Public Information Act - Inspectors General - Access of Public Records

HB 1624 requires government offices to allow inspectors general (IGs) created by state or local law to inspect public records when authorized by law and needed for their duties. It directly affects IGs (like state auditors) and public agencies holding records, ensuring IGs can access documents necessary for oversight. The bill mandates that agencies must permit this access unless the record is already legally confidential, and prohibits IGs from sharing inspected records beyond their official responsibilities. This amendment to Maryland's Public Information Act clarifies IG access rights while maintaining confidentiality protections. (Effective October 1, 2026)