Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1099

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/10/23  
Report Pass
1/25/23  
Engrossed
1/26/23  
Refer
1/26/23  
Report Pass
1/31/23  
Enrolled
2/6/23  
Chaptered
2/9/23  

Caption

To Specify The Time Within Which One May Seek An Opinion From The Attorney General On Whether The Decision Of A Public-records Custodian Regarding The Release Of Certain Public Records Is Consistent With The Law.

Impact

The implications of HB 1099 on state laws are significant as it seeks to streamline the processes involved in accessing public records. By specifying a three-working-day period for the Attorney General to provide an opinion, the bill aims to balance timely access to information with the need for thoroughness in reviewing public records requests. This could potentially reduce delays that may hinder citizens' ability to obtain public records and thus improve public trust in government operations.

Summary

House Bill 1099 aims to amend the Freedom of Information Act of 1967 by establishing a specific timeline within which individuals may request an opinion from the Attorney General regarding the decisions made by public records custodians concerning the release of certain records. The bill proposes that if a subject of the records cannot be contacted within a designated time frame, the custodian is required to send written notice via overnight mail. This change is intended to ensure clarity and efficiency when disputes over record releases arise, thus enhancing government transparency.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1099 appears to be positive, particularly among proponents who advocate for transparency and accountability in government. Supporters argue that the bill provides a necessary structure that protects citizens' rights to access information while also respecting the limitations posed by the privacy of record subjects. However, there may be concerns regarding the feasibility of contacting subjects within the stipulated notice period, leading to some skepticism about the bill's implementation.

Contention

Notable points of contention within discussions of the bill may revolve around its practicality, especially in cases where the subjects of records are hard to reach. Critics may question whether the proposed method of mailing notices is always sufficient to ensure compliance with the law, potentially leading to conflicts between the custodians' obligations and the subjects' rights. Nonetheless, the unanimous support seen during voting suggests a strong consensus in favor of advancing this legislative improvement.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1037

An Act For The Office Of Attorney General Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1013

An Act For The Department Of Corrections - Division Of Correction Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1017

An Act For The Arkansas Public Service Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1011

An Act For The Department Of Public Safety - Division Of Emergency Management Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1012

An Act For The Department Of Public Safety Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB47

An Act For The Department Of Inspector General Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB30

An Act For The Auditor Of State - Deputy Prosecuting Attorneys Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1073

An Act For The Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1041

An Act For The Department Of Education - Division Of Elementary And Secondary Education - Public School Fund Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB14

An Act For The Arkansas Public Defender Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.