HB1946 Summary

• Creates a three-member review panel to conduct independent reviews of denied Freedom of Information Act requests, with members appointed by the Speaker of the House, Governor, and President Pro Tempore of the Senate.

• Panel membership consists of one state-licensed attorney, one law school professor licensed in any state, and one former records custodian with FOIA experience; members serve staggered six-year terms.

• Requestors can submit requests for panel review regardless of pending court appeals, and panel reviews are conducted de novo and separate from judicial proceedings.

• Panel decisions are final and binding unless appealed to court by either the requestor or custodian; custodian must appeal within three days or comply with disclosure order.

• Panel members receive up to $85 per meeting, with initial appointments required within 30 days and first meeting within 90 days of the act's effective date.