Tax revenues are declining across the United States -- and that might impact whether state and local governments provide information to the people.

In Illinois, there's doubt whether the state will finance a counselor who was to help citizens fight for records.

Here in Utah, records management may take a hit at the Utah Department of Corrections. Bruce Bailey, who was director of records at the department and had a role in responding to requests from journalists and citizens, sent an e-mail Wednesday saying his position was eliminated.

In a separate e-mail, department spokeswoman Angie Welling confirmed Bailey's post is one of 35 full-time positions the department plans to eliminate. Welling added:

I can assure you that the Department remains committed to transparency and openness, and we will not allow this commitment to slide as a result of the proposed changes. We're confident that we will continue to be responsive to records requests and we will see no fundamental change in our dedication to meeting these needs.

— NC

Labels: GRAMA, jail/prisons