To Amend The Freedom Of Information Act Of 1967; And To Exempt Personal Information Of Elected Constitutional Officers, Judicial Officials, Elected County Officials, Elected Municipal Officials, And Their Immediate Family.
Impact
If passed, HB1621 would significantly alter the way public records are handled in Arkansas. By removing personal information from public access, the bill intends to protect public officials from potential threats. The amendment would affect various aspects of state law regarding transparency and the accessibility of public records, balancing the principle of public right to know with the necessity for individual safety and privacy.
Summary
House Bill 1621 aims to amend the Freedom of Information Act of 1967, specifically targeting the personal information of elected constitutional officers, judicial officials, elected county officials, and their immediate family members. The bill seeks to exempt certain personal details—from home addresses and phone numbers to social security numbers—from being classified as public records. This legislative change responds to growing concerns over the safety and privacy of public officials and their families, as incidences of doxxing and harassment have surged in recent years.
Contention
There has been some contention surrounding HB1621, particularly regarding the implications for transparency in government. Critics argue that exempting the personal information of elected officials could lead to decreased accountability, as the public may have less access to information about the elected representatives. Proponents of the bill, however, stress that the safety of these individuals and their families should take precedence, especially in a time where public discourse can become highly polarized and contentious.
Concerning The Handling, Reading, Possession, Or Viewing Of Election-related Data And Providing That Election-related Data Is Exempt From The Freedom Of Information Act Of 1967 For A Period Of Time.
To Amend The Freedom Of Information Act Of 1967; To Add Definitions; To Add Public Records Exemptions; To Amend Public Meetings Requirements; And To Amend Requirements Related To Custodians Processing Public Records Requests.
To Define "meeting" Under The Freedom Of Information Act Of 1967; And To Amend The Law Related To Public Meetings Under The Freedom Of Information Act Of 1967.
To Amend The Law Concerning Publication Of Notice; To Allow The Publication Of Notice On A Website; To Amend The Law Concerning Counties And Municipalities And Publication; And To Amend The Law Concerning Elections.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.