Connecticut's FOI law enhances government transparency and accountability

Connecticut’s Freedom of Information Act (FOI) is celebrating 50 years of promoting transparency in government. The law allows the public to access records and attend meetings of local and state agencies. This access helps citizens hold their government accountable. Tom Hennick, a long-time advocate for open government, emphasizes that being informed is essential for effective civic participation. The FOI Commission was established in 1975 under Governor Ella Grasso. It reviews complaints regarding access to public information. Colleen Murphy, the executive director of the commission, highlights the importance of citizens knowing their rights to obtain records and meetings. This knowledge empowers them to make informed choices about their government. The push for the FOI law began in 1955. Journalists noticed that people could not attend local educational meetings, which led to the creation of the Connecticut Council of Freedom of Information. Over the years, public support grew, especially after the Watergate scandal, which helped pass the FOI law in the mid-1970s. Access to information is crucial for both journalists and citizens. Reporters use the FOI law to uncover stories that matter to the public. Citizens can also request meeting minutes or police reports to stay informed about local issues. However, many face challenges when trying to access this information, especially regarding sensitive records like police personnel files. Despite the law's success, there are exemptions that allow some records to remain private. Over the years, the number of these exemptions has increased, raising concerns about transparency. FOI Commissioner Matthew Streeter notes that rapid technological changes make it harder to keep up with public records, especially with new tools like body cameras and text messaging. Many advocates stress the need for strict enforcement of FOI laws to ensure compliance from government agencies. They argue that stronger penalties could promote better transparency. Ultimately, the FOI law is vital for understanding government operations and for journalists to fulfill their role in informing the public.