AN ACT IMPLEMENTING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION COMMISSION FOR REVISIONS TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT.

HB 5250 amends Connecticut's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to implement recommendations from the Freedom of Information Commission. The bill requires public agencies to provide annual training to staff on FOIA requirements, mandates that agencies notify a specific state commissioner (Administrative Services or Emergency Services) before releasing certain records potentially covered by exemptions, and allows individuals to copy public records using hand-held scanners (like phones or cameras) for a maximum fee of $20 per copy. It also updates the definition of "public agency" to clarify which government entities are subject to FOIA and refines rules around public meetings. These changes take effect October 1, 2026.