Pontiac Times

State Rep. Donni Steele, speaking in honor of Sunshine Week, emphasized the need for increased transparency in Michigan's government. Steele introduced a plan to expand the scope of Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to cover all state government activities. She expressed her concerns about the current state of affairs in Lansing, stating, “Too many well-meaning folks have been elected only to sell their souls and embrace the swamp culture. It needs to end. Passing our plan to expand the scope of FOIA would be the first step in lifting the clouds that has covered Lansing for its entire existence.”

The proposed plan, embodied in House Bills 5422-5427, aims to establish a set time frame for governments to produce records, increase fines and penalties for non-compliance with FOIA requests, and enhance individuals' ability to take civil action in cases of information withholding. Additionally, the plan includes the creation of the Open Government Commission to oversee FOIA requests and appeals, with appointees representing various political and media entities to ensure a fair process.

Steele criticized House Democrats for adopting a resolution honoring Sunshine Week instead of considering the House Republican plan to expand FOIA. She expressed her disappointment, stating, “The Sunshine Week resolution is yet another example of House Democrats trying to plug a phony message of transparency in Lansing while being completely unwilling to make any meaningful change.”

Furthermore, Steele addressed the issue of transparency in government by highlighting a recent denial of a FOIA request by Attorney General Dana Nessel regarding communications related to the Flint water crisis. Steele pointed out that Michigan lags behind other states in government openness, emphasizing the importance of providing citizens with access to information about the inner workings of state government.

In conclusion, Steele emphasized the need for true transparency in Michigan's government, stating, “House Republicans are ready to lift the curtain on state government. I hope my colleagues across the aisle will soon join our efforts.” The proposed bills, HBs 5422-5427, are currently awaiting consideration by the House Government Operations Committee.