Missouri House Bill HB2184

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Exempts state legislators from paying labor costs associated with responding to sunshine law requests

Impact

The implications of HB 2184 on existing state laws revolve around the provisions laid out in the sunshine law regarding public access to government records. This exemption may lead to an increased willingness among legislators to engage with the public, as it removes a potential financial barrier to compliance. However, it could also raise questions about equity and accountability, particularly in situations where the cost savings are seen as unfairly advantageous to lawmakers while potentially disadvantaging constituents who seek access to public information.

Summary

House Bill 2184 aims to exempt state legislators from paying labor costs associated with responding to requests made under the sunshine law. The sunshine law, which is designed to promote transparency in government, allows the public to access government records and proceedings. By relieving legislators of these costs, the bill seeks to facilitate a greater responsiveness to public inquiries and could be viewed as a means to diminish the financial burden on state officials when complying with transparency requirements.

Contention

The primary contention surrounding HB 2184 is whether or not state legislators should be afforded such exemptions. Critics argue that this could undermine the spirit of the sunshine law, which is meant to hold public officials accountable for their actions and decisions, by making it easier for legislators to avoid the costs associated with public transparency. Supporters, on the other hand, may posit that such measures are necessary to encourage more proactive engagement from legislators in the democratic process, potentially leading to improved government accountability and accessibility.