Editorial: Open public records key to limiting government

Idaho typically elects conservative officeholders with skeptical views of government and then allows them to lower the blinds on public information.

One would think voters would want the government closest to them to be the most open, but that’s not how it works in the Gem State.

Last spring, Gov. Butch Otter named an ombudsman for public records so more transparency and accountability would be brought into the process. After four months on the job, Cally Younger has some ideas for improvement, but she will need the Legislature’s help with statutory changes. It would help if the public pushed for reforms, too.

The Idaho Statesman published a package of articles last Sunday in which Younger discusses what she’s learned and what actions might be needed. More here.

Do you think the Legislature will support changes in Idaho’s public records law?