AZ HB2808

Amends section 39-121.01 to require public bodies to respond to public records requests "in accordance with section 39-171" rather than "promptly," establishing a defined timeframe for responses.

Adds civil penalty of $500 to $5,000 for each occurrence when a public body wilfully or intentionally refuses to comply with public records requirements or acts in bad faith, with consideration given to aggravation, mitigation, and prior violations.

Amends section 39-171 to require entities to provide a notification within five business days of receiving a public records request that includes: acknowledgment of receipt, contact information for the authorized point of contact, and the expected date the request will be processed.

Clarifies that the five business day notification requirement does not apply if the entity maintains a centralized online portal for public records requests that provides automatic receipt confirmation upon submission.

Establishes civil penalties of $500 to $5,000 for entities that wilfully or intentionally refuse to comply with notification requirements or act in bad faith, with consideration for prior violations.