Public Information Act - Data Manipulation

HB 304 clarifies that government agencies do not create a new public record when they respond to public records requests by manipulating existing electronic data (such as querying, extracting, or compiling from current databases) to provide portions of an existing record. This applies when the requested information already exists in a searchable electronic format, meaning agencies can fulfill requests without compiling new files. The bill also specifies agencies are not required to reconstruct records in electronic format if they no longer have them that way, and must avoid releasing data in formats that compromise security. This directly affects Maryland government agencies handling public records requests and the public seeking electronic data under the Public Information Act.