Is NEMLEC subject to public records law?

Posted byWill Brownsberger 6 Comments on Is NEMLEC subject to public records law?

Robin Whitworth asks:

What are your thoughts on NEMLEC’s contention they are not subject to MA open record laws? I assume all of their funding ultimately comes from MA taxpayers, so we have a right to know how that money is being used. See background here.

I don’t have an instant answer to this, but will research it over the next few days!

Published by Will Brownsberger

Will Brownsberger is State Senator from the Second Suffolk and Middlesex District.

6 replies on “Is NEMLEC subject to public records law?”

  1. Having given this some thought, I have to say I’m troubled by the apparent assertion of a blanket exemption by NEMLEC. There are many particular exemptions for police work from the public records law — and these exemptions are appropriate — but I can’t understand why NEMLEC would be exempt on a blanket basis. I’m going to reach out to them directly to try to make sure I understand their position and will report back further.

  3. I’ve been in touch with NEMLEC and received this press release dated last Thursday. The sense I got in the conversation is that NEMLEC is clearly moving on the issue from their initial position and will be making appropriate disclosures. Let’s see how this goes over the next couple of weeks.

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Thursday, July 3, 2014

    Contact: John Guilfoil
    Phone: 617-993-0003
    Email: john@jgpr.net

    Statement of NEMLEC Executive Director Laura Nichols

    “The North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council (NEMLEC) received the complaint filed by the American Civil Liberties Union on June 30, 2014. At this time, the complaint is being reviewed by Counsel. NEMLEC recognizes and respects the need to keep the public informed, and we look forward to working with the ACLU on their complaint, within the perimeters of the public records law. NEMLEC is confident it will be able to resolve this matter in a manner which will be agreeable to all parties.”

    ###

  6. Thanks for keeping an eye on the ACLU request for information. Militarizing our police forces is bad enough for the community and the officers, but this extra-legal organization is terrifying. Let Homeland Security and the military find another way of dealing with the expensive left-overs of endless war. How about turning our swords into USA made solar windmills? A real benefit for all. Barbara

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