Mass. Lawmakers Pass Bill Overhauling State's Public Records Law

BOSTON (AP) — The Massachusetts House and Senate have unanimously passed a compromise bill aimed at overhauling the state's public records law, bringing the measure one step closer to Republican Gov. Charlie Baker's desk.

The bill approved Wednesday would require public records requests to be completed in 10 days. If an agency or municipality can't comply, the person in charge of producing the records must explain the reasons for the delay. A one-time extension could be granted.

The bill also would limit how much an agency or municipality could charge to provide the records.

The bill is a compromise version of separate bills previously approved by both chambers.

Open records advocates say the bill is long overdue.

The bill now heads to Baker, who has 10 days to sign or veto the legislation.

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