Michigan Senate Bill SB0467

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/6/23
• Refer: 9/6/23

Caption

Civil rights: public records; evasion of disclosure of public records under the freedom of information act by use of code words or phrases that conceal the subject of those records; prohibit. Amends sec. 3 of 1976 PA 442 (MCL 15.233).

Impact

If enacted, SB0467 is expected to strengthen civil rights related to information access and transparency within state government. By preventing public bodies from using coded language to evade transparency, the bill will enforce stricter compliance with FOIA provisions. The implications could lead to a significant shift in how public records are managed and disclosed, theoretically resulting in increased public trust in governmental activities as barriers to access are reduced.

Summary

Senate Bill 0467 aims to amend the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in Michigan, specifically targeting the use of code words or phrases that obscure the true subject of public records. The bill explicitly prohibits public bodies from disclosing information under the FOIA if they use language designed to avoid transparency. This amendment intends to enhance the accessibility of public records, ensuring that citizens can effectively exercise their rights to access government information.

Contention

Although SB0467 promotes transparency, there may be contention regarding the compliance and administrative burden placed on public bodies. Critics may argue that the bill could complicate the processing of FOIA requests, leading to delays or administrative challenges, especially if agencies are required to ensure compliance with additional language requirements. Conversely, proponents argue that clarity in public communication is essential for citizen engagement and accountability, making the proposed changes necessary for a modernized approach to public records.