But our amazing legislature has now restricted this access to GRAMA by passing HB 477 (via Big Brother Rep John Dougall, R-Highland) . This would restrict the access of Utah Taxpayers to our legislators text messages, voice mails, instant messages, and video chats. It is waiting on Governor Herbert's desk to sign.
Their argument is GRAMA requests take up time and money. Though I agree they do, it sounds like we need to create a more efficient system in making GRAMA requests and gathering the info, not eliminate the idea all together. If we claim we want a transparent government that is accountable, then why are we now restricting it and making it secret.
So who voted for it in our area: (Yea that is about everyone)
- Brad J. Galvez (R) - House District 6
- Ryan D. Wilcox (R) - House District 7
- Gage Froerer (R) - House District 8
- Jeremy A. Peterson (R) - House District 9
- Dixon M. Pitcher (R) - House District 10
- Brad L. Dee (R) - House District 11
- Richard A. Greenwood (R) - House District 12
- Stuart Reid (R?) - Senate District 18
- Allen Christensen (R) - Senate District 19
- Scott Jenkins (R) - Senate District 20
What a real disappointment. Instead of working on ways to improve education, create jobs or even help Utah be amazing, we can now shoot cats in front of schools with an M1911 and as long as I only tell people via Text Message know one will ever find out.
FAIL!
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I agree- VERY frustrating and hypocritical. I understand that, in theory, our state government could be paralyzed with GRAMA requests. I know if I had to hand over a copy of every e-mail, IM, voice mail, text message, etc. that I had on a given subject it would be difficult for me to do so.
Like you said, instead of restricting it, we should work on making the system more efficient and capable of doing this.
P.S. - I couldn't help but notice the question mark after the "R" by Senator Reid's name. Was that a typo? ;)
Thanks Mike,
No it is not a typo. He switched parties to run as a republican. Not convinced he really is.
I'm aware of the last-minute switching, hence the winky emoticon ;)
This just puts me over the top. All I can think to do is blow up Gov. Herbert's email box with requests saying veto this bill. This is the worst legislation that I have ever heard come through the state of Utah. If the governor does not veto this one, what can we do to make the government more transparent? I am emailing the governor's office right now.
Bravo, Ben Joe!
It's high time that good Republicans like you started speaking out about this anti-individual liberty issue.
Thanks,
In fact I think all I have done this session is criticize Republicans. They have done CRAP this session.
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