Arkansas Governor Requests Exemption from Disclosure of Travel and Security Records, Withdraws Other Amendments

Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Republicans in the Legislature have withdrawn a plan to restrict the public’s access to records about Sanders’ administration. However, they still intend to seek limits on the release of information regarding the GOP governor’s travel and security. The initial legislation sparked criticism from media groups, transparency advocates, and conservatives who felt it would undermine the state’s Freedom of Information Act. In response to concerns, Republican lawmakers have filed new legislation that would exempt the release of travel and security records but remove other provisions that drew opposition. The new bill has garnered support from some Democrats who had concerns over the original legislation.

The proposed legislation would provide security for the governor and limit access to information about who travels on the State Police airplane and the cost of individual trips. Sanders cited death threats she has received in the past as a reason for seeking these restrictions. The bill also requires State Police to file quarterly reports on the governor’s security expenses.

Critics of the original legislation, including the Arkansas Press Association and the Arkansas chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, have expressed satisfaction with the revised bill. They believe it strikes a balance between providing safety for elected officials and maintaining government transparency.

Overall, the new legislation addresses concerns raised by the public and stakeholders, focusing specifically on the security of the governor and her family. It is seen as a step towards making the government safer and more effective, while still upholding the public’s right to access government records.