NY S01625

Establishes a permanent office for the Committee on Open Government in Albany with an executive director, and provides committee members $200 per day for attendance at hearings or meetings plus expense reimbursement.

Grants the Committee on Open Government authority to hear appeals from persons denied access to public records or denied the right to attend public agency meetings, with appeals filed within 30 days of denial.

Requires the Committee to review alleged violations of open government laws and issue decisions within six months of filing (or 60 days for privileged appeals), with power to investigate, subpoena witnesses, and compel testimony.

Authorizes the Committee to impose civil penalties of $20 to $1,000 against public officials for denials without reasonable grounds and against appellants for frivolous appeals, and permits the Committee to attempt dispute resolution through mediation.

Transfers enforcement of open government violations from court proceedings under civil practice law to appeals to the Committee on Open Government, with judicial review available thereafter.