A controversial bill proposing an overhaul to New Jersey’s Open Public Records Act is moving swiftly through the State House, despite criticism it would gut transparency in government in a state known for public corruption. Backers contend the reforms are needed to relieve towns that get hit with onslaughts of requests.
Said labor activist Hetty Rosenstein: “They’re going to push it right through. I mean that’s the whole plan there, right? You put this out in no time. You push it right through committees, two on the same day, and then you schedule it for a few days later and try and shove it all through before anybody sees what you’re doing.”
Alex Ambrose of New Jersey Policy Perspective added: “The very definition of OPRA is to open up public records for the public. There is absolutely nothing in this bill … that makes it easier for the public to access those records. Everything it does it increases incentives to deny records.”
This bill has been fast-tracked, clearing both committees on Monday, and barring any last-minute intervention, it could see a vote in both chambers on Thursday. Gov. Phil Murphy has not indicated whether he would support it.
