FOIA-COMMERCIAL PURPOSES

This bill amends the Freedom of Information Act to clarify what is meant by 'commercial purpose.' It specifies that any use of public records that benefits commercial interests, whether for profit or trade, falls under this definition. This change aims to ensure that public records are not used primarily for commercial gain.

Supporters of this bill argue that it will protect public records from being exploited for profit, ensuring that information is used for the public good rather than commercial interests. They believe this will promote transparency and accountability in government while safeguarding taxpayer resources.

Critics of the bill may argue that it could limit access to public records for legitimate business purposes, potentially hindering transparency and innovation. They might contend that the definition of 'commercial purpose' is too broad, which could discourage individuals and businesses from seeking valuable information that could benefit the community.