Galvin files public records ballot question

[unhappycamper]

http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/article/20150803/NEWS/150809313/0/breaking_ajax

Galvin files public records ballot question
By The Associated Press
Posted Aug. 3, 2015 at 2:57 PM

BOSTON — Massachusetts state Secretary William Galvin has filed a ballot question aimed at strengthening the state's public records law.

The initiative would guarantee the right to obtain public records within a reasonable time and at a reasonable fee.

It would also cap the cost of copying public documents at 15 cents per black-and-white page and 25 cents per color copy.

Gov. Charlie Baker last week ordered his administration to take steps to make public records easier to obtain, noting Massachusetts had received failing grades for government transparency.

[merrily]

1. How embarrassing for Massachusetts Democrats!

After legislature that has been over 90% Democratic for years and two terms of Governor Patrick (D), we have one of the worst records in the nation on transparency--and a Republican Governor is the one ordering more transparency.

He'll make hay with this issue because it will make Democrats look bad and won't affect him much, if at all.

I'm all for capping the cost of copies of public records, but the cap should vary with some cost of living index or other so they won't have to amend the statute later.