This information leaflet provides local governments with guidelines and suggestions for writing an ordinance, resolution, or local law to establish a records management program. Such a program is an over-arching, continuing, administrative effort which manages recorded information from initial creation to final disposition. It includes systematically disposing of obsolete records; setting up filing and indexing systems; using modern computer technology in information creation, manipulation, and storage; storing inactive records securely and cost efficiently; microfilming selected paper records for security, ease of access, space consideration, and preservation of important information; overseeing the creating and use of forms, correspondence, and other records; and identifying, appraising, and preserving records of archival value. The advantages of a records management program are described, and benefits of records management legislation are discussed. Suggestions are provided for the components of records legislation, including program statement, objectives, elements, and responsibility. The State Archives and Records Administration contact address and telephone number for further information are listed. (DB)