Louisiana Senate Passes Controversial Bill Shielding Lawmaker Personal Information
October 2023 — Baton Rouge, LA — The Louisiana Senate recently approved amendments to House Bill 681, which aims to protect the personal information of state lawmakers, elected officials, and public service commissioners. Initially introduced by Representative Marcus Bryant (D-New Iberia), the bill sought to include retired district attorneys and related officials in the existing law that guards sensitive information about "protected individuals."
In its amended form, the legislation now mandates the shielding of home addresses, phone numbers, personal emails, Social Security numbers, and other identifying details of officials from public disclosure. The amendments, passed unanimously, now require House approval before becoming law.
Government watchdogs have voiced concerns regarding the lack of public discussion surrounding these last-minute changes. Steven Procopio, president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, criticized the approach, emphasizing the importance of transparency in government. He noted, “While it’s reasonable to protect sensitive information about elected officials, quietly adding these provisions without public debate is not the right way to do it.”
As it stands, the proposed law threatens violators with misdemeanor charges and potential jail time, raising alarm about its implications for accountability. The existing framework allows protected individuals to request the removal of their information from public view and pursue legal action if necessary.
The bill, with its controversial amendments, is set for a final vote on Wednesday. This ongoing debate highlights the delicate balance between personal privacy and governmental transparency, underscoring the complexities of public service in Louisiana.
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