MI HB4387

Establishes detailed procedures for charging fees when responding to public records requests under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act, effective January 1, 2022.

Limits fees to actual costs including labor (capped at lowest-paid employee's hourly wage), copying (maximum 10 cents per sheet for standard paper), media costs, and mailing expenses, with labor charged in 15-minute increments rounded down.

Requires public bodies to establish and publish written procedures, guidelines, and fee summaries on websites and provide them free to requestors; prohibits charging fees until compliance with these requirements is met.

Allows $20 fee waivers for indigent individuals (limited to twice per calendar year) and designated nonprofits serving people with developmental disabilities or mental illness; reduces labor charges by 5% per day (up to 50%) for late responses if request clearly indicated FOIA purpose.

Permits deposits up to 50% of estimated fees if total exceeds $50, with increased deposits (up to 100%) allowed for subsequent requests from individuals with unpaid prior balances; requests are abandoned if deposits not received within 45 days.