The Office of Open Records recently conducted a survey of 1,265 Agency Open Records Officers (AOROS) across the commonwealth. The 2026 report indicates that the use and misuse of AI, combined with widespread use of the Right-to-Know Law by commercial requesters, is placing unprecedented strain on the open records process. The Survey Report results are available by clicking here. 

Survey respondents reported a mix of artificial intelligence affecting requests, with about 36% reporting at least some use in requests while 39% reported uncertainty if AI was used. For context, the Office of Open Records (OOR) has observed a rapid increase in the use of AI in appeals since 2025 and now averages over 500 appeals per month. AI has significantly altered the RTK process, as requesters can generate more requests and appeals faster than ever. 

The survey also shows that an overwhelming majority of OROs, 90% of respondents, reported receiving at least some requests from data harvesters. Commercial requesters’ impact is especially noteworthy in that 55% of respondents stated that “all/most” of their requests are from businesses using the Right-to-Know Law for private interests. These requests are uniquely challenging for agencies with limited staffing, especially when a single entity submits lengthy, broad requests for an assortment of records. The survey notes that the complexities of commercial requests on agency staff time and costs may warrant legislative scrutiny.  

PSATS continues to advocate for changes to the RTKL to recoup costs from entities planning to sell information gained through RTK requests. PSATS also advocates for changes to protect municipalities from artificially generated requests.