Right-to-Know law changed to require written explanation when records are withheld

Governor Sununu signed HB 396 into law on June 21th.

HB396 changes the Right-to-Know Law (RSA 91-A).  When a request for a governmental record is denied or portions of the record are redacted, the public body must provide a written statement of the specific exemption authorizing the withholding of the record and/or redactions along with a brief explanation of how the exemption applies to the record withheld and/or redactions made.

This bill was drafted by Right to Know New Hampshire (RTKNH).

BILL SPONSORS: Rep. DiLorenzo, Rock. 17; Rep. Cushing, Rock. 21; Rep. Horrigan, Straf. 6; Rep. Ulery, Hills. 37; Rep. Wuelper, Straf. 3; Rep. Janvrin, Rock. 37; Rep. Morrison, Rock. 9; Sen. Giuda, Dist 2; Sen. Carson, Dist 14

This change takes effect January 1, 2020.