Why We Need Change
Mar 9th, 2007 by admin
Bringing up the Rear…
When it comes to good open records legislation, Pennsylvania runs at the back of the pack — nearly last, in fact.
The Better Government Association ranks us 48th out of the 50 states. Only Alabama and South Dakota have worse laws.
What does it mean to have a weak open records law?
It means government offcials do not have to share a good many public records with you, the citizens and taxpayers.
It means school officials can hold off on telling parents about a bomb threat made against an upcoming school event until AFTER the event is over.
It means that government agencies can hold meetings and retreats in secret, without disclosing what was discussed or how much of the taxpayers’ money was spent.
It means the mosts basic facts, like the salaries public officials earn, can often be kept secret.
And, the situation is actually getting worse.
Recent court decisions have made it harder than ever to gain access to public records or meetings. As a result, many local and state agencies routinely refuse access to public information — knowing that no penalties will be imposed.
When government can hide what it’s doing, we all lose. It becomes unaccountable. We are cut out of the process, and the debate.
Fortunately there’s new momentum to reform Pennsylvnania’s weak open records law. You can help.
There are a number of resources to get the facts and join the fight.
One is model legislation that would fix the problem — it states explicitly that there is the presumption that public records should be open. “Presumption” is a big deal, as without that concept — as the law is now — officials can easily deem most records as privileged and keep them sealed.
You can read model legislation here.
To see the current ineffectual law, go here.
Just what are the hoops to jump through in requesting public records? Get a flavor right here.
In addition to us here at passopenrecords.org, many more organizations are behind reform legislation. Check out our Blogroll at the bottom right to see their views and resource materials.
We’ll be adding all kinds of new information each week, so be sure to visit us often.
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