2021 House Bill 4778 / Public Act 114

Ban state use of deleteable message apps that violate open records law

Introduced in the House

May 4, 2021

Introduced by Rep. Steven Johnson (R-72)

To prohibit state agencies from using any app, software, or other electronic device technology that allows messages to be deleted, and would thereby violate their duty to maintain a public record as required by the state Freedom of Information Act and other laws.

Referred to the Committee on Communications and Technology

June 9, 2021

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

June 23, 2021

Passed in the House 110 to 0 (details)

Received in the Senate

June 24, 2021

Referred to the Committee on Oversight

Oct. 20, 2021

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Nov. 2, 2021

Passed in the Senate 35 to 0 (details)

To prohibit state agencies from using any app, software, or other electronic device technology that allows messages to be deleted, and would thereby violate their duty to maintain a public record as required by the state Freedom of Information Act and other laws.

Received in the House

Nov. 2, 2021

Nov. 10, 2021

Passed in the House 104 to 0 (details)

Signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

Nov. 22, 2021