DE SB283

Requires the Attorney General to screen Freedom of Information Act petitions involving state agencies and refer them to the Chief Deputy Attorney General for initial review.

Mandates the Chief Deputy Attorney General render a written determination within 20 days of receiving a petition, declaring whether a violation of the Freedom of Information law has occurred or is about to occur.

Prohibits the Attorney General's Office from representing a state agency in appeals if the agency fails to comply with the Chief Deputy's determination that records should have been released.

Allows petitioners and public bodies to appeal the Chief Deputy's decision on the record to Superior Court within 60 days of the Attorney General's decision.

Requires persons denied access to public records by state agencies to present petitions to the Chief Deputy within 60 days of denial; does not affect existing processes for school districts, municipalities, and counties.