Connecticut House Bill HB06218

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/13
• Refer: 1/28/13

Caption

An Act Concerning The Nondisclosure Of Certain Information Relating To Probation Officers.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly impact state laws regarding the confidentiality of probation officers' personal information. The amendment to the Freedom of Information Act would create a clear boundary, preventing disclosure of various types of records that could compromise the privacy and security of probation officers. This reinforces the notion of protecting law enforcement personnel from public scrutiny, thereby enhancing their safety and the integrity of their work. It highlights the state's commitment to maintaining confidentiality in sensitive areas of law enforcement and judicial oversight.

Summary

House Bill 6218, titled 'An Act Concerning The Nondisclosure Of Certain Information Relating To Probation Officers', aims to protect the privacy of current and former probation officers within the Judicial Branch. The bill proposes amendments to chapter 870 of the general statutes, specifically addressing the disclosure of personnel or medical files, alongside any records related to security investigations or discrimination complaints involving probation officers. Under this bill, such sensitive information would not be subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act for individuals under the supervision of the Court Support Services Division.

Contention

Discussion around HB 6218 may center on the balance between transparency and privacy. Proponents argue that probation officers, like other law enforcement personnel, require protection of their private information to ensure their safety and the efficacy of their roles. Critics might voice concerns about diminishing public access to records that could be vital for holding public officials accountable. This tension between accountability and privacy represents a critical point of contention in the legislative discourse surrounding this bill.