EnforceSunshine, Reject Florida bills to weaken public records law

#EnforceSunshine

Florida's once celebrated public records law is in trouble: It's virtually impossible to get law enforcement to take action against public officials who violate the law.

Citizens have to file a lawsuit to get justice, and the ability to successfully bring a suit is severely threatened by Senate Bill 1220 and companion, House Bill 1021.

Government transparency is basic to our freedom, no matter who you are or what your political stripes. Cronyism and corruption flourish in the dark.

The law, as proposed, places in doubt whether a citizen who prevails against the government will be awarded attorney's fees. This makes filing a lawsuit too risky for a wronged citizen.

The real question is: Why should a citizen have to sue to get the law enforced in the first place? What's needed is real enforcement of the public records law with a public records cop on the beat with civil fines and/or criminal consequences for violators.

While aimed at stopping frivolous lawsuits, these bills dramatically shift power toward government and away from citizens seeking government transparency and access to public records.

Public records and the government transparency they provide are the bulwark of liberty. But without enforcement of the public records law, we, the people, lose the light that helps us find our way.

Call Senator Rene Garcia at  850-487-5038 and tell him to withdraw his bill and make sure citizens have enforcement of the public records law.

Call Representative Greg Steube at 850-717-5073 and tell him to withdraw his bill and make sure citizens have enforcement of the public records law.

Find a list to email all Florida lawmakers, Click below for more information and a list of your lawmakers contact information

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