Permits assessment of certain fees and costs upon wrongful denial of access to records under the freedom of information law when either the person has substantially prevailed, or if the agency failed to respond within the statutory time.

This bill allows individuals who are wrongfully denied access to public records to recover certain fees and costs. This applies when the individual has won their case or if the government agency did not respond in time. Essentially, it aims to hold agencies accountable for delays or improper denials under the freedom of information law.

Supporters of the bill argue that it strengthens transparency and accountability in government by ensuring that citizens can afford to challenge wrongful denials of public records. It empowers individuals to assert their rights under the freedom of information law without the fear of incurring prohibitive costs.

Critics may contend that the bill could lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits against government agencies, burdening them with additional costs and diverting resources. They might argue that it could create an environment of fear within agencies, discouraging them from denying requests that may not be in the public interest.