Oklahoma Senate Bill SB622

Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

Open Records; creating the Public Access Counselor Unit within the Office of the Attorney General; establishing procedures for review of records requests. Emergency.

Impact

If enacted, SB622 is expected to significantly impact how public records requests are handled in Oklahoma. The establishment of the Public Access Counselor is aimed at streamlining the review process for denied requests, potentially leading to an increase in successful appeals by citizens seeking access to government information. Furthermore, the bill enhances the accountability of public bodies by requiring them to cooperate fully with the Public Access Counselor in the review process, thereby ensuring compliance with the Oklahoma Open Records Act.

Summary

Senate Bill 622 establishes the Public Access Counselor Unit within the Office of the Attorney General as a means to enhance public access to government records in Oklahoma. This bill allows individuals whose requests to inspect or copy public records are denied by public bodies to appeal the decision to the Public Access Counselor. The request for review must be made within thirty days of the denial and must follow specific procedural rules outlined in the bill, including prohibitions against commercial use of records requests. The intent of this legislation is to facilitate access to public information and ensure transparency in government operations.

Contention

While the bill aims to improve transparency and accountability, concerns may arise regarding the implications for public bodies that may be overwhelmed by an influx of requests and the obligations placed upon them. There may also be apprehensions about the interpretation of what constitutes a 'commercial purpose', as this could potentially limit access for legitimate investigative journalism or research purposes. Additionally, the provisions for advisory opinions by the Attorney General could lead to debates over the extent of discretion exercised in determining the compliance of public bodies with the law.