MI HB5471

Requires written requests for public records be submitted to a public body's LORA coordinator, with electronic requests not considered received until 1 business day after transmission.

Establishes a 5 business day response deadline for public bodies to grant requests, deny requests, grant requests in part, or issue a single extension notice of up to 10 business days.

Failure to respond within the deadline constitutes a denial if the failure was willful and intentional, or if the request clearly identified itself as a FOIA request within the first 250 words or included specific keywords like "freedom of information," "LORA," or "copy."

Requires written denial notices to include explanation of exemption basis, certification that records do not exist, description of redacted information, and full explanation of the requester's right to seek reconsideration or appeal under section 59a.

Takes effect January 1, 2017, contingent upon enactment of House Bill 5469 or a Senate Bill.