractions or conflicts. The legislation limits home rule powers, which means it restricts the ability of local governments to set their own meeting schedules that might conflict with election days. While the specific details of implementation are not fully detailed in the provided text, the bill appears to be designed to protect the integrity and accessibility of the election process by ensuring local government meetings do not interfere with voting activities.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that a unit of local government may not hold or schedule an official meeting on the day of an election. Limits home rule powers. Defines terms.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 01/23/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Chapin Rose (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/22/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2228 • Last Action 04/11/2025
Senate Substitute for HB 2228 by Committee on Judiciary - Requiring that a political subdivision hold an open meeting to discuss a contingency fee contract for legal services before approving such contract and requiring the attorney general to approve such contracts.
Status: Vetoed
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new requirements for political subdivisions (such as municipal corporations, boards, commissions, and authorities) when entering into contingent fee contracts for legal services. Under the bill, a political subdivision must first hold an open meeting where they publicly discuss and disclose specific details about the proposed legal services contract, including the reasons for pursuing the legal matter, the qualifications of the attorneys, why in-house attorneys cannot handle the work, and why a contingency fee structure is necessary. The governing body must also make written findings supporting the need for the contract and approve it in an open meeting. Additionally, the contract must be submitted to the attorney general for review and approval within 45 days. The attorney general can refuse to approve the contract if it involves legal issues already being addressed by the state, could lead to inconsistent legal outcomes, or does not comply with professional conduct rules. If a contract is entered into without following these requirements, the attorney general may intervene in any related legal proceedings and request dismissal. The bill defines what constitutes "legal services" and excludes certain types of legal work, such as bond counsel or debt collection services. These provisions will be in effect until July 1, 2029.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning contingent fee contracts for legal services; relating to contracts entered into for legal services by a political subdivision; requiring an open meeting before a political subdivision may approve such a contract; requiring the attorney general to approve such contract before such contract becomes effective.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 03/20/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 04/10/2025
• Last Action: House No motion to reconsider vetoed bill; Veto sustained
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0155 • Last Action 04/11/2025
OPEN MEETING-TOWNSHIP TRAINING
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to provide an additional training option for elected or appointed township public body members. Specifically, township officials can now satisfy their mandatory Open Meetings Act training requirements by participating in a course of training sponsored or conducted by an organization representing townships created under the Township Code. The training course must cover key topics including the legal background of open meetings, the Act's applicability to public bodies, procedural requirements for meetings (such as quorums, notice, and record-keeping), procedures for conducting open and closed meetings, and potential penalties for non-compliance. The organization providing the training must issue a certificate of course completion to each township member who successfully completes the course. This amendment is part of a broader set of provisions in the Open Meetings Act that allow various types of local government officials (such as school board members, park district directors, and municipal officials) to fulfill their training requirements through organization-specific courses, recognizing the unique contexts and needs of different types of local government bodies.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that an elected or appointed member of a public body of a township may satisfy specified training requirements of the Act by participating in a course of training sponsored or conducted by an organization that represents townships created under the Township Code. Specifies the contents of the course of training. Provides that if an organization that represents townships provides a course of training, it must provide a certificate of course completion to each elected or appointed member of a public body who successfully completes that course of training.
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 01/18/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Patrick Joyce (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3524 • Last Action 04/11/2025
OFFICER-WORN CAMERA EXCEPTIONS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act by adding a new provision that allows officer-worn body cameras to be turned off when an executive branch constitutional officer requests that the camera be turned off, specifically when that request is made to the officer's on-duty and assigned security detail. The bill modifies existing guidelines for body camera usage, which already include several circumstances where cameras can be turned off, such as when a crime victim or witness requests it, when interacting with a confidential informant, or when in certain facilities with existing camera systems. The new provision expands these exceptions to include requests from high-level government officials, potentially providing more privacy and discretion for executive branch constitutional officers during interactions with law enforcement. This change is part of the ongoing efforts to balance transparency in law enforcement with individual privacy concerns, particularly for government officials who may require additional security or confidentiality during certain interactions.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act. Provides that the written policy that must be adopted by each law enforcement agency that employs the use of officer-worn body cameras must require cameras to be turned off when, among other things, an executive branch constitutional officer requests that the camera be turned off and that request is made to the executive branch constitutional officer's on-duty and assigned security detail.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Justin Slaughter (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1590 • Last Action 04/11/2025
FOIA-CONSUMER FRAUD EXEMPTION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act to enhance the confidentiality of information obtained during consumer fraud investigations. Specifically, it adds a new provision that exempts information and documentary materials gathered by the Office of the Attorney General or a State's Attorney during investigations under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act from public disclosure under FOIA. The bill ensures that such materials, including transcripts, testimony, and written responses, cannot be examined by anyone other than authorized employees of the Attorney General's office or other law enforcement officials, without the consent of the person who originally produced the materials. This protection is designed to safeguard the integrity of consumer fraud investigations by preventing premature or unauthorized access to sensitive investigative documents, thus allowing law enforcement to conduct thorough and confidential inquiries into potential consumer fraud cases.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act and the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Exempts from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act information and documentary materials obtained by the Office of the Attorney general or a State's Attorney under certain provisions of the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Provides that certain materials are not available for examination, except by authorized employees of the Attorney General and authorized law enforcement, without the consent of the persons who produced the materials. Provides that certain materials obtained by the Attorney General from other law enforcement officials shall be treated as if produced pursuant to a subpoena for purposes of maintaining the confidentiality of such information.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Javier Cervantes (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 13
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #PR26-0156 • Last Action 04/11/2025
Open Meetings Clarification Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This emergency resolution addresses challenges with the District of Columbia's Open Meetings Act by declaring an urgent need to modify existing regulations governing public meetings. The resolution highlights recent complex situations, such as negotiations with Monumental Sports and Entertainment and potential significant budget cuts, which have made traditional open meeting requirements problematic for effective government coordination. Specifically, the resolution seeks to clarify the definition of a "meeting," allow public bodies like the City Council to be briefed on sensitive matters (such as terrorist or public health threats) without requiring full public disclosure of preliminary discussions, and create exemptions that would permit the Council and Mayor to have confidential preparatory discussions without triggering open meeting requirements, provided no official actions are taken. The legislation aims to provide government entities more flexibility in responding to rapidly evolving situations while maintaining the fundamental principle that official policy-making actions must remain transparent. The resolution acknowledges that while preparatory discussions and background research should not always be immediately public, any final decisions must continue to be made in an open, accessible manner. The emergency declaration allows the resolution to be adopted after a single reading, emphasizing the urgent nature of the proposed changes.
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Bill Summary: April 1, 2025 To declare the existence of an emergency with respect to the need to amend the Open Meetings Act to clarify the definition of meeting, to provide for a public body’s ability to be briefed about potential terrorist or public health threats so long as no official action is taken, to exempt from the act meetings between the Council and the Mayor provided that no official action is taken at such meetings, and to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 03/28/2025
• Added: 03/29/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 12 : Phil Mendelson (D)*, Christina Henderson (I)*, Brianne Nadeau (D)*, Matt Frumin (D)*, Zachary Parker (D)*, Wendell Felder (D)*, Kenyan McDuffie (I)*, Anita Bonds (D)*, Robert White (D)*, Janeese George (D)*, Charles Allen (D)*, Brooke Pinto (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 04/01/2025
• Last Action: Resolution R26-0091, Effective from Apr 01, 2025 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 004103
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF20 • Last Action 04/10/2025
Data classification of certain data maintained by the attorney general clarified.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies the classification of certain data maintained by the Office of the Attorney General by amending Minnesota Statutes section 13.65, subdivision 1. Specifically, the bill adds the phrase "on individuals" to the existing law, which defines categories of private data. These categories include disciplinary proceeding records (except for public hearings), internal communications about administrative matters, consumer complaint data, investigative data related to potential litigation, and specific details collected by the Consumer Division's home protection hot line. The added language "on individuals" helps to more precisely define the scope of private data, ensuring that personal information remains protected. The bill includes an effective date provision stating that the amendment takes effect the day after final enactment, which means the change will become law immediately after it is signed by the appropriate government official. The purpose of this bill appears to be maintaining clarity and specificity in how sensitive personal information is classified and protected within the Attorney General's office.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government data practices; clarifying the classification of certain data maintained by the attorney general; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.65, subdivision 1.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 19 : Harry Niska (R)*, Bidal Duran (R), Elliott Engen (R), Bernie Perryman (R), Natalie Zeleznikar (R), Krista Knudsen (R), Peggy Bennett (R), Jeff Dotseth (R), Steven Jacob (R), Kristin Robbins (R), John Burkel (R), Bobbie Harder (R), Keith Allen (R), Peggy Scott (R), Joe McDonald (R), Max Rymer (R), Jon Koznick (R), James Gordon (R), Dawn Gillman (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 21
• Last Amended: 01/21/2025
• Last Action: Motion did not prevail
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0845 • Last Action 04/10/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to public meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's public meetings law by extending the timeframe for the office of open records counsel to review and approve compliance plans from 30 to 45 days. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 8-44-109(c) of the Tennessee Code Annotated, increasing the window for acknowledging and approving plans submitted by governmental bodies regarding their electronic communication requirements for internet forum meetings. The change gives government bodies more time to develop and submit their plans for compliance with open meetings regulations, potentially allowing for more thorough and carefully prepared documentation. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as stated in Section 2, with the stated justification that it serves the public welfare by providing additional time for proper meeting communication planning.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, increases, from 30 to 45, the number of days the office of open records counsel has to acknowledge and approve a plan submitted by a governing body detailing how the body plans to comply with electronic communication requirements that address meeting by means of an internet forum. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 44.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Michele Reneau (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: HA0407 - Amendment 1-0 to HB0845
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF1999 • Last Action 04/10/2025
Public data request restrictions added.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's government data practices law by adding a new provision that allows government entities (specifically school districts) to suspend processing of a public data request if the requester does not follow up on a prior notification. Specifically, if a responsible authority (such as a school district administrator) notifies a person that requested data or copies are ready for inspection or collection, and the requester does not inspect the data or collect the copies within five days, the responsible authority can pause further action on the request until the requester either views the available data or collects and pays for the produced copies. This change appears designed to prevent prolonged or abandoned data requests and potentially reduce administrative burden on government entities. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes section 13.03, which governs public access to government data, by adding a new subsection (g) to the existing statute. The modification maintains the existing provisions about public data access, such as reasonable fees for copying and the requirement to provide access to public data, while introducing this new provision to manage request follow-through.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government data practices; adding certain restrictions on public data requests; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.03, subdivision 3.
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• Introduced: 03/06/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 12 : Julie Greene (D)*, Sydney Jordan (D), Alex Falconer (D), Kristin Bahner (D), Bianca Virnig (D), Kari Rehrauer (D), Pete Johnson (D), Cheryl Youakim (D), Samantha Sencer-Mura (D), Tina Liebling (D), Zack Stephenson (D), Steve Elkins (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 04/10/2025
• Last Action: Second reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2166 • Last Action 04/10/2025
Continuing in existence certain exceptions to the disclosure of public records under the open records act.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill continues in existence certain exceptions to the disclosure of public records under the Kansas Open Records Act. The bill amends existing law to extend the review and continuation of various statutory exceptions to public records disclosure. Specifically, it adds new subsections to K.S.A. 45-229 that continue exceptions for statutes reviewed during the 2024 and 2025 legislative sessions, including provisions related to specific state agencies and types of records. The bill removes expiration language from previous provisions about COVID-19 information sharing and confidential medical licensing information, effectively making these exceptions permanent. The legislation reflects Kansas's approach to periodically reviewing and reauthorizing exemptions to public records disclosure, ensuring that such exceptions serve a clear public purpose and are not overly broad. The bill continues the state's commitment to balancing government transparency with the need to protect sensitive personal, governmental, and confidential information by carefully reviewing and maintaining specific disclosure exceptions.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning the open records act; relating to public records; continuing in existence certain exceptions to the disclosure thereof; amending K.S.A. 65-7616 and K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 45-229 and 48-962 and repealing the existing sections; also repealing K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 45-229d.
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• Introduced: 01/30/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 16
• Last Amended: 03/21/2025
• Last Action: House Approved by Governor on Wednesday, March 26, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #HB2304 • Last Action 04/10/2025
Requiring local governments to report certain local economic development incentive program information to the secretary of commerce, defining such programs, requiring the secretary of commerce to post such information on the economic development incentive program database maintained by the secretary and requiring certain search result presentation and report formats.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires local governments to report detailed information about their economic development incentive programs to the Kansas Secretary of Commerce, creating a comprehensive public database with transparency requirements. The bill expands the definition of "economic development incentive programs" to include various local initiatives like community improvement districts, tax increment financing, business improvement districts, and other economic development tools that provide more than $50,000 in annual incentives. Local governments will be required to provide specific information about these programs, including recipient details, incentive amounts, qualification criteria, and program goals, which will be stored in a searchable online database accessible to the public. Starting July 1, 2025, providing this information will be a condition for local governments to offer economic development incentives, and recipients will be required to agree to share their information. The Secretary of Commerce must update the database annually, create comprehensive and summary reports, and ensure the website allows users to search and filter information by program, county, recipient, and year. The bill also includes provisions for protecting certain confidential information and allows the Secretary to charge a small administrative fee to maintain the database.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning economic development; relating to government transparency; requiring local governments to report certain local economic development incentive program information to the secretary of commerce; defining such programs; requiring the secretary of commerce to post such information on the economic development incentive program database maintained by the secretary; requiring certain search result presentation formats, a comprehensive report and a summary report; amending K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 74-50,226 and 74-50,227 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Commerce, Labor and Economic Development
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 23
• Last Amended: 03/27/2025
• Last Action: House Approved by Governor on Tuesday, April 1, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0501 • Last Action 04/09/2025
An act relating to the deadline for public bodies to respond to an alleged Open Meeting Law violation
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes a change to the Open Meeting Law (OML), which governs transparency in government meetings, by establishing a specific timeline for how quickly public bodies must respond to alleged violations. Under the proposed legislation, when a public body receives a notice alleging an Open Meeting Law violation, they would be required to respond either within 20 business days or during their next regular meeting, whichever occurs sooner. This requirement aims to ensure that public bodies promptly address potential transparency issues and provide timely explanations or corrections when concerns are raised about their meeting practices. By setting a clear deadline, the bill seeks to enhance accountability and provide a structured process for addressing potential Open Meeting Law infractions.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require a public body to respond to a notice of an alleged Open Meeting Law violation within 20 business days or at the next regular meeting of the public body, whichever is sooner.
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• Introduced: 04/08/2025
• Added: 04/09/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Michael Boutin (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 04/08/2025
• Last Action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1169 • Last Action 04/09/2025
In the Secretary of the Commonwealth, providing for public meetings on proposed ballot questions.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Pennsylvania Election Code to require each state legislator to hold a public meeting within their district regarding proposed ballot questions. For constitutional amendments, legislators must conduct such a meeting within eight months after the first passage of the amendment and its publication notice. For other statewide ballot questions, the meeting must occur after a plain English statement is prepared but before the question is submitted to voters. These public meetings must follow Pennsylvania's open meetings law (Chapter 7 of Title 65), which ensures transparency and public participation in the legislative process. The purpose of these mandatory meetings is to provide constituents an opportunity to offer public comments and feedback on ballot questions before they are put to a vote, potentially increasing civic engagement and understanding of proposed constitutional changes or statewide referendums. The bill will go into effect 60 days after its passage.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of June 3, 1937 (P.L.1333, No.320), entitled "An act concerning elections, including general, municipal, special and primary elections, the nomination of candidates, primary and election expenses and election contests; creating and defining membership of county boards of elections; imposing duties upon the Secretary of the Commonwealth, courts, county boards of elections, county commissioners; imposing penalties for violation of the act, and codifying, revising and consolidating the laws relating thereto; and repealing certain acts and parts of acts relating to elections," in the Secretary of the Commonwealth, providing for public meetings on proposed ballot questions.
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• Introduced: 04/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 10 : Joe Webster (D)*, Tarah Probst (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Malcolm Kenyatta (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Bob Merski (D), Mandy Steele (D), Dan Williams (D), Keith Harris (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB1174 • Last Action 04/09/2025
In management of the condominium, further providing for meetings; in management of cooperatives, further providing for meetings; and, in management of planned community, further providing for meetings.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to update meeting procedures for condominiums, cooperatives, and planned communities. The key changes include reducing the notice period for annual meetings from 10-60 days to 21 days, allowing electronic meeting notices with unit owner consent, permitting meetings to be recorded by unit owners with an announcement, and establishing more detailed rules for executive board meetings. The bill introduces provisions for executive sessions, which allow board members to discuss sensitive topics like personnel matters, legal consultations, and potential violations in private, but requires that any decisions made in these closed sessions must be voted on in an open meeting. The bill also mandates that executive board meetings be open to all unit owners, requires publishing meeting notices where most unit owners can see them, and provides unit owners the right to request ongoing meeting notifications. Additionally, the bill requires pre-election candidate sessions if there are more candidates than board positions and ensures unit owners have an opportunity to comment during meetings, with the board able to limit comments to agenda topics during special or focused meetings. The changes aim to increase transparency, communication, and participation in community association governance.
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Bill Summary: Amending Title 68 (Real and Personal Property) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in management of the condominium, further providing for meetings; in management of cooperatives, further providing for meetings; and, in management of planned community, further providing for meetings.
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• Introduced: 04/07/2025
• Added: 04/10/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 16 : Joseph Webster (D)*, Craig Staats (R), Valerie Gaydos (R), José Giral (D), Danilo Burgos (D), Maureen Madden (D), Danielle Otten (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Tarah Probst (D), Liz Hanbidge (D), Ed Neilson (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Joe Ciresi (D), Jack Rader (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/09/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Housing & Community Development
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #S0006 • Last Action 04/08/2025
Freedom of Information
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends South Carolina's Freedom of Information Act to modify the timeline and process for public records requests. Specifically, the bill reduces the response time for public bodies from ten to five days when receiving a written request for records. The bill clarifies that if a public body cannot provide the records within five days, they must notify the requester and can petition the appropriate court for additional time to respond, particularly when the request involves an extraordinary volume of records or requires an extensive search. The bill also introduces a new provision stating that a failure to respond to a records request will be considered a denial and a violation of the law. Additionally, the bill maintains existing provisions about fees, which should not exceed the actual cost of searching, retrieving, and redacting records, and specifies that public bodies are not required to create new records that do not already exist. The legislation aims to balance the public's right to access government information with the practical constraints faced by public bodies in fulfilling records requests.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Section 30-4-30, Relating To The Right To Inspect Or Copy Public Records, So As To Provide For A Timeline Of Five Days For Providing Records With Certain Responses, To Provide That The Appropriate Court Can Be Petitioned For Addiitional Time To Respond, And To Provide That A Failure To Respond To A Request Is Deemed A Denial And A Violation Of This Chapter.
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• Introduced: 12/11/2024
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Darrell Jackson (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 12/11/2024
• Last Action: Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on 6, 214 (13:00:00 4/8/2025 Gressette Room 308)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
ME bill #LD12 • Last Action 04/08/2025
An Act to Amend the Freedom of Access Act to Apply to Legislative Caucuses
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Access Act to explicitly include legislative caucuses as public proceedings. Specifically, the bill defines a "legislative caucus" as a meeting of 3 or more legislators from the same political party who are gathering to conduct legislative business, either on behalf of the full Legislature or a legislative committee. By adding this definition and modifying existing language, the bill ensures that legislative caucus meetings will be subject to the same transparency requirements as other legislative proceedings, meaning they must be open to the public and follow public notice guidelines. This change aims to increase government transparency by requiring that meetings where legislative matters are discussed by party groups be conducted in an open and accessible manner, allowing citizens and the media to observe how political parties deliberate and make decisions about proposed legislation.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that legislative caucuses are public proceedings under the Freedom of Access Act. The bill defines "legislative caucus" as 3 or more Legislators of the same political party meeting for the purpose of conducting legislative business.
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• Introduced: 01/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 132nd Legislature
• Sponsors: 1 : Rick Bennett (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/07/2025
• Last Action: Ought Not to Pass Pursuant To Joint Rule 310, Apr 8, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3121 • Last Action 04/07/2025
Transparency and community engagement in trunk highway project development established, project scoping and development requirements established, transportation project activity portal required, legislative reports modified, and money appropriated.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive new requirements for transparency and community engagement in trunk highway project development in Minnesota. It mandates that the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) create a community notification process for major highway projects, providing detailed information to residents within a half-mile of project areas, including translated materials if needed. The bill introduces a mandatory community-oriented project development process that requires establishing both a community advisory assembly and a policy advisory committee for each qualifying project. These groups will provide recommendations on project purpose, design alternatives, and other key aspects of transportation planning. The bill also requires MnDOT to create a centralized online transportation project activity portal that provides comprehensive, user-friendly information about highway projects, including interactive mapping, project details, timelines, public meeting information, and a fiscal transparency dashboard. Additionally, the bill modifies existing reporting requirements, expanding the annual transportation report to include more detailed performance measures, project impacts, and expenditure breakdowns. The goal is to increase public participation, improve transparency, support traditionally underrepresented communities, and enhance the overall transportation project development process.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to transportation; establishing certain transparency and community engagement in trunk highway project development; establishing project scoping and development requirements; requiring transportation project activity portal; modifying certain legislative reports; appropriating money; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 161.178, subdivision 1; 174.03, subdivision 12; 174.07, subdivision 3; 174.56; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 161; 174.
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• Introduced: 04/07/2025
• Added: 04/08/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Erin Koegel (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/04/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Transportation Finance and Policy
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0217 • Last Action 04/04/2025
Transparency Is Accountability Amendment Act of 2025
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the District of Columbia's Freedom of Information Act to increase government transparency by making several key changes. The bill modifies existing exemptions to public records disclosure, specifically allowing the release of 911 call audio and transcripts with personal identifying information redacted, and creating an exception to agency communication confidentiality for information about government misconduct. The bill introduces new requirements for agencies to apply a "presumption of openness" when considering records requests, meaning they must now demonstrate that withholding information would cause specific harm and consider releasing information when the potential harm is low and public interest is high. Additionally, the bill establishes that deliberative process privileged information can be disclosed if the public's interest in transparency outweighs the government's desire to keep the information secret. These changes aim to provide greater public access to government records while still protecting sensitive personal information and legitimate government interests, ultimately promoting accountability by making more government communications and decision-making processes potentially viewable by the public.
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Bill Summary: A BILL IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend the Freedom of Information Act of 1976 to improve public access to critical records, including 911 transcripts and recordings, documents regarding government misconduct, and deliberative materials when the public interest in disclosure outweighs the District’s interest in secrecy.
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• Introduced: 03/31/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Zachary Parker (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/31/2025
• Last Action: Notice of Intent to Act on B26-0217 Published in the DC Register
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF3110 • Last Action 04/03/2025
Disclosures of private student personal contact information to legislators and photographers allowed for specified purposes.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Minnesota's government data practices law to allow limited disclosure of private student personal contact information in three specific scenarios. The bill permits school districts to share a student's name, home address, telephone number, email address, or other personal contact information with (1) public libraries to help issue library cards, (2) elected state officials who want to send congratulatory letters, and (3) approved school photographers who wish to send solicitations for senior portraits. The modification expands the existing list of exceptions to the general rule that student personal information must remain private. This change provides schools with more flexibility in sharing certain student contact details while still maintaining overall protections for student privacy. The bill is an amendment to Minnesota Statutes section 13.32, subdivision 3, which governs the handling of educational data, and it aims to facilitate specific communications that could be beneficial to students while maintaining reasonable safeguards around personal information.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government data practices; allowing disclosures of private student personal contact information to legislators and photographers for specified purposes; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.32, subdivision 3.
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• Introduced: 04/03/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 3 : Joe McDonald (R)*, Ron Kresha (R), Walter Hudson (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/03/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Judiciary Finance and Civil Law
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF400 • Last Action 04/03/2025
A bill for an act relating to public records requests.(Formerly HSB 76.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Iowa's public records law to establish more specific requirements for how government agencies must respond to public records requests. The bill requires that when a records custodian receives a request, they must: 1) quickly acknowledge the request (defined as using "reasonable, good-faith efforts" considering the circumstances), 2) provide contact information for the designated official handling the request, 3) give an estimated date for when they will provide an expense estimate and/or the requested records, and 4) notify the requester of any anticipated delays in producing the records. The bill also reinforces existing provisions that custodians should try to provide records at no cost beyond basic copying expenses when possible, and that requests can be made through various methods including writing, telephone, or electronic means. The changes aim to improve transparency and communication in the public records request process by setting clearer expectations for how government agencies should handle and respond to such requests, ensuring requesters receive timely and informative responses about the status of their public records inquiries.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that upon receipt of a public records request, the lawful custodian shall (1) promptly, as defined in the bill, acknowledge the request and provide the contact information of the lawful custodian’s authorized designee, (2) provide an approximate date for a response and an estimate of any reasonable fees associated with the request, and (3) inform the requester of any expected delay in production of the public record.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/13/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government. H.J. 895.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB1037 • Last Action 04/03/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to public meetings.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 8-44-109(c), by extending the time period for the Office of Open Records Counsel to acknowledge and approve a compliance plan from 30 to 45 days. The change relates to how governing bodies plan to meet electronic communication requirements, particularly for meetings conducted through internet forums. By increasing the review window from 30 to 45 days, the bill provides government bodies with additional time to submit and have their plans for electronic meeting compliance reviewed and approved by the Open Records Counsel. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as stated in Section 2, which emphasizes that the public welfare requires this change. This modification appears designed to give governmental entities more flexibility in planning and implementing electronic meeting protocols while maintaining transparency in public meetings.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, increases, from 30 to 45, the number of days the office of open records counsel has to acknowledge and approve a plan submitted by a governing body detailing how the body plans to comply with electronic communication requirements that address meeting by means of an internet forum. - Amends TCA Title 8, Chapter 44.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Janice Bowling (R)*, Rusty Crowe (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: SA0341 - Amendment 1-0 to SB1037
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF1917 • Last Action 04/02/2025
Definition of public official in a city or county modified.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the definition of "public official" in Minnesota's data practices law, specifically expanding the scope of who is considered a public official whose employment-related complaint or investigation data can be made public. Currently, the law restricts public disclosure of investigation data for city and county employees based on population thresholds (cities over 7,500 and counties over 5,000 residents). The bill removes these population restrictions, which means that for cities and counties of any size, certain employees in management or leadership positions will now have their complaint and investigation data potentially made public if specific conditions are met, such as the complaint resulting in disciplinary action or the employee resigning while a complaint is pending. The bill maintains existing protections that prevent the release of data that could jeopardize an active investigation or reveal confidential sources. The change applies to managers, chiefs, department heads, and equivalent positions in cities and counties, aiming to increase transparency in local government employment practices by making more information potentially accessible to the public.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; modifying the definition of "public official" in a city or county; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.43, subdivision 2.
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• Introduced: 03/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Paul Anderson (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 03/04/2025
• Last Action: Hearing (13:00:00 4/2/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF2062 • Last Action 04/02/2025
Definition of a "public official" in a city or a county modification
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the definition of a "public official" in Minnesota's data practices law, specifically expanding which local government employees' personnel data can be made public when a complaint or charge is filed against them. Currently, the law only applies to employees in cities with populations over 7,500 and counties with populations over 5,000, but the bill would remove these population thresholds, effectively broadening the definition to include managers, chiefs, department heads, and equivalent positions in all cities and counties, regardless of size. The bill aims to increase transparency by making certain personnel data public when specific conditions are met, such as when a complaint results in disciplinary action or an employee resigns or is terminated while a complaint is pending. The change means that for these local government employees, information about complaints, charges, and their final disposition could be more readily accessible to the public, with some protections to prevent the release of confidential sources or data that could jeopardize an ongoing investigation.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; modifying the definition of "public official" in a city or county; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.43, subdivision 2.
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• Introduced: 02/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Jeff Howe (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Second reading
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2578 • Last Action 04/01/2025
FOIA-PERSON
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by modifying the definition of "person" and introducing a new verification process for public records requests. Specifically, the bill allows a public body to request verification that the requester is indeed a "person" within 5 business days of receiving a request if the public body reasonably believes the request may not have been submitted by a person. If the requester is asked to verify their status as a person, the deadline for the public body to respond to the request will be paused until verification is provided. If the requester fails to verify their status within 30 days of the public body's request, the public body may then deny the request. The definition of "person" is also slightly expanded to include individuals acting as agents of corporations, partnerships, firms, organizations, or associations. This change appears to provide public bodies with additional discretion in processing FOIA requests and addressing potential non-genuine or problematic request submissions, while maintaining the overall framework of public access to government records.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Changes the definition of "person". Allows, within 5 business days after its receipt of the request, a public body that has a reasonable belief that a request was not submitted by a person to require the requester to verify orally or in writing that the requester is a person. Provides that the deadline for the public body to respond to the request shall be tolled until the requester verifies that he or she is a person. Provides that, if the requester fails to verify that he or she is a person within 30 days after the public body requests such a verification, then the public body may deny the request.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Dan Didech (D)*, Camille Lilly (D), Nicolle Grasse (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 10
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Nicolle Grasse
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NC bill #H579 • Last Action 04/01/2025
NC House Public Access Act of 2025
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill appropriates $91,000 in nonrecurring funds and $4,000 in recurring funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to equip committee meeting rooms and the House of Representatives chamber with technology that will enable public internet access to legislative proceedings. Specifically, the bill aims to provide real-time streaming and 10-year archival access to both audio and video recordings of committee meetings and chamber proceedings. The bill gives the presiding chair of a legislative committee discretionary power to choose not to video record a meeting, but requires that in such cases, an official audio recording and written minutes must still be maintained in compliance with public records laws. The specific rules for equipment use and availability will be determined by the House of Representatives' rules for each Regular Session. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with the broader goal of increasing government transparency and facilitating public engagement with legislative activities.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT TO FACILITATE CIVIC ENGAGEMENT WITH AND TRANSPARENCY OF LEGISLATIVE PROCEEDINGS BY EQUIPPING ADDITIONAL AREAS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY COMPLEX WITH EQUIPMENT TO ALLOW FOR REAL-TIME AND TIME-SHIFTED REMOTE VIEWING.
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• Introduced: 03/31/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 21 : Maria Cervania (D)*, Jake Johnson (R)*, Kelly Hastings (R)*, Amber Baker (D), Mary Belk (D), Cecil Brockman (D), Kanika Brown (D), Deb Butler (D), Becky Carney (D), Pricey Harrison (D), Bryan Cohn (D), Sarah Crawford (D), Allison Dahle (D), Julia Greenfield (D), Tim Longest (D), Nasif Majeed (D), Marcia Morey (D), Garland Pierce (D), Rodney Pierce (D), Lindsey Prather (D), Julie Von Haefen (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 04/01/2025
• Last Action: Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF1596 • Last Action 04/01/2025
Government data classification of investigative information pertaining to certain Metropolitan Council personnel modified.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Minnesota government data classification statute, specifically focusing on making investigative information about certain Metropolitan Council personnel more transparent. The bill amends existing law to explicitly add Metropolitan Council members and specific high-ranking Metropolitan Council employees to the list of "public officials" whose investigative data can become public under certain circumstances. Specifically, the bill adds Metropolitan Council members appointed by the governor, the council chair, regional administrator, deputy regional administrator, general counsel, division executive heads, the executive responsible for Equal Employment Opportunity compliance, and the chief law enforcement officer to the list of positions whose investigative data can be disclosed. When an investigation is completed or if a public official resigns or is terminated while an investigation is pending, the related data becomes public, with some protections to prevent jeopardizing active investigations or revealing confidential sources. The changes aim to increase governmental transparency by allowing public access to investigative information about key Metropolitan Council personnel, following similar disclosure rules that already exist for other government officials. The bill maintains existing safeguards to protect sensitive investigative details while promoting accountability for high-level government employees.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to Metropolitan Council; modifying government data classification of investigative information pertaining to certain Metropolitan Council personnel; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.43, subdivision 2.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Patty Acomb (D)*, Mike Freiberg (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 03/24/2025
• Last Action: Second reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2209 • Last Action 04/01/2025
Open Meeting Act; allowing members of a public body to participate in a meeting from a private residence under certain circumstances; definition; compliance; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to allow members of a public body to participate in meetings via videoconference or teleconference from their private residence under specific conditions. The bill permits a member to join a meeting from home without revealing their exact address, requiring only that they identify the location as a "private residence" on the meeting notice. The videoconference technology must enable the public to see and hear the participating member, and the member's participation must not restrict public access to the meeting or limit their contributions. The bill specifically excludes situations where a meeting is held entirely or primarily at a private residence, or when two or more members are present at a private residence, which would require full location disclosure. The legislation defines "private residence" as any personal living space not used as a public or commercial meeting site and emphasizes that public bodies must still comply with all existing Open Meeting Act transparency, accessibility, and notice requirements. The bill's intent is to balance open governance principles with individual privacy and security, ensuring transparency while protecting personal addresses from public disclosure. The new law is set to become effective on November 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; allowing members of a public body to participate in a meeting from their private residence under certain circumstances; excluding private residences from location disclosure under certain circumstances; clarifying applicability; defining term; clarifying compliance requirements; stating legislative intent; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Mike Lay (R)*, Brian Guthrie (R)*, Trish Ranson (D), Michelle McCane (D)
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 18
• Last Amended: 03/04/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF416 • Last Action 03/31/2025
A bill for an act relating to open meetings and open records, providing penalties, and making penalties applicable.(See HF 706.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill strengthens regulations around open meetings and public records in Iowa by making several key changes. First, it increases financial penalties for violations of open meetings laws, raising damages from $100-$500 to $500-$2,500 for general violations, and from $1,000-$2,500 to $5,000-$12,500 for knowingly committed violations. The bill also modifies the removal process for governmental body members who violate open meetings laws, allowing removal even if damages were not previously assessed during their term. Additionally, the bill introduces a mandatory training requirement for newly elected or appointed public officials, requiring them to complete a 1-2 hour course on open meetings and open records responsibilities within 90 days of taking office. The Iowa Public Information Board is tasked with ensuring this training is available, including at least one free course option. While failure to complete the training does not invalidate governmental body actions, members who do not complete the training within 60 days may be subject to damages. The bill explicitly excludes the judicial, legislative branches, and the governor's office from these training requirements, and ensures that training completed for one governmental body satisfies requirements for other bodies and committees.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, a court is required to assess a person who participated in a violation of Code chapter 21 (open meetings) damages between $100 and $500. This bill increases the damages to between $500 and $2,500. Under current law, if a violation was knowingly committed, a court is required to assess the person damages between $1,000 and $2,500. The bill increases the damages to between $5,000 and $12,500. The bill requires a court to issue an order removing a member of a governmental body from office if that member has engaged in a prior violation of Code chapter 21 regardless of whether damages were assessed against the member during the member’s term, which is a prerequisite to removal under current law. The bill requires a newly elected or appointed public official who is a member of a governmental body to complete a course of training regarding the responsibilities of the governmental body and the governmental body’s members under Code chapters 21 and 22 (open records) not later than the 90th day after the date the member takes the initial oath of office or assumes responsibilities. The bill requires the Iowa public information board to ensure that the training is made available. The board may provide the training and approve any acceptable course of training offered by a governmental body or other entity. The board shall ensure that at least one course of training approved or provided by the board is available at no cost. The bill requires the board or other entity providing the training to provide a certificate of course completion, which the governmental body must make available for public inspection. The bill provides that if a member fails to complete the required training, the failure does not affect the validity of an action taken by the governmental body. However, the member must complete training within 60 days or may be subject to damages pursuant to Code section 21.6. The bill’s provisions relating to a course of training do not apply to the judicial or legislative branches of state government or any entity, officer, or employee of those branches, or to the governor or the office of the governor.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Gary Mohr (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 02/13/2025
• Last Action: Withdrawn. H.J. 871.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #S1208 • Last Action 03/31/2025
Privacy Act Modernization Act of 2025
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modernizes the Privacy Act by updating key definitions and strengthening protections for individuals' personal information held by government agencies. It expands the definition of "record" and "personally identifiable information" to include a broader range of data, including information linked to devices, and clarifies what it means to "process" such information. The bill introduces more stringent requirements for how agencies collect, use, and disclose personal data, mandating that they only use records for legally authorized purposes and disclose the minimum amount of information necessary. It also enhances civil and criminal penalties for mishandling personal information, allowing courts to award damages (including punitive damages) for intentional or willful violations and increasing potential fines and prison sentences for serious offenses like selling or misusing personal records. The bill applies to a wide range of government entities, including special government employees and temporary consultants, and provides a two-year transition period for most agencies to implement these changes, with some exceptions for specific government organizations like the proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Importantly, the bill includes a rule of construction that prevents the legislation from being interpreted as retroactively changing the understanding of previous privacy protections.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to address records maintained on individuals, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 04/01/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 4 : Ron Wyden (D)*, Ed Markey (D), Jeff Merkley (D), Chris Van Hollen (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 04/15/2025
• Last Action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF2885 • Last Action 03/28/2025
Government Data Practices Act modification; Official Records Act modification
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies several sections of Minnesota's Government Data Practices Act and Official Records Act to update data management, privacy, and record-keeping practices. The bill makes several key changes, including clarifying procedures for data protection by requiring government entities to establish monitoring procedures for accessing private or confidential data, updating language around personal contact and online account information to specify how such data can be used (primarily for communication and government service purposes), and modifying library patron data privacy rules. The bill also updates provisions related to government record preservation, allowing for more flexible methods of record reproduction and storage, and ensuring that reproduced records have the same legal standing as original documents. Specifically, it updates terminology (such as changing "library borrowers" to "library patrons"), provides more precise guidelines for data access and sharing, and expands the definitions of government records and archival materials. These modifications aim to modernize government data practices, enhance data privacy protections, and provide clearer guidelines for managing government records in an increasingly digital environment.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government data practices; making changes to various sections of the Government Data Practices Act; updating the Official Records Act; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.05, subdivision 5; 13.356; 13.40, subdivision 2; 15.17, subdivision 1; 138.17, subdivision 1.
