Monthly Archives: May 2010

Pa. gets high marks for online spending info

Pennsylvania ranks among the leaders in online access to government spending, according to U.S. PIRG, the federation of state Public Interest Research Groups. That seems like a pleasant change for Pennsylvania, which historically has ranked low anytime transparency or open-records … Continue reading

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Finance reports out for Platts, 19th district opponent

With less than two weeks to go before the primary, you can check out the latest campaign finance reports for Rep. Todd Platts, R-York County, and his challenger in the Republican primary, businessman Mike Smeltzer. Once you’re on the Reading … Continue reading

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Union finances: Less open under Obama?

Interesting, if unsettling, column asserting that President Obama’s labor department is doing away with some Bush administration requirements that labor union leaders disclose more of their financial information, so union members know more about where their money is going. The … Continue reading

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Conewago Twp. residents have eyes on supervisors

I like to hear about residents who want to keep track of what their local governments are doing. In case you missed it in Wednesday’s paper, that’s what’s happening in Conewago Township these days. Some people are concerned about township … Continue reading

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Platts on board with transparency caucus

Just got off the phone with Rep. Todd Platts, R-York County, about the Transparency Caucus (see post below). He’s not on the list of 26 caucus members as of the announcement earlier this week, but said he’ll join up. “It’s … Continue reading

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Imagine: Transparency as hot politics

Several U.S. congressman announced the “Transparency Caucus” earlier this week. It will, according to its introductory letter,   “… educate the public on the importance of federal government transparency. We will facilitate exchanges between Members and experts and stakeholders from … Continue reading

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Just wondering

Pennsylvania’s right-to-know law allows an agency to release a record that is exempt from disclosure under the law — as long as it’s not counter to federal or state law, a judicial order, or protected by a privilege. The agency … Continue reading

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