The Vermont House has delayed action on a bill updating the state’s public records law.
The measure is designed to make it easier for people who are improperly denied access to public records collect attorneys’ fees if they later prevail in court. It was pulled back into the Judiciary Committee for an amendment strengthening that section of the bill.
It also would extend from 30 minutes to two hours the time a public agency is required to search for public records before it begins to charge the person requesting them for staff time.
The bill clarifies that the public records law applies to state agencies, municipal government and its branches and other public entities in the state.
It’s expected back before the House today.