Connecticut House Bill HB05879

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/21
• Refer: 1/28/21
• Refer: 3/4/21
• Report Pass: 3/31/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/19/21

Caption

An Act Exempting Certain Contact Information From Disclosure Under The Freedom Of Information Act.

Impact

The passage of HB 5879 would significantly impact state statutes regarding transparency and the accessibility of public information. By restricting access to certain contact details, the bill aims to shield public officials from exposure to potential threats or undue pressure. However, this change raises questions about the balance between transparency and privacy in governance, as it may hinder constituents’ ability to reach their representatives. Proponents argue that safeguarding personal information is vital for the safety of legislators, while critics claim that it could discourage public involvement and oversight.

Summary

House Bill 5879 is designed to exempt specific contact information from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This legislation amends subsection (b) of section 1-210 of the general statutes to include a provision that protects residential or mailing addresses, electronic mail addresses, and telephone numbers of individuals associated with a member of the General Assembly and their staff. The intent of this bill is to increase privacy measures for lawmakers and their teams, allowing them to operate without concerns over potential unsolicited contact or harassment related to their public duties.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 5879 has been mixed, with supporters emphasizing the need for enhanced safety and privacy for lawmakers, particularly in an era marked by heightened political polarization and cyber threats. Conversely, opponents express concerns that the bill prioritizes the interests of elected officials over the public's right to know, potentially diminishing accountability. This sentiment reflects a broader tension in legislative discourse—finding the right balance between protecting individual privacy and upholding the principles of an open government.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 5879 revolves around the implications for public engagement and the transparency of government operations. Critics argue that this bill could create barriers for constituents seeking to connect with their elected representatives, as it may lead to a lack of accessible contact information. Additionally, while the intent is to protect lawmakers, opponents caution that it may also inadvertently shield them from necessary scrutiny, thereby undermining the democratic process. The debate encapsulates the ongoing discussion about how best to modernize public information laws to reflect current societal needs while maintaining the core values of transparency and accountability.