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Bonnie Westlin (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/20/2025
• Last Action: Hearing (09:00:00 3/28/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB400 • Last Action 03/26/2025
Requiring a public body's collective bargaining negotiations to be deemed public meetings and requiring that arguments made and information generated during the meetings be made available to the public under the right-to-know law.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New Hampshire's Right-to-Know law by changing how collective bargaining negotiations are treated under public meeting regulations. Specifically, the bill removes the current language that allows strategy or negotiations related to collective bargaining to be conducted in private, and instead requires that collective bargaining negotiations involving a public body be considered public meetings. This means that when negotiations occur between a public body (like a government agency or school district) and a labor union, those negotiations must be open to the public, with arguments made and information generated during these meetings becoming accessible under right-to-know provisions. The only exception appears to be when only one negotiating party is present. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, giving public bodies time to adjust their negotiation practices to comply with the new transparency requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that collective bargaining negotiations with a public body are a meeting under the right-to-know law.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Pamela Brown (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/11/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted DV 211-135 03/26/2025 House Journal 10 P. 72
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DE bill #HB78 • Last Action 03/26/2025
An Act To Amend Title 14 And Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Recordings Of Meetings Of Public Bodies.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Delaware's laws relating to public meeting recordings and transparency, specifically requiring public bodies to digitally record their meetings and make those recordings publicly accessible. Under the new provisions, public bodies in the executive branch, state educational institutions, school districts, and charter schools must create digital recordings of their public meetings within 7 business days after a meeting concludes and post these recordings on their respective websites, where they must remain available for at least one year. The recordings can be audio-only and are intended to enhance public communication, though they are not considered official minutes. Importantly, executive session portions may be withheld from the public recordings, and a technological failure that prevents or limits recording will not invalidate the meeting or any actions taken during it. The bill also clarifies that these recording requirements do not apply to workshops, retreats, or meetings where no voting occurs. These changes are part of Delaware's ongoing efforts to increase government transparency and provide citizens with easier access to information about public meetings under the state's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
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Bill Summary: An Act To Amend Title 14 And Title 29 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Recordings Of Meetings Of Public Bodies.
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• Introduced: 03/18/2025
• Added: 03/19/2025
• Session: 153rd General Assembly
• Sponsors: 6 : Eric Morrison (D)*, Tizzy Lockman (D), Frank Burns (D), Kamela Smith (D), Rebecca Snyder-Hall (D), Madinah Wilson-Anton (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/18/2025
• Last Action: Reported Out of Committee (Education) in House with 1 Favorable, 10 On Its Merits
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OH bill #SB123 • Last Action 03/26/2025
Prohibit law enforcement from charging fees for certain videos
Status: Introduced
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Ohio law to prohibit law enforcement agencies from charging fees for preparing or producing video records when the requester is an individual known or presumed to be depicted in the video, or a representative, spouse, parent, or child of that individual. Previously, law enforcement agencies could charge up to $75 per hour of video produced, with a maximum total fee of $750 for preparing and producing video records. The bill ensures that people who are directly involved in a video record can obtain a copy without incurring potentially significant expenses. The change aims to make it easier and more affordable for individuals to access video recordings that involve them, such as body-cam footage or dashboard camera recordings, by removing financial barriers to obtaining these records. This modification is part of the broader Ohio Revised Code section dealing with public records and their accessibility, and it represents a consumer-friendly approach to government transparency and personal record access.
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Bill Summary: To amend section 149.43 of the Revised Code to prohibit a law enforcement agency for charging a fee for preparing or producing a video public record for a person known or presumed to be depicted in the video.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 136th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Paula Hicks-Hudson (D)*, Catherine Ingram (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/26/2025
• Last Action: Senate Judiciary 1st Hearing, Sponsor (09:45:00 3/26/2025 North Hearing Room)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #SB353 • Last Action 03/25/2025
Open and Public Meetings; county or joint boards of election or boards of election and registration to conduct meetings via teleconference; authorize
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Georgia's Open Meetings Act to allow county or joint boards of election and boards of election and registration to conduct meetings via teleconference, joining other types of public bodies already permitted to do so. Specifically, the bill adds these election-related boards to the list of entities that can hold teleconference meetings, with the requirement that proper public notice is provided and, when fewer than a quorum of board members are physically present, the public must be given simultaneous access to the teleconference. The bill ensures that members participating by teleconference are considered to be fully participating as if they were physically present, and in the case of public hearings, members of the public must also be able to participate fully through the teleconference technology. This change provides more flexibility for election boards to conduct their business remotely while maintaining transparency and public access, which can be particularly useful during situations that make in-person meetings challenging.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Code Section 50-14-1 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to meetings open to the public, limitation on action to contest agency action, recording, notice of time and place, access to minutes, and teleconferences, so as to authorize county or joint boards of election or boards of election and registration to conduct meetings via teleconference; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Sally Harrell (D)*, Kim Jackson (D)*, Elena Parent (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/22/2025
• Last Action: Senate Read and Referred
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF2180 • Last Action 03/24/2025
Open meeting law modified to allow flexibility for remote participation.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's open meeting law to provide more flexibility for remote participation in public meetings. The key changes include allowing public body members to participate in meetings through interactive technology, with some important conditions: all participants must be able to see and hear each other, members of the public must be able to see and hear the entire meeting at the regular meeting location, and at least one member must be physically present at that location. The bill removes previous restrictions that limited remote participation to specific circumstances like military service or medical advice, and simplifies the notice requirements for meetings using interactive technology. Specifically, public bodies must now provide notice of the regular meeting location and indicate that some members may participate remotely, without needing to specify the exact locations of those remote participants. The bill aims to make public meetings more accessible and convenient while maintaining transparency by ensuring that all discussions, testimony, and votes can be observed by the public.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to local government; modifying the open meeting law to allow flexibility for remote participation; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13D.02, subdivisions 1, 4.
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• Introduced: 03/12/2025
• Added: 03/13/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Bianca Virnig (D)*, Sandra Feist (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/11/2025
• Last Action: Author added Feist
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF2897 • Last Action 03/24/2025
Government Efficiency and Ethics Commission establishment to investigate allegations of fraud in state programs and undisclosed legislative conflicts of interest and appropriation
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new Commission on Government Efficiency and Ethics to investigate allegations of fraud in state programs and undisclosed conflicts of interest in the legislature. The commission will consist of six citizen members (three appointed by the House speaker and three by the House minority leader), who must be approved by both the majority and minority leaders of the senate. Members will serve two-year terms and cannot be current or former elected officials. The commission will maintain a website and hotline for anonymous reporting of suspected fraud or legislative conflicts of interest, and may offer rewards up to $5,000 for reports that lead to criminal convictions, successful civil actions, or legislator expulsions. The commission has the power to order investigations through a private investigator and conduct forensic audits of state agencies or grantees. When credible evidence of fraud or conflicts of interest is found, the commission must report to law enforcement, legislative committees, and the public. All public officials and entities are required to cooperate fully with investigations, providing documentation, answering inquiries, and allowing examinations. The bill also amends existing statutes to include provisions for these investigations and appropriates funding for the commission's operations. A conflict of interest is specifically defined as voting on a matter where the legislator has a direct financial interest without proper disclosure.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to state government; establishing a Commission on Government Efficiency and Ethics to investigate allegations of fraud in state programs and undisclosed legislative conflicts of interest; requiring a report; appropriating money; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 16B.98, subdivision 8; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 3.
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 03/22/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 3 : Andrew Mathews (R)*, Julia Coleman (R), Eric Pratt (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/20/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State and Local Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3165 • Last Action 03/24/2025
OPEN MEETING/SCH CD-LSC
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act and the Chicago School District Article of the School Code to provide new guidelines for local school council meetings. Specifically, it allows local school councils to conduct meetings by audio or video conference without the physical presence of a quorum of members, subject to certain conditions such as verifying all participants, ensuring public access to the meeting, and conducting roll call votes. At the annual organizational meeting, local school councils must now vote on whether meetings will be held in-person or remotely, but any gubernatorial or public health declaration limiting in-person gatherings will supersede the council's decision. The bill also adds a new power for local school councils: they can now pass resolutions requesting action from a board member representing their school and forward these resolutions to that member. Additionally, the bill removes a previous provision that required new local school council elections for schools on probation that fail to make adequate progress, and changes the deadline for delivering criteria for school probation from October 31 to August 1 each year. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for local school councils in conducting meetings and participating in school governance, particularly in response to potential public health emergencies or other circumstances that might make in-person meetings challenging.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides if a public body is a local school council organized under the Chicago School District Article of the School Code, then, subject to certain requirements, an open or closed meeting subject to the Act may be conducted by audio or video conference, without the physical presence of a quorum of the members, as long as specified conditions are met. Amends the Chicago School District Article of the School Code. Provides that at a local school council's annual organizational meeting, the local school council shall take a vote to determine if meetings shall be held in-person or remotely; however, provides that a declaration by the Governor or Director of Public Health limiting the size of or prohibiting an in-person meeting shall supersede a local school council's vote to meet in-person. Provides that a local school council has the power and duty to pass resolutions requesting action from a member of the Chicago Board of Education representing the school, and to forward such resolutions to the member. Removes language providing that a school placed on probation that fails to make adequate progress in correcting deficiencies is subject to new local school council elections. Provides that the criteria for determining whether a school should remain on probation or the criteria for determining when a school is in educational crisis shall be delivered to each local school council on or before August 1 (rather than October 31) of each year. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Theresa Mah (D)*, Michael Crawford (D), Jaime Andrade (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Jaime M. Andrade, Jr.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF2739 • Last Action 03/24/2025
Changes made to various sections of the Government Data Practices Act.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several amendments to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, focusing on enhancing data protection, privacy, and record management practices. The bill updates provisions related to government data protection by requiring responsible authorities to establish procedures for ensuring data accuracy, implementing security safeguards, and monitoring access to private or confidential data. It modifies regulations concerning personal contact and online account information, clarifying that certain personal data (like telephone numbers, email addresses, and online account details) are private and can only be used for specific purposes such as communication or providing government services. The bill also changes library patron data privacy rules, expanding protections for patron information and allowing more controlled sharing of patron data. Additionally, the legislation updates guidelines for government record preservation and reproduction, giving public officers more flexibility in how they maintain and duplicate official records, and ensuring that reproduced records have the same legal standing as original documents. The changes aim to modernize data practices, protect individual privacy, and improve government record management in Minnesota.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to government data practices; making changes to various sections of the Government Data Practices Act; updating the Official Records Act; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.05, subdivision 5; 13.356; 13.40, subdivision 2; 15.17, subdivision 1; 138.17, subdivision 1.
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• Introduced: 03/24/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Sandra Feist (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/24/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Judiciary Finance and Civil Law
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2886 • Last Action 03/21/2025
OPEN MTGS-ATTENDANCE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which members of a public body can attend meetings remotely (referred to as "other means" in the bill, specifically by video or audio conference). The bill broadens the existing reasons for remote attendance, which previously included personal illness, disability, employment purposes, business of the public body, family emergencies, and unexpected childcare obligations. The new version adds a catch-all provision allowing remote attendance for "any other reason" designated in rules adopted by the public body. The bill requires that a majority of the public body must be physically present, and a member seeking to attend remotely must notify the recording secretary or clerk before the meeting when possible. Public bodies are required to adopt specific rules governing remote attendance that can further limit or define the conditions for such attendance. The legislation maintains existing exceptions for certain types of public bodies with large jurisdictional areas and includes provisions for conducting meetings remotely during public health disasters, ensuring public access, roll call voting, and verification of participants. This change aims to provide more flexibility for public body members while maintaining transparency and public access to government meetings.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Allows attendance by a means other than physical presence under certain circumstances if a member of a public body is prevented from physically attending because of any reason designated in rules adopted by the public body in accordance with certain provisions in the Act.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Terra Costa Howard (D)*, Martha Deuter (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2518 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-CONSUMER FRAUD EXEMPTION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act to provide additional protections for investigative materials gathered by the Attorney General or State's Attorneys during consumer fraud investigations. Specifically, the bill creates a new exemption that prevents information and documentary materials obtained during these investigations from being disclosed under FOIA, except to authorized law enforcement personnel. The bill expands the Attorney General's investigative powers by allowing them to require written answers under oath to interrogatories and grants the Attorney General discretion to use investigation materials for various law enforcement purposes, such as interviewing potential witnesses, including the information in legal complaints, and presenting it in court proceedings. The new provisions aim to protect the confidentiality of investigative materials and provide more flexibility for consumer protection investigations, ensuring that sensitive information collected during these inquiries cannot be easily accessed by the public without consent from the individuals who originally produced the documents.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act and the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Exempts from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act information and documentary materials obtained by the Office of the Attorney General or a State's Attorney under certain provisions of the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Adds a power of the Attorney General with respect to the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act to require written answers under oath to written interrogatories. Provides that certain materials are not available for examination, except by authorized employees of the Attorney General and authorized law enforcement, without the consent of the persons who produced the materials. Provides that the Attorney General may, in the Attorney General's discretion, use information and documentary materials obtained in the course of an investigation under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act for law enforcement purposes, including, but not limited to, interviewing or questioning potential witnesses and consultants, in a complaint or other pleading, and in court proceedings.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Tracy Katz Muhl (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/03/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB0026 • Last Action 03/21/2025
REMOTE MEETINGS-SEVERE WEATHER
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow public bodies to conduct meetings via audio or video conference without a physical quorum present specifically during severe weather events. Under the new provisions, if the National Weather Service has issued a severe weather alert covering all or part of the public body's jurisdiction on the day of the meeting, the body can convene remotely. To ensure transparency, the bill requires that all participating members can hear each other, the public can access the meeting (either in person or through alternative means like a phone number or web link), and all votes must be conducted by roll call. The bill also mandates that at least one member, legal counsel, or administrative officer be physically present at the regular meeting location when feasible, and requires 48 hours' notice before such a meeting, with some exceptions for emergencies. Additionally, the meeting must be verbatim recorded and made available to the public. This change provides flexibility for public bodies to continue conducting essential business during severe weather conditions while maintaining open government principles.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that an open or closed meeting subject to the Act may be conducted by audio or video conference, without the physical presence of a quorum of the members, if the National Weather Service has determined that all or part of the jurisdiction of the public body is located within an area that is subject to a severe weather alert on the day of the meeting. Makes conforming changes. Makes other technical changes.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2799 • Last Action 03/21/2025
ELEC CD-RECORDS REQUEST
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Election Code to require election authorities to provide copies of nomination papers, certificates of nomination, or petitions for public questions within 48 hours of receiving a written request, specifically for an immediately succeeding election. The bill simplifies the process of obtaining these election-related documents by exempting requesters from having to submit a formal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request. This means that individuals seeking information about candidates or public questions can more quickly and easily access these documents directly from election authorities. The existing law already required election authorities to keep nomination papers and related documents open for public inspection and to preserve them for at least six months, and this bill further enhances transparency by streamlining the document request process. The bill takes effect immediately, meaning the new provisions will be in place as soon as it is signed into law.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Election Code. Provides that a copy of any nomination paper, certificate of nomination, or petition for a public question filed with an election authority for an immediately succeeding election shall be provided by the election authority within 48 hours after a written request is received by the election authority. Provides that a requester shall not be required to submit a request under the Freedom of Information Act. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Tony McCombie (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3592 • Last Action 03/21/2025
POLICE-MISCONDUCT DATABASE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends three key pieces of legislation to increase transparency around police officer professional conduct records in Illinois. Specifically, it requires the Illinois State Police Merit Board to publish the Officer Professional Conduct Database on its website in a fully searchable, downloadable format that can be viewed by the entire public as a CSV file. The bill removes previous confidentiality provisions that prevented public disclosure of these records, effectively eliminating language that had kept police misconduct information hidden from public view. By amending the Freedom of Information Act, the Illinois State Police Act, and the Illinois Police Training Act, the legislation ensures that details about police officer misconduct, including sustained complaints, reasons for discharge or dismissal, and certification status, will now be readily accessible to the public. The goal appears to be increasing accountability and transparency in law enforcement by allowing citizens to easily review records of police officer professional conduct and disciplinary actions.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Deletes a provision that exempted from disclosure under the Act records contained in the officer professional conduct database established under the Illinois Police Training Act. Amends the Illinois State Police Act. Requires the Illinois State Police Merit Board to publish the officer professional conduct database on its website so that it is both searchable and viewable in its entirety by the public and can be downloaded in its entirety as a Comma-Separated Values (CSV) file. Amends the Illinois Police Training Act. Requires the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board to ensure that the officer professional conduct database established under the Act is available to the public. Deletes a provisions which specifies that information submitted to the officer professional conduct database is confidential.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Justin Slaughter (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1777 • Last Action 03/21/2025
OPEN MTGS-REGIONAL ASSOCIATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to expand the circumstances under which public bodies can hold closed meetings when discussing self-evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics. Specifically, the bill modifies existing language to allow closed meetings not just when meeting with a representative of a statewide association, but now also when meeting with a representative of a regional association of which the public body is a member. The change broadens the scope of permissible closed-door discussions for public bodies, giving them more flexibility in how they can privately discuss internal operational matters. By adding the term "regional" alongside "statewide", the bill acknowledges that public bodies may be members of regional organizations and should have similar meeting confidentiality privileges when discussing organizational self-assessment and professional standards. This modification is relatively narrow in scope but provides public bodies with slightly more discretion in managing their internal discussions and evaluations.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that a public body may hold closed meetings to consider self evaluation, practices and procedures, or professional ethics, when meeting with a representative of a statewide or regional association (rather than only a statewide association) of which the public body is a member.
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• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 01/27/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/27/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1572 • Last Action 03/21/2025
OPEN MEETINGS-VIDEO OR AUDIO
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to modify rules about public meeting attendance, expanding flexibility for government bodies. Specifically, the bill allows members of a public body to participate in open meetings either by being physically present at the meeting location or by video or audio conference. For a member to be considered "present" via video or audio conference, they must be able to both hear and be heard by all other members participating in the meeting. The bill requires that if a member wants to attend a meeting remotely, they should notify the recording secretary or clerk before the meeting, unless providing advance notice is impractical. The bill removes previous provisions that had limited remote participation for certain types of public bodies with specific geographic jurisdictions, effectively creating a more uniform standard for meeting attendance across different government entities. This change provides greater accessibility for public officials who may have difficulty physically attending meetings while maintaining the principle of transparency in government proceedings.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that, except as otherwise provided in the Act or any other Illinois statute (rather than except as otherwise provided in the Act), a quorum of members of a public body must be physically present at the location of an open meeting or present by video or audio conference at the open meeting (now, members must be physically present at the meeting). Provides that a member is present by video or audio conference at an open meeting if the member can hear and be heard by all other members of the body who are participating in the meeting. Specifies that, if a member wishes to attend a meeting by video or audio conference, the member must notify the recording secretary or clerk of the public body before the meeting, unless providing that advance notice is impractical for the member. Repeals existing provisions concerning the participation of public body members in open meetings by video conference or other means.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 01/22/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Maurice West (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/22/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2972 • Last Action 03/21/2025
OMA-POLICE OFFICERS PENSION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to modify the rules regarding meeting attendance for certain public bodies. Specifically, the bill exempts committees of the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund from the requirement that a quorum (the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business) must be physically present at a meeting location. Currently, most public bodies must have members physically present at their meetings, with only a few exceptions for large geographic jurisdictions or specific types of organizations. By adding the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund committees to the list of exceptions, the bill allows these committees to conduct meetings through video or audio conferencing without needing all members to be in the same physical location. This change provides more flexibility for the pension fund's committees to meet and conduct their work, potentially making scheduling and participation easier for committee members.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that requirements that a quorum be physically present at the location of an open meeting shall not apply to committees of the Police Officers' Pension Investment Fund.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/06/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Michael Kelly (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3347 • Last Action 03/21/2025
OMA-DFPR LICENSING BOARD
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to provide a specific exception for licensing boards authorized by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (DFPR). Currently, most public bodies are required to have a quorum of members physically present at a meeting location. Under this bill, a DFPR licensing board can now conduct public meetings entirely through interactive video or telephone systems, without any members being physically present at a meeting location, as long as certain conditions are met. These conditions include: having a quorum of members participating electronically, providing public notice, and ensuring public access to the meeting in a manner consistent with existing Open Meetings Act requirements. This change appears designed to provide greater flexibility for licensing board meetings, potentially making them more convenient and accessible while maintaining transparency through electronic participation and public notice provisions.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that a public body that is a licensing board authorized by the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation may conduct a public meeting through an interactive video or telephone system without any members being present at any physical meeting location, provided that a quorum of members is participating and the public body provides public notice and public access consistent with the requirements of the Act.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Sharon Chung (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2792 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-USER VERIFICATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes an amendment to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) that requires public bodies using electronic systems for submitting FOIA requests to implement user verification measures, specifically a CAPTCHA test or similar technology. A CAPTCHA (Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart) is a challenge-response test designed to determine whether the user is a human or an automated bot. The purpose of this requirement is to prevent automated systems from flooding public agencies with electronic FOIA requests, which could potentially disrupt government information processing or be used maliciously. By mandating human verification, the bill aims to ensure that electronic FOIA requests are genuine, manageable, and submitted by actual individuals seeking public information, while potentially reducing the administrative burden on government agencies caused by automated request systems.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, if a public body uses an electronic system for the submission of requests under the Act, then it shall employ a CAPTCHA test or other similar measures to verify that those electronically submitted requests are being made by a human.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzanne Ness (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2595 • Last Action 03/21/2025
BUSINESS TRUTH IN LENDING ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Small Business Financing Transparency Act, which establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for commercial financing providers in Illinois. The bill requires providers of commercial financing (such as sales-based financing, closed-end financing, open-end financing, and factoring transactions) to register with the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and provide detailed, standardized disclosures to recipients. These disclosures must include key information like the total financing amount, finance charges, estimated annual percentage rate, total repayment amount, payment terms, and potential additional fees. Providers must register annually, pay a $2,500 fee, and submit extensive information about their financing offers. The bill also establishes a commercial financing database where providers must report detailed transaction information, with strict confidentiality provisions. Exemptions exist for certain types of financial institutions, transactions under specific dollar amounts, and providers making few financing transactions. The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation will have broad investigative and enforcement powers, including the ability to issue cease and desist orders, impose civil penalties, and revoke registrations for violations. The registration and disclosure requirements will begin no earlier than January 1, 2026, giving businesses time to prepare for the new regulations.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Small Business Financing Transparency Act. Sets forth provisions concerning registration requirements for persons providing commercial financing; additional registration information; registration expiration; functions, power, and duties; subpoena power of the Secretary of Financial and Professional Regulation; disclosure requirements; commercial financing disclosure forms approved for use in other states; violation of disclosure requirements; notification; suspension of registrations, civil penalties, and other discipline; investigation of complaints; confidentiality; appeal and review; registration fees; cease and desist orders; injunctions; exemptions; complaint disclosure; rules; violations; limitations on liability; beginning of registration; beginning of disclosure requirements; severability; and a commercial financing database. Amends the Freedom of Information Act and the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act to make conforming changes. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Curtis Tarver (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB112 • Last Action 03/21/2025
Providing for consumer data privacy, for duties of controllers and for duties of processors; and imposing penalties.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes comprehensive consumer data privacy protections for Pennsylvania residents, creating a framework that gives consumers significant rights regarding their personal data while imposing specific responsibilities on businesses (called "controllers") that collect and process such data. The bill gives consumers the right to confirm, correct, delete, and obtain copies of their personal data, as well as opt out of certain data processing activities like targeted advertising and data sales. Controllers must limit data collection to what is necessary, provide clear privacy notices, obtain consent for processing sensitive data, and establish secure mechanisms for consumers to exercise their rights. The bill applies to businesses that meet certain revenue or data processing thresholds and includes detailed definitions of terms like personal data, sensitive data, and targeted advertising. Notably, the Attorney General will have exclusive enforcement authority, with a phased approach that initially requires providing businesses an opportunity to cure violations before taking action. The bill does not allow private rights of action, and it exempts certain types of organizations and data, such as nonprofit organizations, financial institutions, and healthcare-related information. Violations are considered unfair trade practices, and the law will take effect six months after passage, with some provisions becoming operative on specific future dates.
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Bill Summary: Providing for consumer data privacy, for duties of controllers and for duties of processors; and imposing penalties.
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• Introduced: 03/21/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 13 : Maria Collett (D)*, Lisa Boscola (D), Sharif Street (D), Carolyn Comitta (D), Art Haywood (D), Wayne Fontana (D), John Kane (D), Jay Costa (D), Tina Tartaglione (D), Nick Miller (D), Steve Santarsiero (D), Nickolas Pisciottano (D), James Malone (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/21/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Communications & Technology
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2722 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-PRELIMINARY DRAFT-STUDY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify exemptions related to draft documents and studies. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that allows certain draft records to remain exempt from public disclosure, with an important caveat: if a draft record has been in draft form for more than 12 months and was funded by public money from a local government unit, it can no longer be considered exempt from disclosure. The exemption applies to a wide range of draft materials, including studies, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records in which opinions are expressed or policies are formulated. This change aims to balance the need for confidentiality during the development of official documents with the public's right to access information, particularly when substantial public resources have been invested in creating the document. By setting a 12-month time limit on draft document exemptions for locally funded studies, the bill seeks to increase transparency and accountability in local government decision-making processes.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from disclosure any studies, drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records in which opinions are expressed, or policies or actions are formulated, except that a specific record or relevant portion of a record is not exempt if the record has remained in draft form for more than a 12-month period and public dollars were spent by a unit of local government to conduct such a study.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Harry Benton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2465 • Last Action 03/21/2025
OMA-SERVICE MEMBER ATTENDANCE
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to allow a member of a public body to attend meetings remotely if they are prevented from physically attending due to active military duty as a service member. Specifically, the bill defines "active military duty" by referencing the Service Member Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, and defines a "service member" as a resident of Illinois who is a member of any component of the U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard. If a quorum of the public body is physically present, a majority of the body can permit a member to attend via video or audio conference when serving on active military duty. The member must notify the recording secretary or clerk before the meeting unless advance notice is impractical. The public body must adopt rules governing such remote attendance, which can further limit or specify conditions for remote participation. This provision aims to accommodate public officials who are actively serving in the military, ensuring they can continue to participate in government meetings despite their military commitments.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that, if a quorum of the members of the public body is physically present, a majority of the public body may allow a member of that body to attend the meeting by other means if the member is prevented from physically attending because of performance of active military duty as a service member. Defines "active military duty" and "service member".
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 02/04/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Stephanie Kifowit (D)*, Theresa Mah (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 02/03/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2370 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-FAIR TRIAL EXEMPTION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify the exemptions for records created during administrative enforcement proceedings or by law enforcement agencies. Specifically, the bill changes the standard for withholding records that might impact a fair trial from "substantial likelihood" to "reasonable inference" that a person would be deprived of a fair trial or impartial hearing. This means that public bodies can more easily protect records that could potentially prejudice legal proceedings. The amendment applies to various types of records, including those from administrative, law enforcement, and correctional agencies. By lowering the threshold from "substantial likelihood" to "reasonable inference," the bill makes it easier for agencies to prevent the disclosure of sensitive documents that could potentially compromise ongoing investigations or judicial processes. This change aims to provide greater protection for the integrity of legal proceedings while maintaining the general principles of transparency in public records.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Exempts from disclosure records in the possession of any public body created in the course of administrative enforcement proceedings, and any law enforcement or correctional agency for law enforcement purposes, but only to the extent that disclosure would do one of a number of things, including create a reasonable inference (rather than substantial likelihood) that a person will be deprived of a fair trial or an impartial hearing.
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• Introduced: 01/31/2025
• Added: 01/31/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/31/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2576 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-TRAFFIC CRASH
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to create a specific provision for attorneys seeking unredacted traffic crash reports. Under the proposed change, when an attorney provides a written request and an affidavit confirming they are representing an individual involved in a traffic crash, the public body (such as a local government agency) must disclose the full, unredacted traffic crash report. Currently, FOIA allows public bodies to redact certain information from records, particularly those related to law enforcement, to protect personal privacy or ongoing investigations. This bill specifically carves out an exception for attorneys, ensuring they can access complete traffic crash reports for their legal representation purposes. The bill aims to facilitate legal processes by providing attorneys with comprehensive information about traffic incidents while maintaining the existing FOIA framework that protects sensitive information in other contexts.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, upon written request for a traffic crash report by an attorney who provides an affidavit confirming representation of an individual in the traffic crash, the public body from whom the traffic crash report is requested shall disclose an unredacted copy of the traffic crash report to the requesting attorney.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jay Hoffman (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1703 • Last Action 03/21/2025
EX INSPECTOR GENERAL-STATEMENT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act to expand the authority of the Executive Inspector General (EIG) to issue public statements about investigations. Specifically, the EIG can now release a public statement when concluding an investigation in two scenarios: first, when recommending systemic or procedural actions, and second, when finding reasonable cause to believe a violation occurred but choosing not to file a complaint with the Executive Ethics Commission. The public statement can summarize the investigation's details without revealing individual names, including the nature of the allegation, specific violations found, and recommended disciplinary or corrective measures. Before issuing such a statement, the EIG must first share the draft with the affected agency head and ultimate jurisdictional authority, giving them 10 business days to provide a response, which must be included with the final public statement. This change aims to increase transparency in ethics investigations while protecting individual privacy and providing context through agency responses. The bill becomes effective immediately upon enactment.
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Bill Summary: Amends the State Officials and Employees Ethics Act. Provides that an Executive Inspector General may issue a public statement when the Executive Inspector General concludes its investigation and (i) recommends systemic or procedural action based on the investigation or (ii) finds reasonable cause to believe that a violation has occurred and the Executive Inspector General believes that a complaint concerning the investigation should not be filed by the Attorney General with the Executive Ethics Commission. Limits the scope of a public statement that may be issued. Provides that, before issuing a public statement, the Executive Inspector General shall share the public statement with the agency head and ultimate jurisdictional authority affected by the investigation and allow the agency head and ultimate jurisdictional authority affected by the investigation a period of 10 business days to provide the Executive Inspector General with a response to the proposed public statement, which must be included with the public statement. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 01/24/2025
• Added: 01/24/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Fred Crespo (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/24/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB0021 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA/LOCAL RECORDS-JUNK MAIL
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Local Records Act to define and exclude "junk mail" from public records. Specifically, the bill defines "junk mail" as any unsolicited commercial mail or electronic communication sent to a public body that is not responded to by an official, employee, or agent of that public body. Under the new provisions, such unsolicited commercial communications would no longer be considered public records, which means they would not be subject to public records requests or preservation requirements. The bill aims to reduce administrative burden by preventing public bodies from having to maintain or respond to irrelevant commercial communications. By explicitly defining and excluding junk mail from the definition of public records, the legislation provides clarity for government agencies about what types of incoming communications they are legally required to retain and potentially disclose under public records laws.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act and the Local Records Act. In the definition provisions of those Acts, defines the term "junk mail" and specifies that the term "public record" does not include junk mail.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB0023 • Last Action 03/21/2025
OPN MTG-EMERGENCY DEFINED
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to clarify and expand provisions related to meeting attendance and emergency situations. It introduces two new definitions: "bona fide emergency," which means a disaster, act of terror, or any occurrence that threatens governmental operations or public safety, and "exigent circumstances," which refers to situations requiring immediate attention such as injury, sickness, loss of life, or property damage. The bill modifies the existing language to allow a member of a public body to attend a meeting by alternative means (like video or audio conference) if they are prevented from physically attending due to exigent circumstances concerning a family member, replacing the previous broader language of "a family or other emergency." The legislation provides more specific guidelines for when and how public bodies can conduct meetings remotely, particularly during emergency situations, including requirements for public notice, ensuring public access, conducting roll call votes, and maintaining verbatim records. These changes aim to provide more flexibility for public bodies while maintaining transparency and accessibility during challenging circumstances.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Defines the terms "bona fide emergency" and "exigent circumstances". Provides that, if a quorum of the members of a public body is physically present at a meeting, a majority of the public body may allow a member of that body to attend the meeting by other means if the member is prevented from physically attending because of, among other things, exigent circumstances concerning a family member (rather than because of, among other things, a family or other emergency). Makes technical changes.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 3 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3611 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-NUCLEAR SECURITY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to add a new exemption for certain nuclear security-related documents. Specifically, the bill creates an exemption for documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under a 1987 Agreement between the State of Illinois and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), and in accordance with the National Materials Program. These exempt documents include information classified as safeguards, safeguards-modified, and sensitive unclassified nonsafeguards information, as identified in NRC regulatory information summaries, security advisories, and other related communications or regulations. By adding this exemption, the bill prevents these potentially sensitive nuclear-related documents from being subject to public inspection and copying under the Freedom of Information Act, with the goal of protecting critical nuclear security information from potential disclosure that could compromise safety or security.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that documents that have been determined to be security sensitive under certain requirements related to the U.S. Nuclear Regulation Commission and National Materials Program are exempt from inspection and copying under the Act.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Will Davis (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1856 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-JUDICIAL RECORDS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to expand the definition of "public body" to include judicial bodies of the State and adds a new exemption for judicial records. Specifically, the bill modifies the existing law to explicitly include judicial bodies within the definition of public bodies that are subject to FOIA regulations. The bill creates a new exemption that protects preliminary drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda, and other records expressing opinions or formulating policies specifically related to the preparation of judicial opinions and orders. Additionally, the bill exempts judicial records that are already subject to fees under the Clerks of Courts Act, ensuring that these records remain available through their existing access mechanisms. The changes aim to clarify the scope of FOIA, providing additional protection for internal judicial decision-making processes while maintaining transparency in government records. The bill preserves the fundamental principle of public access to government records, but recognizes the unique nature of judicial deliberations and the need to protect the independence of the judicial process.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, for purposes of the Act, "public body" includes judicial bodies of the State. Exempts preliminary drafts, notes, recommendations, memoranda and other records in which opinions are expressed, or policies or actions are formulated, that pertain to the preparation of judicial opinions and orders. Exempts judicial records already subject to fees imposed under the Clerks of Courts Act.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 01/29/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Curtis Tarver (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 9
• Last Amended: 01/28/2025
• Last Action: Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #SB47 • Last Action 03/21/2025
Requiring school districts to publicly list the names and email addresses of current school board members, authorizing local school board members to add new items to board meeting discussions, ask questions or engage in discussion with members of the public and access school property, authorizing members of the public to address school boards at board meetings and authorizing payment of annual dues to any not-for-profit organization that provides services to member school districts.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces several new provisions to enhance transparency and public engagement in school district governance. It requires school districts to publicly list the names and email addresses of current school board members on their websites and provide this information to the state department of education, which will maintain a public database. The bill authorizes school board members to add discussion items to meeting agendas, ask questions of and engage with members of the public during meetings, and access school district property during school hours or community activities. Additionally, the legislation mandates that each regularly scheduled school board meeting include a public comment portion, allowing community members to address the board directly. The bill also expands school districts' ability to pay annual dues to not-for-profit organizations that provide guidance and services to member districts, broadening the previous language that was limited to the Kansas Association of School Boards. These changes aim to increase communication, transparency, and community involvement in local school district operations, giving both board members and residents more opportunities to participate in educational governance.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning education; relating to boards of education; requiring school districts to publicly list the names and email addresses of current board members; authorizing local school board members to add new items to board meeting discussions, ask questions or engage in discussion with members of the public and access school property; authorizing members of the public to address school boards at board meetings; authorizing payment of annual dues to any not-for-profit organization that provides services to member school districts; amending K.S.A. 72-1145 and 72-1416 and K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 72- 1138 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 01/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 24
• Last Amended: 03/14/2025
• Last Action: House Withdrawn from Calendar, Rereferred to Committee on Education
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #SB70 • Last Action 03/21/2025
Prohibiting fees for electronic copies of records under the open records act, exempting from disclosure formally closed investigations with no found violations, requiring county or district attorneys to file reports of violations with the attorney general in October instead of January, determining the membership calculation of subordinate groups under the open meetings act, requiring public bodies or agencies that live stream meetings to ensure that the public is able to observe and providing fo
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes several changes to Kansas open records and open meetings laws. It prohibits charging fees for electronic copies of public records, exempts formally closed investigations with no found violations from public disclosure, and changes the reporting deadline for county or district attorneys from January to October when filing reports about open records and open meetings act violations to the attorney general. The bill also clarifies rules for subordinate groups of public bodies, specifying that a majority of a subcommittee triggers open meeting requirements. Additionally, it requires public bodies that live stream meetings to ensure the entire meeting is observable through the chosen medium. For public agencies creating subcommittees or subordinate groups, the bill stipulates that a private entity will only be considered part of a public body if it is under the direct or indirect control of that legislative or administrative body. The legislation aims to enhance transparency in government operations by making public records and meetings more accessible while protecting certain sensitive information, such as records from closed investigations where no violations were found.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning open government; relating to the open records act; providing for reasonable prohibiting fees for electronic copies of records limiting certain charges for furnishing records and employee time required to make records available; exempting from disclosure records compiled in the process of formally closed investigations with no found violations and records that contain material that is obscene from disclosure; requiring county or district attorneys to file reports of violations with the attorney general in December October instead of January; relating to the open meetings act; determining the membership calculation of subordinate groups; requiring public bodies or agencies that live stream meetings to ensure that the public is able to observe; providing for a five-minute deviation to resume an open meeting at the conclusion of executive sessions; amending K.S.A. 45-219, 75-7d01, 75-753, and 75-4318 and 75-4319 and K.S.A. 2024 Supp. 45-221 and repealing the existing sections.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 01/24/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 19
• Last Amended: 03/19/2025
• Last Action: House Stricken from Calendar by Rule 1507
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB2334 • Last Action 03/21/2025
FOIA-CYBERSECURITY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to address cybersecurity concerns related to electronic records requests. Specifically, it requires that electronic requests for public records must be submitted entirely within the body of the electronic submission, preventing requesters from using attachments or hyperlinks to provide request details. As a cybersecurity measure, the bill stipulates that public bodies are not obligated to open or access files or links attached to electronic requests. This change aims to reduce potential security risks associated with electronic document submissions by ensuring that all request information is directly visible in the main text of the submission. The bill maintains the existing provisions of FOIA regarding public records access, including the requirement for public bodies to respond to requests within 5 business days and the ability to extend response times under certain circumstances. The modification is intended to provide public bodies with additional protection against potential cybersecurity threats while preserving the fundamental transparency goals of the Freedom of Information Act.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that electronic requests for public records must appear in their entirety within the body of the electronic submission and that no public body shall be required to open electronically attached files or hyperlinks to view or access the details of such a request. Effective immediately.
