New Tennessee bill could impose 'exorbitant' fees to view public records

The proposed legislation would reverse a portion of the state's Open Records Act, allowing governments to charge high fees for public record inspections.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new bill co-sponsored by a Johnson City state representative would eliminate the public's right to free inspection of public records in Tennessee, potentially allowing government entities to charge exorbitant fees to view documents like spending records, police body camera footage, and internal communications.

Why it matters

This legislation could significantly limit public access to government information and transparency, as everyday citizens may be priced out of reviewing public records due to high fees. While businesses could still afford the charges, the general public may be denied access, going against principles of open democracy.

The details

The bill would effectively reverse a portion of Tennessee's Open Records Act, which has been in place since 1957 and currently allows the public to inspect records free of charge, with only copies being subject to fees. Under the proposed law, governments could base charges on an attorney's hourly rate, potentially leading to thousands of dollars in fees just to view a document.

  • The bill was introduced in the Tennessee legislature last week.
  • Similar legislation was introduced in 2015 but was quickly shot down amid public backlash.

The players

Rebecca Alexander

A Johnson City state representative who co-sponsored the bill.

Deborah Fisher

The executive director of the Tennessee Coalition for Open Government, who has criticized the proposed legislation.

Tennessee Open Records Act

A state law that has been in place since 1957, allowing the public to inspect public records free of charge.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We just simply should not get to a point where the only information we get from the government is what they want to put out in the press release.”

— Deborah Fisher, Executive Director, Tennessee Coalition for Open Government (timesnews.net)

“This is not the democratic way. This is an affront to our open democratic government, and I am totally against this! As are my friends as well as my husband. Please do not let this become the law.”

— Survey Respondent (timesnews.net)

What’s next

The bill has not yet been assigned to a subcommittee, so its next steps in the legislative process are unclear.

The takeaway

This proposed legislation raises serious concerns about government transparency and public access to information in Tennessee. If passed, it could create a significant barrier for everyday citizens to review public records, potentially undermining principles of open democracy.