The proposed changes to Michigan’s FOIA law detailed in this report are numerous and significant. This report analyzes each section of the law and provides word-for-word changes that would fix shortcomings and improve FOIA’s use as a tool for government transparency. A short summary of each section’s changes is provided, but a full description of every change would be unwieldy.
This section categorizes and summarizes the most important proposed changes presented in this report. The amendments are grouped into eight categories and the most significant reforms for each type are explained. Amendments are categorized as relating to: 1) definitions, 2) functions, 3) fees, 4) procedures, 5) appeals, 6) fines and penalties, 7) creation of the Open Government Commission, and 8) exemptions.