Rhode Island Advocates Push for Greater Government Transparency
Providence, RI — Advocates and legislators gathered at the State Library on Wednesday to advocate for increased transparency in Rhode Island government, particularly concerning public access to crash data and other vital information. “When government hides information, it impacts every Rhode Islander, from pedestrians to families seeking answers after tragedies,” noted advocate Giles.
At the forefront of the discussion was Senator Louis D. DiPalma’s legislation, which is set for review by the Senate Judiciary Committee. This marks the third consecutive year DiPalma has introduced the bill, facing opposition from Governor Daniel J. McKee’s administration. Highlighting the need for transparency, DiPalma remarked on challenges he encountered while chairing the Senate oversight committee.
The proposed updates aim to make body camera footage from use-of-force incidents public within 30 days and improve access to 911 call recordings and police internal affairs reports, with sensitive information redacted. The legislation also seeks to remove a blanket exemption that currently protects correspondence of elected officials, as well as introduce provisions against abusive records requests.
John M. Marion of Common Cause Rhode Island emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating that it helps prevent disruptions by vexatious requests. House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi expressed skepticism about public demand for such legislation, but DiPalma countered that citizens want a government that is open and fair.
Members of the public and media representatives argue that ensuring access to information is critical for holding the government accountable. As DiPalma quoted Justice Louis D. Brandeis, “Sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants,” underscoring the importance of transparency in fostering trust within the community.
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