Veto bill obstructing public records access, protect transparency

This legislation creates an unreasonable financial barrier for citizens seeking public records from state government. The bad faith requirement raises the evidentiary standard beyond what is reasonable, discouraging open records cases due to excessive legal costs. Transparency is fundamental to democracy, and Utah's elected leaders should ensure government operates with full accountability to the public. Rather than hindering legitimate oversight efforts, prioritize agencies proactively complying with open records laws. Veto this bill to preserve Utahns' ability to access public information without punitive financial obstacles when records are wrongfully denied. Governmental bodies must face consequences for lack of transparency and illegally withholding public documents.