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6/18/2025
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General Assembly approves bill that would overhaul Public Records Administration Act
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STATE HOUSE — The General Assembly today approved legislation introduced by Rep. Earl A. Read III and Sen. Melissa Murray that would overhaul the Public Records Administration Act.
The bill (2025-H 5251A, 2025-S 0742) which Representative Read and Senator Murray submitted at the request of the secretary of state, would update the law by designating a public records administrator, amending the definition of records, adding various definitions, modifying a records control schedule, designating a records officer and establishing procedures for the retention of public records and their transfer after 20 years to the state archives.
“The Public Records Administration is an extremely important tool for preserving the state’s historical assets and records that document daily government operations,” said Representative Read (D-Dist. 26, Coventry, West Warwick, Warwick). “This update not only modernizes a seriously outdated law, but it also provides a mechanism for retaining records based on their historical, legal and fiscal value, as well as establishing the process for legally destroying old records. It also clarifies the mechanism for transferring records of historical value to the state archives.”
The legislation would also provide for the establishment of a research room, yearly reports by the administrator, emergency destruction of public records and other functions and duties as the secretary of state may direct.
“Ultimately this legislation will modernize the Public Records Administrations laws, as many of their functions are outdated or no longer best practices,” said Senator Murray (D-Dist. 24, Woonsocket, North Smithfield). “It will ensure that government information remains accessible and transparent to the public.”
“My top priority has been making government more accessible and transparent for all Rhode Islanders, which subsequently supports civic engagement,” said Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore. “This legislation will augment these values by enhancing collaboration between state and municipal entities under the public records program, remaining current with constantly evolving industry standards.”
The measure now moves to the governor’s office.
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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