Old North News

A group of North Carolina legislators has introduced a proposal for a state constitutional amendment aimed at ensuring public access to records and meetings. The proposed amendment, identified as HB 1075 and SB 911, seeks to add a new section to the state's Constitution. This section would affirm that "the people of North Carolina have the right of access to information concerning the conduct of the people’s business. Public records are the property of the people. Meetings of public bodies should be open to the people."

If approved by the legislature, this amendment will be presented to voters in North Carolina during this fall's general election.

The initiative follows a controversial provision included in last year's state budget that allows lawmakers to withhold significant records from public view. The proposed amendment aims to elevate public access to government records as a constitutional right, mandating that any laws restricting such access be narrowly defined.

Ann Webb, Policy Director with Common Cause North Carolina, expressed support for the proposal: “This common-sense amendment would help ensure the transparency needed for members of the public to hold public officials accountable. Especially as we’ve seen some politicians try to limit public records access, it’s time to put this question to the people. We urge the legislature to pass this proposal and allow North Carolinians to vote on the amendment this fall.”

Common Cause North Carolina is described as a nonpartisan grassroots organization focused on maintaining American democracy's core values. Their mission includes fostering an open and accountable government serving public interests, promoting equal rights and representation, and empowering citizens in political processes.