Among the core values of Sublette Citizens for Progress is Transparency
We are committed to open and accessible government, ensuring citizens have the factual information they need to make informed decisions. One of the tools for delivering on this value is making public records available to Sublette citizens through requests under Wyoming Public Records Act.
We submitted our first request on June 12 – it’s reproduced below – in alignment with our goal of assuring transparency in government.
Does Wyoming’s Public Records Act cover personal devices? It sure does if government officials are using their personal devices toconduct public business, especially during public meetings.
Why does Wyoming have a law that permits citizens (and citizen groups) to obtain public records? Well, like the federal law, FOIA, and the Sunshine Laws of most states, these laws exist to make sure citizens can know what their government officials are doing.
What is a FOIA Request?
FOIA stands for the Freedom of Information Act. Enacted in 1966, it guarantees the public’s right to access government records, ensuring that citizens can monitor how decisions are made. FOIA is considered a vital tool for promoting transparency, accountability, and public trust.
The U.S. Supreme Court once described FOIA as a “structural necessity in a real democracy” thereby underscoring its role in keeping the public informed about the actions of its government.
What Are Sunshine Laws?
Each state also has its own version of open records laws, often called Sunshine laws. These state-level rules govern access to public documents, including emails, text messages, meeting notes, and more. While the specifics vary by state, most are modeled on the federal FOIA and serve the same purpose: to ensure that government operations are conducted in the open.
Why Transparency Matters
Transparency is essential to good governance. It allows citizens to better understand how decisions are made and encourages public confidence in those processes. Requests like this are a routine part of civic engagement and are used across the country to ensure public oversight.
Sublette Citizens for Progress believes that transparency in government supports an informed and active community. This request is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that local decision-making remains open, accessible, and accountable to the public.