HB36 Summary

• Classifies recordings made by law enforcement agencies (body-worn cameras, dashboard cameras, and other video/audio devices) as non-public records exempt from public disclosure.

• Establishes a written request procedure for disclosure limited to the person recorded, personal representatives of minors/incapacitated persons, or family members of deceased persons, with the agency disclosing only relevant portions.

• Creates a circuit court petition process for contesting disclosure denials or delays exceeding three business days, with no filing fee and priority court scheduling.

• Allows courts to release recordings upon finding a compelling public interest and considering factors including confidentiality of ongoing investigations, harm to reputation or safety, and threats to fair administration of justice.

• Requires law enforcement agencies to provide access to view and analyze recordings, permits charging fees capped at actual copying costs, and mandates adoption of body-worn and dashboard camera policies; prohibits attorneys' fees awards in related actions.