June 17, 2021 3:20 a.m.

State Senator Kim Thatcher said legislation passed by one chamber of the Legislature will shield the public records advocate from political interference.

A release from the Salem area Republican said on Wednesday the Oregon Senate passed Senate Bill 500 on a 28-1 vote. Thatcher said under the bill, the public records advocate will become an independent office, giving it separation from the Governor and political influence.

Thatcher said that means the public records advocate would be granted more autonomy, rather than the position and office being under the governor’s control.

Thatcher said, “The public’s access to government records shouldn’t be political”. She said the bill will rebuild trust between Oregonians and their government. She said “It will ensure more transparency and accountability in the handling of public records”.

Thatcher’s release said since 2019, two public records advocates appointed by the Governor have resigned. She said Ginger McCall had alleged political pressure from the Governor’s office in handling public records requests. Thatcher said Becky Chiao also resigned after concerns arose over her objection to making the office independent from politics.

The release said the bill has broad support from journalists, advocates and the current public records advocate, Todd Albert.

The bill will now head to the House for consideration.