New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09607

Introduced
3/27/26  

Caption

Requires agencies subject to FOIL requirements to promulgate rules and regulations regarding to whom a requestor may appeal a denial and how to request records from or appeal a denial; makes certain provisions relating to publication of contact information for FOIL requests and appeals.

Impact

The proposed amendments are expected to strengthen public access to government records, ensuring that citizens have a definitive pathway for appealing denied requests. By clarifying the appeals process and mandating the availability of relevant agency contact information, S09607 aims to address potential barriers that individuals might face when seeking information from state agencies. This can lead to a more informed public and increased government accountability.

Summary

Bill S09607 seeks to amend the New York Public Officers Law concerning reforms for state agencies subject to the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). Its provisions aim to enhance transparency by requiring agencies to establish clear rules on how individuals can appeal any denial of record requests. The bill also mandates that contact information for records access officers and details on how to file appeals are readily available to the public, thereby promoting greater accessibility to public records.

Contention

Despite the bill's intent to improve governmental transparency, there may be concerns about the specific implementation of these changes. Some opponents might argue that the requirement for agencies to post detailed information, while constructive, may place an additional administrative burden on state resources. Additionally, the effectiveness of the bill will depend on how well state agencies adapt to these mandates, potentially leading to discussions about adequate training and resources to fulfill these new obligations.

Companion Bills

NY A11143

Same As Requires agencies subject to FOIL requirements to promulgate rules and regulations regarding to whom a requestor may appeal a denial and how to request records from or appeal a denial; makes certain provisions relating to publication of contact information for FOIL requests and appeals.

Previously Filed As

NY A11143

Requires agencies subject to FOIL requirements to promulgate rules and regulations regarding to whom a requestor may appeal a denial and how to request records from or appeal a denial; makes certain provisions relating to publication of contact information for FOIL requests and appeals.

NY S00508

Requires the court of appeals to provide copies of appellate briefs to any person upon request.

NY HB2887

FOIA-RECURRENT REQUESTERS

NY SB2170

FOIA-RECURRENT REQUESTERS

NY SB1532

Oklahoma Open Records Act; authorizing public bodies to require the full name and contact information of requestors. Effective date.

NY HB531

Appeal and error; certain appellate procedures regarding the denial of sovereign and any other immunity available to the state or a city or county in this state; provide

NY A11069

Imposes certain requirements for the use of aerial images of an insured property for the purposes of homeowners' insurance; requires certain notices and appeals process.

NY S09156

Imposes certain requirements for the use of aerial images of an insured property for the purposes of homeowners' insurance; requires certain notices and appeals process.

NY A03425

Relates to the maximum allowable time frames to respond to requests for records under the freedom of information act.

NY S02520

Relates to the maximum allowable time frames to respond to requests for records under the freedom of information act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.