Massachusetts should lead the nation in open government, not lag behind

The Massachusetts Legislature just received a failing grade from the Sunlight Foundation for the transparency and accessibility on its website. There were many flaws that warranted the “F” grade. Committee and floor roll call votes are not posted on-line in a searchable format. The site is difficult to navigate. And historical information is often unavailable. This is unacceptable!

Sunlight released its legislative transparency report card as part of “Sunshine” week, a week dedicated to calling attention to the need for greater transparency in government. Common Cause Massachusetts is also highlighting the need for reform of our open records and open meetings laws to ensure that all of the government’s business is conducted in public, and that public records requests do not cost more than a nominal amount.

Efficient access to public records and on-line information is critical to holding our government accountable. With your help, we can push legislative leaders into passing needed reforms so that next time, Massachusetts can join our neighbors in Connecticut and New Hampshire in receiving an “A” grade.