The potential impact of SB 2201 on state laws is significant, as it could facilitate the transition from traditional microfilm storage methods to more efficient digital formats. By formalizing the requirement for approved formats, the bill aims to ensure that all governmental entities comply with consistent and contemporary standards for document recording. This modernization is expected to enhance accessibility and preservation of important state records for future reference and public access.
Summary
Senate Bill 2201, also referred to as 'An Act relative to microfilm', seeks to amend Chapter 36 of the General Laws regarding the recording of documents. Specifically, the bill proposes to eliminate the term 'micrographic process' from the legislation and introduces a requirement that documents must be entered in a format approved by the Secretary of the Commonwealth. This change reflects a modernization effort to align state law with current technological practices in document management and archiving.
Contention
While the bill appears to be a straightforward modernization effort, it may face contention regarding the specifics of what formats are deemed acceptable by the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on the implications for small municipalities or organizations that may not yet have the resources to adopt new technologies. Some may argue for a gradual transition to account for varying capabilities among different entities, ensuring that no party is unduly burdened by swift regulatory changes.
Relative to the MassTrails program administered by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and any act relative to Massachusetts transportation resources