WASHINGTON (AP) — Public agencies in the District of Columbia would have more time to respond to public records requests under legislation proposed by Mayor Vincent Gray that also broadens the type of documents that may be exempt from disclosure.

Advocates for open government have sharply criticized the proposal, saying it would impede the public’s right to know and allow agencies to be less transparent. But D.C. Attorney General Irvin Nathan, whose office is pushing for the legislation, said the bill was intended to curb “abuse” of the public records law by people who file unreasonable requests for information.