Connecticut Senate Bill SB00781

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/11
• Refer: 1/25/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Recording Of Telephone Conversations With Federal, State And Local Officers, Employees And Agents.

Impact

Implementing SB00781 would revise existing privacy laws related to telephone communications. By allowing recordings of conversations with government officials under the condition of notification, the bill aims to create a more open environment where citizens can ensure their interactions with government entities are accurately captured. This could lead to significant changes in how citizens engage with government agencies, possibly fostering more trust in governmental processes as records of conversations are preserved.

Summary

SB00781 proposes a significant amendment to the Connecticut General Statutes, particularly section 52-570d, which deals with the recording of oral telephonic communications. The bill allows individuals to record conversations with federal, state, or local government officers, employees, or agents, as long as they provide verbal notification prior to recording. This change aims to enhance transparency in government interactions by permitting citizens to document their communications with public officials, potentially increasing accountability within governmental operations.

Contention

While the bill is intended to empower citizens, it may also raise concerns about privacy and the implications of such recordings. Critics might argue that there's a risk of misuse of recorded conversations, where sensitive discussions could be taken out of context or used against public officials. Additionally, there may be fears regarding the limits of verbal notification—specifically, how such reminders would be enforced and perceived in practice. The balance between transparency and privacy will likely be a subject of debate among legislators and the public if this bill progresses.