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• Introduced: 01/30/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Jen Gong-Gershowitz (D)*, Dan Didech (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 15
• Last Amended: 01/30/2025
• Last Action: House Committee Amendment No. 1 Rule 19(c) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NC bill #S331 • Last Action 03/20/2025
Make Legislators' Docs Public Records
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies North Carolina's legislative document confidentiality rules by changing how drafting requests, information requests, and documents prepared by legislative employees are handled. Previously, these documents and requests were completely confidential and not considered public records. Under the new provisions, certain legislative documents will become publicly available under specific circumstances, such as when a bill is introduced, an amendment is offered in a committee meeting, or a document is distributed in a legislative meeting that is not in executive session. The bill removes language that explicitly stated these documents were not public records, potentially making them more accessible. Legislative employees are still prohibited from revealing the identity of legislators making requests or sharing confidential documents without consent, but the bill provides more pathways for these documents to become public. The changes aim to increase transparency in the legislative process while maintaining some protections for legislators' preliminary work and communication. The bill becomes effective immediately upon becoming law.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT TO MAKE LEGISLATORS' DOCUMENTS PUBLIC RECORDS.
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• Introduced: 03/19/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Terence Everitt (D)*, Woodson Bradley (D), Natalie Murdock (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/20/2025
• Last Action: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HR0047 • Last Action 03/19/2025
A resolution to declare March 16-22, 2025, as Sunshine Week in the state of Michigan.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This resolution declares March 16-22, 2025, as Sunshine Week in Michigan, recognizing a national initiative led by the American Society of News Editors that aims to educate the public about the importance of open government and transparency. The resolution highlights the critical role of a free press in providing citizens with accurate information about government activities, drawing on historical perspectives including a quote from Thomas Jefferson about press freedom and a Supreme Court reference to the press's ability to expose government deception. The resolution emphasizes that open and accessible government is essential for maintaining public trust and that citizens have an inherent right to access government meetings and public records. By marking this week, the Michigan House of Representatives seeks to underscore its commitment to governmental transparency and to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the first nationwide Sunshine Week, which originally took place in March 2005.
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Bill Summary: A resolution to declare March 16-22, 2025, as Sunshine Week in the state of Michigan.
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• Introduced: 03/19/2025
• Added: 03/20/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 13 : Kara Hope (D)*, Kelly Breen (D), Erin Byrnes (D), Carol Glanville (D), Sharon MacDonell (D), Jason Morgan (D), Veronica Paiz (D), Carrie Rheingans (D), Julie Rogers (D), Regina Weiss (D), Angela Witwer (D), Stephen Wooden (D), Stephanie Young (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/19/2025
• Last Action: Referred To Committee On Government Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #SB0209 • Last Action 03/18/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to confidential records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee's public records law to provide enhanced privacy protections for certain government officials and personnel by allowing them to request confidentiality of specific personal information. The bill covers active and former sworn law enforcement officers, correctional officers, child protective services investigators, revenue collection personnel, court staff (including judges and commissioners), district attorneys, and public defenders. Upon written request, government agencies must keep confidential the individual's home address, telephone number, social security number, date of birth, and official photographs. While these records would typically be considered public, this bill allows these professionals to protect their personal information from public disclosure. The bill includes important exceptions that permit release of the confidential information through court orders, subpoenas, or during active law enforcement investigations. Additionally, the legislation requires that when possible, confidential information should be redacted from public records, and the confidentiality provision cannot be used to completely deny access to otherwise public documents. Local governments are also authorized to designate an individual or agency responsible for processing these confidentiality requests. The act takes effect immediately upon becoming law, with the rationale that it serves the public welfare by protecting the privacy of government employees who may be at risk due to the nature of their work.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, requires personal information of certain state and local officials to be maintained confidentially upon request; authorizes the release of such information by court order, subpoena, or pursuant to an active law enforcement investigation. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Ed Jackson (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Assigned to General Subcommittee of Senate State & Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB458 • Last Action 03/17/2025
In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Right-to-Know Law by expanding the exceptions for public records related to notes and working papers prepared by public officials or employees. Specifically, the bill clarifies that two types of documents are exempt from public access: (1) materials prepared solely for an official's or employee's personal use, such as telephone message slips and routing slips that do not have an official purpose, and (2) documents created to accommodate an individual's disability, including transcriptions, braille translations, and large print materials. The existing law previously only mentioned personal use documents without the detailed subcategories. The bill aims to provide more specific guidance about what types of documents can be considered exempt from public records requests. The amendments will take effect 60 days after the bill's enactment, giving agencies and officials time to understand and implement the new provisions.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
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• Introduced: 03/17/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Tracy Pennycuick (R)*, Wayne Fontana (D), Greg Rothman (R), Tina Tartaglione (D), Maria Collett (D), Pat Stefano (R), Cris Dush (R), Doug Mastriano (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/17/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF2039 • Last Action 03/17/2025
Judicial official real property records private data classification provision, judicial official real property records access limitations provision, criminal penalties provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill addresses privacy protections for judicial officials' personal information in real property records, establishing a comprehensive framework for protecting such data. It creates a new section of law (480.50) that allows judicial officials to submit a formal notice to county recorders and other government entities to restrict public access to their personal information in real property records. The bill requires judicial officials to provide specific details like their name, last four digits of their Social Security number, date of birth, and residential address on a standardized form, which will then be classified as private data. County recorders and government entities will be prohibited from disclosing the judicial official's personal information except in specific circumstances, such as with the judicial official's written consent, a court order, or for tax assessment purposes. The bill also establishes a process for title examination that allows certain professionals like title insurance representatives, attorneys, and real estate professionals to access unredacted records under specific conditions. Additionally, the bill creates criminal penalties for anyone who falsely uses or procures a judicial official's personal information, with potential fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to three years. These provisions are set to become effective on January 1, 2026, and aim to protect judicial officials from potential harassment or privacy breaches related to their real property records.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data privacy; classifying judicial official real property records as private data; limiting access to judicial official real property records; providing criminal penalties; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.991; 480.40, subdivision 3; 480.45, subdivision 2; 609.63, subdivision 1; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 480.
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• Introduced: 02/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Ron Latz (D)*, Warren Limmer (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Hearing (12:30:00 3/17/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NC bill #S294 • Last Action 03/17/2025
Budgeting Accountability and Transparency
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase transparency and public participation in the North Carolina state budget process by introducing new requirements for the Current Operations Appropriations Act. Specifically, before voting on the budget, each house of the General Assembly must provide at least one week for public virtual comments through a dedicated online portal, hold a public hearing in the Legislative Building, conduct at least three nonvoting committee meetings for budget consideration and debate, and distribute the full Act and Committee Report to all legislators at least five legislative days before voting. Additionally, the bill mandates that communications between state agencies, individual legislators, legislative employees, and other legislators regarding budget provisions or funding requests will become public records once the appropriations act is law, with exceptions for attorney-client privileged information and work product. These changes are designed to make the budget process more open, accessible, and accountable to the public, allowing for greater scrutiny and input into the state's financial planning.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT TO INTRODUCE GREATER ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY INTO THE BUDGET PROCESS BY AMENDING THE STATE BUDGET ACT TO INCREASE PUBLIC NOTICE AND PARTICIPATION AND BY REMOVING LEGISLATIVE CONFIDENTIALITY FOR CERTAIN COMMUNICATIONS TO OR FROM LEGISLATORS REQUESTING BUDGET PROVISIONS OR FUNDS MADE.
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• Introduced: 03/13/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Graig Meyer (D)*, Val Applewhite (D)*, Lisa Grafstein (D)*, Natalie Murdock (D), Kandie Smith (D), Caleb Theodros (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/17/2025
• Last Action: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #HR25 • Last Action 03/14/2025
Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This resolution requests the State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA) and Department of Health (DOH) to hold public meetings for all Certificate of Need (CON) applications for proposed special treatment facilities in neighborhoods with community associations. A Certificate of Need is an authorization issued by SHPDA to construct, expand, or modify certain healthcare facilities or services. Currently, some CON applications go through an administrative review process that does not automatically require a public meeting, which has led to frustration among neighbors and community associations who want to provide input on proposed facilities. The resolution specifically asks SHPDA to not only hold public meetings for such applications but also to adopt rules requiring CON applicants to appear before the local neighborhood board where the proposed special treatment facility would be located. This request aligns with Hawaii's Sunshine Law, which promotes open and transparent government decision-making processes. The resolution aims to increase community engagement and ensure that local residents have an opportunity to learn about and comment on proposed healthcare facilities in their neighborhoods before they are approved.
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Bill Summary: RESOLUTION requesting the state health PLANNING and development agency and department of health to hold a public MEETING for ALL CERTIFICATE OF NEED APPLICATIONS FOR any proposed special treatment facility in NEIGHBORHOODS with community associations.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 02/27/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sam Kong (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/19/2025
• Last Action: Referred to HLT, referral sheet 22
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TX bill #HB1798 • Last Action 03/14/2025
Relating to the confidentiality of certain home address information in property tax appraisal records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Texas Tax Code to expand the list of individuals who can request confidentiality of their home address in property tax appraisal records. The expanded categories now include several new groups of professionals and individuals who may face potential safety risks, such as public defenders, employees of university health care providers in corrections facilities, customs and border protection officers, and border patrol agents. The bill also continues to protect the addresses of existing groups like peace officers, victims of family violence or sexual assault, federal and state judges, court employees, child protective services workers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and various law enforcement and judicial professionals. To qualify for address confidentiality, individuals must provide appropriate documentation proving their status or vulnerability, such as protective orders or other independent evidence. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas Legislature, or on September 1, 2025, if it does not receive the necessary immediate voting support. This legislation aims to enhance personal safety and privacy for individuals in certain professional roles or who have experienced specific types of trauma.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT relating to the confidentiality of certain home address information in property tax appraisal records.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 89th Legislature Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Sam Harless (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/09/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Delivery of Government Efficiency
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0114 • Last Action 03/13/2025
An act relating to charging for actual cost under Vermont’s Public Records Act
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Vermont's Public Records Act to provide clearer guidelines for how public agencies can charge for the costs associated with responding to public records requests. Specifically, the bill allows public agencies to charge for staff time spent fulfilling records requests under certain conditions: when the time spent exceeds 30 minutes, when the agency agrees to create a new public record, or when the agency provides a record in a non-standard format and the work takes more than 30 minutes. The Secretary of State is tasked with establishing a uniform schedule of charges for state agencies, considering only actual costs like paper, equipment maintenance, and utility expenses. Political subdivisions (like local governments) must also establish their own charge schedules through public hearings, using similar cost-calculation principles. The bill requires agencies to provide receipts for charges and allows them to retain monies collected that represent actual costs incurred. Additionally, the bill clarifies that agencies are not required to create new records or convert formats they don't already use, and they can make reasonable rules to protect records and prevent operational disruptions. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, providing agencies time to prepare their new charging procedures.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to authorize public agencies to charge and collect the actual cost of staff time associated with complying with a request to inspect a public record.
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• Introduced: 03/13/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Patrick Brennan (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/12/2025
• Last Action: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Government Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF787 • Last Action 03/13/2025
Open meeting laws unlimited remote participation authorization modification provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's open meeting laws to allow for more flexible remote participation by public bodies. Currently, there are restrictions on how many times a member can participate remotely from a non-public location, with specific exceptions for military service or medical reasons. The proposed changes would remove these limitations, effectively allowing unlimited remote participation while maintaining key transparency requirements. Specifically, the bill ensures that during remote meetings, all participating members must still be able to see and hear each other, all discussion and testimony must be audible and visible, at least one member must be physically present at the regular meeting location, and all votes must be conducted by roll call to clearly identify each member's vote. The notice requirements are also updated to simply indicate that some members may participate remotely, without needing to specify the exact locations of remote participants. These modifications aim to provide public bodies with greater flexibility in conducting meetings while preserving the core principles of open government and public accessibility.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to local government; modifying open meeting law to allow unlimited remote participation; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13D.02, subdivisions 1, 4.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 01/30/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 5 : Alice Mann (D)*, Julia Coleman (R), Erin Maye Quade (D), Liz Boldon (D), Mary Kunesh (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/28/2025
• Last Action: Author added Kunesh
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #SB259 • Last Action 03/13/2025
Creating an exception to physical attendance and quorum requirements under the right-to-know law for individuals with disabilities.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Right-to-Know law to create a specific exception for individuals with disabilities regarding meeting attendance and quorum requirements. Under the proposed change, public body members who cannot physically attend a meeting due to their own Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-eligible disability or the disability of a household member they care for will be considered as attending "in person" for the purpose of establishing a quorum. Currently, meeting participation through remote means is only allowed when physical attendance is not "reasonably practical," and such reasons must be stated in the meeting minutes. The new provision specifically addresses disability-related barriers to physical attendance, ensuring that individuals with disabilities or those caring for disabled household members are not disadvantaged in their ability to participate in public meetings. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, providing a clear timeline for implementation of this new accommodation.
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Bill Summary: This bill creates an exception to physical attendance and quorum requirements under the right-to-know law for individuals with disabilities.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Denise Ricciardi (R)*, Cindy Rosenwald (D), Howard Pearl (R), Bill Gannon (R), Dick Thackston (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/24/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate, Motion Adopted, Voice Vote === BILL KILLED ===; 03/13/2025; Senate Journal 7
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB479 • Last Action 03/11/2025
State Capitol Building; dissolving the State Capitol Repair Expenditure Oversight Committee. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends two sections of Oklahoma state law related to the Oklahoma Capitol Improvement Authority's ability to issue obligations for renovating and repairing the State Capitol Building. The key changes involve dissolving the State Capitol Repair Expenditure Oversight Committee, which previously had the power to approve and oversee expenditures for Capitol repairs. The bill removes all provisions related to the nine-member committee, including its composition, responsibilities, and oversight role in the Capitol renovation process. The Oklahoma Capitol Improvement Authority will now have more direct control over issuing bonds (up to $120 million in one section and $125 million in another) for Capitol improvements, with the ability to borrow money, capitalize interest, and manage the renovation project without the previous committee's approval. The bill also makes minor technical changes, such as replacing specific references to "the State of Oklahoma" with more generic terms like "this state". The amendments to both sections maintain the Authority's ability to hold property titles, lease improvements to the Office of Management and Enterprise Services, and issue tax-exempt obligations. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, and streamlines the process for Capitol Building renovation by eliminating an additional layer of legislative oversight.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the State Capitol Building; amending 73 O.S. 2021, Sections 345 and 346, which relate to the renovation, repair, and remodeling of the State Capitol Building; dissolving the State Capitol Repair Expenditure Oversight Committee; updating statutory language; updating statutory reference; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Randy Grellner (R)*, Mike Dobrinski (R)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/13/2025
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Dobrinski (principal House author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB4019 • Last Action 03/11/2025
OPEN MEETINGS-NOTICE VIOLATION
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to clarify and expand the timeline for filing civil actions related to potential violations of open meeting requirements. Specifically, the bill allows individuals to bring a civil action within 60 days under four different scenarios: (1) prior to or within 60 days of the allegedly problematic meeting, (2) within 60 days of discovering meeting-related violations if not initially discovered, (3) within 60 days of the Attorney General's decision on a review request if a timely review was filed, or (4) within 60 days of discovering a violation where a public body failed to provide proper meeting notice. The bill maintains existing provisions that allow courts to examine meeting minutes in camera, grant appropriate relief such as mandating open meetings or nullifying actions taken in closed meetings, and potentially assess attorney's fees against parties. Importantly, the bill preserves the confidentiality of records obtained by a State's Attorney during the review process, keeping them exempt from public disclosure. These changes aim to provide more flexibility and clarity in enforcing open meeting laws while protecting the public's right to access government proceedings.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that a civil action for violation of the Act may be brought within 60 days after the discovery of failure to comply with specified notice requirements.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 03/11/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dan Didech (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/10/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB868 • Last Action 03/11/2025
In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law in two key areas: public records exceptions and fee limitations. First, the bill adds a new exception that allows agencies to withhold records that are "reasonably burdensome" to produce, giving government agencies more discretion in responding to information requests. Second, the bill introduces new provisions regarding fees for records requests, specifically allowing agencies to charge additional fees for requests from for-profit entities. Under the new rules, agencies can require for-profit requesters to pay fees in advance, must notify requesters of fee requirements within five business days, and can ask about the purpose of the request to determine if the requester is a for-profit entity. Notably, newspapers, magazines, and broadcast outlets are exempted from these additional fees. The bill is designed to provide government agencies more flexibility in managing public records requests while potentially deterring overly broad or resource-intensive information requests from commercial entities. The changes will take effect 60 days after the bill's passage.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Pat Harkins (D)*, Joe McAndrew (D), José Giral (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Scott Conklin (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Missy Cerrato (D), Steve Mentzer (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/12/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SR37 • Last Action 03/10/2025
Designating the week of March 16 through 22, 2025, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This resolution designates the week of March 16 through 22, 2025, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania, highlighting the importance of government transparency and public access to information. The resolution provides context by referencing two key pieces of legislation: the Sunshine Act and the Right-to-Know Law, both of which originated in the Pennsylvania Senate. These laws ensure that public agencies hold open meetings, allow public comments, and provide access to government records. The Sunshine Act mandates that public agencies conduct meetings openly when a quorum is present and record these meetings, while the Right-to-Know Law presumes that government records are public and provides a mechanism for residents to appeal denied information requests. By designating this specific week, the resolution aims to raise awareness about the fundamental principles of open government and encourages all Pennsylvania residents to participate in observing and supporting transparency in governmental processes.
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Bill Summary: A Resolution designating the week of March 16 through 22, 2025, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
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• Introduced: 03/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Cris Dush (R)*, Pat Stefano (R), Lynda Schlegel-Culver (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 03/11/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules & Executive Nominations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SR15 • Last Action 03/06/2025
Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This resolution requests the State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA) and Department of Health (DOH) to hold public meetings for all Certificate of Need (CON) applications involving proposed special treatment facilities in neighborhoods with community associations. A Certificate of Need is an authorization issued by SHPDA to construct, expand, or modify healthcare facilities or services. Currently, some CON applications go through an administrative review process that does not automatically require a public meeting, which has led to frustration among local residents who want to provide input about facilities in their neighborhoods. The resolution specifically asks SHPDA to not only hold public meetings for these applications but also adopt rules requiring CON applicants to present their proposed special treatment facilities to the relevant neighborhood board as part of the application process. This aligns with Hawaii's Sunshine Law, which promotes open and transparent government decision-making. The resolution aims to increase community engagement and ensure that local residents have opportunities to learn about and provide feedback on proposed healthcare facilities in their areas.
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Bill Summary: RESOLUTION requesting the state health PLANNING and development agency and department of health to hold a public MEETING for ALL CERTIFICATE OF NEED APPLICATIONS FOR any proposed special treatment facility in NEIGHBORHOODS with community associations.
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• Introduced: 03/03/2025
• Added: 03/04/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Brandon Elefante (D)*, Henry Aquino (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Kurt Fevella (R)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Michelle Kidani (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Mike Gabbard (D), Glenn Wakai (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/03/2025
• Last Action: Referred to HHS.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
HI bill #SCR25 • Last Action 03/06/2025
Requesting The State Health Planning And Development Agency And Department Of Health To Hold A Public Meeting For All Certificate Of Need Applications For Any Proposed Special Treatment Facility In Neighborhoods With Community Associations.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This resolution requests the State Health Planning and Development Agency (SHPDA) and Department of Health (DOH) to hold public meetings for all Certificate of Need (CON) applications for proposed special treatment facilities in neighborhoods with community associations. A Certificate of Need is an authorization issued by SHPDA to construct, expand, or modify certain healthcare facilities or services. Currently, some CON applications go through an administrative review process that does not require a public meeting, which has led to frustration among local community members who want to provide input about facilities in their neighborhoods. The resolution specifically asks SHPDA to not only hold public meetings for these applications but also to adopt rules requiring CON applicants to appear before the local neighborhood board where the proposed facility would be located. This approach aims to increase transparency and public participation in the healthcare facility development process, in line with Hawaii's Sunshine Law, which promotes open government decision-making. The resolution will be transmitted to the Director of Health and the Administrator of SHPDA for their consideration.
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Bill Summary: RESOLUTION requesting the state health PLANNING and development agency and department of health to hold a public MEETING for ALL CERTIFICATE OF NEED APPLICATIONS FOR any proposed special treatment facility in NEIGHBORHOODS with community associations.
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• Introduced: 03/03/2025
• Added: 03/04/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Brandon Elefante (D)*, Henry Aquino (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Kurt Fevella (R)*, Troy Hashimoto (D)*, Michelle Kidani (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Mike Gabbard (D), Glenn Wakai (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/03/2025
• Last Action: Referred to HHS.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NH bill #HB114 • Last Action 03/06/2025
Removing fees and charges for governmental records under the right-to-know law and reinstating potential liability for disclosure of information exempt from disclosure.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies New Hampshire's Right-to-Know law by eliminating most fees associated with requesting governmental records and reinstating potential legal liability for improper information disclosure. Specifically, the bill removes language that previously allowed public agencies to charge additional fees for record requests beyond the actual copying costs. Public bodies must now respond to record requests within 5 business days by either making the record available, denying the request, or providing a written explanation for any delay. The bill eliminates provisions that previously protected government agencies from civil damages when disclosing exempt information, meaning agencies could now potentially be sued for inappropriate information releases. Government entities can still charge for the actual cost of copying a record, but cannot impose additional fees for inspection or delivery. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage, and while it is not expected to have an immediate fiscal impact, it may result in indeterminable decreases in government revenue and potential increases in legal expenses related to potential civil actions.
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Bill Summary: This bill removes fees and charges for governmental records under the right-to-know law and reinstates potential liability for disclosure of information exempt from disclosure.
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• Introduced: 01/04/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Louise Andrus (R)*, Alvin See (R), John Sellers (R), Kristine Perez (R), Barbara Comtois (R), Keith Ammon (R), Riché Colcombe (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/07/2025
• Last Action: Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 03/06/2025 House Journal 7 P. 68
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HF744 • Last Action 03/05/2025
A bill for an act concerning local government processes and forms.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires counties and cities in Iowa to create publicly accessible internet sites that provide electronic forms and services for various county and city offices, such as the auditor, treasurer, recorder, sheriff, and city clerk. These websites must allow electronic submission of documents like filings, licenses, and service requests while ensuring the protection of confidential information. Specifically, the bill mandates that these online systems cannot use a person's social security number as an identifier, which helps protect personal data. Additionally, the bill modifies existing law regarding electronic records and signatures for governmental agencies, removing previous language that allowed counties and municipalities to independently decide whether to use electronic records and signatures. By standardizing these digital processes, the bill aims to make local government services more accessible, efficient, and secure for residents by providing a uniform online platform for document submission and information retrieval.
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Bill Summary: This bill requires counties and cities to make available required forms, documents, and requests for services by a county or county officer or a city or city officer on a publicly accessible internet site. The bill also requires the publicly accessible internet site to be capable of electronically receiving a document submitted to a county or a city while protecting confidential information. The bill modifies Code section 554D.120, subsection 1, which currently allows a governmental agency, including a county, municipality, or other political subdivision of the state, to determine whether, and the extent to which, the governmental agency will send and accept electronic records and electronic signatures to and from other persons and otherwise create, generate, communicate, store, process, use, and rely upon electronic records and electronic signatures.
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• Introduced: 03/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Aime Wichtendahl (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/05/2025
• Last Action: Introduced, referred to Local Government. H.J. 512.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1108 • Last Action 03/05/2025
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; adding the Judicial Nominating Commission to the definition of a public body; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act by adding the Judicial Nominating Commission to the definition of a "public body", which means it will now be subject to the state's open meeting transparency requirements. The Judicial Nominating Commission, which is established in the Oklahoma Constitution and is responsible for recommending judicial candidates, will now be required to conduct its meetings in a manner consistent with other public bodies, such as providing public notice and allowing public access. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving the commission time to adjust to the new transparency requirements. By including the Judicial Nominating Commission in the definition of a public body, the legislation aims to increase governmental transparency and provide the public with greater insight into the process of selecting judicial candidates. This change ensures that the commission's deliberations and decision-making processes will be more open and accountable to the citizens of Oklahoma.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 304), which relates to definitions; adding the Judicial Nominating Commission to the definition of a public body; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Mark Lepak (R)*, Micheal Bergstrom (R)*, Gabe Woolley (R)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 03/09/2025
• Last Action: Authored by Senator Bergstrom (principal Senate author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF410 • Last Action 03/04/2025
A bill for an act relating to public comment periods during regular meetings and special meetings of the boards of directors of school districts.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill mandates that school district boards of directors must provide a dedicated time for public comments during both regular and special meetings. Specifically, the bill requires boards to allocate a "reasonable amount of time" for public input and ensure that any interested member of the public can speak during this period. While boards are allowed to impose time limits on individual speakers, these limits must be consistent for everyone and only implemented if necessary due to a large number of people wanting to speak. Importantly, the bill prohibits school district boards from requiring members of the public to be pre-listed on the meeting agenda as a condition for speaking during the public comment period. This legislation aims to enhance public participation and transparency in school district governance by making it easier for community members to share their thoughts and concerns directly with school board members during meetings.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to public comment periods during regular meetings and special meetings of the boards of directors of school districts. The bill requires the board of directors of each school district to provide a reasonable amount of time during each regular meeting and special meeting to receive public comment and to allow each interested member of the public to speak during the public comment period. The bill prohibits the board of directors of a school district from requiring a member of the public to be placed on the meeting’s agenda prior to the meeting in order for the member of the public to speak during the public comment period.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Dave Sires (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/20/2025
• Last Action: Subcommittee recommends amendment and passage.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR1515 • Last Action 03/04/2025
GOOD Act Guidance Out Of Darkness Act
Status: Crossed Over
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "Guidance Out Of Darkness Act" (GOOD Act), aims to increase transparency and public access to agency guidance documents by requiring federal agencies to publish all guidance documents on a single, centralized website designated by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. The bill provides a broad definition of "guidance documents," which includes various types of agency communications like memos, notices, bulletins, directives, blog posts, and speeches that explain policy or provide interpretations of laws and regulations, but do not have the force of law. Under the bill, agencies must publish all current guidance documents within 180 days of enactment and publish new guidance documents on the same day they are issued, with each agency also providing a hyperlink to these documents on their own websites. The guidance documents must be categorized and subcategorized for easy navigation. Documents that are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act will not be required to be published. When guidance documents are rescinded, agencies must maintain the documents at the central location and clearly indicate their rescinded status. The bill does not affect the validity of guidance documents and does not impact congressional review processes. Finally, the Comptroller General is required to submit a report to Congress five years after enactment evaluating agencies' compliance with the law.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To increase access to agency guidance documents.
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• Introduced: 02/25/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 4 : James Comer (R)*, Ro Khanna (D), Kevin Kiley (I), Blake Moore (R)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 03/04/2025
• Last Action: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF2051 • Last Action 03/03/2025
County attorneys and employees in county attorney offices personal information dissemination restriction provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to expand the definition of "judicial official" to include county attorneys and their office employees, providing them with additional privacy protections. Specifically, the bill adds county attorneys and county attorney office employees to the list of individuals whose personal information is restricted from public dissemination. The personal information that remains protected includes residential addresses of the official and their family members, non-official telephone numbers and email addresses, names of the official's children, and details about children's schools or care facilities when combined with identifying information. The bill maintains existing exceptions that allow publicly available information (such as data from government records or widely distributed media) to remain accessible. This change aims to protect the privacy and potentially the safety of county attorneys and their staff by limiting public access to their personal contact and family information, recognizing the sensitive nature of their work in the legal system.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to judiciary; restricting public dissemination of personal information about county attorneys and employees in county attorney offices; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 480.40, subdivision 1.
