CA AB469

Establishes the Office of the California Public Records Act Ombudsperson to receive and investigate complaints about state agency denials of public records requests and issue written determinations on compliance with the California Public Records Act.

Requires the Governor to appoint an ombudsperson with expertise in the California Public Records Act and at least five years of law practice in California, with a 30-day appointment requirement if a vacancy occurs.

Mandates the ombudsperson issue determinations within 30 days of receiving a request for review, with extensions allowed for unusual circumstances, and requires state agencies to provide records if determined to have been improperly denied.

Allows members of the public to submit requests for review without exhausting administrative remedies, and permits state agencies and affected third parties to appeal ombudsperson determinations through judicial review.

Requires annual reporting to the Legislature beginning March 31, 2025, including number of requests received, determinations made, and proposals for enhancing ombudsperson independence; sunsets January 1, 2027.