IV. Section 14-2-5. Purpose of Act; Declaration of Public Policy

The Law

Recognizing that a representative government is dependent upon an informed electorate, the intent of the legislature in enacting the Inspection of Public Records Act is to ensure, and it is declared to be the public policy of this state, that all persons are entitled to the greatest possible information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of public officers and employees. It is the further intent of the legislature, and it is declared to be the public policy of this state, that to provide persons with such information is an essential function of a representative government and an integral part of the routine duties of public officers and employees.

Commentary
This provision sets forth the policy behind the Act. The basic premise is that providing people with access to information about the activities of public agencies results in better government. To underscore the importance of this premise, the Act declares that providing access to public records is included in the essential functions of government and in the duties of its officers and employees.