NYC Bill Aims to Overhaul Freedom of Information Law Process

A bill before the New York City Council seeks to dramatically improve transparency by creating a public portal for all city agency responses to Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests, addressing longstanding concerns about delays and accessibility.

Currently, obtaining information from city agencies through FOIL requests can be a lengthy and frustrating process. The Legal Aid Society has been waiting over four years for a response to a 2021 request regarding the city’s use of Palantir’s surveillance products, and also faces significant delays on requests related to the accuracy of ShotSpotter technology and footage from the Times Square Knightscope K5 robot. These delays hinder the ability of organizations and the public to understand and scrutinize government practices. As the Freedom of Information Act intends, government transparency is crucial for accountability.

Intro 1235, if passed, would establish an online portal detailing all FOIL requests, including dates, extensions, decisions, and associated fees – even attorney’s fees paid in related lawsuits. The portal would also allow the public to search previously produced records, potentially reducing duplicative requests and streamlining the process for both requesters and agencies. “It is time for New York City to pave the way to a modern, functioning FOIL landscape,” stated a proponent of the bill. City Limits first reported on the bill’s details.

A similar state-level bill, the FOIL Timeline Act, was vetoed by Governor Kathy Hochul earlier this year. Supporters of Intro 1235 hope the city-level legislation will succeed in improving access to public records and fostering greater government accountability. The City Council is expected to vote on the bill in the coming weeks.