A nationwide review of state procedures by The Associated Press and CNHI News reveals a patchwork of complicated systems for resolving open government disputes that often put the burden of enforcing transparency laws on private citizens. The review found fewer than a third of states have offices that can resolve residents’ complaints by forcing agencies to turn over documents or comply with open meetings requirements. In most states, the only meaningful option for residents to resolve complaints about agencies wrongfully withholding public records is to file costly lawsuits. The review is timed to Sunshine Week, an observance of the importance of public access to government information.
