Connecticut House Bill HB05124

Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/14
• Refer: 2/13/14
• Report Pass: 3/19/14
• Refer: 3/31/14
• Report Pass: 4/7/14

Caption

An Act Concerning The Preservation Of Historical Records And Access To Restricted Records In The State Archives.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05124 will modify existing laws concerning access to government records, creating a more structured approach to how these records are managed. Specifically, the bill allows for the lifting of confidentiality restrictions on records after 75 years for government documents and 50 years after the death of individuals for medical records, albeit with certain conditions such as redaction of personal information. By doing so, it intends to balance the need for historical preservation with respect for individual privacy.

Summary

House Bill 05124 is designed to establish guidelines regarding the preservation and access to historical records within the state archives. The bill dictates that any record that is deemed of historical value by the State Archivist will be retained indefinitely, asserting state ownership of such records. This measure is aimed at enhancing the preservation of important governmental and public records for future generations, ensuring that historical data is systematically archived and accessible when appropriate.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 05124 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among historians and archivists who advocate for greater access to historical data. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential risks to individual privacy that could arise from lifting access restrictions on sensitive medical records. Advocates emphasize the importance of allowing public access to historical documents while critics caution against potential breaches of privacy rights.

Contention

A notable point of contention in discussions has centered around the implications for medical records, where confidentiality is a primary concern. While proponents of the bill argue that historical transparency is essential, some stakeholders warn that the proposed time frames for lifting privacy protections could endanger sensitive personal information. The debate reflects a broader discussion on how to effectively balance public access to information with the rights of individuals concerning their private data.