Connecticut House Bill HB06193

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/21
• Refer: 1/29/21
• Refer: 3/18/21
• Report Pass: 3/31/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/19/21

Caption

An Act Subjecting Certain Nonstate Entities That Serve A Governmental Function To The Freedom Of Information Act And The Codes Of Ethics.

Impact

If enacted, this bill could have far-reaching implications for numerous organizations that interact with state government, including quasi-public agencies and private entities that handle public funds. By classifying these organizations as subject to FOIA, it empowers the public to access information related to their operations, thus bolstering transparency in the utilization of taxpayers' money. This could lead to a cultural shift in how these organizations operate, necessitating greater diligence in record-keeping and compliance with ethical standards.

Summary

House Bill 6193 aims to bring certain nonstate entities that serve governmental functions under the purview of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the applicable ethics codes. This significant change would require entities that are affiliated with public officials or receive public funds to adhere to transparency standards typically reserved for state agencies and public entities. The intent behind this legislation is to enhance accountability and ensure that public resources are managed with integrity and openness.

Sentiment

The reception of HB 6193 appears to be largely positive among proponents of government transparency. Advocates believe that greater access to information will lead to increased public trust in nonstate entities operating in conjunction with government functions. However, there may be concerns from some organizations about the burden of compliance and the potential for sensitive information to be exposed. The sentiment suggests an overall push for ethical governance, balanced against fears of overregulation.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the definition of what constitutes a 'governmental function' and which entities would be categorized under this bill. Critics may argue that identifying and enforcing compliance across diverse organizations could be challenging, potentially leading to confusion or misinterpretation of the law. Additionally, there is a debate about the degree to which transparency should be enforced, especially if it impacts entities' operational confidentiality or proprietary information.