California Public Records Act Ombudsperson.

Creates the Office of the California Public Records Act Ombudsperson as a new office within state government (new Chapter 6.6, Government Code sections 8549-8549.3). The ombudsperson's role is to receive and investigate requests for review of state agency denials of public records requests.

The bill's title and digest were expanded from a simple statement about enhancing CPRA enforcement to specifically describe the creation of an ombudsperson office with detailed operational provisions.

Only members of the public who believe a state agency improperly denied their original request may submit a request for review. Local agencies are not covered, though the ombudsperson must assess by March 1, 2028 whether local agencies should be included.

The Governor must appoint the ombudsperson, who must have expertise in the California Public Records Act and at least five years of state bar admission. The Governor must also provide necessary staff.

The ombudsperson must report to the Legislature annually starting March 31, 2027, covering activities, number of requests received and improper denials found, proposals for greater independence and transparency, and reimbursement amounts sought from state agencies.

The ombudsperson must issue a determination within 30 days of receiving a request for review, extendable in unusual circumstances with written notice and reassessment every 30 days. The chapter sunsets on January 1, 2029.

If the ombudsperson determines a state agency improperly denied disclosure, the agency must provide the record. State agencies may appeal to superior court for de novo review. Individuals whose information is in reviewed records may seek declaratory relief or a writ of mandamus to prevent improper disclosure.

Implementation is subject to appropriation by the Legislature in the Budget Act or another statute. The fiscal committee designation changed from 'no' to 'yes,' indicating a fiscal impact was identified.

Added a new Section 1 providing that the act shall be known and may be cited as the 'Open Government Accountability Act.' This is a short title for citation purposes only.

Changed the fiscal committee designation from 'no' to 'yes,' meaning the bill now requires review by the Assembly Fiscal Committee before it can pass, likely due to the new appropriation-related provisions in the ombudsperson chapter.

Removed the final section stating 'It is the intent of the Legislature to enact legislation enhancing enforcement of the California Public Records Act.' This was a non-binding statement of legislative purpose and does not change any operative provisions.