People would be allowed to copy public records with phones

People would be allowed to copy public records with phones, cameras, and other portable image-capturing devices. The rule covers battery-operated devices. Public agencies could charge up to $20 each time a person copies records at the agency with one. The device must leave no mark or impression on the record and must not unreasonably interfere with the agency's work. If enacted, this section would take effect October 1, 2026.

Public agencies would count records they are entitled to receive by law or covered contracts as public records. Covered contracts exceed $2.5 million and must give agencies access to records about the contractor's management of the public program. Covered contractors must manage a legally authorized public program with agency funding, substantial agency oversight, and policy decisions that bind the agency. Simply supplying goods or services does not qualify. People must request these contractor records through the public agency. Unless another state law allows it, agencies could not make agreements that impair public access to computer records that are not exempt from disclosure. If enacted, these provisions would take effect October 1, 2026.

People appealing certain record denials would name both the agency head and the commissioner who ordered the records withheld. The rule covers denials under section 1-210(b)(19), whose covered records are not described here. The withholding order would come from the administrative services commissioner or the emergency services and public protection commissioner. For court-facility records, the appeal would instead name the Chief Court Administrator. For legislative records, the appeal would name the executive director of the Joint Committee on Legislative Management. If enacted, this section would take effect October 1, 2026.

Public agencies would deliver special-meeting notices to their members electronically or by mail. These rules cover notice to agency members. They exclude the General Assembly, either chamber, and their committees. A member could waive delivery in writing at or before the meeting starts, including electronically or by mail. Delivery would also be unnecessary for a member present when the meeting starts. Notices must arrive before the special meeting. If enacted, this section would take effect October 1, 2026.