Government is updating record keeping legislation.

Amendments to the Government Records Act introduced today, April 20, will improve efficiencies in government operations through streamlined approval processes and updated definitions and language.

“Maintaining government records is a top priority,” said Internal Services Minister Labi Kousoulis. “It’s important that our records management legislation supports efficient and simplified records management processes. These updates provide the opportunity to improve our current processes.”

With these changes, records management will be consistent across government. The amendments will make it easier for departments and agencies to follow government-wide standards and access centralized resources and services.

The amendments will establish a new streamlined record keeping process. A new common records schedule framework will also be shared across government.

These changes are not related to the management of electronic health records, because the Government Records Act does not apply to health-care providers such as hospitals and doctors.

In 2009, government shifted its records management function from the Public Archives of Nova Scotia to the Chief Information Office, now part of the Department of Internal Services. These proposed amendments are required to officially reflect this change. Records management responsibilities currently in the Public Archives Act will be moved into the Government Records Act.

Source: Release