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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
Press/News Releases
Governor Signs Data Practices Changes into Law
Pelowski’s legislation will improve public access to public information
Saint Paul, Minnesota – Governor Pawlenty has signed into law a bill authored by State Rep. Gene Pelowski (DFL – Winona) that will make it easier for the public to access public information. The changes to the Data Practices Act will spell out a more clear and efficient method for public information to be delivered.
“Public information shouldn’t be difficult or expensive for the public to access," said Pelowski. “This new law charts out a better method to resolve disputes when someone is having difficultly securing public information.”
Currently, the only option for a citizen who is dissatisfied with an organization or government body that is withholding public information is legal action. The process is expensive for both parties and can take a considerable amount of time. Under Pelowski’s new law, 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.”
The new law will go into effect on July 1, 2010.
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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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