AN ACT relating to open records.

Amend KRS 61.870 to change the definition of "resident of the Commonwealth"; amend KRS 61.872 to allow the official custodian of public records to require government-issued photo identification that includes an address from an applicant requesting to inspect records as proof that they are a resident of the Commonwealth; allow the agency to require a different form of identification or proof if the applicant does not possess photo identification; amend KRS 61.876 to conform.

Local Mandate Advisory Boards, Commissions, and Committees Boards and Commissions Business Entities And Organizations Cities Counties Education, Elementary and Secondary Local Government Public Records and Reports Special Districts Special Purpose Governmental Entities State Agencies State Employees Universities and Colleges

Introduced: February 5, 2026

Last action: April 15, 2026

To Appropriations & Revenue (H)

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This bill changes who counts as a Kentucky resident under the state's open records law, which governs public access to government documents. It would allow government agencies to ask people requesting to inspect public records to show a government-issued photo ID with an address as proof of Kentucky residency, with an alternative verification option for those without a photo ID. Who it may affect: anyone who requests access to public records from a Kentucky government agency, including residents seeking information from state agencies, local governments, schools, or universities.

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