Who has the authority to approve records retention schedules?

The authority to approve records retention schedules lies with the State Records Committee. This committee is established to ensure that public records are maintained in accordance with applicable laws and regulations while also serving the interests of transparency, accountability, and historical preservation. The committee reviews and approves records retention schedules proposed by various governmental entities, thereby providing a standardized approach to recordkeeping across the state.

The inclusion of the State Records Committee as the approving authority reflects the importance of having a centralized and specialized body that can evaluate the significance, legal requirements, and archival value of different types of records. This ensures that records are preserved for the appropriate length of time based on their function and relevance to public policy and historical reference.

The other entities mentioned, such as County Recordkeepers, Administering Agencies, and Public Interest Groups, may have roles in managing records or advocating for records management practices, but they do not possess the statutory authority to approve retention schedules like the State Records Committee does.