How does Arizona define "public record"?

Arizona defines "public record" as any record in any format created or received in the course of public business. This comprehensive definition encompasses a wide range of documents, including emails, reports, audio recordings, photographs, and digital files, reflecting the state’s commitment to transparency and accountability in government operations. By including "any format," the definition acknowledges the evolving nature of recordkeeping in the digital age, ensuring that both traditional and modern forms of documentation are covered under this definition.

This approach is crucial because it allows citizens access to a broad array of information pertinent to government activities, promoting informed public participation. The emphasis on records created or received "in the course of public business" also clarifies that the definition is tied to the functions and responsibilities of government entities, protecting the public's right to know how government affairs are managed.

Other options, such as limiting the definition to just digital files or printed records, would restrict the understanding of what constitutes a public record and could prevent access to valuable information that might otherwise serve the public interest. Similarly, defining public records solely as documents filed with the state would exclude many important materials generated in the course of public business, thereby undermining the principle of transparency.