Secretary Benson statement on Michigan Senate?s vote to extend FOIA law to Governor and Legislature

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today made the following statement regarding the Michigan Senate?s vote (SB 669 & SB 670) to expand the state?s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) law to legislators and the Governor?s office:?

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?This historic vote by the Michigan Senate to extend the state?s public records and FOIA laws to the Governor and Legislature is a significant step forward for our pro-transparency agenda ? one that?s long overdue. In fact, Michigan is one of only two states that exempts the Governor from FOIA and one of just eight states where the Legislature is explicitly exempt. It?s time for that to change. ??

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?Michigan continues to make strong strides toward a more open and ethical state government that?s accountable to the people. But there?s more work ahead of us. ?

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?I look forward to working with legislative leaders to keep the momentum going and to get this important bill to the Governor?s desk.??