Connecticut Senate Bill SB00177

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/18
• Refer: 2/21/18

Caption

An Act Applying The Security Exemption Under The Freedom Of Information Act To The Connecticut Airport Authority.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would specifically amend section 1-210 of the 2018 supplement to the general statutes, thereby altering the criteria under which records can be withheld from public disclosure. This would include not only security manuals and reports but also architectural drawings and emergency plans, thereby enhancing governmental control over the disclosure of sensitive operational information. The changes are intended to bolster public safety by maintaining confidentiality around measures that could potentially expose vulnerabilities.

Summary

SB00177, titled 'An Act Applying The Security Exemption Under The Freedom Of Information Act To The Connecticut Airport Authority', proposes significant amendments to the state's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The bill aims to exempt certain records related to the Connecticut Airport Authority from public disclosure due to security concerns. This would allow the airport authority to determine when the release of specific information might pose a safety risk to individuals or government facilities, thereby enhancing the authority's ability to protect sensitive security information.

Contention

Points of contention may arise surrounding the balance between enhancing security measures and ensuring transparency in government operations. Advocates of the bill argue that the ability to withhold such information is essential for the safety and security of airport operations. However, critics may argue that increased exemptions could lead to a lack of accountability and public oversight, particularly in a climate where transparency is increasingly viewed as essential for public trust in government institutions. Overall, this legislation could set a precedent for how public agencies manage sensitive information in relation to safety and security.