Most candidates for public office, when asked, will pledge their support for open and transparent government. The real question is: Are they committed to fixing problems and expanding what information is available?
Recently, the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council drew up a “Legislative wish-list for open government”—changes in state law to improve access and accountability. As the various candidates in this fall’s elections crow about how open they will be, here are specific proposals they could and should be asked about.
Recording closed meetings: Currently, there is no way to ensure that public bodies are going into closed session for legitimate reasons. The council favors a statutory requirement that closed meetings be recorded on audio or video, allowing for judicial review if their legality is challenged. Other states, including Iowa and Illinois, have similar statutes. Continue>>>
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