AR HB1622

Amends Arkansas Code § 25-19-105(e) to allow government entities up to 15 additional business days to comply with public records requests deemed "unduly burdensome" beyond the standard 3-day requirement.

Defines "unduly burdensome" as production within 3 days that would substantially and unreasonably divert government resources from other duties, with 10 specific factors for courts to consider in making this determination.

Creates an affirmative defense for custodians unable to comply within 15 business days, placing burden of proof on the custodian to demonstrate the claim.

Requires government entities to notify requestors in writing of any delay, its cause, and expected compliance date before the original deadline expires.

Declares an emergency effective date to immediately protect custodians and government entities from criminal and civil liability for good faith but untimely compliance efforts.