Louisiana House Bill HB769

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10

Caption

Provides relative to the confidentiality of certain records

Impact

The bill has the potential to significantly alter the landscape of public records law in Louisiana by establishing a clear timeline for when previously confidential records can be accessed by the public. This change is expected to lead to greater public scrutiny of government actions and decisions made long ago, thereby fostering a culture of accountability. However, it also raises concerns regarding the privacy of individuals whose information might be accessed after the 100-year period, particularly in sensitive cases involving personal data.

Summary

House Bill 769, proposed by Representative Pugh, aims to enhance public access to certain governmental records deemed confidential. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any public record required to be permanently retained will lose its confidential status and become accessible to the public 100 years after its creation, unless its disclosure is prevented by a court order or federal law. This measure emphasizes the importance of transparency in government dealings and promotes public trust in the handling of records.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 769 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill appreciate its focus on transparency and the importance of making government records available to the public, viewing it as a positive step towards ensuring that historical records are accessible for future generations. Conversely, critics may argue that there are risks associated with releasing confidential information, particularly in instances involving sensitive data or personal privacy, highlighting the potential for misuse of information once it becomes public.

Contention

Key points of contention include the appropriateness of a 100-year wait period for access to confidential records. Some legislators and stakeholders advocate for a balance between transparency and privacy, suggesting that certain types of records may require a shorter retention period or additional safeguards to prevent personal damage. Additionally, some questions arise concerning how the bill will be enforced and whether existing frameworks can adequately support the transition to increased public access.