IL SB1514

Amends the Freedom of Information Act Section 11 to clarify that a requester "prevails" in litigation if they obtain relief through voluntary public body action after suit is filed, unless the public body demonstrates the change was unrelated to litigation.

Expands the definition of prevailing to include relief obtained through enforceable written agreements, consent decrees, or judicial orders.

Establishes that courts must award reasonable attorneys' fees and costs to requesters who prevail, with the court considering how much relief obtained relates to relief sought.

Imposes civil penalties of $2,500 to $5,000 per occurrence when courts find a public body willfully, intentionally failed to comply with the Act or acted in bad faith.

Takes effect upon becoming law.