AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC RECORDS -- ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS

SB 854 requires public agencies to provide digital copies of public records stored in computer systems at no charge when requested. It directly affects anyone seeking public records, including citizens, journalists, and researchers, by eliminating fees for electronic copies. Key provisions include mandating that agencies provide records in requested formats (like printouts or digital files) without cost, while maintaining existing 10-business-day response timelines for requests. The bill ensures no fees apply specifically to computer-stored records, though agencies may still charge for physical copies or non-digital formats.