A California lawmaker has introduced a bill that would fundamentally alter the California Public Records Act, creating significant financial barriers for the public and slowing down the process. FAC is opposed to AB 1821 by Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco, a Downey Democrat.
David writes:
Exorbitant fees could chill taxpayer groups from investigations of public employee pension spending, for instance. Civil liberties advocates could be discouraged from analyzing the implementation of the Racial Justice Act. Social justice advocates could shy away from examining police treatment of the unhoused. And environmental nonprofits could refrain from conducting oversight of state agencies.
When you price the public out of public records, important information will remain out of reach for all.
More:
Want government records? This California lawmaker wants you to pay more for them (3/26/2026)
Pebble Beach golf, Maui resorts, European tours: How special interests woo California lawmakers (3/20/2026)