An Act to repeal 16.61 (2) (b) 1. of the statutes; Relating to: management and preservation of records and correspondence of members of the legislature. (FE)
Impact
The impact of SB1159 on state laws can be significant, as it alters how records maintained by legislators are classified. Previously, these records were viewed as private, which could lead to concerns over accountability and transparency in government dealings. With the repeal of the exclusion, it will become mandatory for legislature members to adhere to public records retention schedules set by the Public Records Board, aligning them with the broader public accountability measures in the state.
Summary
Senate Bill 1159 introduces changes to the management and preservation of records and correspondence of members of the legislature in Wisconsin. The bill aims to repeal a specific exclusion in the statute that has historically exempted such records from the definition of 'public records' for retention purposes. By eliminating this exclusion, SB1159 proposes that legislative correspondence and records will now be subjected to the same management and retention protocols applied to other public records, potentially enhancing transparency in legislative operations.
Contention
While the bill is framed as a step towards greater transparency, it may face opposition from members of the legislature who may view this change as an infringement on their ability to communicate freely without the concern that every correspondence will be publicly archived. Critics may argue that such oversight could deter candid communication between legislators and constituents or hinder legislative processes. Furthermore, the potential for increased scrutiny of legislative communications may raise concerns about privacy and the full scope of legislative activities being subject to public records requests.
Crossfiled
An Act to repeal 16.61 (2) (b) 1. of the statutes; Relating to: management and preservation of records and correspondence of members of the legislature. (FE)
AN ACT relating to the legislature; requiring the legislative service office to direct email correspondence to a legislators email inbox if requested after verification that the correspondence does not pose a security threat; and providing for an effective date.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Convene A Working Group To Examine And Consider The Transfer Of Native Hawaiian Burial Site Management Under Chapter 6e, Hawaii Revised Statutes, From The State Historic Preservation Division To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Convene A Working Group To Examine And Consider The Transfer Of Native Hawaiian Burial Site Management Under Chapter 6e, Hawaii Revised Statutes, From The State Historic Preservation Division To The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs.
Public employees and officers: ethics; former members of the legislature; prohibit from engaging in certain lobbying activities for a period of time. Amends sec. 6a of 1978 PA 472 (MCL 4.416a).