PA
Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB869

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB869

Introduced
6/18/25  

Caption

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in access, further providing for open-records officer and for retention of records; and, in judicial review, further providing for civil penalty.

Impact

The impact of SB 869 on state laws could be significant as it attempts to streamline the processes related to open records. The introduction of an open-records officer is anticipated to clarify responsibilities and create a clear point of contact for record requests. Furthermore, addressing record retention policies could ensure that public records are systematically preserved, thereby enhancing public access. These changes may encourage citizens to engage more actively with their government by facilitating easier access to information, which is fundamental to an informed electorate.

Summary

Senate Bill 869 aims to enhance transparency in state governance by refining the definitions and procedures surrounding open records and record retention. The bill seeks to appoint an open-records officer, responsible for overseeing compliance and ensuring public access to governmental information. Moreover, it introduces amendments to existing laws that govern the civil penalties for non-compliance, thereby potentially increasing accountability among public agencies. This legislative effort is part of a broader initiative to promote transparency and foster trust in public institutions across the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SB 869 appears to be supportive among advocates of government transparency. Proponents argue that the measures proposed by the bill will reinforce the public's right to access public information, ultimately benefiting the democratic process. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential for excessive bureaucracy and the implications of new penalties on public agencies. The discussions surrounding the bill illustrate a commitment to reform, tempered by cautious considerations of administrative burdens.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 869 revolve around the balance between transparency and administrative efficiency. Critics worry that while the intentions of the bill are noble, the implementation could lead to bureaucratic hurdles that undermine the system's overall efficacy. Some stakeholders fear that the increase in oversight and penalties may inadvertently discourage state agencies from sharing information. These discussions underline the tension between ensuring public access and maintaining operational effectiveness within government entities.

Latest PA SB869 Activity

View All Events: PA 2025-2026 Regular Session SB869

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB99

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in access, further providing for open-records officer, for appeals officer, for regulations and policies, for uniform form, for requests and for retention of records and providing for inmate access; in procedure, further providing for written requests, for redaction, for production of certain records and for exceptions for public records; in agency response, further providing for extension of time and providing for relief from vexatious requesters; in appeal of agency determination, further providing for filing of appeal and for appeals officers; in judicial review, further providing for court costs and attorney fees, for civil penalty, for fee limitations and for Office of Open Records; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for relation to other laws.

PA SB657

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in requirements and prohibitions, providing for Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association; in access, further providing for open-records officer, for appeals officer, for regulations and policies, for requests and for retention of records; in procedure, further providing for requests, for written requests, for electronic access, for creation of record, for production of certain records and for exceptions for public records; in agency response, further providing for general rule and for extension of time; in appeal of agency determination, further providing for filing of appeal and for appeals officers; in judicial review, further providing for civil penalty and for Office of Open Records; and, in miscellaneous provisions, further providing for relation to other laws.

PA HB1342

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.

PA SB210

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in procedure, further providing for written requests; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.

PA HB2622

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in administration, further providing for confidentiality of records; and providing for abuse and neglect registry.

PA HB1963

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in records, further providing for fees for copies.

PA HB302

In procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records; and, in judicial review, further providing for fee limitations.

PA HB2083

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in records, further providing for fees for copies.

PA SB1183

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions.

PA HB829

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions;

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.