S 8128 New York Senate · 2023 Regular Session

Relates to the maximum allowable timeframes to respond to requests for records under the freedom of information act

This bill updates the Freedom of Information Act to set stricter deadlines for government agencies responding to public records requests. It requires agencies to acknowledge receipt of a request within five business days and mandates that most responses be completed within thirty days, with a maximum extension of sixty days for complex cases. The legislation also clarifies that agencies cannot deny requests simply because they are large or require significant staff time, provided they can hire outside help to fulfill them. Additionally, the bill mandates that agencies accept and respond to requests via email and ensures their websites allow for online submission of these requests. These changes aim to make the process more efficient and transparent for citizens seeking government information.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 8, 2024 Last action Jun 7, 2024
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Total actions
5
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Committee
2
Jun 7, 2024
Senate · Referred to committee
COMMITTED TO RULES
Jan 8, 2024
Senate · Referred to committee
REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
1 primary · 2 co-sponsors

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