Opinion: State must close open records loophole

It took no time at all, only about three months, for elected Pennsylvania officials to mount a highly significant challenge to the state's fledgling Right-to-Know Law. Most observers expected a push against what had been hailed by lawmakers last year as a comprehensive defense against efforts to keep the public in the dark, especially the practice of conducting secret deliberations before springing a decision upon citizens left to wonder how they got there. And, indeed, it appears Pennsylvania's reputation as a Land of Secrets remains in intact. Read More...

Pa. newspaper group blasts open-records ruling

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The Pennsylvania Newspaper Association has sharply criticized the state Open Records Office for a ruling that the group says would allow school boards and other agencies to conduct more public business behind closed doors. Read More...