TX SB1130

Allows requestors of public information to require a governmental body to participate in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) when the body has denied or limited access to requested records, or when the requestor disagrees with the body's determination or assertions to the attorney general

Requestors must initiate ADR by submitting written notice to the governmental body within 180 days of the original information request, including the date of request, description of information sought, and remedies being sought

Parties may agree to share costs for an impartial third party mediator; if they cannot agree on a mediator, the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) must conduct the procedure at no cost to either party

The ADR procedure does not affect existing deadlines or duties under the Public Information Act, and requestors retain the right to clarify, withdraw, or submit new requests during the process

SOAH must adopt implementing rules by January 1, 2026, and the law applies to public information requests received on or after that date