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State Representative Gene Pelowski Jr.
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-8637
For more information contact: Michael Howard 651-296-8873
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Law change to improve public access public information
Saint Paul, Minnesota – Legislation to make it easier for the public to access public information passed today in the Minnesota House unanimously on a vote of 130 to 0. Authored by State Rep. Gene Pelowski (DFL – Winona), the changes to the Data Practices Act will spell out a more efficient method for public information to be delivered.
“Right now the only option for a citizen who is dissatisfied with an organization or government body that is withholding public information is legal action. It’s expensive for both parties and takes far too long," said Pelowski. “This legislation charts out a better method to resolve these disputes in a more efficient and cost effective manner for all parties involved.”
Under Pelowski’s bill, if someone feels that a governmental body is not in compliance with the data practices law they could request a hearing with the state Office of Administrative Hearings. Along with resolving the dispute in a more timely fashion, it would reduce costs and caseloads in cash strapped district courts. The change mirrors recent legislation which moved campaign practice complaints away from the court system to the Office of Administrative Hearings.
“In the context of our state budget, government has to operate differently,” said Pelowski. “This bill provides basic government services to the public at a more efficient cost. Moving forward, this is the direction we need to go.”
Once the bill has passed in the Minnesota Senate, it will head to the Governor for his signature. He has indicated he will sign the bill into law.
News Items
- REP. GENE PELOWSKI: MINNESOTA STATUTE 12A IMPROVES STATE DISASTER RECOVERY PROCESS AND DISASTER RELIEF PACKAGE - (Posted: 2012-08-24 00:00:00)
- REP. GENE PELOWSKI AND SEN. JEREMY MILLER SUPPORT TWO-BRIDGE PROPOSAL - (Posted: 2012-08-23 00:00:00)
- REP. GENE PELOWSKI: STATE DISASTER RECOVERY PACKAGE SHOULD FOLLOW PROCESS OUTLINED IN 12A AND INCLUDE PUBLIC INPUT - (Posted: 2012-08-16 00:00:00)
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