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• Introduced: 02/28/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Omar Fateh (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/27/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1036 • Last Action 03/03/2025
LAW ENFORCEMENT CONDUCT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends several Illinois laws to enhance accountability and oversight of law enforcement officers. It modifies the definition of "duty to intervene" to require officers to actively prevent excessive force by other officers and report such interventions within five days. The bill prohibits law enforcement agencies from retaliating against officers who intervene to stop unlawful conduct, report unconstitutional actions, or refuse to follow directives they reasonably believe are unlawful. It expands the grounds for potential termination or decertification of officers, including excessive use of force, tampering with evidence, or engaging in unprofessional conduct. The bill also mandates that records related to police misconduct investigations, including those where an officer is cleared of wrongdoing, be permanently retained and not destroyed. Additionally, the legislation removes a previous provision stating that law enforcement officers have no property interest in their certification, which could provide more procedural protections for officers facing potential decertification. These changes aim to increase transparency, accountability, and ethical standards within law enforcement agencies in Illinois.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Illinois State Police Act. Modifies the definition of "duty to intervene" in provisions regarding discretionary termination of Illinois State Police officers. Provides that a member of the Illinois State Police shall not discipline or retaliate in any way against an officer for exercising the officer's duty to intervene, for reporting unconstitutional or unlawful conduct, or for failing to follow what the officer reasonably believes is an unconstitutional or unlawful directive. Amends the Illinois Police Training Act to make similar changes, except that the Law Enforcement Training Standards Board must adopt rules prohibiting members of law enforcement agencies from retaliating. Removes language providing that an individual has no property interest in law enforcement certification at the time of initial certification or at any time thereafter, including, but not limited to, after decertification or after the officer's certification has been deemed inactive. Amends the Local Records Act. Provides that records concerning the automatic expungement of misconduct records where an officer has been found not to have committed any wrongdoing or the complaint was found to be frivolous shall be permanently retained and may not be destroyed. Amends the Police and Community Relations Improvement Act. Repeals provisions allowing a person to file notice of an anonymous complaint to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board of any conduct the person believes a law enforcement officer has committed.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : John Cabello (R)*, Dan Ugaste (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Dan Ugaste
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NC bill #H243 • Last Action 03/03/2025
Durham/Electronic Notices for Public Hearings
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows the City of Durham and Durham County to use electronic methods, such as websites, to provide public notice for certain public hearings related to planning and zoning, while maintaining important existing notification requirements. Specifically, the bill permits the local governing body to adopt ordinances that enable electronic notice for public hearings under Chapter 160D of the North Carolina General Statutes, but with key limitations: these electronic notices cannot replace legally mandated notices sent by mail to specific groups or replace required property signage, and they must maintain the same publication schedules as traditional notice methods. The legislation is narrowly targeted, applying only to Durham City and Durham County, and becomes effective immediately upon becoming law. This bill represents a modernization of public hearing notification processes, recognizing the increased use of digital communication while preserving established notification protections for residents.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF DURHAM AND DURHAM COUNTY TO USE ELECTRONIC MEANS TO PROVIDE PUBLIC NOTICE FOR CERTAIN PUBLIC HEARINGS.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 7 : Ray Jeffers (D)*, Vernetta Alston (D), Laura Budd (D), Bryan Cohn (D), Allison Dahle (D), Zack Hawkins (D), Marcia Morey (D)
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 03/03/2025
• Last Action: Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF452 • Last Action 03/03/2025
A bill for an act relating to employment matters involving public employees including collective bargaining, educator employment matters, personnel records and settlement agreements, city civil service requirements, and health insurance matters, and including effective date, applicability, and transition provisions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill comprehensively revises employment and labor laws in Iowa, focusing on several key areas affecting public employees, educators, and city civil service workers. The bill makes significant changes to public employee collective bargaining, drastically narrowing the scope of negotiations to primarily wages, hours, and basic employment conditions while excluding retirement systems. It eliminates separate bargaining categories for public safety and transit employees, modifies arbitration procedures, and changes election rules for employee organizations. For educators, the bill alters contract termination procedures, probationary periods, and evaluation processes, making it easier for school districts to dismiss teachers and administrators. The bill also modifies city civil service requirements, making it simpler to remove employees and changing appeal processes. Additionally, it removes a previous requirement that public employers offer health insurance to all permanent, full-time employees. The changes appear designed to reduce union power, provide more flexibility for employers in managing workforce, and streamline employment termination processes across various public sector employment contexts. Most provisions take effect immediately upon enactment and apply to future employment contracts and collective bargaining agreements.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to employment matters involving public employees including collective bargaining, educator employment matters, personnel records and settlement agreements, city civil service requirements, and health insurance matters. The bill generally strikes statutory changes made by 2017 Iowa Acts, House File 291, and restores statutory language in effect prior to the enactment of 2017 Iowa Acts, House File 291. DIVISION I —— PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING. This division makes a variety of changes to Code chapter 20, the public employment relations Act, as well as other Code provisions relating to collective bargaining by public employees. ELIMINATION OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND TRANSIT EMPLOYEE CATEGORIES. The division eliminates public safety employees and transit employees as separate categories of employees for the purposes of public employee collective bargaining, making affected provisions of Code chapter 20 applicable to all public employees governed by Code chapter 20. SCOPE OF NEGOTIATIONS. The division makes changes to subjects which are negotiated through collective bargaining between public employers and public employees under Code section 20.9. The division provides that the scope of negotiations for all public employees shall consist of wages, hours, vacations, insurance, holidays, leaves of absence, shift differentials, overtime compensation, supplemental pay, seniority, transfer procedures, job classifications, health and safety matters, evaluation procedures, procedures for staff reduction, in-service training, dues checkoff, grievance procedures for resolving any questions arising under the agreement, and other matters mutually agreed upon. The division provides that retirement systems shall be excluded from the scope of negotiations. The division strikes language providing that mandatory subjects of negotiation under Code section 20.9 shall be interpreted narrowly and restrictively. The division strikes language limiting the term of a collective bargaining agreement entered into pursuant to Code chapter 20 to a maximum of five years. ARBITRATION PROCEDURES. The division makes changes to the procedures for arbitration of impasses in collective bargaining between public employers and public employees under Code section 20.22. The division modifies the factors that an arbitrator is required to consider in addition to any other relevant factors in making a final determination on an impasse item. The division requires an arbitrator to consider past collective bargaining contracts between the parties including the bargaining that led up to such contracts; comparison of wages, hours, and conditions of employment of the involved public employees with those of other public employees doing comparable work, giving consideration to factors peculiar to the area and the classifications involved; the interests and welfare of the public, the ability of the public employer to finance economic adjustments, and the effect of such adjustments on the normal standard of services; and the power of the public employer to levy taxes and appropriate funds for the conduct of its operations. The division strikes language permitting the parties to agree to change the four-day deadline to serve final offers on impasse items after a request for arbitration is received. The division strikes language prohibiting the parties to an arbitration from introducing, and the arbitrator from accepting or considering, any direct or indirect evidence regarding any subject excluded from negotiations pursuant to Code section 20.9. The division strikes language providing for a maximum increase in base wages in an arbitrator’s award. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE ELECTIONS. The division makes changes to public employee elections conducted pursuant to Code section 20.15. The division strikes language providing for retention and recertification elections and requires the employment appeal board (EAB) to cancel any such elections scheduled or in process. The division requires the EAB to consider a petition for certification of an employee organization as the exclusive representative of a bargaining unit for which an employee organization was not retained and recertified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit regardless of the amount of time that has elapsed since the retention and recertification election, notwithstanding prior requirements prohibiting such consideration for two years. The division provides that the outcome of a certification or decertification election is determined by a majority vote of the members of the bargaining unit voting, rather than the total membership of the bargaining unit. The division provides for a runoff election if none of the choices on the ballot in a certification election receives a majority vote of the members of the bargaining unit voting. The division lowers the required percentage of support from employees in a bargaining unit required for an employee organization that did not submit a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit to be listed on the ballot for a certification election from 30 percent to 10 percent. The division strikes language prohibiting the EAB from considering a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit unless a period of two years has elapsed from the date of the last certification election in which an employee organization was not certified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit or of the last decertification election in which an employee organization was decertified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit. The division prohibits the EAB from considering a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit for one year after the employee organization is not certified in a certification election. The division makes additional changes relating to the scheduling of decertification elections. EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION DUES. The division strikes a prohibition on public entities authorizing or administering a deduction from the salaries or wages of its employees for membership dues to an employee organization. The division provides procedures for administering such dues deductions. EAB DUTIES. The division provides that the EAB may interpret and apply, as well as administer, Code chapter 20. The division strikes language permitting the EAB to appoint a certified shorthand reporter to report state employee grievance and discipline resolution proceedings, to contract with a vendor to conduct elections, to establish fees to cover the cost of elections, and to retain certain funds collected by the EAB as repayment receipts. STATEWIDE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS FOLLOWING A GUBERNATORIAL ELECTION YEAR. The division strikes language providing for modified collective bargaining procedures for a proposed, statewide collective bargaining agreement to become effective in the year following a general election in which the governor and certain other elected officials are elected. CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS. The division strikes language providing that certain information relating to elections conducted by the EAB is a confidential record under Code chapter 22, the state open records law. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING. The division strikes a definition of “supplemental pay”. The division strikes language providing that a public employer has the right to evaluate public employees in positions within the public agency. The division strikes language providing that a public employee has the right under Code section 20.8 to exercise any right or seek any remedy provided by law, including but not limited to Code sections 70A.28 and 70A.29, Code chapter 8A, subchapter IV, and Code chapters 216 and 400. The division transfers language in Code section 20.10 prohibiting a public employee or any employee organization from negotiating or attempting to negotiate directly with a member of the governing board of a public employer if the public employer has appointed or authorized a bargaining representative for the purpose of bargaining with the public employees or their representative to Code section 20.17. The division decreases the amount of time before an employee organization decertified as the exclusive representative of a bargaining unit for violating an injunction against an unlawful strike can be certified again from 24 months to 12 months. The division strikes language prohibiting voluntary contributions by individuals to political parties or candidates through payroll deductions. The division strikes a requirement that a copy of a final collective bargaining agreement be filed with the EAB by the public employer within 10 days of the agreement being entered into. The division strikes a requirement that the EAB maintain an internet site that allows searchable access to a database of collective bargaining agreements and other collective bargaining information. The division changes the period before retirement for a prohibited voluntary reduction to a nonsupervisory rank or grade by a supervisor and related ineligibility for benefits from 36 months to 6 months. The division strikes language providing that a mediator shall not be required to testify in any arbitration proceeding regarding any matters occurring in the course of a mediation. The division requires a council, board of waterworks, or other board or commission which establishes a pension and annuity retirement system pursuant to Code chapter 412 to negotiate in good faith with a certified employee organization which is the collective bargaining representative of the employees, with respect to the amount or rate of the assessment on the wages and salaries of employees and the method or methods for payment of the assessment by the employees. The division makes additional conforming changes. TRANSITION PROVISIONS —— DEADLINE. The division requires parties, mediators, and arbitrators engaging in any collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20, Code 2025, who have not, before the effective date of the division, completed such procedures, to immediately terminate any such procedures in process as of the effective date of the division. The division provides that a collective bargaining agreement negotiated pursuant to such procedures in process shall not become effective. The division prohibits parties, mediators, and arbitrators from engaging in further collective bargaining procedures except as provided in the division. The division requires such parties to commence collective bargaining in accordance with Code section 20.17, as amended by the division. The division requires such parties to complete such bargaining not later than June 30, 2025, unless the parties mutually agree to a different deadline. The division requires the EAB to adopt emergency rules to implement these requirements. The division also requires the department of administrative services to adopt emergency rules to implement the provisions of the division relating to dues deductions. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. With the exception of the section of the division amending Code section 20.6, subsection 1, the division does not apply to collective bargaining agreements which have been ratified in a ratification election, for which an arbitrator has made a final determination, or which have become effective, when such events occurred before the effective date of the division. The division applies to all collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20 occurring on and after the effective date of the division and collective bargaining agreements for which a ratification election is held, for which an arbitrator makes a final determination, or which become effective on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION II —— EDUCATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. This division makes a variety of changes relating to educator employment matters. TERMINATION OF TEACHER EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS. The division makes various changes relating to the termination of teacher employment contracts. The division shortens various procedural deadlines regarding private hearings held after a superintendent recommends termination of a teacher’s employment contract. The division makes participation in such a private hearing by the superintendent, the superintendent’s designated representatives, the teacher’s immediate supervisor, the teacher, and the teacher’s representatives mandatory on the part of those individuals instead of discretionary. The division requires that the school board employ a certified shorthand reporter to keep a record of a private hearing. The division requires the school board to issue subpoenas for witnesses and evidence on behalf of the board and the teacher. The division provides for a judicial remedy if a witness appears and refuses to testify or to produce required books or papers at a private hearing. The division authorizes the superintendent and the teacher to file written briefs and arguments with the board at the conclusion of the private hearing. The division provides deadlines for determining the status of the teacher’s contract if the teacher does not request a private hearing. The division requires that the decision of the board include findings of fact and conclusions of law. The division strikes language authorizing a school board which votes to continue a teacher’s contract to issue the teacher a one-year, nonrenewable contract. The division permits a teacher to appeal the board’s determination to an adjudicator and provides procedures for such appeals. TEACHER PROBATIONARY PERIODS. The division makes various changes relating to probationary employment of teachers. The division decreases from two years to one year the length of a teacher’s probationary employment period in a school district if the teacher has successfully completed a probationary period of employment for another school district located in Iowa. The division provides that requirements for notices of termination, private hearings, and appeals applicable to nonprobationary teachers whose employment contracts are terminated are applicable to probationary teachers whose employment contracts are terminated. The division strikes alternative procedures for the termination of employment contracts of such probationary teachers, including notification procedures and the opportunity to request a private conference with the school board. EXTRACURRICULAR INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC COACH CONTRACTS. The division makes various changes relating to extracurricular interscholastic athletic coach employment contracts. The division provides that wages for such coaches shall be paid pursuant to established or negotiated supplemental pay schedules. The division provides that employment contracts of such coaches shall be continued automatically in force and effect for equivalent periods and that the termination of such contracts follows procedures similar to those used for teacher contracts. The division strikes language providing that employment contracts of such coaches may be terminated prior to their expiration for any lawful reason following an informal, private hearing before the school board. The division strikes language providing that the decision of the school board to terminate such a contract is final. SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. The division makes various changes relating to school administrator employment matters. The division provides that the rate of compensation in an administrator’s employment contract must be on a weekly or monthly basis. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a temporary employment contract to an administrator for a period of up to nine months. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a one-year, nonrenewable employment contract and instead authorizes a school board considering the termination of an administrator’s contract and the administrator to mutually agree to enter into such a contract. The division decreases the probationary employment period for administrators from three years to two years and authorizes a school board to waive the probationary period for an administrator who previously served a probationary period in another school district. The division strikes language providing that a hearing before an administrative law judge requested by an administrator whose employment contract a school board is considering terminating shall be a private hearing. The division reduces certain procedural deadlines relating to such hearings. The division strikes language providing that any witnesses for the parties at the hearing shall be sequestered. The division requires that the decision of the board include findings of fact and conclusions of law. The division strikes language authorizing a school board which votes to continue an administrator’s contract to issue the administrator a one-year, nonrenewable contract. INTENSIVE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS. The division makes various changes relating to intensive assistance programs. The division strikes language providing that a teacher who has previously participated in an intensive assistance program relating to particular Iowa teaching standards or criteria shall not be entitled to participate in another intensive assistance program relating to the same standards or criteria. The division strikes language providing that following a teacher’s participation in an intensive assistance program, the teacher shall be reevaluated to determine whether the teacher successfully completed the intensive assistance program and is meeting district expectations under the applicable Iowa teaching standards or criteria. The division strikes language providing that if the teacher did not successfully complete the intensive assistance program or continues not to meet the applicable Iowa teaching standards or criteria, the board may initiate procedures to terminate the teacher’s employment contract immediately or at the end of the school year or may continue the teacher’s contract for a period not to exceed one year on a nonrenewable basis and without the right to a private hearing. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS RELATING TO EDUCATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a temporary employment contract to a teacher for a period of up to six months. The division strikes language providing that just cause for which a teacher may be discharged at any time during the contract year under Code section 279.27 includes but is not limited to a violation of the code of professional conduct and ethics of the board of educational examiners if the board has taken disciplinary action against a teacher during the six months following issuance by the board of a final written decision and finding of fact after a disciplinary proceeding. The division either authorizes or requires a school board and its certified bargaining representative to negotiate various matters pursuant to Code chapter 20. The division makes additional conforming changes. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to employment contracts of school employees entered into pursuant to Code chapter 279 on and after the effective date of the division. The division does not apply to collective bargaining agreements pursuant to Code chapter 20 which have been ratified in a ratification election, for which an arbitrator has made a final determination, or which have become effective, when such events occurred before the effective date of the division. The division applies to all collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20 occurring on and after the effective date of the division and collective bargaining agreements pursuant to Code chapter 20 for which a ratification election is held, for which an arbitrator makes a final determination, or which become effective on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION III —— PERSONNEL RECORDS AND SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS. This division makes changes relating to public employee personnel records and settlement agreements. PERSONNEL RECORDS. The division strikes language providing that certain information relating to the discipline, resignation, discharge, or demotion of a public employee is a public record and requiring notice to affected employees. PERSONNEL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS. The division also strikes language prohibiting a personnel settlement agreement between the state and a state executive branch employee that contains confidentiality or nondisclosure provisions that attempt to prevent the disclosure of the agreement. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to requests for records submitted on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION IV —— CITY CIVIL SERVICE REQUIREMENTS. This division makes a variety of changes relating to city civil service requirements under Code chapter 400. SENIORITY RIGHTS. The division strikes language permitting a city council to extinguish statutory seniority rights of all city civil service employees who are not employed or appointed as a fire fighter or police officer, fire chief or police chief, or assistant fire chief or assistant police chief, unless otherwise provided in a collective bargaining agreement. The division reestablishes any such rights so extinguished, including accrual of seniority during the period of extinguishment. ADVERSE EMPLOYMENT ACTIONS —— GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES. The division provides that adverse employment action may be taken against a city civil service employee for neglect of duty, disobedience, misconduct, or failure to properly perform the person’s duties. The division strikes language permitting such action to be taken due to any act or failure to act by the employee that is in contravention of law, city policies, or standard operating procedures, or that in the judgment of the person having the appointing power as provided in Code chapter 400, or the chief of police or chief of the fire department, is sufficient to show that the employee is unsuitable or unfit for employment. The division strikes language providing that the scope of review for an appeal to district court from a civil service commission shall be limited to de novo appellate review without a trial or additional evidence, instead providing that the appeal shall be a trial de novo as an equitable action. DIMINUTION OF EMPLOYEES. The division provides that a diminution of city employees by a city council can only be implemented when the public interest requires. The division permits a diminution to be carried out either by abolishing an office and removing the employee from the employee’s classification or grade thereunder, or reducing the number of employees in any classification or grade by suspending the necessary number. The division provides for such removal to be carried out based on seniority and requires that employees so removed be placed on a preferred list for at least three years for purposes of appointments or promotions made during that period to the person’s former duties. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. The division makes changes in terminology relating to adverse employment actions for city civil service employees. The division makes additional conforming changes. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to employment actions taken on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION V —— HEALTH INSURANCE MATTERS. This division strikes a requirement that a public employer shall offer health insurance to all permanent, full-time public employees employed by the public employer. EFFECTIVE DATE. The division takes effect upon enactment.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 02/27/2025
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 11 : Bill Dotzler (D)*, Janet Petersen (D)*, Liz Bennett (D)*, Sarah Trone Garriott (D)*, Molly Donahue (D)*, Cindy Winckler (D)*, Matt Blake (D)*, Thomas Townsend (D)*, Tony Bisignano (D)*, Herman Quirmbach (D)*, Janice Weiner (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/26/2025
• Last Action: Subcommittee: Driscoll, Dotzler, and Schultz. S.J. 393.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
KS bill #SB242 • Last Action 03/03/2025
Requiring that a political subdivision hold an open meeting to discuss a contingency fee contract for legal services before approving such contract and requiring the attorney general to approve such contracts.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new requirements for political subdivisions (such as municipal corporations, boards, commissions, and other government entities) when entering into contingent fee contracts for legal services. The bill mandates that before approving such a contract, the political subdivision must hold an open public meeting where they discuss and disclose specific details, including the reasons for pursuing the legal matter, the qualifications of the selected attorney or law firm, the nature of any existing relationship with the legal team, and why the services cannot be performed in-house or through an hourly rate contract. The governing body must also make written findings justifying the need for the contingent fee contract. Additionally, the bill requires the attorney general to review and approve these contracts within 90 days, with the power to refuse approval based on specific criteria such as legal questions already being addressed by the state or the contract not complying with professional conduct rules. If a political subdivision enters into a contingent fee contract that does not meet these requirements, the attorney general may request dismissal of any related legal proceedings. The bill defines a contingent fee as a payment that depends on the outcome of the legal matter and applies to contracts entered into before and after its implementation, with the provisions set to expire on July 1, 2029.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT concerning contingent fee contracts for legal services; relating to contracts entered into for legal services by a political subdivision; requiring an open meeting before a political subdivision may approve such a contract; requiring the attorney general to approve such contract before it becomes effective.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Senate Hearing: Monday, March 3, 2025, 10:30 AM Room 346-S
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #B26-0087 • Last Action 02/28/2025
Virtual Open Meetings Authority Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2025
Status: Passed
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to provide more flexible guidelines for public meetings in the District of Columbia. Specifically, the bill allows a meeting to be considered "open to the public" if the public body takes reasonable steps to enable public viewing or hearing of the meeting in real-time, or if real-time technological access is not feasible, to provide access as soon as possible afterward. The bill modifies two sections of the existing law to incorporate this new provision, effectively expanding the definition of public access to government meetings. This change appears designed to accommodate potential technological limitations while ensuring transparency by requiring public bodies to make good-faith efforts to allow public observation of meetings. The act is an emergency amendment, which means it will be in effect for a maximum of 90 days, and it requires approval by the Mayor of the District of Columbia (or Council override of a potential mayoral veto) to become active.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: AN ACT IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA To amend, on an emergency basis, the Open Meetings Act to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 02/04/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Act A26-0019 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 002027, Expires on May 26, 2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF1988 • Last Action 02/27/2025
Correspondence in government record retention law correspondence definition; three-year retention period for correspondence establishment
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's government record retention laws by clarifying definitions and establishing a minimum three-year retention period for correspondence. The bill expands the definition of "government records" and specifically defines "correspondence" as any written or electronic text-based communication between government officials that documents agency activities, while excluding personal communications, social event announcements, and unsolicited promotional materials. The legislation requires public agencies to maintain an active records management program and mandates that correspondence records must be retained for at least three years from their creation or receipt. The bill also reinforces existing requirements for public officers to preserve records necessary for a full and accurate understanding of their official activities, allowing for various reproduction methods like digital imaging and microfilming. These changes aim to improve government record keeping practices by providing clearer guidelines on what constitutes official correspondence and ensuring that important communications are preserved for a minimum standard period, which can help with transparency, accountability, and historical documentation of government activities.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; defining correspondence in government record retention law; providing minimum three-year retention period for correspondence; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 15.17, subdivisions 1, 2; 138.17, subdivisions 1, 7.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Mark Koran (R)*, Warren Limmer (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/26/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF57 • Last Action 02/27/2025
Interagency group meeting requirement to be open to the public
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Minnesota's data practices laws to require that meetings of interagency groups of state employees making recommendations about permitting decisions must be open to the public, similar to other government body meetings. Specifically, the bill adds interagency groups to the existing statutes that mandate public meeting transparency, ensuring that these groups' discussions and decision-making processes are conducted in a manner accessible to the public. The changes require that votes taken by these interagency groups be recorded in a journal or minutes, just like other government bodies, and that these meetings must allow public attendance. The bill applies to state agencies, boards, commissions, departments, and now explicitly includes interagency groups that provide recommendations on permitting decisions. The effective date for these changes is the day following final enactment, meaning the new transparency requirements will take effect immediately after the bill becomes law.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; requiring interagency group meetings to be open to the public; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13D.01, subdivisions 1, 4; 13D.015, subdivision 1.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 2 : Steve Green (R)*, Rich Draheim (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Author added Draheim
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR1698 • Last Action 02/27/2025
Law Enforcement Protection and Privacy Act of 2025
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill provides new legal protections and penalties related to firearm trace data maintained by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). Specifically, the bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to exempt the Firearm Trace System database from public disclosure, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information about firearms. The legislation establishes significant financial penalties for state, local, tribal, or foreign entities that improperly disclose protected firearm trace information, with fines ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 per disclosure and potential loss of access to such information for one year after multiple violations. Additionally, the bill creates a private right of action for licensed firearms entities that are adversely affected by unauthorized disclosures, allowing them to sue for damages up to triple their actual losses or $25,000 per disclosure, plus potential punitive damages and attorney's fees. The bill defines "protected information" as contents of the ATF's Firearms Trace System database and specific reporting and record-keeping information related to firearms licensees. By providing these robust legal mechanisms, the bill aims to enhance privacy protections and prevent misuse of sensitive firearms-related data while offering multiple enforcement routes for potential violations.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To provide accountability for unlawful disclosures of firearm trace data in the Firearms Trace System database, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/28/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 25 : Clay Higgins (R)*, Randy Weber (R), Brian Babin (R), Derek Schmidt (R), Chuck Fleischmann (R), Mike Collins (R), Brandon Gill (R), John Rutherford (R), Andy Harris (R), Mark Messmer (R), Barry Moore (R), Rudy Yakym (R), Pete Sessions (R), Dan Crenshaw (R), Diana Harshbarger (R), Scott DesJarlais (R), Nick Langworthy (R), Max Miller (R), Ronny Jackson (R), Troy Nehls (R), Mike Rogers (R), Brian Jack (R), Glenn Grothman (R), Lance Gooden (R), Claudia Tenney (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/19/2025
• Last Action: Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF428 • Last Action 02/27/2025
Correspondence in government record retention law defined, and minimum three-year retention period for correspondence provided.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill clarifies and strengthens government record retention laws in Minnesota by defining correspondence and establishing a minimum three-year retention period for such records. Specifically, the bill amends existing statutes to define "correspondence" as any written or electronic text-based communication between government officials that documents events, decisions, business, and functions of an agency, while explicitly excluding purely personal communications, social event announcements, and unrelated promotional materials. The bill requires public officers and agencies to preserve government records necessary for a full and accurate knowledge of their activities, and mandates that correspondence records must be kept for at least three years from their creation or receipt. The legislation empowers public officers to reproduce records using various methods like photographic, digital, or optical imaging systems, ensuring that these reproductions are legally equivalent to original documents. Additionally, the bill maintains the existing Records Disposition Panel's authority to direct the destruction, preservation, or reproduction of government records, while providing a more precise framework for managing and retaining official communications across state and local government entities.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; defining correspondence in government record retention law; providing minimum three-year retention period for correspondence; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 15.17, subdivisions 1, 2; 138.17, subdivisions 1, 7.
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• Introduced: 02/13/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Peggy Scott (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/11/2025
• Last Action: Hearing (10:15:00 2/27/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0093 • Last Action 02/27/2025
An act relating to consumer data privacy
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Vermont Data Privacy Act, a comprehensive consumer data privacy law that provides Vermonters with significant protections and rights regarding their personal data. The bill applies to businesses that process personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or 25,000 consumers with over 25% of gross revenue from data sales. Consumers are granted several key rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being processed, access and correct their data, delete their personal data, obtain a copy of their data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain automated profiling. Controllers (businesses handling personal data) must obtain consent for processing sensitive data, limit data collection, maintain data security, and provide clear privacy notices. The bill includes special provisions for consumer health data, prohibiting actions like using geofences near health facilities to track consumers and selling health data without consent. Enforcement is exclusively handled by the Attorney General, with a temporary cure period from July 2025 to December 2026 that allows businesses to address violations before potential legal action. Notably, the bill does not create a private right of action for consumers. The law will take effect on July 1, 2026, giving businesses time to prepare for compliance with these new data privacy requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to provide data privacy protections to Vermonters.
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• Introduced: 02/27/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 5 : Thomas Chittenden (D)*, Scott Beck (R), Ann Cummings (D), Christopher Mattos (R), Kesha Ram Hinsdale (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/26/2025
• Last Action: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3189 • Last Action 02/26/2025
Local government meeting agendas
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends South Carolina state law by adding a new provision that gives members of school district boards, municipal councils, and county councils the right to place items on the meeting agenda of the board or council they serve on. Under this legislation, these members can request agenda items without needing approval from other governing body members, and such items must be included on the agenda if they comply with the Freedom of Information Act's notice requirements. If a requested item is not placed on the agenda, the member is entitled to a three-minute period of personal privilege during the meeting to publicly address the omission, with additional three-minute periods for each unreasonably excluded item. Importantly, these periods of personal privilege must occur before the meeting can be lawfully adjourned, and any motion to adjourn before these periods take place would be considered invalid. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor, and aims to enhance transparency and individual member participation in local government meetings.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 6-1-165 So As To Provide School District Board, Municipal Council, And County Council Members Are Entitled To Place Items On The Agenda Of Any Public Meeting Of The Board Or Council On Which They Serve, To Provide Such Requested Items Must Be Placed On The Agenda If Otherwise In Compliance With Freedom Of Information Act Notice Requirements, To Provide The Member Is Entitled To Periods Of Personal Privilege To Address Any Failures To Place Items On The Agenda, And To Provide Such Periods Of Personal Privilege Must Occur Before The Meeting May Be Adjourned.
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• Introduced: 12/09/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : John King (D)*, Jay Kilmartin (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 12/05/2024
• Last Action: Member(s) request name added as sponsor: Kilmartin
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3200 • Last Action 02/26/2025
School board meeting transparency
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires public school governing bodies, including charter and special schools, to make their meetings accessible to the public through live electronic transmission, such as livestreaming, with some flexibility for challenging circumstances. The legislation mandates that if a live stream is not possible, a complete audio and video recording must be posted on the school's website within two business days. The State Board of Education will develop a model policy that outlines best practices for livestreaming, including guidelines for making meetings visible and audible in real time, strategies for implementing livestream technology, and methods for publicizing stream availability. School boards must adopt local policies that mirror the state model within three months of its creation, and these policies cannot prevent in-person public participation. The bill includes provisions for schools with limited broadband access to request additional time to comply, and establishes potential penalties for non-compliance of up to one percent of state funds, with penalties varying based on the severity and frequency of violations. The new requirements must be implemented by July 1, 2027, and the act will take effect upon the Governor's approval, with the goal of increasing transparency in public school governance.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 59-19-85 So As To Promote Public Access To School Board Meetings By Requiring School Boards To Adopt And Implement Policies That Provide Live Electronic Transmission Of Such Meetings, To Extend Applicability Of These Provisions To The Governing Bodies Of Charter Schools And Special Schools, To Provide Flexibility In Certain Circumstances, And To Provide Related Requirements Of The State Board Of Education; And To Provide The Provisions Of This Act Must Be Implemented Before July 1, 2027.
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• Introduced: 12/09/2024
• Added: 12/10/2024
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 17 : Shannon Erickson (R)*, Murrell Smith (R), Brandon Newton (R), Chris Wooten (R), Robby Robbins (R), Cody Mitchell (R), Tommy Pope (R), David Martin (R), Fawn Pedalino (R), Bill Chumley (R), Weston Newton (R), Bill Taylor (R), Hamilton Grant (D), Steven Long (R), Sarita Edgerton (R), Heather Crawford (R), Val Guest (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 12/05/2024
• Last Action: Member(s) request name added as sponsor: Crawford, Guest
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF1578 • Last Action 02/26/2025
Public dissemination of personal information about county attorneys and employees in county attorney offices restricted.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Minnesota law to expand protections for personal information of county attorneys and their office employees, adding them to the list of judicial officials whose personal details are safeguarded from public dissemination. Specifically, the bill modifies the definition of "judicial official" to include county attorneys and their staff, ensuring their residential addresses, non-work contact information, children's names, and details about their children's schools or childcare facilities cannot be publicly shared. The law defines "personal information" as specific private details that could potentially compromise the safety or privacy of judicial officials and their families. The bill maintains existing provisions that allow "publicly available information" to remain accessible, which includes details lawfully available through government records or widely distributed media. This modification aims to protect county attorneys and their employees from potential risks associated with the public disclosure of sensitive personal information, extending privacy protections already afforded to other judicial branch employees.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to judiciary; restricting public dissemination of personal information about county attorneys and employees in county attorney offices; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 480.40, subdivision 1.
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• Introduced: 02/26/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Cedrick Frazier (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/25/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Judiciary Finance and Civil Law
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1357 • Last Action 02/26/2025
FOIA-ABUSE BY OFFICIAL
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to prevent elected local government officials from abusing public records request processes by using aliases or false identities to intentionally create excessive financial burdens for their local government. The bill defines "unreasonable or excessive costs" as expenses related to fulfilling a public records request that collectively exceed $100,000, including copying fees, labor costs, legal fees, and other processing expenses. If an elected official is found to have submitted a request or series of requests using an alias with the intent to cause significant financial strain, they can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. The bill also establishes a rebuttable presumption that if an alias is discovered, the request was made to intentionally incur excessive costs. Additionally, the bill authorizes local governments to seek reimbursement from officials who violate these provisions and allows the Attorney General to investigate and take legal action against individuals suspected of such misconduct. The primary goal is to prevent deliberate misuse of the public records request system by elected officials seeking to disrupt or financially burden local government operations.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that an elected official of a unit of local government shall not use an alias, false identity, or any other deceptive means to submit a request for public records under the Act if the intent of the request is to cause the unit of local government to incur unreasonable or excessive costs. Sets forth penalties for a violation of this prohibition. Provides that, if an elected official of a unit of local government submits a request or series of requests resulting in unreasonable or excessive costs and if the use of an alias or false identity is discovered, then there is a rebuttable presumption that the request or requests were made to cause the unit of local government to incur unreasonable or excessive costs. Authorizes a unit of local government to seek reimbursement from elected officials who violate this requirement. Authorizes the Attorney General, in coordination with units of local government, to investigate alleged violations and to take appropriate legal action against persons it alleges to have committed violations.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Hastings (D)*, Paul Faraci (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/28/2025
• Last Action: Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Paul Faraci
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
GA bill #HB368 • Last Action 02/25/2025
De-escalation Right To Know Law; enact
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the "De-escalation Right To Know Law," requires law enforcement officers conducting a traffic stop to provide the driver with the purpose of the stop and the suspected traffic law violation, but only after the driver has first shown their driver's license. Specifically, the bill adds a new section to Georgia's motor vehicle code that mandates officers verbally explain the reason for pulling a vehicle over if the driver requests such information. The law includes an important caveat that an officer's failure to provide this explanation will not invalidate an arrest or prevent the issuance of a traffic citation, which means the provision does not create a legal loophole for challenging traffic stops. The bill aims to increase transparency during traffic stops by ensuring drivers understand why they have been stopped, potentially helping to reduce tension and promote clearer communication between law enforcement and citizens during these encounters. The new provision applies to traffic-related offenses and is designed to give drivers more information about the purpose of a stop at the time it occurs.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT To amend Article 1 of Chapter 1 of Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to general provisions relative to identification and regulation of motor vehicles, so as to require a law enforcement officer making a traffic stop to provide the operator with the purpose of the stop upon request after such operator displays his or her driver's license; to provide for a short title; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Dexter Sharper (D)*, Bill Hitchens (R)*, Eddie Lumsden (R)*, Yasmin Neal (D)*, Terry Cummings (D)*, Eric Bell (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/11/2025
• Last Action: House Motor Vehicles (08:00:00 2/25/2025 606 CLOB)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0335 • Last Action 02/25/2025
An act relating to payroll records of workers on State construction projects
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires employers and subcontractors working on state construction projects to maintain detailed payroll records that include specific employee information such as name, address, hours worked, wages, pay rate, and job classification. Specifically, these records must be submitted weekly to the state agency overseeing the construction project, accompanied by a signed statement verifying the records' accuracy. Employers and subcontractors must preserve these records for three years after project completion and make them available for inspection by the Commissioner of Labor or the Attorney General at any reasonable time. Additionally, these records will be subject to public inspection and copying under the Vermont Public Records Act (1 V.S.A. §§ 315-320). The bill notably excludes maintenance or construction projects carried out by the Agency of Transportation and the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation from these requirements. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, providing employers time to prepare for the new recordkeeping obligations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill proposes to require employers and subcontractors working on State construction projects to maintain accurate payroll records, to preserve the records for three years, and to open the records for inspection by the Commissioner of Labor or the Attorney General. This bill also proposes that the payroll records be subject to public inspection and copying under the Vermont Public Records Act.
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• Introduced: 02/24/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Kate Logan (D)*, Conor Casey (D), Brian Cina (D), Esme Cole (D), Mari Cordes (D), Troy Headrick (D), Jay Hooper (D), Kate McCann (D), Jubilee McGill (D), Monique Priestley (D), Chloe Tomlinson (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/24/2025
• Last Action: Read first time and referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB664 • Last Action 02/25/2025
Construction Industries Board; modifying eligibility of certain educational institutions to enter into certain contracts. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the powers and responsibilities of the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board regarding educational contracts and workforce development in the skilled trades. Specifically, the bill expands the Board's ability to enter into contracts with various educational institutions, including state-accredited vocational schools, technical schools, and educational systems that offer courses in electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or roofing trades. The bill allows these contracts to focus on developing instructional courses about Oklahoma trade regulations, implementing workforce development programs, and creating public awareness about skilled trade careers. The legislation also establishes detailed guidelines for how these contracts are approved, funded, and evaluated, including requirements that recipients provide comprehensive reports detailing how funds were used and the outcomes achieved. The contracts will be funded through a Skilled Trade Education and Workforce Development Fund, which will receive transfers from existing revolving funds generated by administrative fines in various trade-related licensing areas. Importantly, the bill provides specific mechanisms for transferring and managing these funds, ensuring they are used exclusively for trade-related education and workforce development purposes. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Construction Industries Board; amending 59 O.S. 2021, Section 1000.4a, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 185, O.S.L. 2023 (59 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 1000.4a), which relates to additional powers of the Board; modifying eligibility of certain educational institutions to enter into certain contracts; updating statutory language; updating statutory references; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 01/15/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Kristen Thompson (R)*, Judd Strom (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Senate Economic Development, Workforce and Tourism REVISED Hearing (13:30:00 2/25/2025 Room 535)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB188 • Last Action 02/25/2025
A bill for an act relating to the examination of confidential records by the general assembly.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill establishes a process for members, agencies, or committees of the general assembly to access confidential public records for legislative purposes, requiring government bodies to provide these records upon request if the requestor states a legislative purpose. While allowing government bodies to impose confidentiality agreements to prevent disclosure outside the requesting entity, ensure secure handling, and control copies, the bill also permits requestors to ask the Attorney General to determine if a record is truly confidential, with a 45-business-day deadline for a written decision and an appeal process to the district court. Importantly, any confidentiality agreement is voided for records ultimately deemed not confidential, and disclosure under this bill does not waive the record's confidential status under other laws or future disclosure rights.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill relates to the examination of confidential records by members, agencies, and committees of the general assembly. The bill requires a government body to provide a public record, including a confidential record, to a member, agency, or committee of the general assembly for inspection or duplication if the requestor states that the record is being requested for legislative purposes. The bill allows a government body to require a requestor to sign a confidentiality agreement that the confidential record not be disclosed outside the requesting entity, or within the requesting entity for purposes other than the purpose for which it was received, that the confidential record be labeled as confidential, that the confidential record be kept securely, or that copies of and notes relating to the confidential record be controlled. The bill allows a requestor who is required to sign a confidentiality agreement to request that the attorney general make a determination as to whether the subject of the confidentiality agreement is a confidential record. The bill requires the attorney general to adopt rules to establish deadlines and procedures for receiving information relating to the determination and to issue a written decision regarding whether the public record is a confidential record within 45 business days of receipt of the request. The bill allows a person to appeal the decision of the attorney general to the district court of Polk county. The bill voids a confidentiality agreement signed pursuant to the bill to the extent that it covers a record that is ultimately found to not be a confidential record. H.F. _____ The disclosure of a confidential record to a member, agency, or committee of the general assembly pursuant to the bill does not waive or affect the confidentiality of the information for purposes of state or federal law or waive the right to assert exceptions to required disclosure of the information in the future. By operation of law, civil enforcement provisions (Code section 22.10) apply to government bodies acting in violation of the bill.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : Judiciary
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 02/17/2025
• Last Action: House Judiciary Committee (10:30:00 2/25/2025 RM 103)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR1535 • Last Action 02/24/2025
BAD DOGE Act Bolstering America’s Democracy and Demanding Oversight and Government Ethics Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill seeks to repeal President Donald Trump's January 20, 2025 Executive Order establishing the "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE) due to significant alleged overreach and constitutional violations. The bill highlights that the United States DOGE Service (USDS) and its Temporary Organization (USDSTO), reportedly led by Elon Musk without proper appointment or oversight, have taken unauthorized actions including freezing federal payments, accessing personnel records from the Office of Personnel Management, controlling Treasury payment systems, locking federal employees out of computer systems, offering employee buyouts, and attempting to terminate federal agencies without congressional approval. These actions are characterized as potential violations of multiple constitutional provisions, including Separation of Powers and the Spending Clause, as well as numerous federal statutes such as the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act, the Anti-Deficiency Act, and the Privacy Act. The bill, officially named the "Bolstering America's Democracy and Demanding Oversight and Government Ethics Act" (BAD DOGE Act), would completely nullify the original executive order, rendering it without legal force or effect.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A BILL To repeal President Donald Trump’s January 20, 2025, Executive Order titled ‘‘Establishing and Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ ’’, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 02/25/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 9 : Dave Min (D)*, Melanie Stansbury (D), Yassamin Ansari (D), Ayanna Pressley (D), Jasmine Crockett (D), Andrea Salinas (D), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), Shri Thanedar (D), Kevin Mullin (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/20/2025
• Last Action: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF1822 • Last Action 02/24/2025
Portable recording system data on certain elected officials made public provision
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's data practices law regarding portable recording systems (body cameras) used by law enforcement, specifically expanding public access to certain recording data. The bill creates a new provision that makes portable recording system data on elected officials who are charged with a felony public 14 days after a criminal complaint is filed. It maintains existing provisions that already make certain body camera footage public, such as recordings documenting a peace officer discharging a firearm or using force resulting in substantial bodily harm. The bill also preserves existing rules about data access for next of kin when an individual dies due to an officer's use of force, allowing them to request and inspect redacted body camera footage within five days. Additionally, the legislation allows law enforcement agencies to redact data that might be offensive to common sensibilities and provides a mechanism for individuals to challenge data classification or redaction through district court. The new provisions are designed to increase transparency in law enforcement recordings, particularly in cases involving elected officials accused of serious crimes, while still maintaining some protections for privacy and ongoing investigations. The bill becomes effective the day after final enactment.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to data practices; making portable recording system data on certain elected officials public; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 13.825, subdivision 2.
