"New Jersey Senate Fast-Tracks Bill to Restrict Access to Public Records"
New Jersey lawmakers are fast-tracking legislation to overhaul the state's public records laws, sparking sharp opposition from good government groups, activists, and the news media. The bill, which allocates $8 million in spending, aims to bring public records laws into the digital age, but opponents argue it will make a wide range of government documents off-limits and hinder public accountability. Despite support from legislative leaders and organizations representing local governments, concerns have been raised about the bill's potential impact on public access to information and accountability.