The Savannah Morning News
If you thought the Georgia Legislature has too much on its hands to consider clamping down on the public's right to know, think again.
No less than seven bills that mean less open government are pending.
We hope none make it into law.
Image: topnews.in
Funny how there are no less than seven bills pending to clamp down on public access to information, but where are the bills on ethics reform? We need lawmakers who follow the laws, pay their taxes, do not take gifts and who disclose their personal financial activities and interests.
Thanks to the Pike County Journal-Reporter for doing its part to keep us informed. Celebrate Sunshine Week by letting your state representatives know how you feel about your right to know.
For instance, printing peoples home addresses in a story. -Why? What good reason is there to tell everyone where someones home is? So someone can go visit them unwanted? Go rob their house while they're at court or in the hospital or during a funeral? Do the media even consider the adverse concenquences to others of their actions?
There is a motto amongst the news media that states "Never let facts stand in the way of a good story" Until the sensationalists amongst the reporters and publishers are reined in, I will support lawmakers imposing restrictions on them, plain and simple.
The news media is not exempt, please learn to report responsibly and police yourselves, or you will end up having others do it for you.
A+ post.
I agree 100%. A few months ago a story was on this site in which a family specifically stated to NOT release their home address. What did this paper do?
They printed a picture of the house WITH a picture of the mailbox WITH the number showing in a close up.
I agree with the irresponsible reporting thing too, it does seem to happen a lot. Usually they are trying to make something big out of nothing. Doesn't do anyone any good.