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• Introduced: 02/21/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Rich Draheim (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/21/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Judiciary and Public Safety
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB554 • Last Action 02/20/2025
Public Information Act - Frivolous, Vexatious, or Abusive Requests - Remedies
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Maryland's Public Information Act (PIA) to provide clearer procedures for addressing frivolous, vexatious, or abusive public records requests. The bill expands the powers of the State Public Information Act Compliance Board, allowing it to receive and review complaints from record custodians about requestors who submit requests that are considered burdensome or made in bad faith. The Board can now issue orders that allow custodians to ignore specific requests or future requests on similar topics, respond to a less demanding version of the request, or take other appropriate actions. The bill also allows both custodians and requestors to file complaints with the Board or circuit court, and provides a pathway for appealing the Board's decisions. A key innovation is that the Board can now dismiss complaints it considers frivolous before even requesting a response. The legislation aims to balance the public's right to access government information with protecting government agencies from overwhelming or harassing records requests. The changes will take effect on October 1, 2025, giving state and local agencies time to prepare for the new procedures.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Authorizing the custodian of a record to file a certain complaint relating to a Public Information Act request or pattern of requests with the Public Information Act Compliance Board or circuit court; authorizing the Compliance Board to issue a certain order or dismiss a complaint under certain circumstances; authorizing a complainant to appeal a certain decision of the Compliance Board; and authorizing the circuit court to issue a certain order under certain circumstances.
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• Introduced: 01/24/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Education, Energy, and the Environment
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/24/2025
• Last Action: Senate Education, Energy, and the Environment Hearing (13:00:00 2/20/2025 )
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF1235 • Last Action 02/20/2025
Statewide voter registration system data classified.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's laws regarding voter registration data classification and access, enhancing privacy protections for voters while maintaining public access to certain voter information. The bill establishes that most data in the statewide voter registration system will remain public, but introduces specific privacy protections for sensitive personal information such as date of birth, driver's license numbers, Social Security numbers, and identification card numbers, which will now be classified as private data. The legislation allows voters to request that their name be withheld from public lists if they can demonstrate a safety concern, and it maintains provisions for political parties to receive lists of voters who participated in presidential primaries. The bill also restricts how public voter information can be used, prohibiting internet publication of voter lists, selling or loaning voter data, and requiring individuals requesting voter data to affirm they will only use the information for elections, political activities, or law enforcement purposes. Additionally, the bill repeals previously existing provisions about registered voter lists and requires that anyone requesting public voter data must provide written assurance about the intended use of the information, with the new regulations taking effect the day after final enactment.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to elections; classifying data in the statewide voter registration system; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.607, by adding a subdivision; 201.022, by adding a subdivision; 201.091, subdivisions 4, 4a, by adding a subdivision; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.607, subdivision 6; 201.091, subdivision 9.
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• Introduced: 02/20/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Duane Quam (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/19/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Elections Finance and Government Operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB914 • Last Action 02/20/2025
Water and water rights; creating the Oklahoma Regional Water District Act; requiring development and coordination of certain districts for promulgation of regional water plans. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Oklahoma Regional Water District Act, which directs the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to designate geographic areas as regional water districts by July 1, 2026. These districts will be responsible for developing comprehensive regional water plans that address water resource management, conservation, and drought preparedness. The bill requires the Board to consider factors like river basins, water utility patterns, and local characteristics when establishing district boundaries. Each regional water district must create a plan that provides strategies for water management during different flow conditions, considers existing water planning efforts, explores water management strategies, and protects existing water rights. The districts must include representatives from various stakeholder groups such as counties, municipalities, industries, agricultural interests, and environmental organizations. The bill also amends existing statutes to incorporate these regional water districts into the state's comprehensive water planning process, ensuring that future updates to the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan will account for the regional water districts' input. The new framework aims to ensure sufficient water availability, support economic development, and protect public health and natural resources. The act will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving the state time to establish the regional water districts and develop their initial planning processes.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to water and water rights; creating the Oklahoma Regional Water District Act; providing short title; directing the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to designate certain districts by certain date; specifying terms for designation; directing initial development and coordination of certain districts; requiring development of regional water plans; specifying contents of plans; directing rule promulgation; requiring notice and hearing subject to certain requirements; providing for conflict resolution under certain circumstances; directing report submission; requiring Board to seek financial assistance from certain entities; providing for contractual agreements between Board and political subdivisions; amending 82 O.S. 2021, Section 1086.2, which relates to the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan; conforming language; amending Section 1, Chapter 268, O.S.L. 2023 (82 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 1086.7), which relates to the Oklahoma Flood and Drought Management Task Force; conforming language; amending 82 O.S. 2021, Section 1623, which relates to the state flood plan; conforming language; updating statutory language; providing for noncodification; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Brent Howard (R)*, Carl Newton (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative Newton (principal House author)
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF1213 • Last Action 02/19/2025
Member access to cooperative documents and meetings improved, and electronic voting and voting by mail for cooperative board directors required.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill improves transparency and member participation in electric cooperatives by introducing several key provisions. It requires board meetings to be open to all members, with provisions for closing meetings only under specific, limited circumstances, and mandates that meetings can be attended remotely via the internet. The bill also requires cooperatives to maintain a comprehensive website with accessible documents including bylaws, meeting minutes, financial statements, and election information. Members will now have the right to access the cooperative's membership list for legitimate purposes, with safeguards against commercial misuse. The legislation introduces new nomination procedures allowing candidates to be nominated by petition signed by at least 40 members, and mandates that cooperatives implement secure electronic and mail-in voting systems for board elections, ensuring ballot secrecy. Additionally, the bill requires annual notification of members' capital credit allocations and mandates that cooperatives respond to member inquiries about their cumulative capital credits within 45 days. These changes aim to increase member engagement, transparency, and democratic participation in electric cooperative governance, with most provisions becoming effective immediately and electronic voting requirements applying to board elections from September 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to electric cooperatives; improving member access to cooperative documents and meetings; requiring electronic voting and voting by mail for cooperative board directors; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 308A.327.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 02/19/2025
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Rick Hansen (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/19/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Energy Finance and Policy
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SSB1085 • Last Action 02/19/2025
A bill for an act relating to the filing of complaints with the Iowa public information board.(See SF 386.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill, which amends Section 23.7 of Iowa Code, extends the timeframe for filing complaints with the Iowa Public Information Board (IPIB) from 60 days to 90 days after an alleged violation of Iowa's open meetings (Chapter 21) or open records (Chapter 22) laws occurs, or after the person filing the complaint reasonably could have discovered the violation. The IPIB is the state agency responsible for overseeing compliance with these laws, which ensure that government meetings are open to the public and that public records are accessible.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill provides that a person has 90 days, rather than 60 days under current law, to file a complaint with the Iowa public information board after an alleged violation of Code chapter 21 (open meetings) or Code chapter 22 (open records) occurred or the complainant could have become aware of the alleged violation.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 386.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SSB1086 • Last Action 02/19/2025
A bill for an act relating to public records requests.(See SF 389.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill aims to improve the process for requesting public records by requiring the official in charge of those records, known as the "lawful custodian," to take specific actions upon receiving a request. The bill mandates that the lawful custodian must promptly acknowledge the request, provide the contact details of the person authorized to handle it, and give an estimated date for when a response or the requested records will be provided, along with an estimate of any reasonable fees involved. Additionally, the lawful custodian must inform the requester of any anticipated delays in producing the public record. The bill also clarifies that "promptly" means making reasonable, good-faith efforts to respond, considering the circumstances.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill provides that upon receipt of a public records request, the lawful custodian shall (1) promptly, as defined in the bill, acknowledge the request and provide the contact information of the lawful custodian’s authorized designee, (2) provide an approximate date for a response and an estimate of any reasonable fees associated with the request, and (3) inform the requester of any expected delay in production of the public record.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 389.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SSB1087 • Last Action 02/19/2025
A bill for an act relating to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body.(See SF 388.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill updates public notice requirements for meetings of governmental bodies, which are official groups that make decisions for the public. The bill mandates that when a governmental body announces a meeting, it must now inform news organizations that have requested such notices, post the announcement in a highly visible and easily accessible location that the body designates each year and ensure it's always visible, and also post it on any relevant internet site. If a meeting's agenda is changed after it's been posted, the updated agenda must be clearly marked as "AMENDED," the changes highlighted, and new notice provided. Furthermore, if a meeting is canceled, the governmental body must give notice of the cancellation at least 24 hours beforehand, or as soon as possible if there's a valid reason why that's not feasible. This bill also clarifies that electronic meetings, which allow officials to meet remotely, must follow these same public notice rules, and these updated notice requirements will also apply to announcements for public appointments and employment decisions that give preference to veterans, as well as agreements for sharing entire school grades between districts.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill relates to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body. The bill requires the act of giving notice of a meeting of a governmental body to include (1) advising the news media who have filed a request for notice with the governmental body as provided under current law, (2) posting the notice in a prominent and conspicuous place that is designated annually by the governmental body, in a manner such that the notice is visible at all times, and (3) posting the notice on any associated internet site as specified in the bill. If a tentative agenda has been posted and is amended, the amended agenda shall be marked “AMENDED”, the amended provisions identified, and a new notice provided. The bill requires a governmental body to provide notice if a meeting is canceled. The notice must be given at least 24 hours prior to the start of the meeting or, for good cause shown, as soon as reasonably possible. By operation of law, notice for electronic meetings of governmental bodies as provided in Code section 21.8 (electronic meetings) shall comply with the notice requirements in Code section 21.4 (public notice). In addition, the bill applies to notices for public appointment and employment under Code section 35C.1 (veterans preference —— appointments and employment —— applications) and notices for whole grade sharing agreements under Code section 282.11 (procedure for whole grade sharing agreements).
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 388.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0076 • Last Action 02/19/2025
An act relating to health equity data reporting and registry disclosure requirements
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies reporting requirements and disclosure provisions for health-related registries in Vermont, making several key changes. First, it reduces the frequency of the Department of Health's health equity data reporting from annually to every three years, beginning in 2028. The report will continue to analyze health disparities across various demographic factors such as race, ethnicity, language, sex, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and socioeconomic status. For the cancer registry, the bill updates the requirements for sharing confidential information with researchers and other agencies, now requiring "assurances acceptable to the Commissioner" that identifying information will remain confidential, and specifying that researchers must obtain approval from an institutional review board or privacy board. Similarly, for the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Registry, the bill updates the research approval process, replacing references to "academic committee for the protection of human subjects" with more specific language about institutional review board or privacy board approval. These changes aim to streamline reporting processes and ensure consistent, privacy-protective approaches to sharing sensitive health data. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill proposes to reduce from annually to every three years the submission of a report by the Department of Health analyzing health equity data. It further proposes to amend the disclosure provisions pertaining to the cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis registries.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ginny Lyons (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/18/2025
• Last Action: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Health and Welfare
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0074 • Last Action 02/19/2025
An act relating to the collection, sharing, and selling of consumer health data
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes comprehensive privacy protections for consumer health data in Vermont, establishing the "Vermont My Health My Data Act" with significant new requirements for businesses that collect, use, or share sensitive health information. The legislation defines "consumer health data" broadly to include a wide range of personal health-related information, from medical treatments and diagnoses to reproductive health services and location data. Key provisions require businesses to obtain explicit, informed consent before collecting or sharing consumer health data, provide clear privacy policies, and give consumers the right to access, delete, and withdraw consent for their health data. The bill prohibits selling consumer health data without a separate, signed authorization and makes it unlawful to use geofencing technology near healthcare facilities to track individuals. Businesses must implement robust data security practices, limit employee access to health data, and ensure that any third-party processors adhere to strict guidelines. The law applies to businesses operating in Vermont or targeting Vermont consumers, with some exemptions for certain types of health information and research. Violations will be treated as consumer protection offenses, enforceable by the Attorney General, and the law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, giving businesses time to adjust their data handling practices.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: This bill proposes to regulate the collection, sharing, and selling of consumer health data in Vermont.
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• Introduced: 02/19/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Ginny Lyons (D)*, Martine Gulick (D), Wendy Harrison (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/18/2025
• Last Action: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Health and Welfare
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3212 • Last Action 02/18/2025
LOCAL GOV BANKRUPTCY NEUT EVAL
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Local Government Bankruptcy Neutral Evaluation Act, which establishes a structured alternative process for local government entities facing severe financial challenges before resorting to Chapter 9 bankruptcy. The bill allows a local public entity experiencing financial difficulties to initiate a confidential neutral evaluation process involving creditors, where a specially trained, impartial evaluator helps parties explore alternatives to bankruptcy and potentially negotiate debt restructuring. The neutral evaluation process is time-limited (up to 90 days) and requires good-faith participation from all parties, with the goal of avoiding a formal bankruptcy filing. If the neutral evaluation process fails or the entity's financial condition deteriorates, the local government can declare a fiscal emergency and file for bankruptcy, but only after holding a public hearing and making specific findings about the entity's financial state. The bill also provides protections for the evaluation process, including confidentiality of records and discussions, and creates exemptions in the Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act to support the neutral evaluation process. Importantly, the bill emphasizes that bankruptcy should be a last resort and aims to provide a collaborative, transparent approach to addressing local government financial challenges while minimizing disruption to public services.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Creates the Local Government Bankruptcy Neutral Evaluation Act. Makes legislative findings. Defines terms. Authorizes a local public entity to initiate a neutral evaluation process if that entity is unable to meet its financial obligations. Provides for the selection and qualification of an evaluator, the evaluation process, cessation of an evaluation, declaration of a fiscal emergency, and definition of liabilities. Provides that records prepared for or used in connection with the Local Government Bankruptcy Neutral Evaluation Act are exempt from disclosure. Amends the Open Meetings Act. Provides that a public body may hold closed meetings related to the Local Government Bankruptcy Neutral Evaluation Act. Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Makes conforming changes. Effective immediately.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 02/07/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Steve Reick (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB3152 • Last Action 02/18/2025
GENERAL ASSEMBLY PRIVACY ACT
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the General Assembly Privacy Act, which provides comprehensive protections for Illinois General Assembly members' personal information. The legislation requires government agencies to remove a member's personal information from publicly available content upon receiving a written request, and prohibits persons, businesses, and associations from posting, selling, or trading a member's personal information online if such action could threaten the member or their immediate family's health and safety. "Personal information" is broadly defined to include home addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, social security numbers, and other sensitive data. The bill establishes a strict process for members to request privacy protection, allowing them or their representatives to submit written requests specifying which personal information should be kept private. If a person knowingly posts a member's family's personal information in a way that poses an imminent threat and causes bodily injury or death, they can be charged with a Class 3 felony. The law also provides legal recourse, allowing members to seek injunctive relief and potentially recover legal costs if their personal information is improperly disclosed. Notably, the legislation is designed to be interpreted broadly to maximize protection of members' personal information, reflecting growing concerns about privacy and personal safety for elected officials.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Creates the General Assembly Privacy Act. Provides that government agencies shall not publicly post or display publicly available content that includes a member of the General Assembly's personal information, provided that the government agency has received a written request from the member. Prohibits a person, business, or association from soliciting, selling, or trading on the Internet a members's personal information with the intent to pose an imminent and serious threat to the health and safety of the member's immediate family. Allows for civil damages of not less than $10,000. Makes it a Class 3 felony to knowingly post personal information of the member's immediate family, if the person knows or reasonably should know the posting poses an imminent and serious threat to the health and safety of the member or the member's immediate family, and the posting is a proximate cause of bodily injury or death of the member or the member's immediate family.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : David Friess (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/06/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #S0070 • Last Action 02/18/2025
An act relating to data brokers and personal information
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes comprehensive updates to Vermont's data protection laws, focusing on enhancing consumer privacy and regulating data brokers. The bill introduces several key provisions, including establishing a new mandatory registration system for data brokers, requiring them to register annually with the Secretary of State, pay registration fees, and provide detailed information about their data collection practices. A significant innovative feature is the creation of an accessible deletion mechanism by January 1, 2028, which will allow consumers to request the deletion of their personal information from multiple data brokers through a single, centralized platform. The bill also strengthens notification requirements for data breaches, mandating that data brokers inform consumers and the Attorney General within 45 days of discovering a security breach, with specific details about the incident. Additionally, the legislation requires data brokers to implement credentialing procedures to ensure that personal information is used only for legitimate and legal purposes, and imposes substantial penalties for non-compliance, including daily fines and potential legal actions. The bill aims to provide Vermont residents with greater control over their personal information, increase transparency in data collection practices, and establish robust protections against unauthorized use or disclosure of personal data. The legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving businesses time to prepare for the new requirements.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to add various provisions to Vermont’s laws that protect the personal information of its residents, including requiring data brokers to provide notice of security breaches, to certify that the personal information it discloses will be used for a legitimate purpose, and to delete the personal information of consumers who make such a request through the use of an accessible deletion mechanism.
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• Introduced: 02/18/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 6 : Alison Clarkson (D)*, Wendy Harrison (D), Nader Hashim (D), Joseph Major (D), Tanya Vyhovsky (D), Becca White (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/14/2025
• Last Action: Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #HF986 • Last Action 02/17/2025
Statewide voter registration system data classified.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Minnesota's laws regarding voter registration data classification and access, enhancing privacy protections for voters while maintaining transparency. The bill establishes that most data in the statewide voter registration system will remain public, but introduces specific protections for sensitive personal information. Specifically, private data now includes a voter's date of birth, driver's license number, identification card numbers, military ID numbers, passport numbers, and Social Security number parts. The bill also creates a mechanism for voters to request their names be withheld from public lists if they can demonstrate a safety concern. Additionally, the bill places restrictions on how public voter information can be used, prohibiting internet publication of voter lists and preventing the sale or unauthorized sharing of voter data. Individuals requesting voter data must now sign a written statement confirming they will only use the information for elections, political activities, or law enforcement purposes. The presidential primary political party list will also remain private, with only party chairs receiving information about voters who selected their party. These changes aim to protect voter privacy while maintaining the transparency and accessibility of basic voter registration information.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to elections; classifying data in the statewide voter registration system; amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.607, by adding a subdivision; 201.022, by adding a subdivision; 201.091, subdivisions 4, 4a, by adding a subdivision; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2024, sections 13.607, subdivision 6; 201.091, subdivision 9.
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• Introduced: 02/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : James Gordon (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/14/2025
• Last Action: Introduction and first reading, referred to Elections Finance and Government Operations
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MO bill #SB442 • Last Action 02/17/2025
Provides exemptions for records of certain criminal offenses from public access on statewide court automation systems
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Missouri state law to restrict public access to court records for certain criminal offenses through statewide court automation systems. Specifically, the bill prevents court records related to offenses reportable under section 43.506 (which likely involves specific types of criminal charges) from being publicly available online. However, the bill provides exceptions: these records can be accessed if a member of the public is physically present at the specific courthouse, and they remain accessible to specific professionals such as court personnel, law enforcement agencies, judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and other individuals deemed necessary by the court. The key purpose appears to be limiting broad online accessibility of certain criminal case records while still maintaining access for relevant legal and law enforcement professionals, thus potentially protecting the privacy of individuals involved in these specific types of criminal cases.
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Bill Summary: Provides exemptions for records of certain criminal offenses from public access on statewide court automation systems
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• Introduced: 12/03/2024
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Curtis Trent (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 12/06/2024
• Last Action: Second Read and Referred S Judiciary and Civil and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #PR26-0052 • Last Action 02/14/2025
Virtual Open Meetings Authority Extension Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2025
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This emergency resolution extends the District of Columbia's authority for public bodies to hold virtual meetings, originally implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, to prevent a gap in legal coverage after the expiration of previous temporary legislation. The resolution notes that since 2020, virtual meeting authorization has provided public bodies flexibility and increased meeting access for residents, including seniors, individuals with mobility issues, caregivers, and immunocompromised persons. Specifically, it references previous emergency legislation (the Virtual Open Meetings Authority Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2024) that expired on July 14, 2024, and a temporary act passed on May 7, 2024, which is set to expire on March 1, 2025. By declaring an emergency, the Council aims to quickly adopt new legislation that allows public meetings to be considered "open" if the public body takes reasonable steps to allow residents to view or hear the meeting either during the meeting or as soon as technologically feasible afterward, thus maintaining the accessibility and continuity of government operations that was established during the pandemic.
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Bill Summary: February 4, 2025 To declare the existence of an emergency with respect to the need to amend the Open Meetings Act to provide that a meeting shall be deemed open to the public if the public body takes steps reasonably calculated to allow the public to view or hear the meeting while the meeting is taking place, or, if doing so is not technologically feasible, as soon thereafter as reasonably practicable.
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• Introduced: 02/03/2025
• Added: 02/04/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Resolution R26-0036, Effective from Feb 04, 2025 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 001466
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
DC bill #PR26-0001 • Last Action 02/14/2025
Rules of Organization and Procedure for the Council of the District of Columbia, Council Period 26, Resolution of 2025
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This resolution establishes the Rules of Organization and Procedure for the Council of the District of Columbia for Council Period 26, which begins on January 2, 2025. The resolution comprises three key components: rules for the Council's organization and procedures, a Code of Official Conduct for Council members and staff, and a Sexual Harassment Policy. The rules outline the Council's structure, including committee membership, legislative processes, hearing procedures, and ethical guidelines. The Code of Official Conduct provides comprehensive guidelines for ethical behavior, covering areas such as conflicts of interest, use of government resources, and political activities. The Sexual Harassment Policy establishes a detailed framework for preventing, reporting, and addressing sexual harassment, including multiple reporting channels, investigation procedures, and protections for both complainants and those accused. The resolution aims to ensure transparency, professionalism, and accountability within the Council, with specific provisions for handling various ethical and procedural matters while protecting the rights of all individuals involved.
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Bill Summary: January 2, 2025 To provide rules of organization and procedure for the Council of the District of Columbia, a Code of Official Conduct for the Council of the District of Columbia, and a Sexual Harassment Policy for the Council of the District of Columbia during Council Period 26.
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• Introduced: 01/02/2025
• Added: 01/03/2025
• Session: 26th Council
• Sponsors: 1 : Phil Mendelson (D)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 3 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/02/2025
• Last Action: Resolution R26-0001, Effective from Jan 02, 2025 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 001289
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB76 • Last Action 02/13/2025
A bill for an act relating to public records requests.(See HF 400.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill, building upon existing laws regarding public records, mandates that when a government official, referred to as the "lawful custodian," receives a request for public records, they must promptly acknowledge the request and provide the contact information for the person authorized to handle it. Additionally, the custodian must give the requester an estimated date for when they can expect a response or the records themselves, along with an estimate of any reasonable fees involved, and inform the requester of any anticipated delays in providing the requested information.
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Bill Summary: This bill provides that upon receipt of a public records request, the lawful custodian shall (1) promptly, as defined in the bill, acknowledge the request and provide the contact information of the lawful custodian’s authorized designee, (2) provide an approximate date for a response and an estimate of any reasonable fees associated with the request, and (3) inform the requester of any expected delay in production of the public record.
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 400.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF263 • Last Action 02/12/2025
A bill for an act relating to employment matters involving public employees including collective bargaining, educator employment matters, and city civil service requirements, and including effective date, applicability, and transition provisions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill addresses multiple aspects of employment matters for public employees in Iowa, focusing on collective bargaining, educator employment, and city civil service requirements. The bill essentially reverses several changes made in a 2017 law (House File 291) and restores previous statutory language. Specifically, the bill makes significant modifications to public employee collective bargaining rights, including expanding the scope of negotiable items, changing election procedures for employee organizations, and altering arbitration processes. For educators, the bill adjusts probationary periods, termination procedures, and evaluation standards for teachers and administrators. In the realm of city civil service, the bill reinstates seniority rights for civil service employees and modifies procedures for employee removal, suspension, and appeals. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment and applies to various employment actions and collective bargaining procedures moving forward, with some exceptions for existing agreements and ongoing processes. Overall, the legislation represents a substantial reshaping of public employee workplace regulations in Iowa, primarily rolling back changes implemented in 2017 and providing new frameworks for employee-employer interactions across different sectors of public employment.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to employment matters involving public employees including collective bargaining, educator employment matters, and city civil service requirements. The bill generally strikes statutory changes made by divisions I, II, and VI of 2017 Iowa Acts, House File 291, and restores statutory language in effect prior to the enactment of those divisions of 2017 Iowa Acts, House File 291. DIVISION I —— PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING. This division makes a variety of changes to Code chapter 20, the public employment relations Act, as well as other Code provisions relating to collective bargaining by public employees. ELIMINATION OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND TRANSIT EMPLOYEE CATEGORIES. The division eliminates public safety employees and transit employees as separate categories of employees for the purposes of public employee collective bargaining, making affected provisions of Code chapter 20 applicable to all public employees governed by Code chapter 20. SCOPE OF NEGOTIATIONS. The division makes changes to subjects which are negotiated through collective bargaining between public employers and public employees under Code section 20.9. The division provides that the scope of negotiations for all public employees shall consist of wages, hours, vacations, insurance, holidays, leaves of absence, shift differentials, overtime compensation, supplemental pay, seniority, transfer procedures, job classifications, health and safety matters, evaluation procedures, procedures for staff reduction, in-service training, dues checkoff, grievance procedures for resolving any questions arising under the agreement, and other matters mutually agreed upon. The division provides that retirement systems shall be excluded from the scope of negotiations. The division strikes language providing that mandatory subjects of negotiation under Code section 20.9 shall be interpreted narrowly and restrictively. The division strikes language limiting the term of a collective bargaining agreement entered into pursuant to Code chapter 20 to a maximum of five years. ARBITRATION PROCEDURES. The division makes changes to the procedures for arbitration of impasses in collective bargaining between public employers and public employees under Code section 20.22. The division modifies the factors that an arbitrator is required to consider in addition to any other relevant factors in making a final determination on an impasse item. The division requires an arbitrator to consider past collective bargaining contracts between the parties including the bargaining that led up to such contracts; comparison of wages, hours, and conditions of employment of the involved public employees with those of other public employees doing comparable work, giving consideration to factors peculiar to the area and the classifications involved; the interests and welfare of the public, the ability of the public employer to finance economic adjustments, and the effect of such adjustments on the normal standard of services; and the power of the public employer to levy taxes and appropriate funds for the conduct of its operations. The division strikes language permitting the parties to agree to change the four-day deadline to serve final offers on impasse items after a request for arbitration is received. The division strikes language prohibiting the parties to an arbitration from introducing, and the arbitrator from accepting or considering, any direct or indirect evidence regarding any subject excluded from negotiations pursuant to Code section 20.9. The division strikes language providing for a maximum increase in base wages in an arbitrator’s award. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE ELECTIONS. The division makes changes to public employee elections conducted pursuant to Code section 20.15. The division strikes language providing for retention and recertification elections and requires the employment appeal board (EAB) to cancel any such elections scheduled or in process. The division requires the EAB to consider a petition for certification of an employee organization as the exclusive representative of a bargaining unit for which an employee organization was not retained and recertified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit regardless of the amount of time that has elapsed since the retention and recertification election, notwithstanding prior requirements prohibiting such consideration for two years. The division provides that the outcome of a certification or decertification election is determined by a majority vote of the members of the bargaining unit voting, rather than the total membership of the bargaining unit. The division provides for a runoff election if none of the choices on the ballot in a certification election receives a majority vote of the members of the bargaining unit voting. The division lowers the required percentage of support from employees in a bargaining unit required for an employee organization that did not submit a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit to be listed on the ballot for a certification election from 30 percent to 10 percent. The division strikes language prohibiting the EAB from considering a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit unless a period of two years has elapsed from the date of the last certification election in which an employee organization was not certified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit or of the last decertification election in which an employee organization was decertified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit. The division prohibits the EAB from considering a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit for one year after the employee organization is not certified in a certification election. The division makes additional changes relating to the scheduling of decertification elections. EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION DUES. The division strikes a prohibition on public entities authorizing or administering a deduction from the salaries or wages of its employees for membership dues to an employee organization. The division provides procedures for administering such dues deductions. EAB DUTIES. The division provides that the EAB may interpret and apply, as well as administer, Code chapter 20. The division strikes language permitting the EAB to appoint a certified shorthand reporter to report state employee grievance and discipline resolution proceedings, to contract with a vendor to conduct elections, to establish fees to cover the cost of elections, and to retain certain funds collected by the EAB as repayment receipts. STATEWIDE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS FOLLOWING A GUBERNATORIAL ELECTION YEAR. The division strikes language providing for modified collective bargaining procedures for a proposed, statewide collective bargaining agreement to become effective in the year following a general election in which the governor and certain other elected officials are elected. CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS. The division strikes language providing that certain information relating to elections conducted by the EAB is a confidential record under Code chapter 22, the state open records law. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING. The division strikes a definition of “supplemental pay”. The division strikes language providing that a public employer has the right to evaluate public employees in positions within the public agency. The division strikes language providing that a public employee has the right under Code section 20.8 to exercise any right or seek any remedy provided by law, including but not limited to Code sections 70A.28 and 70A.29, Code chapter 8A, subchapter IV, and Code chapters 216 and 400. The division transfers language in Code section 20.10 prohibiting a public employee or any employee organization from negotiating or attempting to negotiate directly with a member of the governing board of a public employer if the public employer has appointed or authorized a bargaining representative for the purpose of bargaining with the public employees or their representative to Code section 20.17. The division decreases the amount of time before an employee organization decertified as the exclusive representative of a bargaining unit for violating an injunction against an unlawful strike can be certified again from 24 months to 12 months. The division strikes language prohibiting voluntary contributions by individuals to political parties or candidates through payroll deductions. The division strikes a requirement that a copy of a final collective bargaining agreement be filed with the EAB by the public employer within 10 days of the agreement being entered into. The division strikes a requirement that the EAB maintain an internet site that allows searchable access to a database of collective bargaining agreements and other collective bargaining information. The division changes the period before retirement for a prohibited voluntary reduction to a nonsupervisory rank or grade by a supervisor and related ineligibility for benefits from 36 months to 6 months. The division strikes language providing that a mediator shall not be required to testify in any arbitration proceeding regarding any matters occurring in the course of a mediation. The division requires a council, board of waterworks, or other board or commission which establishes a pension and annuity retirement system pursuant to Code chapter 412 to negotiate in good faith with a certified employee organization which is the collective bargaining representative of the employees, with respect to the amount or rate of the assessment on the wages and salaries of employees and the method or methods for payment of the assessment by the employees. The division makes additional conforming changes. TRANSITION PROVISIONS —— DEADLINE. The division requires parties, mediators, and arbitrators engaging in any collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20, Code 2025, who have not, before the effective date of the division, completed such procedures, to immediately terminate any such procedures in process as of the effective date of the division. The division provides that a collective bargaining agreement negotiated pursuant to such procedures in process shall not become effective. The division prohibits parties, mediators, and arbitrators from engaging in further collective bargaining procedures except as provided in the division. The division requires such parties to commence collective bargaining in accordance with Code section 20.17, as amended by the division. The division requires such parties to complete such bargaining not later than June 30, 2025, unless the parties mutually agree to a different deadline. The division requires the EAB to adopt emergency rules to implement these requirements. The division also requires the department of administrative services to adopt emergency rules to implement the provisions of the division relating to dues deductions. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. With the exception of the section of the division amending Code section 20.6, subsection 1, the division does not apply to collective bargaining agreements which have been ratified in a ratification election, for which an arbitrator has made a final determination, or which have become effective, when such events occurred before the effective date of the division. The division applies to all collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20 occurring on and after the effective date of the division and collective bargaining agreements for which a ratification election is held, for which an arbitrator makes a final determination, or which become effective on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION II —— EDUCATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. This division makes a variety of changes relating to educator employment matters. TERMINATION OF TEACHER EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS. The division makes various changes relating to the termination of teacher employment contracts. The division shortens various procedural deadlines regarding private hearings held after a superintendent recommends termination of a teacher’s employment contract. The division makes participation in such a private hearing by the superintendent, the superintendent’s designated representatives, the teacher’s immediate supervisor, the teacher, and the teacher’s representatives mandatory on the part of those individuals instead of discretionary. The division requires that the school board employ a certified shorthand reporter to keep a record of a private hearing. The division requires the school board to issue subpoenas for witnesses and evidence on behalf of the board and the teacher. The division provides for a judicial remedy if a witness appears and refuses to testify or to produce required books or papers at a private hearing. The division authorizes the superintendent and the teacher to file written briefs and arguments with the board at the conclusion of the private hearing. The division provides deadlines for determining the status of the teacher’s contract if the teacher does not request a private hearing. The division requires that the decision of the board include findings of fact and conclusions of law. The division strikes language authorizing a school board which votes to continue a teacher’s contract to issue the teacher a one-year, nonrenewable contract. The division permits a teacher to appeal the board’s determination to an adjudicator and provides procedures for such appeals. TEACHER PROBATIONARY PERIODS. The division makes various changes relating to probationary employment of teachers. The division decreases from two years to one year the length of a teacher’s probationary employment period in a school district if the teacher has successfully completed a probationary period of employment for another school district located in Iowa. The division provides that requirements for notices of termination, private hearings, and appeals applicable to nonprobationary teachers whose employment contracts are terminated are applicable to probationary teachers whose employment contracts are terminated. The division strikes alternative procedures for the termination of employment contracts of such probationary teachers, including notification procedures and the opportunity to request a private conference with the school board. EXTRACURRICULAR INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC COACH CONTRACTS. The division makes various changes relating to extracurricular interscholastic athletic coach employment contracts. The division provides that wages for such coaches shall be paid pursuant to established or negotiated supplemental pay schedules. The division provides that employment contracts of such coaches shall be continued automatically in force and effect for equivalent periods and that the termination of such contracts follows procedures similar to those used for teacher contracts. The division strikes language providing that employment contracts of such coaches may be terminated prior to their expiration for any lawful reason following an informal, private hearing before the school board. The division strikes language providing that the decision of the school board to terminate such a contract is final. SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. The division makes various changes relating to school administrator employment matters. The division provides that the rate of compensation in an administrator’s employment contract must be on a weekly or monthly basis. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a temporary employment contract to an administrator for a period of up to nine months. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a one-year, nonrenewable employment contract and instead authorizes a school board considering the termination of an administrator’s contract and the administrator to mutually agree to enter into such a contract. The division decreases the probationary employment period for administrators from three years to two years and authorizes a school board to waive the probationary period for an administrator who previously served a probationary period in another school district. The division strikes language providing that a hearing before an administrative law judge requested by an administrator whose employment contract a school board is considering terminating shall be a private hearing. The division reduces certain procedural deadlines relating to such hearings. The division strikes language providing that any witnesses for the parties at the hearing shall be sequestered. The division requires that the decision of the board include findings of fact and conclusions of law. The division strikes language authorizing a school board which votes to continue an administrator’s contract to issue the administrator a one-year, nonrenewable contract. INTENSIVE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS. The division makes various changes relating to intensive assistance programs. The division strikes language providing that a teacher who has previously participated in an intensive assistance program relating to particular Iowa teaching standards or criteria shall not be entitled to participate in another intensive assistance program relating to the same standards or criteria. The division strikes language providing that following a teacher’s participation in an intensive assistance program, the teacher shall be reevaluated to determine whether the teacher successfully completed the intensive assistance program and is meeting district expectations under the applicable Iowa teaching standards or criteria. The division strikes language providing that if the teacher did not successfully complete the intensive assistance program or continues not to meet the applicable Iowa teaching standards or criteria, the board may initiate procedures to terminate the teacher’s employment contract immediately or at the end of the school year or may continue the teacher’s contract for a period not to exceed one year on a nonrenewable basis and without the right to a private hearing. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS RELATING TO EDUCATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a temporary employment contract to a teacher for a period of up to six months. The division strikes language providing that just cause for which a teacher may be discharged at any time during the contract year under Code section 279.27 includes but is not limited to a violation of the code of professional conduct and ethics of the board of educational examiners if the board has taken disciplinary action against a teacher during the six months following issuance by the board of a final written decision and finding of fact after a disciplinary proceeding. The division either authorizes or requires a school board and its certified bargaining representative to negotiate various matters pursuant to Code chapter 20. The division makes additional conforming changes. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to employment contracts of school employees entered into pursuant to Code chapter 279 on and after the effective date of the division. The division does not apply to collective bargaining agreements pursuant to Code chapter 20 which have been ratified in a ratification election, for which an arbitrator has made a final determination, or which have become effective, when such events occurred before the effective date of the division. The division applies to all collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20 occurring on and after the effective date of the division and collective bargaining agreements pursuant to Code chapter 20 for which a ratification election is held, for which an arbitrator makes a final determination, or which become effective on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION III —— CITY CIVIL SERVICE REQUIREMENTS. This division makes a variety of changes relating to city civil service requirements under Code chapter 400. SENIORITY RIGHTS. The division strikes language permitting a city council to extinguish statutory seniority rights of all city civil service employees who are not employed or appointed as a fire fighter or police officer, fire chief or police chief, or assistant fire chief or assistant police chief, unless otherwise provided in a collective bargaining agreement. The division reestablishes any such rights so extinguished, including accrual of seniority during the period of extinguishment. ADVERSE EMPLOYMENT ACTIONS —— GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES. The division provides that adverse employment action may be taken against a city civil service employee for neglect of duty, disobedience, misconduct, or failure to properly perform the person’s duties. The division strikes language permitting such action to be taken due to any act or failure to act by the employee that is in contravention of law, city policies, or standard operating procedures, or that in the judgment of the person having the appointing power as provided in Code chapter 400, or the chief of police or chief of the fire department, is sufficient to show that the employee is unsuitable or unfit for employment. The division strikes language providing that the scope of review for an appeal to district court from a civil service commission shall be limited to de novo appellate review without a trial or additional evidence, instead providing that the appeal shall be a trial de novo as an equitable action. DIMINUTION OF EMPLOYEES. The division provides that a diminution of city employees by a city council can only be implemented when the public interest requires. The division permits a diminution to be carried out either by abolishing an office and removing the employee from the employee’s classification or grade thereunder, or reducing the number of employees in any classification or grade by suspending the necessary number. The division provides for such removal to be carried out based on seniority and requires that employees so removed be placed on a preferred list for at least three years for purposes of appointments or promotions made during that period to the person’s former duties. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. The division makes changes in terminology relating to adverse employment actions for city civil service employees. The division makes additional conforming changes. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to employment actions taken on or after the effective date of the division.
