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Bill

Bill

A 7510

Authorizes state and municipal agencies to regulate use of geographic information systems materials after the disclosure thereof under freedom of information law

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gary Pretlow

Bill A 7510 allows state and municipal agencies to regulate the use of geographic information systems data post-disclosure, enhancing privacy and preventing misuse.

REFERRED TO GOVERNMENTAL OPERATIONS
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Bill Summary · A 7510

Summary of Bill A 7510

Bill Number: A 7510
Title: Authorizes state and municipal agencies to regulate use of geographic information systems materials after the disclosure thereof under freedom of information law
Status: Referred to Governmental Operations
Introduced: March 28, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 7510 aims to empower state and municipal agencies with the authority to regulate the use of geographic information systems (GIS) materials once these materials have been disclosed under the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL). The intent is to ensure that the use of GIS data, which can include sensitive information about geographic locations and attributes, is managed responsibly and does not lead to misuse or unintended consequences.

Key Provisions

  • Regulatory Authority: The bill grants state and municipal agencies the ability to establish regulations governing how GIS materials can be used after they have been made available to the public through FOIL requests.

  • Use Restrictions: Agencies may impose restrictions on the use of GIS data to protect privacy, security, and other sensitive information that could be derived from the data.

  • Guidelines Development: The bill encourages the development of guidelines that outline acceptable uses of GIS materials, ensuring that users are aware of the limitations and responsibilities associated with accessing this information.

Who Would Be Affected

  • State and Municipal Agencies: These entities will gain new regulatory powers over GIS materials, allowing them to better manage the dissemination and use of geographic data.

  • Public and Private Users of GIS Data: Individuals and organizations that request or utilize GIS materials will need to adhere to any regulations established by the agencies, which may impact how they can use the data.

  • General Public: The bill aims to protect the interests of the public by ensuring that sensitive geographic information is not misused, thereby enhancing privacy and security.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of March 28, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Governmental Operations Committee for further consideration.

  • Related Legislation: This bill is part of a broader legislative context, with several related bills from prior sessions (e.g., A 2654, A 3927, A 3180) that may address similar issues or provide additional context for the regulation of GIS materials.

Conclusion

Bill A 7510 represents a significant step towards regulating the use of GIS materials by state and municipal agencies post-disclosure under FOIL. By establishing clear guidelines and restrictions, the bill seeks to balance transparency with the need to protect sensitive geographic information from potential misuse. As it moves through the legislative process, stakeholders will be watching closely to understand its implications for data access and privacy.

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

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