Press Release
Advocates Renew Push for Rhode Island’s Access to Public Records Act Modernization
PROVIDENCE, RI – Advocates for government transparency are intensifying efforts to modernize Rhode Island’s Access to Public Records Act (APRA), which has not seen major updates since 2012. On Wednesday, supporters gathered at the Statehouse ahead of legislative hearings to rally for proposed bills led by Senator Louis DiPalma (D-Middletown) and Representative Patricia Serpa (D-West Warwick).
John Marion, executive director of Common Cause Rhode Island, highlighted the significance of the proposed changes, particularly in improving public access to vital information. A key element of the proposal mandates the Rhode Island Department of Transportation to share crash data through the APRA. “This would open the door to getting that data,” Marion noted, emphasizing its relevance to all Rhode Islanders who use the roads.
Other proposed amendments include expanded access to 911 recordings, waiving fees for public interest requests, and introducing safeguards against malicious or disruptive record requests. Currently, Rhode Island is one of a dozen states that restricts 911 recording releases without a court order or caller consent.
Previous attempts to modernize APRA faced challenges, particularly from Governor Dan McKee’s office and various state departments. Marion suggested this resistance stems from the increased demands placed on government entities to share records, indicating that “some of this is breaking new ground in Rhode Island.”
Despite obstacles, Marion remains cautiously optimistic about the General Assembly’s reception to these proposals, acknowledging the challenges posed by a government accustomed to limited transparency. Advocates are urging lawmakers to reconsider the importance of open records for a more informed citizenry. As discussions progress, supporters hope to see transformative changes that embrace transparency and accountability in governance.
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