SE Oakland News

House Republicans in Michigan have introduced legislation to expand the state's Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and increase transparency in state government. The plan, introduced by State Representative Tom Kuhn and other Republican lawmakers, aims to make all branches of state government subject to FOIA requests.

Representative Kuhn emphasized the need for transparency, stating, "All of our state government needs to be subject to FOIA requests, plain and simple." Currently, Michigan is one of only two states that exempt their Legislature and governor from FOIA requests. Kuhn described this lack of transparency and accountability as "completely unacceptable."

The proposed legislation includes the creation of the Open Government Commission, which would oversee FOIA requests and appeals. The commission would consist of appointees representing various political and media entities to ensure a fair process. It would have the authority to review all FOIA requests related to the state Legislature and governor's office, investigate complaints, issue binding opinions, and impose penalties.

Representative Jaime Greene emphasized the importance of transparency in holding elected officials accountable, stating, "Transparency isn't just a buzzword—it's a guiding principle that should be present in every decision our elected officials make on behalf of the people they serve."

The plan also includes specific measures to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of FOIA requests. House Bills 5422-5427 would establish time frames for governments to produce records and increase fines and penalties for public bodies that fail to comply with FOIA requests. The legislation would also strengthen the ability of individuals to take civil action when the government improperly withholds information.

Representative Mark Tisdel highlighted the shortcomings of Michigan's current transparency laws and the need for reform. He stated, "Michigan's transparency laws fall woefully short—making it hard for Michiganders to hold their government accountable." Tisdel emphasized the lack of disclosure regarding the government records of high-ranking elected officials and the obstacles faced by citizens when making transparency requests.

The plan put forth by House Republicans aims to address these issues by clarifying, modernizing, and expanding the Freedom of Information Act. It seeks to provide Michiganders with the transparency they deserve and ensure that elected officials are accountable to the public.

The Speaker of the Michigan House recently faced scrutiny for denying a request to release the guest list for the governor's State of the State address. Under Representative Kuhn's proposed plan, this information would be subject to a FOIA request, further promoting transparency in state politics.

Representative Donni Steele emphasized the importance of transparency in politics, stating, "When politicians operate in the shadows, the public is always the last to find out." She expressed her support for the plan, which would prioritize transparency and ensure that the public has access to information about how elected officials are using their offices.

Representative David Martin, who previously served as a Genesee County Commissioner, highlighted his experience with FOIA as a means of accountability and transparency. He stated, "The changes we've proposed will make it easier and more accessible for people to access important information that shines a light on how government operates."

The proposed legislation by House Republicans in Michigan seeks to enhance transparency, accountability, and public access to information. By expanding the scope of FOIA and establishing the Open Government Commission, the plan aims to ensure that all branches of state government are subject to public oversight.