1. A. Definitions.

   1. (1) In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

   2. (2) Terms Defined.

      1. (a) “Repetitive request for dispute resolution” means a request:

         1. (i) For the Ombudsman’s assistance to resolve a dispute;
         2. (ii) That relates to a PIA request that in substance has been the subject of mediation between the same parties through the Office in the past; and
         3. (iii) For which the dispute is substantially the same.

      2. (b) “Significantly changed circumstances” means:

         1. (i) A change in the law, subsequent to mediation, that may affect the outcome of the mediation; or
         2. (ii) A change in the custodian or applicant’s position regarding the dispute.
2. B. The Ombudsman has discretion to decline to mediate repetitive requests for dispute resolution, absent significantly changed circumstances.

Authority: General Provisions Article, §§4-1B-01—4-1B-04, Annotated Code of Maryland

Effective date: June 17, 2019 (46:12 Md. R. 547)

Regulation .01 amended effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 800)

Regulation .02 amended effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 800)

Regulations .03—.06 repealed and new Regulations .03—.11 adopted effective September 18, 2023 (50:18 Md. R. 800)