David Cuillier, director of the Brechner Freedom of Information Project, is quoted in “Out-of-State Public Records Experts Weigh in on a Louisiana Bill that is Drawing Lots of Criticism” published on fox8live.com on April 19.

The story focuses on a bill that would exempt Louisiana’s public records law of “any records reflecting advisory opinions, recommendations and deliberations” that comprise part of a process that results in governmental decisions and policies.

“I think it’s a big mistake, it would propel Louisiana frankly to the bottom in the country in transparency with the public,” said Cuillier. “Already Louisiana ranks very low in its compliance with the law and transparency, it’s about 43rd in the country by our research.”

He adds, “It’s just ridiculous on its face. Journalists aren’t subject to public records laws nor or individual private citizens. We have these laws in place so we the people know what our government’s doing, to hold government accountable so it’s kind of strange to throw it back to journalists.”

Posted: May 6, 2024
Category: Brechner News
Tagged as: Brechner FOI Project, David Cuillier, Louisiana, public records, Secrecy Tracker