HB1011
To Amend The Freedom Of Information Act Of 1967; And To Declare An Emergency.
Last Action (Sept. 14, 2023): Died in House Committee at Sine Die Adjournment
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Bill 1011 amends the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) of 1967 to exempt specific security-related records from public disclosure. The bill specifically protects records regarding the security and protection services provided to the Governor, the Governor's Mansion, and other constitutional officers, including members of the General Assembly and the judiciary. Additionally, the bill requires the Division of Arkansas State Police to submit quarterly reports to the Legislative Council or the Joint Budget Committee detailing expenses for the Governor's Executive Protection Detail. Certain provisions regarding the Governor's minor children are made retroactive to June 1, 2022. Finally, the act includes an emergency clause, allowing it to take effect immediately upon approval to address stated concerns regarding threats to state officials.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the Attorney General, other constitutional officers, members of the General Assembly, and members of the state judiciary. By exempting security-related records from FOIA requests, these officials and their families benefit from increased privacy and enhanced security protocols regarding their movements and protective arrangements.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary groups negatively impacted are journalists, researchers, transparency advocates, and members of the general public who utilize the Freedom of Information Act to monitor government spending and ensure public accountability. By limiting access to records concerning security services and associated costs, the bill reduces the level of public oversight into how government funds are utilized for the protection of state officials.
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