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Bill

HB 802

An Act amending the act of February 14, 2008 (P.L.6, No.3), known as the Right-to-Know Law, in procedure, further providing for exceptions for public records.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 11 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill modifies Right-to-Know Law exceptions and procedures, either expanding or restricting public access to government records and information.

Referred to State Government
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 802

Legislative bill overview

HB 802 amends Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law by modifying procedures and exceptions for public records access. The bill specifically alters which records or information can be withheld from public disclosure under the state's transparency statute. The exact nature of the changes requires examination of the specific amendments proposed.

Why is this important

Pennsylvania's Right-to-Know Law is a cornerstone of government transparency, allowing citizens, journalists, and advocates to access public documents and information. Modifications to exceptions directly affect what information remains confidential versus publicly available, influencing oversight capabilities and government accountability. This impacts everyone's ability to scrutinize public spending, decision-making, and agency operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of exceptions: Depending on what exceptions are broadened or narrowed, the bill could either enhance transparency or provide government agencies greater confidentiality protections—each perspective views their position as protecting legitimate interests
  • Balance between privacy and disclosure: Changes may affect confidentiality of personal information, deliberative materials, or law enforcement records, creating tension between protecting individuals/operations and enabling public accountability
  • Implementation burden: Modifications to procedures could increase administrative costs for agencies or delay response times to records requests, affecting practical access to information

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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