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• Introduced: 02/11/2025
• Added: 02/12/2025
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 10 : Molly Donahue (D)*, Liz Bennett (D)*, Bill Dotzler (D)*, Cindy Winckler (D)*, Janet Petersen (D)*, Art Staed (D)*, Matt Blake (D)*, Sarah Trone Garriott (D)*, Thomas Townsend (D)*, Mike Zimmer (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/11/2025
• Last Action: Subcommittee: Driscoll, Donahue, and Taylor. S.J. 256.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HR72 • Last Action 02/12/2025
Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to provide for meeting publications.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This resolution amends the Rules of the House of Representatives by adding Rule 79, which requires members to publish details of certain meetings on their official state websites. Specifically, the rule applies to both in-person and virtual meetings with nonconstituents where state law, regulations, or legislation are discussed. The publication must include the date and time of the meeting, the names of all nonconstituents in attendance, and their primary organizational affiliations. The resolution also mandates that members follow all provisions of Chapter 7 of Title 65 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, which relates to open meetings. This new rule appears aimed at increasing transparency by ensuring that interactions between legislators and non-constituent stakeholders are made publicly accessible, allowing constituents to be informed about discussions that might influence potential legislative actions.
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Bill Summary: A Resolution amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to provide for meeting publications.
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• Introduced: 02/10/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Joe Webster (D)*, Liz Hanbidge (D), Keith Harris (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/13/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3216 • Last Action 02/12/2025
Mandatory recording of public school instruction
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires all K-12 public schools in South Carolina to record all classroom instruction, including lectures, discussions, and other instructional activities, both in-person and virtual, using both video and audio recording. Schools must provide and maintain recording equipment, secure storage, and notify students and guardians about recordings, obtaining explicit written consent from students over 18 and parents/guardians for students under 18. Recordings must be kept for five years and made publicly accessible under the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), with privacy protections such as blurring faces and removing personal identifiers. The State Department of Education will oversee compliance, provide guidance, and establish regulations. Schools must submit annual reports detailing their compliance and promptly report any recording or storage interruptions. Penalties may be imposed for non-compliance, and the commercial use of these recordings is strictly prohibited, with potential misdemeanor charges and fines for violations. The bill aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and parental engagement in public education while also protecting student and educator privacy. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 59-1-485 So As To Provide All K-12 Public Schools Shall Record All Classroom Instruction, To Provide For The Retention And Disclosure Of Recordings, To Provide Consent And Privacy Requirements, To Provide Related Requirements Of The State Department Of Education, To Provide Reporting Requirements Of Schools, And To Prohibit The Commercial Use Of Recordings, Among Other Things.
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• Introduced: 12/10/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Mike Burns (R)*, Sarita Edgerton (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 12/05/2024
• Last Action: Member(s) request name added as sponsor: Edgerton
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB1019 • Last Action 02/11/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to confidential records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to provide enhanced privacy protections for certain public officials and employees by allowing them to request confidentiality of specific personal information. The bill covers active and former sworn law enforcement officers, correctional officers, child protective services investigators, revenue collection personnel, court staff (including judges and commissioners), district attorneys, and public defenders. These individuals can submit a written request to state or local government agencies to keep their home addresses, telephone numbers, social security numbers, dates of birth, and official or employment-related photographs confidential. While these records would be maintained privately, they could still be released through a court order, subpoena, or during an active law enforcement investigation. The bill also allows local government bodies to designate a specific individual or agency to handle these confidentiality requests and ensure compliance across departments. Importantly, the legislation stipulates that the confidentiality provisions should not prevent access to otherwise public records, and confidential information should be redacted from public documents whenever possible. The act takes effect immediately upon becoming law, with the stated purpose of protecting the personal information of public servants who might be at risk due to their professional roles.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, requires personal information of certain state and local officials to be maintained confidentially upon request; authorizes the release of such information by court order, subpoena, or pursuant to an active law enforcement investigation. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Lowell Russell (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 02/05/2025
• Last Action: Assigned to s/c Public Service Subcommittee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF51 • Last Action 02/11/2025
A bill for an act limiting the release of personal information maintained by the department of transportation to out-of-state persons, and making penalties applicable.(See SF 259.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Iowa's Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations regarding the release of personal information, specifically restricting the sharing of such data with out-of-state entities. The bill limits the release of personal information (which includes sensitive details like photographs, social security numbers, driver's license numbers, names, addresses, and medical information) to only Iowa-based law enforcement agencies, state or federal employees within Iowa, contract investigators, and licensed private investigation or security agencies within the state. Importantly, the bill prohibits law enforcement from releasing a driver's license holder's personal information to out-of-state persons or agencies if the information could be used to initiate legal proceedings, issue fines, or enforce penalties for alleged traffic violations, unless a court orders the release or the individual provides explicit written consent. Violations of this bill would be considered a simple misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days of confinement and a fine ranging from $105 to $855. The primary aim of this legislation appears to be protecting Iowa residents' personal information from potential misuse by out-of-state entities.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, records of the department of transportation (DOT) are generally open to public inspection during office hours. However, certain confidential records and personal information are protected and are not open to public inspection. “Personal information” means information that identifies a person, including a person’s photograph, social security number, driver’s license number, name, address, telephone number, and medical or disability information, but does not include information on vehicular accidents, driving violations, and the driver’s status or a person’s zip code. The DOT is prohibited from releasing personal information, if the information is requested by the presentation of a registration plate number, to a person, other than to an officer or employee of a law enforcement agency, an employee of a federal or state agency or political subdivision in the performance of the employee’s official duties, a contract employee of the department of inspections, appeals, and licensing in the conduct of an investigation, or a licensed private investigation agency or a licensed security service or a licensed employee of either. This bill prohibits the DOT from releasing personal information except to federal employees and other persons described in the bill who are employed or licensed in Iowa. Current law authorizes an officer or employee of a law enforcement agency to release the name, address, and telephone number of a motor vehicle registrant to a person requesting the information by the presentation of a registration plate number if the officer or employee of the law enforcement agency believes that the release of the information is necessary in the performance of the officer’s or employee’s duties. The bill prohibits an officer or employee from releasing personal information of a person issued a driver’s license by the DOT to an out-of-state person or agency if the release of personal information could be used to initiate a proceeding, issue a fine, or enforce any other penalty resulting from an alleged traffic violation unless ordered to do so by a court, or unless the person whose personal information is requested has provided express written consent allowing disclosure of the person’s personal information. By operation of law, a person who violates the bill commits a simple misdemeanor punishable by confinement for no more than 30 days and a fine of at least $105 but not more than $855.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Adrian Dickey (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/15/2025
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 259. S.J. 247.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1762 • Last Action 02/10/2025
Children; covered entities; data protection impact assessment; personal data of children; Attorney General; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces comprehensive data protection regulations for online products, services, and features that are likely to be accessed by children in Oklahoma. The legislation requires covered entities (for-profit organizations offering online services) to complete detailed data protection impact assessments that evaluate how their platforms might affect children, including potential risks like harmful contacts, inappropriate content, exploitative algorithms, and targeted advertising. Covered entities must configure default privacy settings to high levels of protection, provide clear age-appropriate language about privacy policies, and offer tools for children or parents to manage privacy rights. The bill prohibits entities from processing children's personal data in ways that could harm them, including restrictions on profiling, geolocation tracking, and using manipulative design techniques called "dark patterns." Enforcement is exclusively through the Attorney General, with potential civil penalties of $2,500 per child for negligent violations and $7,500 per child for intentional violations. The law applies to entities processing personal data of at least 100,000 consumers or 25,000 consumers with over 25% of revenue from data sales, and will become effective on November 1, 2025. Importantly, the bill does not create a private right of action, meaning individuals cannot sue directly under this law, and it includes exemptions for certain types of organizations like healthcare providers and telecommunications services.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to children; providing definitions; directing covered entities to complete and review impact assessments; requiring covered entities to provide impact assessments to Attorney General; requiring certain default privacy settings; directing covered entities to publicly provide certain information in clear language suited to age of children accessing product; requiring entity provide certain tools; providing information required for data protection impact assessment; requiring covered entity act in best interest of children; clarifying data protection impact assessments are confidential and not subject to public disclosure; clarifying certain information disclosed does not waive privilege or protection; permitting assessments that complies with other law; permitting single data protection impact assessment for similar processing operations; requiring first impact assessment by certain date; prohibiting covered entities from processing personal data of a child in way that is inconsistent with best interest of child; prohibiting covered entities from profiling a child unless listed exception applies; prohibiting covered entities from processing personal data of child that is not necessary to provide online product; prohibiting processing certain personal data for purposes other than reason collected; prohibiting the processing of certain geolocation information of children; prohibiting covered entities from using dark patterns for certain purpose; requiring covered entity signal a child when being monitored or tracked; providing penalties for a covered entity that violates this act; permitting only Attorney General to initiate enforcement actions; directing Attorney General provide notice to covered entities in substantial compliance; directing covered entities notify Attorney General when certain violations are cured; clarifying Act does not serve as basis for private right of action; providing list of entities this act does not apply to; clarifying Act does not impose certain liability; clarifying Act does not prevent or preclude a child from deliberately searching for content; clarifying Act does not require covered entity to restrict access to online products based solely on age; clarifying Act applies to certain covered entities; clarifying that Act does not apply to online products, services, or features not accessible by public after certain date; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Dell Kerbs (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1971 • Last Action 02/10/2025
Children; Accountability, Transparency, and Protection for Exploited Youth Act; report; sexual misconduct or exploitation; penalties; Office of Juvenile Affairs; Independent Oversight Committee; responsibilities; investigations; civil liability; damages; negligence; civil penalties; training; annual report; exception; Oklahoma Open Records Act; disclosure; confidentiality; judicial review; juvenile records; exception; codification; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Accountability, Transparency, and Protection for Exploited Youth Act, which aims to protect juveniles in state-run and private juvenile facilities from sexual misconduct and exploitation. The bill requires all employees, contractors, volunteers, and third parties working in juvenile facilities to immediately report any suspected sexual misconduct or exploitation to the facility supervisor and a newly established Independent Oversight Committee. Failure to report such incidents can result in criminal prosecution, with potential penalties of up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine. The bill creates an Independent Oversight Committee with broad investigative powers, including the ability to subpoena witnesses and collaborate with law enforcement. It also establishes significant civil liability provisions, allowing juvenile victims or their representatives to sue the Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA) or contracted entities for negligence, with potential civil fines of up to $50,000 per juvenile victim. The legislation mandates annual training for employees on preventing and identifying sexual misconduct and requires the Oversight Committee to submit an annual report to the Oklahoma Legislature. Additionally, the bill provides a mechanism for limited disclosure of juvenile records in cases of sexual violence, allowing access to specific parties such as law enforcement, legal guardians, and court-appointed advocates while maintaining strict confidentiality protections for uninvolved individuals. The act is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, signaling a comprehensive approach to protecting vulnerable youth in juvenile facilities.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to children; enacting the Accountability, Transparency, and Protection for Exploited Youth Act; requiring certain individuals to report any form of sexual misconduct or exploitation; directing who the incident must be reported to; providing for penalties for failure to report; directing the Office of Juvenile Affairs to establish an Independent Oversight Committee; providing responsibilities for the Committee; directing that investigations be forwarded to certain individuals and agencies; providing that employees shall be subject to civil liability under certain circumstances; providing that the Office and private contractors shall be liable for damages under certain circumstances; providing what constitutes negligence; providing for civil penalties; requiring the Office to provide annual training; directing Committee to submit annual report; providing what must be included in annual report; providing exception under Oklahoma Open Records Act; permitting disclosure of certain records under certain circumstances; authorizing certain individuals to access certain records; limiting disclosure of documents; directing certain individuals to comply with confidentiality obligations; authorizing access to certain records without court order; permitting a party to request judicial review; providing that disclosed information shall not be open for general public inspection; amending 10A O.S. 2021, Section 2-6-102, which relates to confidential juvenile records; providing exception; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Danny Williams (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: House Committee Proposed Policy Committee Substitute 1 - Proposed Policy Committee Substitute 1
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1740 • Last Action 02/10/2025
FOIA-OFFICER-WORN BODY CAMERAS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to modify the timeline for responding to requests specifically related to officer-worn body camera recordings. Currently, public bodies must respond to FOIA requests within 5 business days, but this bill extends the response time to 15 business days for requests seeking audio or video from body-worn cameras. The bill adds a new subsection (d-5) to the existing law that provides public bodies with more time to process these specific types of records, recognizing that body camera footage may require more complex review and processing. The extension allows public bodies additional time to review the recordings for potential exemptions, such as protecting personal privacy or ongoing investigations, while still maintaining the requirement that they must either comply with or formally deny the request within the specified timeframe. The bill preserves the ability of the requester and the public body to mutually agree to further extend the compliance period if needed, ensuring flexibility in handling these potentially sensitive and voluminous records.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that, if a request for public records for officer-worn body camera recorded audio or video is received by a public body, the public body shall either comply with or deny the request within 15 business days (rather than 5 days) after its receipt of the request. Allows an extension to the time to respond to a request for officer-worn body camera recorded audio or video to 15 business days (rather than 5 business days).
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• Introduced: 01/24/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Dennis Tipsword (R)*, Tony McCombie (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/24/2025
• Last Action: Added Co-Sponsor Rep. Tony M. McCombie
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB2168 • Last Action 02/07/2025
OPEN MTGS-NOTICE OF CHANGES
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Open Meetings Act to modify how public bodies provide notice of changes to their regular meeting schedules. Previously, governmental bodies were required to publish notice of meeting date changes in a newspaper or, for smaller local units with populations under 500 without a newspaper, post notices in at least 3 prominent places. The bill eliminates these newspaper publication and multiple posting requirements. Instead, it now mandates that when a public body changes its regular meeting dates, it must provide at least 10 days' notice by posting the change at the body's principal office (or the building where the meeting will be held) and, crucially, on the public body's website. This change aims to modernize meeting notice procedures by leveraging online platforms to improve public access to information about government meeting schedules, making it easier for citizens to stay informed about when and where public meetings will take place.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Open Meetings Act. In provisions regarding notice of changes to regular meeting dates, deletes requirements for publication in a newspaper or, in certain cases, posting in at least 3 prominent places within the governmental unit. Adds a requirement that notice of changes to regular meeting dates shall also be posted on the website of the public body.
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• Introduced: 02/07/2025
• Added: 02/08/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 02/07/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1012 • Last Action 02/06/2025
Data privacy; Oklahoma Computer Data Privacy Act; consumer protection; civil penalties; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces the Oklahoma Computer Data Privacy Act, a comprehensive law designed to protect consumers' personal data and provide them with greater control over their information. The bill applies to businesses that meet certain revenue or data collection thresholds and requires them to disclose what personal information they collect, sell, or share. Consumers are granted several key rights, including the ability to request disclosure of their personal information, request deletion of their data, and opt out of the sale of their personal information to third parties. Businesses must provide clear privacy policies, obtain consumer consent before collecting or selling data, and implement reasonable security measures to protect personal information. The act prohibits businesses from discriminating against consumers who exercise their privacy rights and allows for financial incentives for data collection with strict consent requirements. Violations of the act can result in civil penalties up to $7,500 per intentional violation, with enforcement handled by the Oklahoma Attorney General. The law aims to give consumers more transparency and control over their personal data while providing a framework for businesses to responsibly handle consumer information.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to privacy of computer data; enacting the Oklahoma Computer Data Privacy Act; defining terms; providing for applicability of act to certain businesses that collect consumers' personal information; providing exemptions; prescribing compliance with other laws and legal proceedings; requiring act to be liberally construed to align its effects with other laws relating to privacy and protection of personal information; providing for controlling effect of federal law; providing for construction in event of conflict with state law; providing for controlling effect of law which provides greatest privacy or protection to consumers; providing for preemption of local law; providing consumers right to request disclosure of certain information; providing consumers right to request deletion of certain information; providing consumers the right to request and receive a disclosure of personal information sold or disclosed; providing consumers right to opt in and out of the sale of personal information; making legislative findings; providing contracts or other agreements purporting to waive or limit a right, remedy or means of enforcement contrary to public policy; requiring businesses collecting consumer data information inform consumer of certain information collected; prescribing required content of disclosures; requiring consumer consent; requiring businesses to provide online privacy policy or a notice of policies; requiring businesses to designate and make available methods for submitting verifiable consumer request for certain information; requiring businesses receiving verifiable consumer requests reasonably verify identity of requesting consumer; requiring businesses disclose required information within a certain period; requiring businesses using de- identified information not re-identify or attempt to re-identify certain consumers; requiring permission; prohibiting discrimination against consumers for exercise of rights; authorizing businesses to offer financial incentives to consumers for collection, sale or disclosure of personal information; prohibiting division of single transactions; requiring employee training with respect to consumer inquiries; requiring disclosure of certain rights, requirements and information; providing civil penalties; authorizing Oklahoma Attorney General to take certain actions based on violations; authorizing Attorney General to recover reasonable expenses incurred in obtaining injunctive relief or civil penalties; directing Attorney General to deposit collected penalties in a dedicated account in the General Revenue Fund; providing certain immunities; providing protections to service providers; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 12/13/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Josh West (R)*, Brent Howard (R)*, Nick Archer (R)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 12/13/2024
• Last Action: Authored by Senator Howard (principal Senate author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0031 • Last Action 02/06/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 1-3-120; Title 5; Title 8, Chapter 44 and Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to public notices.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Tennessee law to provide county governments with an alternative method for publishing public notices. Specifically, counties would now be allowed to publish required public notices on their official county website instead of in a traditional newspaper of general circulation. To ensure transparency and maintain existing standards, the bill stipulates that the online publication must meet all existing publication requirements, including adherence to the same publication periods as currently mandated. This change offers counties more flexibility in how they communicate public information, potentially reducing publication costs while still ensuring that important notices remain accessible to the public. The bill would take effect immediately upon becoming law, with the stated purpose of serving the public welfare by modernizing public notice procedures.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, authorizes county governments to publish required public notices on the applicable county's website in lieu of publication in a newspaper of general circulation as long as such publication complies with all other requirements for publication, including the period for publication. - Amends TCA Section 1-3-120; Title 5; Title 8, Chapter 44 and Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 12/11/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Jason Zachary (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 12/11/2024
• Last Action: Withdrawn.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #HSB75 • Last Action 02/06/2025
A bill for an act relating to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body.(See HF 259.)
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This Study Bill updates public notice requirements for meetings of governmental bodies, which are official groups like city councils or school boards. It mandates that when a governmental body announces a meeting, they must now inform news media that have requested such notices, post the announcement in a highly visible, designated public spot that is always accessible, and also publish it on any official internet site they maintain. If a meeting's agenda is changed after being posted, the updated agenda must be clearly marked as "AMENDED," with the specific changes highlighted, and a new notice must be issued. Furthermore, if a meeting is canceled, the governmental body must provide notice of the cancellation at least 24 hours in advance, or as soon as practically possible if there's a valid reason preventing earlier notice. These updated rules also apply to notices for appointments and employment decisions involving veterans, as well as agreements for sharing entire school grades between districts.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to public notice requirements for meetings of a governmental body. The bill requires the act of giving notice of a meeting of a governmental body to include (1) advising the news media who have filed a request for notice with the governmental body as provided under current law, (2) posting the notice in a prominent and conspicuous place that is designated annually by the governmental body, in a manner such that the notice is visible at all times, and (3) posting the notice on any associated internet site as specified in the bill. If a tentative agenda has been posted and is amended, the amended agenda shall be marked “AMENDED”, the amended provisions identified, and a new notice provided. The bill requires a governmental body to provide notice if a meeting is canceled. The notice must be given at least 24 hours prior to the start of the meeting or, for good cause shown, as soon as reasonably possible. By operation of law, notice for electronic meetings of governmental bodies as provided in Code section 21.8 (electronic meetings) shall comply with the notice requirements in Code section 21.4 (public notice). In addition, the bill applies to notices for public appointment and employment under Code section 35C.1 (veterans preference —— appointments and employment —— applications) and notices for whole grade sharing agreements under Code section 282.11 (procedure for whole grade sharing agreements).
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• Introduced: 01/23/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 0 : State Government
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 01/23/2025
• Last Action: Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 259.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MN bill #SF988 • Last Action 02/06/2025
Meetings of the Minnesota Historical Society requirement to be open to the public and the Minnesota Historical Society's data to be public data as to state-owned properties
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires meetings of the Minnesota Historical Society's executive council to be open to the public when discussing state-owned historic sites, historic places, or properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Specifically, these meetings must comply with Minnesota's open meeting laws (Chapter 13D), which generally mandate that governmental bodies conduct their discussions and decision-making in a transparent manner accessible to the public. Additionally, the bill stipulates that data maintained by the Minnesota Historical Society about these state-owned historic properties must be considered public data, meaning it can be accessed and reviewed by members of the public under Minnesota's data practices law. This legislation aims to increase transparency around the management and information related to historically significant state-owned properties, ensuring that the public has insight into how these important cultural resources are handled and documented.
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Bill Summary: A bill for an act relating to state government; requiring meetings of the Minnesota Historical Society to be open to the public and the Minnesota Historical Society's data to be public data as to state-owned properties; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 138.
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• Introduced: 02/05/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 94th Legislature 2025-2026
• Sponsors: 1 : Jeff Howe (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/03/2025
• Last Action: Referred to State and Local Government
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0903 • Last Action 02/06/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7, relative to open records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Tennessee's open records law to allow governmental entities to charge fees for public records requests that take more than one hour to collect. Specifically, the bill permits records custodians to charge a fee proportional to the employee's hourly rate for time spent gathering records beyond the first hour. Under the new provision, there will be no charge for the initial hour of work on a records request, but subsequent hours can be billed at a rate equivalent to the collecting employee's pay rate. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 10-7-503, by adding language that gives governmental entities more flexibility in recovering administrative costs associated with processing extensive public records requests. This change aims to balance the public's right to access government documents with the administrative burden of fulfilling complex or time-consuming information requests. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as determined by the Tennessee General Assembly.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, authorizes records custodians to charge a fee to view records if the records requested reasonably require more than one hour of an employee's time to collect for inspection by the requestor; specifies that the hourly rate for inspection be set in proportion to the rate of pay of the employee who is collecting the records. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Greg Vital (R)*, Mark Cochran (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Withdrawn.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #HR1018 • Last Action 02/05/2025
INSTRUCT Act of 2025 Instructing Noteworthy Steps toward Transparency to Rout and Undo Calamitous Transactions Act of 2025
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the INSTRUCT Act of 2025, amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to enhance transparency and information sharing regarding foreign gifts and contracts received by educational institutions. The bill requires that all disclosure reports about foreign gifts and contracts be publicly accessible and mandates that within 30 days of receiving such reports, the Secretary of Education must transmit unredacted copies to multiple federal agencies, including the FBI, CIA, Department of Homeland Security, and others. These reports must include the name and address of foreign sources. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of Education to share all previously received reports and investigation documents with these agencies within 90 days of the act's enactment. The bill also requires the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study within 180 days to identify ways to improve intergovernmental coordination, increase compliance, and establish enforcement processes related to foreign gift disclosures. The GAO must then submit a public report to Congress detailing the study's findings within three years of the act's enactment.
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Bill Summary: A BILL To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require additional information in disclosures of foreign gifts and contracts from foreign sources.
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• Introduced: 02/06/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 1 : Mark Messmer (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 03/05/2025
• Last Action: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
TN bill #HB0460 • Last Action 02/05/2025
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 48, relative to unauthorized filings with the secretary of state.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a new process in Tennessee law allowing individuals to file a complaint with the secretary of state if their name or address appears on an official document without their consent. The complaint must include detailed information such as a description of the document, the complainant's contact details, known information about the business entity and individuals involved, and a sworn statement affirming the complaint's good faith. Once a complaint is filed, the secretary of state will notify the business entity and provide them 21 business days to respond. If no response is received, the allegations in the complaint are deemed admitted. The secretary of state will then review the complaint and response, and if clear and convincing evidence shows the name or address was included without consent, the secretary can void the business record. The bill provides for written notice of decisions, allows judicial review of the secretary's decision, and specifies that no filing fee will be refunded if a filing is voided. Complaints and responses will be considered public records, and the law will take effect on July 1, 2025. The bill aims to provide a mechanism for individuals to challenge unauthorized inclusions of their personal information in official business documents.
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Bill Summary: As introduced, establishes a complaint process with the secretary of state for any person who contends that the person’s name or address was included on a document filed with the secretary of state without the person’s consent. - Amends TCA Title 48.
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• Introduced: 01/28/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 114th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Andrew Farmer (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 5
• Last Amended: 01/30/2025
• Last Action: Withdrawn.
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IA bill #SF196 • Last Action 02/05/2025
A bill for an act relating to employment matters involving public employees including collective bargaining, educator employment matters, personnel records and settlement agreements, city civil service requirements, and health insurance matters, and including effective date, applicability, and transition provisions.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes comprehensive changes to various employment and labor laws in Iowa, primarily affecting public employees, educators, and city civil service workers. The bill is divided into five main divisions, each addressing different aspects of employment regulations. Division I focuses on public employee collective bargaining, significantly modifying the scope of negotiations, arbitration procedures, and election processes for employee organizations. The bill narrows the scope of collective bargaining to specific topics like wages, hours, and benefits, while excluding retirement systems from negotiations. It also changes the certification and decertification processes for employee organizations, making it easier to challenge existing representations and lowering the threshold for inclusion on ballots. Division II addresses educator employment matters, altering procedures for teacher and administrator contract terminations, evaluation processes, and probationary periods. It introduces more streamlined hearing procedures and changes the appeals process for contract terminations. Division III modifies personnel records and settlement agreement regulations, particularly around the disclosure of disciplinary actions. Division IV revises city civil service requirements, reestablishing seniority rights and changing procedures for employee removals and appeals. Division V eliminates the requirement for public employers to offer health insurance to all permanent, full-time employees. Overall, the bill represents a significant reshaping of employment regulations that generally appears to reduce protections and negotiating power for public employees and educators.
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Bill Summary: This bill relates to employment matters involving public employees including collective bargaining, educator employment matters, personnel records and settlement agreements, city civil service requirements, and health insurance matters. The bill generally strikes statutory changes made by 2017 Iowa Acts, House File 291, and restores statutory language in effect prior to the enactment of 2017 Iowa Acts, House File 291. DIVISION I —— PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING. This division makes a variety of changes to Code chapter 20, the public employment relations Act, as well as other Code provisions relating to collective bargaining by public employees. ELIMINATION OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND TRANSIT EMPLOYEE CATEGORIES. The division eliminates public safety employees and transit employees as separate categories of employees for the purposes of public employee collective bargaining, making affected provisions of Code chapter 20 applicable to all public employees governed by Code chapter 20. SCOPE OF NEGOTIATIONS. The division makes changes to subjects which are negotiated through collective bargaining between public employers and public employees under Code section 20.9. The division provides that the scope of negotiations for all public employees shall consist of wages, hours, vacations, insurance, holidays, leaves of absence, shift differentials, overtime compensation, supplemental pay, seniority, transfer procedures, job classifications, health and safety matters, evaluation procedures, procedures for staff reduction, in-service training, dues checkoff, grievance procedures for resolving any questions arising under the agreement, and other matters mutually agreed upon. The division provides that retirement systems shall be excluded from the scope of negotiations. The division strikes language providing that mandatory subjects of negotiation under Code section 20.9 shall be interpreted narrowly and restrictively. The division strikes language limiting the term of a collective bargaining agreement entered into pursuant to Code chapter 20 to a maximum of five years. ARBITRATION PROCEDURES. The division makes changes to the procedures for arbitration of impasses in collective bargaining between public employers and public employees under Code section 20.22. The division modifies the factors that an arbitrator is required to consider in addition to any other relevant factors in making a final determination on an impasse item. The division requires an arbitrator to consider past collective bargaining contracts between the parties including the bargaining that led up to such contracts; comparison of wages, hours, and conditions of employment of the involved public employees with those of other public employees doing comparable work, giving consideration to factors peculiar to the area and the classifications involved; the interests and welfare of the public, the ability of the public employer to finance economic adjustments, and the effect of such adjustments on the normal standard of services; and the power of the public employer to levy taxes and appropriate funds for the conduct of its operations. The division strikes language permitting the parties to agree to change the four-day deadline to serve final offers on impasse items after a request for arbitration is received. The division strikes language prohibiting the parties to an arbitration from introducing, and the arbitrator from accepting or considering, any direct or indirect evidence regarding any subject excluded from negotiations pursuant to Code section 20.9. The division strikes language providing for a maximum increase in base wages in an arbitrator’s award. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE ELECTIONS. The division makes changes to public employee elections conducted pursuant to Code section 20.15. The division strikes language providing for retention and recertification elections and requires the employment appeal board (EAB) to cancel any such elections scheduled or in process. The division requires the EAB to consider a petition for certification of an employee organization as the exclusive representative of a bargaining unit for which an employee organization was not retained and recertified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit regardless of the amount of time that has elapsed since the retention and recertification election, notwithstanding prior requirements prohibiting such consideration for two years. The division provides that the outcome of a certification or decertification election is determined by a majority vote of the members of the bargaining unit voting, rather than the total membership of the bargaining unit. The division provides for a runoff election if none of the choices on the ballot in a certification election receives a majority vote of the members of the bargaining unit voting. The division lowers the required percentage of support from employees in a bargaining unit required for an employee organization that did not submit a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit to be listed on the ballot for a certification election from 30 percent to 10 percent. The division strikes language prohibiting the EAB from considering a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit unless a period of two years has elapsed from the date of the last certification election in which an employee organization was not certified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit or of the last decertification election in which an employee organization was decertified as the exclusive representative of that bargaining unit. The division prohibits the EAB from considering a petition for certification as the exclusive bargaining representative of a bargaining unit for one year after the employee organization is not certified in a certification election. The division makes additional changes relating to the scheduling of decertification elections. EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION DUES. The division strikes a prohibition on public entities authorizing or administering a deduction from the salaries or wages of its employees for membership dues to an employee organization. The division provides procedures for administering such dues deductions. EAB DUTIES. The division provides that the EAB may interpret and apply, as well as administer, Code chapter 20. The division strikes language permitting the EAB to appoint a certified shorthand reporter to report state employee grievance and discipline resolution proceedings, to contract with a vendor to conduct elections, to establish fees to cover the cost of elections, and to retain certain funds collected by the EAB as repayment receipts. STATEWIDE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS FOLLOWING A GUBERNATORIAL ELECTION YEAR. The division strikes language providing for modified collective bargaining procedures for a proposed, statewide collective bargaining agreement to become effective in the year following a general election in which the governor and certain other elected officials are elected. CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS. The division strikes language providing that certain information relating to elections conducted by the EAB is a confidential record under Code chapter 22, the state open records law. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS RELATING TO PUBLIC EMPLOYEE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING. The division strikes a definition of “supplemental pay”. The division strikes language providing that a public employer has the right to evaluate public employees in positions within the public agency. The division strikes language providing that a public employee has the right under Code section 20.8 to exercise any right or seek any remedy provided by law, including but not limited to Code sections 70A.28 and 70A.29, Code chapter 8A, subchapter IV, and Code chapters 216 and 400. The division transfers language in Code section 20.10 prohibiting a public employee or any employee organization from negotiating or attempting to negotiate directly with a member of the governing board of a public employer if the public employer has appointed or authorized a bargaining representative for the purpose of bargaining with the public employees or their representative to Code section 20.17. The division decreases the amount of time before an employee organization decertified as the exclusive representative of a bargaining unit for violating an injunction against an unlawful strike can be certified again from 24 months to 12 months. The division strikes language prohibiting voluntary contributions by individuals to political parties or candidates through payroll deductions. The division strikes a requirement that a copy of a final collective bargaining agreement be filed with the EAB by the public employer within 10 days of the agreement being entered into. The division strikes a requirement that the EAB maintain an internet site that allows searchable access to a database of collective bargaining agreements and other collective bargaining information. The division changes the period before retirement for a prohibited voluntary reduction to a nonsupervisory rank or grade by a supervisor and related ineligibility for benefits from 36 months to 6 months. The division strikes language providing that a mediator shall not be required to testify in any arbitration proceeding regarding any matters occurring in the course of a mediation. The division requires a council, board of waterworks, or other board or commission which establishes a pension and annuity retirement system pursuant to Code chapter 412 to negotiate in good faith with a certified employee organization which is the collective bargaining representative of the employees, with respect to the amount or rate of the assessment on the wages and salaries of employees and the method or methods for payment of the assessment by the employees. The division makes additional conforming changes. TRANSITION PROVISIONS —— DEADLINE. The division requires parties, mediators, and arbitrators engaging in any collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20, Code 2025, who have not, before the effective date of the division, completed such procedures, to immediately terminate any such procedures in process as of the effective date of the division. The division provides that a collective bargaining agreement negotiated pursuant to such procedures in process shall not become effective. The division prohibits parties, mediators, and arbitrators from engaging in further collective bargaining procedures except as provided in the division. The division requires such parties to commence collective bargaining in accordance with Code section 20.17, as amended by the division. The division requires such parties to complete such bargaining not later than June 30, 2025, unless the parties mutually agree to a different deadline. The division requires the EAB to adopt emergency rules to implement these requirements. The division also requires the department of administrative services to adopt emergency rules to implement the provisions of the division relating to dues deductions. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. With the exception of the section of the division amending Code section 20.6, subsection 1, the division does not apply to collective bargaining agreements which have been ratified in a ratification election, for which an arbitrator has made a final determination, or which have become effective, when such events occurred before the effective date of the division. The division applies to all collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20 occurring on and after the effective date of the division and collective bargaining agreements for which a ratification election is held, for which an arbitrator makes a final determination, or which become effective on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION II —— EDUCATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. This division makes a variety of changes relating to educator employment matters. TERMINATION OF TEACHER EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS. The division makes various changes relating to the termination of teacher employment contracts. The division shortens various procedural deadlines regarding private hearings held after a superintendent recommends termination of a teacher’s employment contract. The division makes participation in such a private hearing by the superintendent, the superintendent’s designated representatives, the teacher’s immediate supervisor, the teacher, and the teacher’s representatives mandatory on the part of those individuals instead of discretionary. The division requires that the school board employ a certified shorthand reporter to keep a record of a private hearing. The division requires the school board to issue subpoenas for witnesses and evidence on behalf of the board and the teacher. The division provides for a judicial remedy if a witness appears and refuses to testify or to produce required books or papers at a private hearing. The division authorizes the superintendent and the teacher to file written briefs and arguments with the board at the conclusion of the private hearing. The division provides deadlines for determining the status of the teacher’s contract if the teacher does not request a private hearing. The division requires that the decision of the board include findings of fact and conclusions of law. The division strikes language authorizing a school board which votes to continue a teacher’s contract to issue the teacher a one-year, nonrenewable contract. The division permits a teacher to appeal the board’s determination to an adjudicator and provides procedures for such appeals. TEACHER PROBATIONARY PERIODS. The division makes various changes relating to probationary employment of teachers. The division decreases from two years to one year the length of a teacher’s probationary employment period in a school district if the teacher has successfully completed a probationary period of employment for another school district located in Iowa. The division provides that requirements for notices of termination, private hearings, and appeals applicable to nonprobationary teachers whose employment contracts are terminated are applicable to probationary teachers whose employment contracts are terminated. The division strikes alternative procedures for the termination of employment contracts of such probationary teachers, including notification procedures and the opportunity to request a private conference with the school board. EXTRACURRICULAR INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC COACH CONTRACTS. The division makes various changes relating to extracurricular interscholastic athletic coach employment contracts. The division provides that wages for such coaches shall be paid pursuant to established or negotiated supplemental pay schedules. The division provides that employment contracts of such coaches shall be continued automatically in force and effect for equivalent periods and that the termination of such contracts follows procedures similar to those used for teacher contracts. The division strikes language providing that employment contracts of such coaches may be terminated prior to their expiration for any lawful reason following an informal, private hearing before the school board. The division strikes language providing that the decision of the school board to terminate such a contract is final. SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. The division makes various changes relating to school administrator employment matters. The division provides that the rate of compensation in an administrator’s employment contract must be on a weekly or monthly basis. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a temporary employment contract to an administrator for a period of up to nine months. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a one-year, nonrenewable employment contract and instead authorizes a school board considering the termination of an administrator’s contract and the administrator to mutually agree to enter into such a contract. The division decreases the probationary employment period for administrators from three years to two years and authorizes a school board to waive the probationary period for an administrator who previously served a probationary period in another school district. The division strikes language providing that a hearing before an administrative law judge requested by an administrator whose employment contract a school board is considering terminating shall be a private hearing. The division reduces certain procedural deadlines relating to such hearings. The division strikes language providing that any witnesses for the parties at the hearing shall be sequestered. The division requires that the decision of the board include findings of fact and conclusions of law. The division strikes language authorizing a school board which votes to continue an administrator’s contract to issue the administrator a one-year, nonrenewable contract. INTENSIVE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS. The division makes various changes relating to intensive assistance programs. The division strikes language providing that a teacher who has previously participated in an intensive assistance program relating to particular Iowa teaching standards or criteria shall not be entitled to participate in another intensive assistance program relating to the same standards or criteria. The division strikes language providing that following a teacher’s participation in an intensive assistance program, the teacher shall be reevaluated to determine whether the teacher successfully completed the intensive assistance program and is meeting district expectations under the applicable Iowa teaching standards or criteria. The division strikes language providing that if the teacher did not successfully complete the intensive assistance program or continues not to meet the applicable Iowa teaching standards or criteria, the board may initiate procedures to terminate the teacher’s employment contract immediately or at the end of the school year or may continue the teacher’s contract for a period not to exceed one year on a nonrenewable basis and without the right to a private hearing. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS RELATING TO EDUCATOR EMPLOYMENT MATTERS. The division strikes language authorizing a school board to issue a temporary employment contract to a teacher for a period of up to six months. The division strikes language providing that just cause for which a teacher may be discharged at any time during the contract year under Code section 279.27 includes but is not limited to a violation of the code of professional conduct and ethics of the board of educational examiners if the board has taken disciplinary action against a teacher during the six months following issuance by the board of a final written decision and finding of fact after a disciplinary proceeding. The division either authorizes or requires a school board and its certified bargaining representative to negotiate various matters pursuant to Code chapter 20. The division makes additional conforming changes. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to employment contracts of school employees entered into pursuant to Code chapter 279 on and after the effective date of the division. The division does not apply to collective bargaining agreements pursuant to Code chapter 20 which have been ratified in a ratification election, for which an arbitrator has made a final determination, or which have become effective, when such events occurred before the effective date of the division. The division applies to all collective bargaining procedures provided for in Code chapter 20 occurring on and after the effective date of the division and collective bargaining agreements pursuant to Code chapter 20 for which a ratification election is held, for which an arbitrator makes a final determination, or which become effective on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION III —— PERSONNEL RECORDS AND SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS. This division makes changes relating to public employee personnel records and settlement agreements. PERSONNEL RECORDS. The division strikes language providing that certain information relating to the discipline, resignation, discharge, or demotion of a public employee is a public record and requiring notice to affected employees. PERSONNEL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS. The division also strikes language prohibiting a personnel settlement agreement between the state and a state executive branch employee that contains confidentiality or nondisclosure provisions that attempt to prevent the disclosure of the agreement. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to requests for records submitted on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION IV —— CITY CIVIL SERVICE REQUIREMENTS. This division makes a variety of changes relating to city civil service requirements under Code chapter 400. SENIORITY RIGHTS. The division strikes language permitting a city council to extinguish statutory seniority rights of all city civil service employees who are not employed or appointed as a fire fighter or police officer, fire chief or police chief, or assistant fire chief or assistant police chief, unless otherwise provided in a collective bargaining agreement. The division reestablishes any such rights so extinguished, including accrual of seniority during the period of extinguishment. ADVERSE EMPLOYMENT ACTIONS —— GROUNDS AND PROCEDURES. The division provides that adverse employment action may be taken against a city civil service employee for neglect of duty, disobedience, misconduct, or failure to properly perform the person’s duties. The division strikes language permitting such action to be taken due to any act or failure to act by the employee that is in contravention of law, city policies, or standard operating procedures, or that in the judgment of the person having the appointing power as provided in Code chapter 400, or the chief of police or chief of the fire department, is sufficient to show that the employee is unsuitable or unfit for employment. The division strikes language providing that the scope of review for an appeal to district court from a civil service commission shall be limited to de novo appellate review without a trial or additional evidence, instead providing that the appeal shall be a trial de novo as an equitable action. DIMINUTION OF EMPLOYEES. The division provides that a diminution of city employees by a city council can only be implemented when the public interest requires. The division permits a diminution to be carried out either by abolishing an office and removing the employee from the employee’s classification or grade thereunder, or reducing the number of employees in any classification or grade by suspending the necessary number. The division provides for such removal to be carried out based on seniority and requires that employees so removed be placed on a preferred list for at least three years for purposes of appointments or promotions made during that period to the person’s former duties. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. The division makes changes in terminology relating to adverse employment actions for city civil service employees. The division makes additional conforming changes. EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY PROVISIONS. The division takes effect upon enactment. The division applies to employment actions taken on or after the effective date of the division. DIVISION V —— HEALTH INSURANCE MATTERS. This division strikes a requirement that a public employer shall offer health insurance to all permanent, full-time public employees employed by the public employer. EFFECTIVE DATE. The division takes effect upon enactment.
