MI HB5470

Establishes fee structure for public record searches under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act, limiting charges to actual incremental costs for mailing, duplication, labor, and media.

Caps paper copy fees at 10 cents per sheet for standard 8.5" x 11" or 8.5" x 14" paper, requires use of most economical duplication methods including double-sided printing when available.

Provides $20 fee waiver for first request from indigent individuals (with affidavit) or designated nonprofits assisting developmental disabilities or mental illness clients, limited to twice per calendar year.

Requires public bodies to establish written procedures and guidelines published on websites at no charge, use standardized fee itemization forms, and provide best-effort time frame estimates for fulfilling requests.

Reduces labor charges by 5% per day (maximum 50%) when public body fails to respond timely if request clearly identifies itself as FOIA request or uses specific keywords like "freedom of information," "LORA," or "copy" on envelope or email subject line.

Takes effect January 1, 2017, contingent on passage of HB 5469.