S 1417 New York Senate · 2025 Regular Session

Relates to the failure to produce records in response to a FOIL request; and criminalizes the failure to comply with the freedom of information law

This bill (S 1417) strengthens New York's Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) by making failure to comply with public record requests a criminal offense. It requires state agencies to respond to written FOIL requests within 5 business days, grant or deny requests within 30 days, and provide records within 90 days - adding specific deadlines and certification requirements for agency heads and the governor if delays occur. The law directly affects all state agencies, their leaders (like commissioners or directors), and the governor’s office when requests are not handled on time. Key provisions include mandatory written reviews by agency heads, public posting of delay certifications, and criminal penalties for willful non-compliance.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 9, 2025 Last action Jan 7, 2026
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Full legislative history

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Total actions
2
Key actions
0
Committee
2
Jan 7, 2026
Committee
REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
upper
Jan 9, 2025
Committee
REFERRED TO INVESTIGATIONS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
upper
1 primary · 6 co-sponsors

Sponsors