Mississippi Senate Bill SB2167

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/22
• Refer: 1/13/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

MS Public Records Act; exempt certain private information of federal law enforcement officers conducting an operation in this state.

Impact

The bill's introduction signals a reproducible shift in public records policy with implications on transparency and safety. Proponents assert that ensuring the confidentiality of law enforcement personnel is critical to their safety and allows them to function effectively without the risk of harassment or threats. The redaction process mandated for public bodies allows law enforcement officers, judges, and their families to shield sensitive information from potential public exposure, advancing the state's commitment to address their well-being while executing their duties.

Summary

Senate Bill 2167 seeks to amend the Mississippi Public Records Act to introduce specific exemptions concerning the personal information of law enforcement officers, judges, and district attorneys. The bill emphasizes protecting the home addresses, phone numbers, and other private details of those involved in law enforcement, as well as their family members. This amendment yields a significant shift in how public bodies handle records related to law enforcement, aiming to enhance their privacy and security in the line of duty. The proposed changes apply not only to state law enforcement but also extend to federal officers operating within Mississippi, thereby broadening the scope of protection offered under state law.

Contention

However, the bill has garnered some criticism, particularly from those who prioritize public transparency. Opponents argue that exempting such a wide range of personal information from public records may promote a lack of accountability within law enforcement agencies. Critics fear that the excessive sealing of records could be abused, resulting in reduced oversight of police activities and actions taken by judicial figures. Balancing the need for confidentiality of law enforcement with the public's right to access information is a central contention in discussions surrounding SB2167.