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• Introduced: 02/04/2025
• Added: 02/05/2025
• Session: 91st General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Molly Donahue (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 02/04/2025
• Last Action: Subcommittee: Driscoll, Donahue, and Sires. S.J. 203.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2022 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Records; Oklahoma Open Records Act; definitions; exemptions; redacting or deleting of certain personal information; advance payments; requests require reasonable specificity; attorney fees; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's Open Records Act by expanding and clarifying provisions related to public records access and disclosure. The bill expands the definition of a "law enforcement agency" to include state and local fire marshals when investigating potential criminal law violations. It introduces new provisions allowing public bodies to redact or delete personal contact information such as home addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses from records, regardless of whether the individual is a public employee or private citizen. The bill also establishes more specific requirements for records requests, requiring that requests have "reasonable specificity" by including a general time frame, seeking identifiable records, and using sufficiently specific search terms. Additionally, public bodies can now require advance payment for record searches, copying, or redaction when estimated costs exceed $75, and may ask requestors to clarify vague or overly broad requests. The bill modifies attorney fee provisions in litigation over record access, allowing public bodies to avoid paying attorney fees if they acted in good faith, and provides more flexibility for public bodies in managing record requests while protecting the integrity of their records and essential functions. These changes aim to balance public access to information with the administrative challenges faced by government entities in responding to records requests.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to records; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Sections 24A.3, as last amended by Section 1, Chapter 358, O.S.L. 2024, 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 116, O.S.L. 2024, and 24A.17, as amended by Section 3, Chapter 116, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 24A.3, 24A.5, and 24A.17), which relate to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; modifying definitions; adding exemptions; permitting the redacting or deleting of certain information; permitting advance payment of certain fees; allowing clarification and denial of certain requests not made with reasonable specificity; defining reasonable specificity; allowing request denial under certain circumstances; providing exception to attorney fees; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Daniel Pae (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB2727 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Records; Oklahoma Open Records Reform Act of 2025; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces the Oklahoma Open Records Reform Act of 2025, which is primarily a procedural measure that establishes a new piece of legislation with a specific title and sets its effective date as November 1, 2025. The bill appears to be a framework for potential changes to public records management in Oklahoma, though the specific details of those changes are not provided in the current text. The act is designed to be a standalone piece of legislation that will not be directly codified into existing Oklahoma statutes, meaning its provisions may be implemented through separate administrative or regulatory processes. The bill's primary purpose seems to be setting up a legal foundation for future open records reforms, with the specific implementation details to be determined at a later date.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to records; enacting the Oklahoma Open Records Reform Act of 2025; providing for noncodification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ross Ford (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB832 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; adding deputy county commissioners to definition of public body. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to explicitly include deputy county commissioners within the definition of a "public body" under the state law. By adding "including deputy commissioners" to the existing definition, the bill ensures that deputy county commissioners are subject to the same open meeting requirements as other government bodies, which means their meetings must be conducted with appropriate public notice and transparency. The Oklahoma Open Meeting Act generally requires public bodies to provide advance notice of meetings, conduct meetings openly, and maintain public records of their proceedings. The bill will take effect on November 1, 2025, giving local governments time to adjust to the new requirement. The broader purpose of this amendment appears to be increasing governmental transparency by ensuring that deputy county commissioners, who may play significant roles in county governance, are held to the same open meeting standards as other elected and appointed officials.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 304), which relates to definitions; adding deputy county commissioners to definition of public body; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brian Guthrie (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1464 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Cities and towns; required training; newly elected or appointed municipal officers; instructor; organization; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Oklahoma's existing law regarding training requirements for newly elected or appointed municipal officers by updating several key provisions. It mandates that first-time municipal officers must complete eight cumulative hours of training within one year of taking their oath of office, which can be delivered either in-person or virtually. The training must be conducted by an instructor or organization certified by the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education, replacing previous requirements about a specific statewide organization. The curriculum for the training is expanded to include municipal budget requirements, Oklahoma Open Meeting and Open Records Acts, ethics, meeting procedures, conflict of interest, purchasing procedures, municipal election procedures, and forms of municipal government. The bill also introduces stricter consequences for non-compliance: an official who fails to complete the required training will cease to hold their office after the first-year anniversary of taking the oath and cannot be reappointed to their current or other local government positions until they complete the training. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the presiding officer for town meetings is defined as the senior-most member of the council or board of trustees, who is responsible for notifying candidates about the training requirement. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to cities and towns; amending 11 O.S. 2021, Section 8-114, which relates to required training for newly elected or appointed municipal officers; modifying training; requiring eight cumulative training hours; clarifying instructor or organization must be certified; modifying subjects covered; providing procedures for failure to comply; clarifying presiding officer; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Tammy West (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/15/2025
• Last Action: Referred to County and Municipal Government
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #HB1130 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Civil procedure; forcible entry and detainer records; Oklahoma Open Records Act; effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes a new law that would make certain court records related to forcible entry and detainer actions (legal proceedings to evict tenants) confidential and exempt from the Oklahoma Open Records Act. Specifically, court records would be kept private in three scenarios: when the court dismisses the eviction action, when the plaintiff voluntarily drops the action, or when the court rules in favor of the defendant. These records would no longer be considered public records, which means they would not be accessible to the general public through open records requests. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and aims to protect individuals from having eviction-related court records permanently visible, potentially helping to prevent negative impacts on future housing or employment opportunities that might result from public access to these records.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to civil procedure; providing for records of certain forcible entry and detainer actions from being public records; exempting records of certain forcible entry and detainer actions from the provisions of the Oklahoma Open Records Act; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
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• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Ellen Pogemiller (D)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Civil Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB848 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Education funding; creating the Oklahoma Independent Education Act; requiring development of plan to phase out acceptance and use of certain federal funds. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill, known as the Oklahoma Independent Education Act, aims to protect the independence of public schools by prohibiting school districts and charter schools from using federal funds for activities related to sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill requires the State Department of Education and State Board of Education to develop a comprehensive plan to phase out federal education funding and replace it with state funds, including a proposed timeline and projected funding needs. A working group comprising legislative and gubernatorial appointees will be formed to monitor the bill's implementation, with members appointed within 30 days of the act's effective date. The working group, which will not be subject to open meeting or open records acts, will be tasked with submitting a report of findings and recommendations to key state leaders. The bill defines "gender identity" as a person's innate sense of gender and "sexual orientation" as a person's sexual attraction, and emphasizes protecting public schools' ability to focus on fundamental educational skills. The act is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause allowing immediate implementation upon passage and approval, reflecting the legislature's intent to protect educational values and reduce federal influence in Oklahoma's education system.
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Bill Summary: An Act relating to education funding; creating the Oklahoma Independent Education Act; providing short title; stating legislative intent; providing purpose of act; prohibiting certain school districts and charter schools from using or being forced to use certain funds for certain activities; defining terms; directing the State Department of Education and the State Board of Education to develop certain plan; requiring submission of plan; providing for adoption of plan; providing for creation of certain working group; providing for membership; requiring appointments within certain time period; prohibiting certain members from receiving certain compensation or travel reimbursement; exempting the working group from certain acts; providing for staff support; requiring submission of certain report; providing for codification; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
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• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : David Bullard (R)*, Kevin West (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Coauthored by Representative West (Kevin) (principal House author)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB622 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Open Records; creating the Public Access Counselor Unit within the Office of the Attorney General; establishing procedures for review of records requests. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Public Access Counselor Unit within the Oklahoma Attorney General's Office to help manage and review open records requests. Individuals who have been denied access to public records can now file a written review request with the Public Access Counselor within 30 calendar days of the denial, except for requests made for commercial purposes. The Public Access Counselor will review the request, forward it to the public body, and require a response within seven business days. The Attorney General must then issue an advisement within 60 calendar days, either directing the public body to comply with the Open Records Act or explaining why no further action is required. If the public body follows the Attorney General's advice, it is immune from liability. The bill also amends the duties of the Attorney General to explicitly include investigating and prosecuting civil or criminal actions related to violations of the Oklahoma Open Records Act and Open Meeting Act. The legislation provides a structured process for resolving records request disputes, offers protection for public bodies acting in good faith, and allows the Attorney General to issue advisory opinions to help public bodies understand their obligations. The bill takes effect immediately due to its importance for public transparency and government accountability.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to open records; creating the Public Access Counselor Unit within the Office of the Attorney General; allowing certain persons to file review of denial of open records requests with the Public Access Counselor; providing instructions for filing; prohibiting filings made for a commercial purpose; establishing procedures for review of requests; directing Public Access Counselor to notify public body; requiring certain furnishing of records; permitting subpoena by the Attorney General; prohibiting disclosure of certain protected information; allowing public body chance to respond to request; directing for binding opinion to be made within time frame; permitting Attorney General to choose other means for resolving review requests; permitting parties to file in district court; directing for notification of certain proceedings; permitting the Attorney General to issue advisory opinions to public bodies regarding compliance; exempting certain failures to comply made under good faith; amending 74 O.S. 2021, Section 18b, as last amended by Section 170, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (74 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 18b), which relates to duties of Attorney General; requiring Attorney General to investigate and prosecute certain actions; providing for codification; and declaring an emergency.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/14/2025
• Added: 01/15/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brent Howard (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB458 • Last Action 02/04/2025
County commissioners; allowing for certain discussion in certain circumstances. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's laws regarding county commissioners' meetings and the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, expanding the circumstances under which county commissioners can discuss matters without triggering open meeting requirements. Specifically, the bill allows county commissioners to discuss administrative, operational, and procedural matters even when a quorum is present, as long as no official action is taken. These discussions can include scheduling agenda items, media statements, organizational structure, internal processes, staffing needs, and receiving employee reports. The bill also permits county commissioners to attend conferences, training, and social events where county business can be discussed without violating open meeting rules, and allows county commissioners in counties with a budget board to discuss budgetary matters outside of formal meetings, provided a quorum of the budget board is not present. Additionally, the bill makes some gender-neutral language changes, such as replacing "chairman" with "chair," and modifies the definition of "public body" in the Open Meeting Act to explicitly exclude certain types of meetings and discussions. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for county commissioners in their day-to-day operations while maintaining transparency in official decision-making processes. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to county commissioners; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 326, which relates to meetings of the board of county commissioners; making language gender neutral; allowing for certain discussion in certain circumstances; exempting certain discussions from the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; prohibiting certain board from taking certain action; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 304), which relates to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; modifying definition; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jack Stewart (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Local and County Government
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB488 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Unmanned aerial systems; prohibiting certain purchase by state agencies after certain date; directing the Office of Homeland Security to maintain certain list. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes new regulations for unmanned aerial systems (drones) in Oklahoma, defining them as powered aerial vehicles without human operators that use aerodynamic lift. Starting January 1, 2028, the bill prohibits state agencies and political subdivisions from purchasing drones that are not cleared by the Office of Homeland Security. The Office is required to create and maintain a public list of approved drones, which must be updated every six months, focusing on devices that are cleared by the U.S. Department of Defense's Blue UAS program, comply with national defense authorization requirements, cannot transmit data to unauthorized parties, or are deemed secure by state authorities. The Office must consult with cybersecurity experts to ensure data integrity and security. Additionally, the bill amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act to make documents related to drone assessment confidential, protecting sensitive information about the evaluation process. Any contracts for unapproved drones will be considered void and unenforceable, with the goal of protecting state cybersecurity and preventing potential data breaches from unauthorized drone technology. The legislation will take effect on November 1, 2025.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to unmanned aerial systems; defining term; prohibiting certain purchase by state agencies after certain date; prohibiting certain purchase by political subdivisions after certain date; directing the Office of Homeland Security to maintain certain list; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 116, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 24A.5), which relates to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; providing for certain assessment to be confidential; updating statutory language; providing for codification; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/10/2025
• Added: 01/11/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Micheal Bergstrom (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/10/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Aeronautics and Transportation
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB576 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; authorizing virtual meetings under certain conditions. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma State University Medical Authority Act to allow the Oklahoma State University Medical Authority and the Oklahoma State University Medical Trust to conduct virtual meetings under specific conditions. The bill permits these entities to hold videoconference meetings where all members are visually and audibly present through video monitors, with the requirement that each meeting be recorded, publicly noticed with detailed location information, and include a clear agenda specifying which members will participate remotely and which will be physically present. The bill also makes minor technical updates to the statutory language, such as changing certain terminology (e.g., replacing "Chief Executive Officer" with "Administrator") and standardizing references to the state. Additionally, the bill requires that virtual meetings comply with existing open meeting regulations, ensuring transparency and public access. The changes aim to provide more flexibility for these organizations in conducting their meetings while maintaining accountability and public oversight. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving the organizations time to prepare for and implement these new meeting procedures.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; amending 63 O.S. 2021, Sections 3275 and 3290, as amended by Sections 1 and 3, Chapter 334, O.S.L. 2023 (63 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 3275 and 3290), which relate to the Oklahoma State University Medical Authority and the Oklahoma State University Medical Trust; authorizing virtual meetings under certain conditions; providing for electronic submission of certain report; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : John Haste (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/13/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB955 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Legislative testimony; requiring administration of oath to person providing testimony before legislative committees; creating misdemeanor offense. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends existing Oklahoma law regarding legislative testimony by introducing new requirements for oath administration and creating a misdemeanor offense for providing false testimony. Specifically, the bill mandates that any person offering testimony before the Legislative Oversight Committee on State Budget Performance, Appropriations Committees, subcommittees, or policy committees must first take an oath to testify truthfully or affirm the truthfulness of written testimony. The bill establishes that individuals who knowingly and willfully violate this oath by falsifying material facts, making false statements, or presenting false documents can be charged with a misdemeanor. The legislation also makes some minor formatting and capitalization changes to the existing law, such as capitalizing "Committee" and "Minority Leader." Additionally, the bill includes an emergency clause, which means it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval, indicating the Legislature's determination that the law is urgently needed for public peace, health, or safety.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to legislative testimony; amending 62 O.S. 2021, Section 34.96, which relates to the Legislative Oversight Committee on State Budget Performance; requiring administration of oath to persons providing testimony before legislative committees; creating misdemeanor offense for certain acts; updating statutory language; and declaring an emergency.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Darrell Weaver (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Rules
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB446 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Firearms; modifying scope of lawful carry of firearms. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's laws regarding firearms carry, expanding where and how individuals can carry weapons in various settings. The legislation makes several key changes to existing statutes, including allowing concealed carry of handguns into certain government buildings and fairgrounds, permitting event holders to authorize open carry during specific events like the Oklahoma and Tulsa State Fairs, and enabling public trusts and nonprofit entities to allow open carry on their properties. The bill adds new restrictions by prohibiting firearms in public buildings used for meetings, substance abuse facilities, and mental health service locations. It also clarifies rules for carrying firearms on school properties, with provisions for school boards to authorize designated personnel to carry handguns. The law maintains existing protections for property owners' rights to prohibit firearms on their premises and provides immunity from liability for entities making decisions about weapon carry. Penalties for violations remain relatively modest, with potential fines up to $250, and the bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving local entities time to adapt to the new regulations. Overall, the legislation represents a nuanced approach to expanding gun carry rights while maintaining certain restrictions in sensitive locations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to firearms; amending 21 O.S. 2021, Sections 1277 and 1290.22, which relate to the unlawful carry of firearms in certain places and business owner’s rights; modifying scope of certain prohibited act; providing an exception; prohibiting the carry of firearms into certain places; removing construing provisions; authorizing the concealed carry of handguns into certain buildings and fairgrounds; authorizing event holders to allow for the open carry of lawful firearms during certain events; authorizing public trusts and nonprofit entities to allow for the open carry of lawful firearms on certain property; prohibiting the carry of concealed or unconcealed firearms at certain events; removing certain prohibition; updating statutory language and reference; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/08/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Dana Prieto (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Public Safety
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB782 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Firearms; modifying scope of unlawful carry. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Oklahoma's laws regarding firearms carry, making several key changes to where and how firearms can be carried in various public and private spaces. The bill expands firearm carry permissions in some areas while maintaining restrictions in others, such as courthouses, schools, and certain public buildings. Specifically, the bill allows concealed carry of handguns at fairgrounds during state fairs, permits event holders to authorize open carry during certain events, and enables public trusts and nonprofit entities to allow open carry on their properties. The bill also updates provisions related to business owners' rights regarding firearms, clarifying their ability to prohibit firearms on their premises while maintaining protections for individuals transporting firearms in locked vehicles. The law introduces new exceptions for carrying firearms in places like public meetings, substance abuse facilities, and mental health service locations, and provides detailed guidance on where firearms can and cannot be carried by different types of individuals, including elected officials, county employees, and school personnel. Penalties for violation remain relatively modest, with potential fines up to $250 for certain infractions. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving entities time to adjust to the new regulations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to firearms; amending 21 O.S. 2021, Sections 1277 and 1290.22, which relate to the unlawful carry of firearms in certain places and business owner’s rights; modifying scope of certain prohibited act; providing an exception; prohibiting the carry of firearms into certain places; removing construing provisions; authorizing the concealed carry of handguns into certain buildings and fairgrounds; authorizing event holders to allow for the open carry of lawful firearms during certain events; authorizing public trusts and nonprofit entities to allow for the open carry of lawful firearms on certain property; prohibiting the carry of concealed or unconcealed firearms at certain events; removing certain prohibition; updating statutory language and reference; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 01/16/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Shane Jett (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/15/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Public Safety
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB412 • Last Action 02/04/2025
School district boards of education; removing requirement to complete certain hours of instruction. Effective date. Emergency.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies the training requirements for school district board of education members in Oklahoma, significantly reducing the mandatory instruction hours from twelve to three. Previously, board members were required to pledge in writing to complete extensive training within 15 months of election or appointment, covering topics like school finance, legal issues, and ethics. Now, members may (rather than must) complete just three hours of training within six months of election, including one hour each on school finance, the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, and school law and ethics. The bill removes previous penalties for failing to complete training, such as seat vacancy, and eliminates the requirement for members to agree in writing to complete the training. Additionally, the bill shifts the responsibility of maintaining board member training records from the State Board of Education to individual school districts, requiring these records to be posted on the district's website. The training can now be provided by the State Department of Education and/or the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education, and school districts may be charged for their members' attendance at these training sessions. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause to implement the changes immediately upon passage.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to school district boards of education; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 5-110, which relates to instruction for board of education members; removing outdated language; removing language requiring certain member to agree in writing to education requirements; allowing rather than requiring certain instruction; changing time period in which member may complete certain training; reducing number of hours of instruction; removing requirement for training in certain topics; removing ability for certain type of organization to offer certain training; removing education requirements for certain incumbent board members; directing board members to represent certain interests; removing language regarding penalties for failing to complete certain instruction; allowing a board member’s district to be charged for certain attendance upon completion; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 5-110.2, which relates to attendance records of school board members; directing school districts to maintain records rather than the State Board of Education; requiring records to be posted on certain website; removing language regarding certain notification; repealing 70 O.S. 2021, Section 5-110.1, which relates to continuing education requirements for board members; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 01/07/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Shane Jett (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/07/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Education
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB1097 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Oklahoma Open Records Act; requiring certain written notice when records request cannot be completed within a specified time. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Records Act to enhance transparency and communication in public records requests. Specifically, the legislation requires that if a public body cannot complete a records request within ten business days, a designated official must provide written notice to the requester explaining the reason for the delay and specifying a realistic date when the requested information will be available for inspection or duplication. This new requirement is part of the broader Oklahoma Open Records Act, which generally mandates that public records be accessible to citizens during regular business hours, with certain specific exceptions for confidential or sensitive information. The bill updates the existing law by adding this notice requirement, which aims to improve government accountability and provide clearer communication to citizens seeking public information. The amendment will go into effect on November 1, 2025, giving public bodies time to adjust their procedures to comply with the new notification requirements.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Records Act; amending 51 O.S. 2021, Section 24A.5, as last amended by Section 2, Chapter 116, O.S.L. 2024 (51 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 24A.5), which relates to inspection and copying of records; updating statutory reference; requiring certain written notice when records request cannot be completed within a specified time; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/16/2025
• Added: 01/17/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Lisa Standridge (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/16/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB467 • Last Action 02/04/2025
County commissioners; allowing for certain discussion in certain circumstance. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Oklahoma state laws concerning county commissioners' meetings and the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act, introducing several key provisions. The bill allows county commissioners to discuss administrative, operational, and procedural matters even when a quorum is present, without triggering open meeting requirements, as long as no official action is taken. These discussions can include scheduling agenda items, media statements, organizational structure, internal processes, staffing needs, and receiving employee reports. The bill also permits county commissioners to attend conferences, training, and events together, even with a quorum present, and to discuss county business without taking official action. Additionally, in counties with a county budget board, commissioners and elected officials may discuss budgetary matters outside of open meeting requirements, provided a quorum of the budget board is not present. The legislation updates language to be gender-neutral (replacing "chairman" with "chair") and modifies the definition of "public body" in the Open Meeting Act to explicitly exclude certain county commissioner discussions. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, and aims to provide more flexibility for county commissioners while maintaining transparency in government operations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to county commissioners; amending 19 O.S. 2021, Section 326, which relates to meetings of the board of county commissioners; making language gender neutral; allowing for certain discussion in certain circumstances; exempting certain discussions from the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; prohibiting certain board from taking certain action; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Section 304, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 304), which relates to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; modifying definition; updating statutory language; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Jerry Alvord (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Local and County Government
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
OK bill #SB564 • Last Action 02/04/2025
Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; adding Judicial Nominating Commission to definition of public body; establishing purposes for permissible executive sessions. Effective date.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act to expand the definition of a "public body" to explicitly include the Judicial Nominating Commission and establish specific provisions for when the Commission can hold executive sessions. The bill adds a new section allowing the Judicial Nominating Commission to hold executive sessions for two primary purposes: discussing the merits and qualifications of judicial candidates to determine interview candidates, and meeting with candidates to discuss confidential information like financial disclosures or background checks. Importantly, the bill stipulates that actual candidate interviews cannot occur in executive sessions, and commissioners cannot vote or indicate their voting intentions during these closed meetings. The changes aim to provide more structured guidelines for how the Judicial Nominating Commission can conduct its candidate evaluation process while maintaining some level of confidentiality. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, giving state entities time to prepare for the new regulations. By clarifying the rules around executive sessions for this specific body, the legislation seeks to balance transparency in judicial candidate selection with the need for some confidential deliberations.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: An Act relating to the Oklahoma Open Meeting Act; amending 25 O.S. 2021, Sections 304, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 237, O.S.L. 2024, and 307, as last amended by Section 3, Chapter 180, O.S.L. 2024 (25 O.S. Supp. 2024, Sections 304 and 307), which relate to definitions and executive sessions; adding Judicial Nominating Commission to definition of public body; establishing purposes for permissible executive sessions; updating statutory reference; and providing an effective date.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/13/2025
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Brian Guthrie (R)*
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/13/2025
• Last Action: Second Reading referred to Judiciary
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB1386 • Last Action 01/29/2025
FOIA OFFICERS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to clarify the role and definition of Freedom of Information officers in public bodies. Specifically, the bill requires each public body to designate one or more officials or employees to serve as Freedom of Information officers, with a key clarification that "public body officials" refers only to elected or appointed office holders of the public body and explicitly excludes private attorneys or law firms appointed to represent the public body. The bill outlines the responsibilities of these officers, which include receiving FOIA requests, ensuring timely responses, developing a list of documents that can be immediately disclosed, and tracking request dates and response deadlines. This modification aims to standardize and improve the process of handling public records requests by clearly defining who can serve in this important transparency role and establishing specific procedural requirements for managing such requests.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amends the Freedom of Information Act. Provides that each public body shall designate one or more public body officials or employees (rather than officials or employees) to act as its Freedom of Information officer or officers. Provides that "public body officials" means elected or appointed office holders of the public body but does not include private attorneys or law firms appointed to represent the public body.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Craig Wilcox (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Assignments
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SB190 • Last Action 01/29/2025
Providing for pharmaceutical transparency; establishing the Pharmaceutical Transparency Review Board and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Pharmaceutical Transparency Review Fund; and imposing a penalty.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes the Pharmaceutical Transparency Review Board, an independent state board tasked with reviewing high-cost prescription drug products and developing recommendations to address affordability challenges for residents, government agencies, health plans, providers, and other stakeholders. The seven-member board, appointed by various state legislative leaders, will consist of individuals with expertise in health care economics or clinical medicine, with strict conflict of interest provisions to ensure independence. The board will be required to collect detailed information from drug manufacturers about drug development costs, pricing, marketing expenses, profits, patient assistance programs, and financial incentives, focusing on prescription drugs that meet specific cost thresholds or are deemed to create affordability burdens. By January 2028, the board must submit a comprehensive report analyzing prescription drug costs, supply chain dynamics, price transparency, and patient out-of-pocket expenses, as well as annual reports on drug price trends. The board will be funded through assessments on pharmaceutical manufacturers and will have the authority to impose daily fines of $20,000 for non-compliance. The bill aims to increase transparency in pharmaceutical pricing and develop strategies to make prescription drugs more affordable in Pennsylvania, with the board's work to begin 60 days after the act's enactment.
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Bill Summary: Providing for pharmaceutical transparency; establishing the Pharmaceutical Transparency Review Board and providing for its powers and duties; establishing the Pharmaceutical Transparency Review Fund; and imposing a penalty.
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• Introduced: 01/29/2025
• Added: 01/29/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 8 : Sharif Street (D)*, Tim Kearney (D), Vincent Hughes (D), Jay Costa (D), John Kane (D), Judy Schwank (D), Dan Laughlin (R), Maria Collett (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Banking & Insurance
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3736 • Last Action 01/29/2025
Law Enforcement Personal Privacy Protection and Judicial Personal Privacy Protection
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill provides enhanced privacy protections for law enforcement officers and judges by allowing them to restrict their personal contact information from publicly available online government records. The bill defines "personal contact information" as including name, home address, personal cellular telephone number, and property tax map number. Law enforcement officers and judges can request that their personal information be removed from publicly accessible internet websites maintained by state or local government agencies by submitting a designated form with a notarized affidavit verifying their current or former employment. The restricted information must remain within official government records but cannot be displayed online. There are exceptions to these restrictions, such as for collision reports, business filings, or when the individual consents to disclosure. The bill also allows for disclosure of the restricted information to specific entities like title insurers, title insurance agents, and attorneys. Additionally, the bill requires the Office of Court Administration and the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy to collaborate on creating a standardized form for making these privacy restriction requests. The effective date of this legislation is delayed until January 1, 2026, giving government agencies time to prepare for implementation.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Section 30-2-500, Relating To Definitions, So As To Include Additional Information In The Definition Of "personal Contact Information" And To Define "disclosed Records"; By Amending Section 30-2-510, Relating To Options For Law Enforcement Officers To Make Personal Contact Information Confidential; Exceptions; Procedures, So As To Restrict Personal Contact Information In A Disclosed Record From A Publicly Available Internet Website Maintained By Or Operated On Behalf Of A State Or Local Government And To Require That The Personal Contact Information Restricted From Disclosed Records Under This Section Must Remain Within The Official Record Held Or Maintained By A State Or Local Government Agency, And To Allow Disclosure To Certain Individuals Or Entities; By Adding Section 30-2-515 So As To Provide For A Petition To Court For Compliance With The Article And To Prevent Liability From Accruing To A State Or Local Government Employee Or The Employee's Agents; By Amending Section 30-2-700, Relating To Definitions, So As To Include Additional Information In The Definition Of "personal Contact Information" And To Define "disclosed Records"; By Amending Section 30-2-710, Relating To Options For Judges To Make Personal Contact Information Confidential; Exceptions; Procedures, So As To Restrict Personal Contact Information In A Disclosed Record From A Publicly Available Internet Website Maintained By Or Operated On Behalf Of A State Or Local Government And To Require That The Personal Contact Information Restricted From Disclosed Records Under This Section Must Remain Within The Official Record Held Or Maintained By A State Or Local Government Agency, And To Allow Disclosure To Certain Individuals Or Entities; By Adding Section 30-2-715 So As To Provide For A Petition To Court For Compliance With The Article And To Prevent Liability From Accruing To A State Or Local Government Employee Or The Employee's Agents; To Direct The Office Of Court Administration And The South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy To Collaborate In The Creation Of The Designated Form For A Law Enforcement Officer And For A Judge To Use To Request The Restriction Of Personal Contact Information In Disclosed Records; And To Make Conforming Changes.
