Public records exemptions discourage First Amendment Foundation

From Historic City News:

Historic City News has been following Bills moving through the Legislature that would create new public records exemptions for things like voter email addresses, property insurance underwriting policies, and the data that determines 50 percent of teacher evaluations.

“It’s very discouraging to see this constant chipping away” at the Florida’s Sunshine Laws, said Barbara Petersen, president of the First Amendment Foundation. Every year, Florida lawmakers have filed bills that shield more government records from public view.

But for open government advocates, there’s also good news this session.

The Senate this week unanimously approved a bill that would make it easier for the public to track state spending and government contracts. Other bills still in play would guarantee the public’s right to speak at public meetings and increase public access to data on the effectiveness of economic development incentives.