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SB 2393

AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC RECORDS -- ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 9 co-sponsors

Expands and clarifies how Rhode Island government records are requested and released, aiming for faster, clearer public access while updating exemptions and processing rules.

05/21/2026 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 2393

Summary of SB 2393 (Rhode Island, 2026) – AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC RECORDS -- ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS

Purpose and intent

SB 2393 seeks to modify Rhode Island’s public records law to govern access to government records. The bill aims to clarify and update the rules under which the public can request and obtain records, with an emphasis on transparency, timely access, and potentially the preservation of exemptions and procedures for handling requests.

Key provisions and changes (as introduced)

  • The bill proposes changes to the state public records framework to govern how records are requested, reviewed, and released by government agencies.
  • It potentially addresses:
    • Criteria for determining whether records can be withheld or redacted, including exemptions and balancing tests.
    • Timelines for agencies to respond to public records requests.
    • Procedures for handling and processing requests to ensure efficient access.
    • Procedures for copying, delivery, and fees associated with records requests.
    • Mechanisms for appealing denials or challenging agency decisions regarding access.
  • The measure may reaffirm, modify, or add exemptions to protect sensitive information (e.g., privacy, security, personnel matters), while promoting greater openness for other categories of records.
  • It could establish or revise standards for the use of electronic records, online portals, or digital formats to facilitate access.

Note: The available information does not include the full text of the bill, so the exact language, exemptions, and detailed procedural changes are not specified here. The summary focuses on the typical scope of “Access to Public Records” legislation and the likely areas of reform.

Who and what would be affected

  • Rhode Island state and local government agencies that maintain public records.
  • Public records requesters, including individuals, journalists, researchers, and legal entities seeking access to government documents.
  • Public bodies responsible for disclosure decisions, records management, and compliance with the Public Records Act.
  • Possible impact on the operations and costs of agencies in processing requests (e.g., staffing, turnaround times, and copying/production fees).

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee (dated January 30, 2026).
  • A hearing and/or consideration was scheduled for May 21, 2026, indicating a procedural step toward potential passage within the Senate.
  • If enacted, the bill would become part of Rhode Island’s public records law, affecting implementation timelines for agencies to adjust policies, forms, and procedures to comply with any new requirements.

Practical impact and considerations

  • For the public: Potential improvements in access to records, faster responses, and clearer guidance on what records are exempt.
  • For agencies: Possible changes in response timelines, processing workflows, and costs related to fulfilling requests; need to update internal policies and training.
  • For legal and journalistic work: Clarified standards could aid in obtaining documents more reliably, while updated exemptions could restrict access in specified circumstances.

Note on scope

This summary reflects the bill’s intended scope as an access-to-public-records measure and the information available from the provided action history and sponsor list. For a precise understanding of the bill’s exemptions, definitions, penalties, fiscal impact, and exact procedural changes, reviewing the full bill text and fiscal notes once released would be necessary.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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