(Chelsea Update would like to thank Drew Beadling for the information in this story.)
The Michigan House Government Operations Committee passed a package of bills this week aimed at increasing accountability in state government.
This package opens the governor’s office up to the Freedom of Information Act and creates the new Legislative Open Records Act to enhance clarity in the legislative process.
Michigan currently ranks last in the nation for transparency in government, something this legislation addresses directly.
In response to the passage of the package, state Rep. Donna Lasinski (D-Scio Township), sponsor of HB 4009 in this package, issued the following statement:
“The people of Michigan have the right to know exactly how their government is operating. This legislation is an excellent first step towards creating more openness in Lansing. By strengthening public accountability, we also strengthen the trust that exists between communities and their elected officials. I’m encouraged by the support this bill package has received from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and for the shared willingness to do right by the residents of our state.”
