An Act To Implement The Recommendations Of The Right To Know Advisory Committee Concerning Certain Existing Public Records Exceptions

This Maine bill implements recommendations from the Right To Know Advisory Committee to clarify existing exceptions in state public records laws, primarily affecting how personal and sensitive data is handled by various government agencies. It specifies that DNA records may only be disclosed to law enforcement, the FBI, medical examiners, and charged individuals, while also restricting the release of employer substance abuse test results unless required by law or used in legal proceedings. The legislation further protects the privacy of applicants for cannabis licenses, osteopathic physicians, and money transmission services by designating their personal contact information and financial records as confidential, with exceptions if the individual voluntarily provides that data as public contact information. Additionally, it limits the disclosure of personally identifying accident report data and driver's license social security numbers, requiring specific legal justifications or affidavits for any release to third parties.