SB2171

FOIA-COMMERCIAL PURPOSES

Introduced·2/7/25
Introduced Text

Illinois SB2171 amends the Freedom of Information Act to clarify the definition of "commercial purpose" for public records requests.

Illinois SB2171 amends the Freedom of Information Act by refining the definition of "commercial purpose" for public records requests. It specifies that requests made by news media and non-profit, scientific, or academic organizations are not considered commercial if their primary aim is to disseminate news, opinion articles, or conduct research. The bill also defines "commercial purpose" as using public records for profit-related activities. This change aims to ensure that legitimate information-seeking activities by certain organizations are not misconstrued as commercial endeavors.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
Assignments Committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

DD
2
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

History

May 22

Senate

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

May 22

Senate

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

May 15

Senate

Rule 2-10 Committee/3rd Reading Deadline Established As May 22, 2026