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• Introduced: 01/15/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Weston Newton (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: Scrivener's error corrected
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1768 • Last Action 01/28/2025
PUBLIC SAFETY&JUSTICE PRIVACY
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Public Safety and Justice Privacy Act, which provides comprehensive protections for personal information of certain public safety officials including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, public defenders, and probation officers. The bill requires government agencies, businesses, and individuals to refrain from publicly posting an official's personal information if they receive a written request not to do so. If someone knowingly posts an official's personal information online in a way that poses an imminent threat to the official's or their family's health and safety, they could be charged with a Class 3 felony. The legislation allows officials to request the removal of their personal information from public records and websites, with specific procedures for submitting such requests. The bill also amends several existing laws to allow officials to use business or work addresses instead of home addresses on various documents like driver's licenses and identification cards. Importantly, the law is designed to be interpreted broadly in favor of protecting officials' personal information, with exceptions for government employees publishing information in good faith during the normal course of their work. The bill aims to enhance the safety and privacy of public safety professionals by limiting the public disclosure of their personal details.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: Creates the Public Safety and Justice Privacy Act. Defines terms. Provides that government agencies, persons, businesses, and associations shall not publicly post or display publicly available content that includes a law enforcement officer's, prosecutor's, public defender's, or probation officer's ("officials") personal information, provided that the government agency, person, business, or association has received a written request from the person that it refrain from disclosing the person's personal information. Provides injunctive or declaratory relief if the Act is violated. Includes procedures for a written request. Provides that it is a Class 3 felony for any person to knowingly publicly post on the Internet the personal information of an official or an official's immediate family under specified circumstances. Excludes criminal penalties for employees of government agencies who publish information in good faith during the ordinary course of carrying out public functions. Provides that the Act and any rules adopted to implement the Act shall be construed broadly to favor the protection of the personal information of officials. Amends various Acts and Codes allowing an official to list a business address rather than a home address and makes conforming changes. Effective immediately.
Show Bill Summary
• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : C.D. Davidsmeyer (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/27/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HR32 • Last Action 01/28/2025
Designating the week of March 16 through 22, 2025, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This resolution designates the week of March 16 through 22, 2025, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania, recognizing a longstanding annual initiative started in 2005 by the American Society of News Editors and the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association. The resolution highlights the fundamental constitutional principles of free speech and press, and aims to draw attention to the importance of open government and public access to government records and meetings. Coinciding with James Madison's birthday, Sunshine Week has grown to include participation from various civic groups, libraries, open government organizations, and student media. The resolution calls on all Pennsylvania residents to support and observe the week, emphasizing the critical role of transparency in a free society, particularly in a state where public access issues are regularly discussed. By officially recognizing Sunshine Week, the resolution seeks to spark dialogue about governmental openness and the public's right to information.
Show Summary (AI-generated)
Bill Summary: A Resolution designating the week of March 16 through 22, 2025, as "Sunshine Week" in Pennsylvania.
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• Introduced: 01/27/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 17 : Rob Matzie (D)*, Arvind Venkat (D), Mandy Steele (D), Pat Harkins (D), Ben Sanchez (D), Nancy Guenst (D), Malcolm Kenyatta (D), Steve Malagari (D), José Giral (D), Danilo Burgos (D), Ed Neilson (D), Carol Hill-Evans (D), Mike Schlossberg (D), Roni Green (D), Maureen Madden (D), Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz (D), Scott Conklin (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/29/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs & Operations
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #SB0265 • Last Action 01/24/2025
LOCAL RECORDS-POLICE SCANNERS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Local Records Act by adding a new requirement for law enforcement agencies that choose to encrypt their police scanner transmissions. Specifically, if a law enforcement agency decides to encrypt its scanner communications, it must provide real-time access to those encrypted transmissions to specific types of media organizations, including broadcast stations (as defined by federal communications regulations), radio broadcast stations, and newspapers (as defined in the Notice By Publication Act). The bill is designed to ensure transparency by mandating that media outlets can still receive and potentially report on emergency communications even when those communications are encrypted. The new provision will take effect on January 1, 2026, giving law enforcement agencies and media organizations time to prepare for and implement the new access requirements. This legislation aims to balance law enforcement's need for secure communications with the public's interest in accessing information about emergency responses and police activities.
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Bill Summary: Amends the Local Records Act. Provides that a law enforcement agency that encrypts police scanner transmissions must provide, by license or otherwise, real-time access to those transmissions to broadcast stations, broadcasting stations, radio broadcast stations, and newspapers. Effective January 1, 2026.
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• Introduced: 01/24/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Steve Stadelman (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/24/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Assignments
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MI bill #HB4020 • Last Action 01/23/2025
Education: curriculum; requirement for schools to provide instruction on African-American history; provide for, and create the commission to update African-American history in K to 12 instruction. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1164.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill establishes a temporary commission to update and improve African-American history instruction in Michigan's K-12 schools. The commission will consist of representatives from various universities (University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Wayne State University), the NAACP Michigan conference, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Jim Crow Museum at Ferris State University. Within one year of its first meeting, the commission must review current curriculum standards and recommend age-appropriate instruction on African-American history, focusing on key periods like Reconstruction and the Civil Rights Era, and highlighting African-Americans' contributions to the United States and other countries. Following the commission's recommendations, the state board will be required to update curriculum standards, and starting in the 2026-2027 school year, all school districts and public school academies must provide comprehensive African-American history instruction across all grade levels. Additionally, state assessments like the Michigan Merit Examination and M-STEP will be modified to include questions related to the new learning objectives. The commission members will serve voluntarily without compensation, and their work will be conducted transparently through public meetings and subject to freedom of information regulations.
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Bill Summary: A bill to amend 1976 PA 451, entitled"The revised school code,"(MCL 380.1 to 380.1852) by adding section 1164.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 01/23/2025
• Session: 103rd Legislature
• Sponsors: 37 : Helena Scott (D)*, Joseph Tate (D), Julie Rogers (D), Kimberly Edwards (D), Amos O'Neal (D), Jason Morgan (D), Noah Arbit (D), Tonya Myers Phillips (D), Brenda Carter (D), Jennifer Conlin (D), Regina Weiss (D), Julie Brixie (D), Natalie Price (D), Cynthia Neeley (D), Laurie Pohutsky (D), Carol Glanville (D), Will Snyder (D), Mike McFall (D), Ranjeev Puri (D), Tyrone Carter (D), Stephanie Young (D), Kristian Grant (D), Erin Byrnes (D), Morgan Foreman (D), Jason Hoskins (D), Betsy Coffia (D), Sharon MacDonell (D), Kelly Breen (D), John Fitzgerald (D), Jaz Martus (D), Matt Koleszar (D), Kara Hope (D), Donavan McKinney (D), Samantha Steckloff (D), Dylan Wegela (D), Joey Andrews (D), Emily Dievendorf (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/22/2025
• Last Action: Bill Electronically Reproduced 01/22/2025
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
US bill #S174 • Last Action 01/21/2025
Amtrak Transparency Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase transparency in Amtrak's operations through several key provisions. First, it modifies the requirements for Amtrak's Board of Directors meetings, mandating that the Board must post a meeting announcement with an agenda on a public website at least 30 days in advance and ensure all meetings are open and comply with federal open meeting standards. The bill also requires the Board to hold an annual meeting with transportation officials from states served by Amtrak's long-distance or state-supported routes. Additionally, the legislation requires Amtrak to publicly disclose the amount of any discretionary bonuses paid to officers or non-union employees. Lastly, the bill stipulates that Amtrak must disclose vendor agreements valued at $250,000 or more for services related to state-supported routes upon request from a state or the State-Amtrak Intercity Passenger Rail Committee. These changes are intended to increase accountability and provide more transparency about Amtrak's operations, financial practices, and decision-making processes.
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Bill Summary: A bill to improve the transparency of Amtrak operations, and for other purposes.
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• Introduced: 01/22/2025
• Added: 02/21/2025
• Session: 119th Congress
• Sponsors: 1 : Deb Fischer (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 02/20/2025
• Last Action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S02431 • Last Action 01/17/2025
Requires the office of court administration, clerks, and all other records custodians to develop policies and procedures to ensure no identifying information or documentation relating to name change actions or sex designation change actions is visible or retrievable in any electronic database maintained by the state of New York or a subdivision thereof.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires the office of court administration, county clerks, and other records custodians to develop comprehensive policies and procedures to protect the privacy of individuals involved in name change and sex designation change legal actions in New York. Specifically, the bill mandates that any documents or electronic records related to these actions must be completely inaccessible to the public, both in-person and online, immediately upon filing. Only the petitioner, the person whose name or sex designation is being changed, their attorney, or those with a court-approved "good cause" can access these records. Within 90 days of the bill's effective date, all existing name change and sex designation change records must be removed from public view. The bill also allows individuals whose records were previously filed to request the removal of their identifying information from public databases at any time, even if they did not originally request privacy. While protecting personal information, the bill still allows non-identifying administrative details like case index numbers, court names, and case status to remain visible. The goal is to provide enhanced privacy protections for individuals undergoing legal name or sex designation changes, recognizing the sensitive nature of these personal legal processes.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the civil rights law, in relation to ensuring the privacy of name change actions and of sex designation change actions; and to repeal certain provisions of such law relating thereto
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• Introduced: 01/17/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 4 : Brad Hoylman (D)*, Cordell Cleare (D), Patricia Fahy (D), Rachel May (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/17/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO CODES
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
MD bill #SB115 • Last Action 01/16/2025
Office of the Chief Medical Examiner - Disclosure of Autopsy Information and Maintenance of Investigative Database
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill modifies Maryland law regarding the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner's record-keeping and disclosure practices. It introduces a new definition for "final autopsy diagnosis" as the interpretations and conclusions of a medical examiner or forensic pathologist in an autopsy report. The bill requires the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to maintain a new investigative database for medical examiner and forensic pathologist cases, with a critical provision that most electronic data and records in this database will be exempt from public inspection under the Maryland Public Information Act, with the exception of final autopsy diagnoses. The bill clarifies that while specific types of medical and personal information can be withheld from public records, individuals can still access certain information about themselves. The legislation also maintains existing provisions about record-keeping, such as indexing details about deceased individuals, recording death circumstances, and allowing the Chief Medical Examiner to provide records to State's Attorneys. The bill will take effect on October 1, 2025, providing time for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to implement the new database and disclosure requirements.
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Bill Summary: Altering the autopsy information in a public record with respect to which a custodian is required to deny inspection; requiring the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to maintain an investigative database; and providing that certain data and records maintained in the database are not public records and not subject to the Maryland Public Information Act.
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• Introduced: 12/26/2024
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 0 : Finance
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/02/2025
• Last Action: Senate Finance Hearing (15:00:00 1/16/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3648 • Last Action 01/14/2025
Budget Transparency Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill aims to increase government transparency by requiring state agencies, local governments, and public bodies in South Carolina to publicly disclose various financial and administrative information. Specifically, state agencies must include detailed justifications for budget requests and post these requests on their websites; local governing bodies like counties, municipalities, and school districts must publish on their websites comprehensive information including contract details for elected officials, meeting agendas and minutes, employee compensation lists, budgets and financial reports, tax and fee information, and revenue and expenditure databases. Additionally, the bill mandates that public bodies either report employee salary information quarterly to the Department of Administration or post such information on their own websites. Meeting records must be made available within 24 hours after a meeting concludes, and meeting minutes must include detailed voting records for each individual member. The primary goal of this legislation is to provide citizens with easier access to government financial and operational information, promoting accountability and transparency in local and state government operations. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Enacting The "budget Transparency Act" By Adding Section 11-11-60, Section 6-1-2020, And Section 30-4-170 So As To Require Certain Public Bodies To Make Available Certain Salary Information With Either The Department Of Administration Or On Its Own Website.
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• Introduced: 12/12/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rob Harris (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/12/2024
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Ways and Means
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3646 • Last Action 01/14/2025
Meeting Transparency Act
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill seeks to enhance government transparency by requiring two types of public meetings in South Carolina to be livestreamed and archived online. For legislative committees, including standing committees, subcommittees, ad hoc committees, and study committees, the bill mandates that meetings must be electronically accessible in real-time on the General Assembly's website and remain viewable afterwards. Additionally, within 24 hours of a legislative committee meeting, all meeting documents, such as circulated materials and minutes (which must detail individual member votes), must be posted online. Similarly, the bill requires school district board of trustees meetings to be livestreamed on their respective district websites, also ensuring the meetings are viewable during the actual session and preserved for later viewing. The purpose of these requirements is to increase public access to governmental decision-making processes, allowing citizens to observe and review official meetings and documents more easily. The bill would take effect upon the Governor's approval, potentially bringing greater transparency to legislative and educational governance in South Carolina.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Enacting The "meeting Transparency Act" By Adding Section 2-1-260 So As To Require Meetings Of Legislative Committees To Be Made Available Online As Well As Certain Documents; And By Adding Section 59-17-180 So As To Require School Board Meetings To Be Made Available Online.
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• Introduced: 12/12/2024
• Added: 12/13/2024
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Rob Harris (R)*
• Versions: 2 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3401 • Last Action 01/14/2025
Technology Transparency
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill introduces a comprehensive Technology Transparency Act that establishes detailed privacy protections for South Carolina consumers. The law applies to large companies (controllers) that process personal data and creates significant consumer rights, including the ability to confirm what personal data is being collected, correct inaccuracies, delete personal data, obtain a copy of personal data, and opt out of targeted advertising, data sales, and certain types of data processing. The bill defines key terms like "personal data" and "sensitive data" and sets strict requirements for how companies can collect, use, and share consumer information. Notably, the bill prohibits governmental entities from communicating with social media platforms to request content removal in most circumstances and establishes that violations are considered unfair and deceptive trade practices. The Attorney General is granted enforcement powers, with the ability to issue civil penalties up to $50,000 per violation, which can be tripled in certain cases like violations involving children. While the bill provides robust consumer protections, it explicitly does not establish a private right of action, meaning consumers cannot sue directly but must rely on the Attorney General for enforcement. The law will take effect upon the Governor's approval and includes provisions requiring annual reporting on enforcement activities.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Chapter 31 To Title 37 So As To Provide Definitions, To Provide That A Governmental Entity May Not Communicate With A Social Media Platform In Certain Instances, To Provide Applicability, To Provide Exemptions, To Provide For Certain Consumer Rights, To Provide For The Exercising Of Certain Rights, To Establish An Appeals Process, To Provide That Certain Contracts And Agreements That Waive Rights Are Void, To Provide That A Controller Shall Establish Methods To Submit Requests, To Provide For Duties For Controllers, To Provide For A Privacy Notice, To Provide For Duties Of A Processor, To Provide For A Data Protection Assessment, To Provide For Duties Of A Controller In Possession Of Deidentified Data, To Provide That A Controller May Not Engage In The Sale Of Certain Personal Data, To Provide For Actions That Are Not Restricted, To Provide For Third-party Data Disclosure, To Provide That Certain Personal Data May Not Be Processed, And To Provide That A Violation Is An Unfair And Deceptive Trade Practice.
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• Introduced: 12/10/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 2 : Brandon Guffey (R)*, Tommy Pope (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/05/2024
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3288 • Last Action 01/14/2025
Requesting body-worn camera data
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends South Carolina law to modify how body-worn camera data can be accessed, specifically expanding the ability of individuals who are subjects of recordings to request and receive their recorded data without having to go through complex legal procedures like filing court orders or pursuing criminal or civil actions. Currently, body-worn camera data is not considered a public record and is typically restricted, with only specific entities like the State Law Enforcement Division, Attorney General, and circuit solicitors able to request such data. The bill introduces a new provision that explicitly allows a person who is the subject of a body-worn camera recording to directly request and receive their own recorded data. This change aims to make the process of accessing body-worn camera footage more straightforward for individuals, potentially increasing transparency and making it easier for people to obtain recordings that involve them. The bill maintains existing provisions that protect the data from general public disclosure while providing a more direct path for subjects of recordings to access their own footage. The amendment will take effect upon approval by the Governor.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Amending Section 23-1-240, Relating To Body-worn Cameras, So As To Provide Persons Who Are Subjects In Data Recorded By Body-worn Cameras May Request And Must Receive Recorded Data Without Pursuing Actions Under The Rules Of Criminal Procedure Or Civil Procedure, Or By Obtaining Court Orders.
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• Introduced: 12/09/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 3 : Jermaine Johnson (D)*, Weston Newton (R), Hamilton Grant (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/05/2024
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
SC bill #H3146 • Last Action 01/14/2025
Limiting public access to certain information during a hearing
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill proposes to add a new section to South Carolina law that allows defendants convicted of violent crimes to seek to limit public access to certain personal information during their sentencing hearing. Specifically, defendants may request that the court seal public records related to their arrest, filed charges, case file, and criminal history, including fingerprints and photographs. The court must carefully consider both the public's interest in accessing criminal records and the potential harm to the defendant's privacy, and must issue written findings explaining its decision. If the motion is granted, the court will order the defendant's public records sealed and made unavailable to the public. The law applies to sentencing hearings for violent crimes as defined in Section 16-1-60, with some specific exceptions. The court will have discretion in deciding whether to grant the request and must specify the effective date of its order. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.
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Bill Summary: Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 17-25-40 So As To Provide At The Time Of Sentencing Defendants Convicted Of Certain Crimes May Seek To And The Court May Limit Public Access To Certain Information Presented During These Hearings.
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• Introduced: 12/09/2024
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 126th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Todd Rutherford (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 4
• Last Amended: 12/05/2024
• Last Action: Referred to Committee on Judiciary
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #HB91 • Last Action 01/14/2025
In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends the Right-to-Know Law, which governs public access to government records, by modifying an existing exception for noncriminal investigations. Specifically, the bill adds the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission as an agency that will now be exempt from the existing restriction on public access to records related to noncriminal investigations. This means that while most state agencies' noncriminal investigation records remain protected from public disclosure, the Fish and Boat Commission's such records will now be subject to the standard public records access rules under the Right-to-Know Law. The change suggests a potential desire for increased transparency specifically for this commission's investigative processes. The bill includes a provision for immediate implementation upon enactment, indicating an urgency or immediacy to the legislative change.
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Bill Summary: Amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), entitled "An act providing for access to public information, for a designated open-records officer in each Commonwealth agency, local agency, judicial agency and legislative agency, for procedure, for appeal of agency determination, for judicial review and for the Office of Open Records; imposing penalties; providing for reporting by State-related institutions; requiring the posting of certain State contract information on the Internet; and making related repeals," in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.
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• Introduced: 01/10/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 9 : Clint Owlett (R)*, Joe Hamm (R), Tina Pickett (R), Rob Kauffman (R), Bud Cook (R), Brad Roae (R), Brian Smith (R), Lee James (R), Charity Grimm Krupa (R)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/14/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Game & Fisheries
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #C00009 • Last Action 01/13/2025
Implements, pursuant to and in compliance with the provisions of article seven of the Public Officers Law, a system of videoconferencing to conduct meetings
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This joint resolution implements a system of videoconferencing for legislative meetings in compliance with the Public Officers Law, specifically Section 103-a, which was created by Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2022 and extended by Chapter 58 of the Laws of 2024. The resolution allows legislators to conduct meetings using videoconferencing, with the critical requirement that a minimum number of members must be physically present in a location where the public can attend and observe to fulfill the quorum requirements. Legislators may participate remotely through videoconferencing on a case-by-case basis if they cannot be physically present due to extraordinary circumstances, subject to approval by the appropriate legislative leader. However, if no quorum is physically present at a hearing, videoconferencing cannot be used. The joint resolution takes effect immediately upon adoption by both the Senate and Assembly and will remain in effect until the related legislative provision expires or is rescinded, ensuring transparency and continued legislative flexibility during potentially challenging circumstances.
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Bill Summary: Implements, pursuant to and in compliance with the provisions of article seven of the Public Officers Law, a system of videoconferencing to conduct meetings
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Carl Heastie (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 7
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Companion passed 2025-01-13
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #B00009 • Last Action 01/13/2025
Implements, pursuant to and in compliance with the provisions of article seven of the Public Officers Law, a system of videoconferencing to conduct meetings
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This joint resolution authorizes the New York State Senate and Assembly to implement a videoconferencing system for conducting meetings, in compliance with Article 7 of the Public Officers Law. The resolution allows legislators to participate remotely through videoconferencing on a case-by-case basis if they are unable to attend physically due to extraordinary circumstances, but requires that a minimum number of members (quorum) must still be present in a physical location where the public can attend and observe. The resolution specifies that if no quorum is physically present at a hearing, videoconferencing cannot be used. The authorization stems from recent legislative changes (Chapters 56 and 58 of the Laws of 2022 and 2024) and follows a public hearing to receive comments on the use of videoconferencing in legislative proceedings. The joint resolution will remain in effect until the underlying legislative provision expires, unless it is rescinded earlier, and takes effect immediately upon adoption by both the Senate and Assembly.
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Bill Summary: Implements, pursuant to and in compliance with the provisions of article seven of the Public Officers Law, a system of videoconferencing to conduct meetings
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 06/05/2026
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 6
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: returned to senate
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
VT bill #H0022 • Last Action 01/10/2025
An act relating to access to information concerning benefit extension agreements for employees of public agencies
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill amends Vermont's Public Records Act and state statutes to increase transparency around employment separation agreements for public agency employees. Specifically, the bill requires that information about severance pay and benefit extension agreements (which are defined as agreements that provide additional pay or benefits to an employee after their separation from a job) be made publicly available for inspection and copying. Public agencies will now be required to publish an annual report by July 1st detailing these agreements, including the names and positions of individuals receiving benefits, total amount paid, specific benefits conferred, duration of the agreement, and reasons for employment termination. The bill also provides additional enforcement mechanisms for public records requests, such as allowing courts to assess punitive damages up to $2,500 against agencies that improperly withhold or delay access to public records. Additionally, the bill requires public agencies to retroactively publish reports covering benefit extension agreements from 2018 through 2025, with the new reporting requirements taking effect on July 1, 2025. This legislation aims to increase government transparency and provide public oversight of employment separation practices in state agencies.
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Bill Summary: This bill proposes to amend Vermont’s Public Records Act and provisions of Title 32 to provide that information concerning severance pay and benefit extension agreements shall be available for public inspection and copying under Vermont’s Public Records Act.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Session
• Sponsors: 11 : Troy Headrick (D)*, Daisy Berbeco (D), Mollie Burke (D), Conor Casey (D), Brian Cina (D), Jim Harrison (R), Kate Logan (D), Jim Masland (D), Kate McCann (D), Monique Priestley (D), Edward Waszazak (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: House Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs Hearing (00:00:00 1/10/2025 )
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
IL bill #HB1039 • Last Action 01/09/2025
PUBLIC OFFICIALS-BODY CAMERAS
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill creates the Public Official Body Camera Act, which establishes comprehensive rules for body camera usage by public officials in the state. The bill defines a body camera as an electronic camera system worn by a person that can record, store, and process audiovisual recordings, and applies to any elected or appointed public official. The State Board of Elections will develop specific guidelines, including requirements that body cameras must be equipped with pre-event recording capabilities (capturing 30 seconds before activation), have a battery life of at least 10 hours, and be turned on during official duties. Public officials must provide notice when recording in situations where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, and recordings must be retained for 90 days without alteration or destruction. The bill also specifies that these recordings can be used as evidence in administrative, judicial, legislative, or disciplinary proceedings, and if a court finds that a recording was intentionally not captured, destroyed, or altered, this violation can be considered when weighing evidence. Additionally, the bill makes conforming changes to the Freedom of Information Act, ensuring that body camera recordings are subject to disclosure only to the extent they are responsive to specific requests and do not violate existing confidentiality provisions.
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Bill Summary: Creates the Public Official Body Camera Act. Provides that the State Board of Elections shall develop rules for the use of body cameras by public officials of the State. Specifies requirements concerning the use of body cameras. Provides that recordings made with the use of a body camera worn by a public official are subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act only to the extent recordings or portions of recordings are responsive to the request. Provides that the recordings may be used as evidence in any administrative, judicial, legislative, or disciplinary proceeding. Provides that, if a court or other finder of fact finds by a preponderance of the evidence that a recording was intentionally not captured, destroyed, altered, or intermittently captured in violation of the Act, then the court or other finder of fact shall consider or be instructed to consider that violation in weighing the evidence, unless the State or public official provides a reasonable justification. Makes conforming changes to the Freedom of Information Act.
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• Introduced: 01/08/2025
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 104th General Assembly
• Sponsors: 1 : John Cabello (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NY bill #S00452 • Last Action 01/08/2025
Requires all agencies to submit to the committee on open government a log of all freedom of information law requests for each year in which they received or have pending a request for records; requires the committee on open government to publish, on one webpage, all freedom of information law request logs it receives.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This bill requires state agencies that perform governmental or proprietary functions to submit detailed logs of all Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests to the Committee on Open Government each year. The logs must cover a twelve-month period and include extensive information about each request, such as the requestor's name, request date, response status, exemptions cited, number of documents produced, and details about any related legal proceedings. Agencies must submit these logs in a machine-readable spreadsheet format prescribed by the committee. Municipal agencies will initially only need to report the total number of FOIL requests received and closed. By January 1st of each year, the Committee on Open Government must publish all received FOIL request logs on a single webpage and on data.ny.gov, making this information publicly accessible. The bill also requires the committee to include analysis of these logs in its annual report and to publish a report by January 1st, 2028, recommending whether municipal agencies should be required to submit more detailed FOIL request logs. The act will take effect 90 days after becoming law, aiming to increase transparency in government information requests and responses.
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Bill Summary: AN ACT to amend the public officers law, in relation to requiring agencies to report information about FOIL inquiries to the committee on open government
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• Introduced: 12/31/2024
• Added: 04/21/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 General Assembly
• Sponsors: 11 : Brad Hoylman (D)*, Jabari Brisport (D), Cordell Cleare (D), Leroy Comrie (D), Patricia Fahy (D), Nathalia Ferna´ndez (D), Andrew Gounardes (D), Robert Jackson (D), Liz Krueger (D), Christopher Ryan (D), James Skoufis (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SR6 • Last Action 01/07/2025
Adopting the Rules of the Senate for the 209th and 210th Regular Session.
Status: In Committee
AI-generated Summary: This resolution adopts the Rules of the Senate for the 209th and 210th Regular Session (2025-2026), which comprehensively outline the procedural guidelines, operational protocols, and ethical standards governing the Pennsylvania State Senate. The rules cover a wide range of topics, including the composition and duties of Senate leadership (such as the President, President Pro Tempore, and Secretary-Parliamentarian), committee structures and functions, legislative processes for bills and resolutions, voting procedures, ethical conduct standards, and administrative operations. Key provisions include detailed guidelines for introducing and considering legislation, committee operations, member conduct, voting requirements, and mechanisms for handling executive nominations and potential ethics violations. The resolution emphasizes transparency, decorum, and the orderly conduct of Senate business, establishing specific protocols for everything from floor debate and committee hearings to member participation and technological accommodations, such as remote voting capabilities. The rules are designed to ensure fair, efficient, and responsible governance within the Pennsylvania State Senate, with provisions that require two-thirds majority consent to alter or suspend these established procedural guidelines.
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Bill Summary: A Resolution adopting the Rules of the Senate for the 209th and 210th Regular Session.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 01/09/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Katie Muth (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 2
• Last Amended: 01/08/2025
• Last Action: Referred to Rules & Executive Nominations (27-21)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
PA bill #SR3 • Last Action 01/07/2025
Adopting the Rules of the Senate for the 209th and 210th Regular Session.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This resolution adopts the Rules of the Senate for the 209th and 210th Regular Session (2025-2026), which comprehensively outline the operational procedures, protocols, and expectations for the Pennsylvania State Senate. The rules cover a wide range of topics, including the roles and responsibilities of Senate leadership (such as the President, President Pro Tempore, and Secretary-Parliamentarian), committee structures and functions, bill introduction and passage procedures, voting protocols, ethical standards, and guidelines for decorum during Senate sessions. Key provisions include specifying how bills are introduced, considered, and voted upon, detailing the powers and duties of various Senate officers, establishing committee composition and responsibilities, defining voting requirements, and setting standards for member conduct. The rules also address specific procedural matters like how amendments are handled, when executive nominations are considered, and the process for potential ethics investigations. These rules serve as the fundamental governance document that guides the Senate's daily operations and decision-making processes, ensuring transparency, accountability, and orderly legislative proceedings.
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Bill Summary: A Resolution adopting the Rules of the Senate for the 209th and 210th Regular Session.
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• Introduced: 01/07/2025
• Added: 01/13/2025
• Session: 2025-2026 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Pittman (R)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 01/13/2025
• Last Action: Introduced and adopted (46-2)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A1858 • Last Action 11/14/2024
Allows public bodies to conduct meetings by electronic means.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows public bodies in New Jersey to conduct meetings by electronic means, either in whole or in part, regardless of whether there is a declared state of emergency, public health emergency, or disaster emergency. It removes the previous requirement that such electronic meetings only be permitted during declared emergencies. The bill also allows public bodies to provide electronic notice of meetings instead of the typical adequate notice required, as long as they limit the business conducted to matters necessary for the continuing operation of government and related to the emergency. The Department of Community Affairs and State Board of Education can adopt rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of the bill.
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Bill Summary: Allows public bodies to conduct meetings by electronic means.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2024
• Added: 11/12/2024
• Session: 2024-2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Shanique Speight (D)*, Gary Schaer (D)*, William Sampson (D)
• Versions: 3 • Votes: 1 • Actions: 3
• Last Amended: 11/15/2024
• Last Action: Reported out of Assembly Comm. with Amendments, 2nd Reading
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4599 • Last Action 06/17/2024
Exempts personal information from redaction and nondisclosure requirements in certain public filings and records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill exempts certain public filings and records from the redaction and nondisclosure requirements for the home addresses of judges, law enforcement officers, child protective investigators, and prosecutors under current law. The exemptions include recall petitions, campaign contribution and expenditure reports, financial disclosure statements by gubernatorial candidates, and lobbyist/governmental affairs agent reports. The bill also requires the director of the Office of Information Privacy to identify and display all such exceptions on the secure portal where individuals can request the redaction or nondisclosure of their information.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, certain public officials and employees, such as judges and law enforcement officers, are entitled to have their home address redacted or subject to nondisclosure when a public agency has possession of such information. However, there are certain exceptions when an individual's information may still be disclosed, even if they are otherwise entitled to redaction or nondisclosure. This bill would add to the list of exceptions: (1) recall petitions circulated and signed in this State; (2) any report of campaign contributions or expenditures filed by any individual, candidate, campaign, committee, or other entity under "The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act," or any report or list of such contributions submitted by an entity seeking or holding a public contract; (3) any financial disclosure statement made by a candidate for Governor; and (4) any report of activities required to be submitted by a lobbyist or governmental affairs agent in this State. This bill would also require the director of the Office of Information Privacy to identify and display all exceptions on the secure portal where individuals can request the redaction or nondisclosure of their information.
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• Introduced: 06/13/2024
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2024-2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Yvonne Lopez (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/18/2024
• Last Action: Introduced, Referred to Assembly State and Local Government Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S3409 • Last Action 06/10/2024
Exempts personal information from redaction and nondisclosure requirements in certain public filings and records.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill exempts certain public filings and records from the redaction and nondisclosure requirements for the home addresses of certain public officials and employees, such as judges and law enforcement officers. Specifically, it adds exceptions for recall petitions, campaign contribution and expenditure reports, financial disclosure statements by gubernatorial candidates, and lobbying activity reports. The bill also requires the director of the Office of Information Privacy to identify and display all such exceptions on the secure portal where individuals can request redaction or nondisclosure of their information.
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Bill Summary: Under current law, certain public officials and employees, such as judges and law enforcement officers, are entitled to have their home address redacted or subject to nondisclosure when a public agency has possession of such information. However, there are certain exceptions when an individual's information may still be disclosed, even if they are otherwise entitled to redaction or nondisclosure. This bill would add to the list of exceptions: (1) recall petitions circulated and signed in this State; (2) any report of campaign contributions or expenditures filed by any individual, candidate, campaign, committee, or other entity under "The New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act," or any report or list of such contributions submitted by an entity seeking or holding a public contract; (3) any financial disclosure statement made by a candidate for Governor; and (4) any report of activities required to be submitted by a lobbyist or governmental affairs agent in this State. This bill would also require the director of the Office of Information Privacy to identify and display all exceptions on the secure portal where individuals can request the redaction or nondisclosure of their information.
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• Introduced: 06/06/2024
• Added: 01/14/2025
• Session: 2024-2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 1 : Joe Cryan (D)*
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 06/11/2024
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S2930 • Last Action 06/05/2024
Makes various changes to process for access to government records; appropriates $10 million.
Status: Signed/Enacted/Adopted
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes several changes to the process for accessing government records in New Jersey, including clarifying definitions, modifying procedures for record inspection and copying, and establishing new penalties for violations. It amends existing laws to redefine terms like "commercial purpose" and "personal identifying information," and clarifies what constitutes a government record and what information is exempt from public access. The bill also adjusts the timelines for responding to record requests, with longer periods for commercial requests or when records require review for privacy protections, and introduces provisions for handling requests that may interrupt government functions. Additionally, it appropriates $10 million to the Department of Community Affairs for grants to local governments to make records available electronically and for the operation and functions of the Government Records Council, which handles disputes over access to public records.
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Bill Summary: An Act concerning access to government records, amending and supplementing various parts of the statutory law, and making an appropriation.
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• Introduced: 03/05/2024
• Added: 11/12/2024
• Session: 2024-2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 4 : Paul Sarlo (D)*, Tony Bucco (R)*, Joe Danielsen (D)*, Vicky Flynn (R)*
• Versions: 6 • Votes: 5 • Actions: 11
• Last Amended: 07/31/2024
• Last Action: Approved P.L.2024, c.16.
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #A4045 • Last Action 05/13/2024
Makes various changes to process for access to government records; appropriates $10 million.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill makes various changes to the process for accessing government records in New Jersey. It amends the state's Open Public Records Act (OPRA) to clarify what types of records are considered exempt from public access, such as personal identifying information, security information, and certain academic research records. The bill also establishes new procedures for submitting and responding to OPRA requests, including creating a uniform request form and allowing custodians to direct requestors to records available on a public agency's website. Additionally, the bill strengthens the powers and responsibilities of the Government Records Council, the state agency tasked with mediating and adjudicating OPRA disputes. The bill also appropriates $10 million to help political subdivisions make government records electronically accessible and to fund the Government Records Council.
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Bill Summary: Makes various changes to process for access to government records; appropriates $10 million.
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• Introduced: 03/05/2024
• Added: 11/12/2024
• Session: 2024-2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 3 : Joe Danielsen (D)*, Vicky Flynn (R)*, Reginald Atkins (D)
• Versions: 4 • Votes: 2 • Actions: 8
• Last Amended: 05/10/2024
• Last Action: Substituted by S2930 (2R)
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Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
NJ bill #S228 • Last Action 01/09/2024
Allows public bodies to conduct meetings by electronic means.
Status: Dead
AI-generated Summary: This bill allows public bodies, which are defined as groups of two or more people organized to perform a public governmental function or spend public funds, to conduct meetings, vote, receive public comment, and conduct public business entirely through electronic means, removing the previous restriction that these actions were only permitted during declared emergencies like a state of emergency or public health emergency. The bill ensures that any meeting held electronically must still be open to the public in a way that complies with existing open meeting laws, specifically N.J.S.A. 10:4-12, which outlines requirements for public access.
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Bill Summary: This bill permits a public body to conduct a meeting and public business, cause a meeting to be open to the public, vote, and receive public comment by means of communication or other electronic equipment. Under current law, remote meetings, voting, and public comment are only permitted during a state of emergency, public health emergency, or state of local disaster emergency. This bill removes that restriction. Under the bill, any meeting conducted by means of communication or other electronic equipment must be open to the public in a manner consistent with N.J.S.A.10:4-12. "Public body" is defined under the "Senator Byron M. Baer Open Public Meetings Act" to be a commission, authority, board, council, committee, or any other group of two or more persons organized under the laws of this State, and collectively empowered as a voting body to perform a public governmental function affecting the rights, duties, obligations, privileges, benefits, or other legal relations of any person, or collectively authorized to spend public funds including the Legislature, but does not mean or include the judicial branch of the government, any grand or petit jury, any parole board or any agency or body acting in a parole capacity, the State Commission of Investigation, the Apportionment Commission established under Article IV, Section III, of the Constitution, or any political party committee organized under Title 19 of the Revised Statutes.
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• Introduced: 01/09/2024
• Added: 11/12/2024
• Session: 2024-2025 Regular Session
• Sponsors: 2 : Bob Smith (D)*, Patrick Diegnan (D)
• Versions: 1 • Votes: 0 • Actions: 1
• Last Amended: 11/30/2023
• Last Action: Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
Show Additional Details
Links: Official Document • Full Details and timeline [BillTrack50.com]
Looking for historical data? Spot trends and apply historical context to in-session bills with this year-by-year collection of open meetings and public records bills dating back to 2011.
How to Use Secrecy Tracker
- In the tab selector to the left of the map, choose either Public Records (green) or Open Meetings (blue)
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- If you want more information about bills in your state, or freedom of information in general, click on the FOI Helpers to find a state FOI coalition or other expert.