Solomon Bill Would Require Central Online Posting of Public Budgets

In an effort to provide citizens with easier access to public budgets, Rep. Joseph J. Solomon Jr. (D-Dist. 22, Warwick) has introduced legislation that would make public entity budgets available in digital form through the secretary of state’s website.

The bill (2015-H 5156) would require the public records administration to make PDF (portable document format) versions of the budgets of all public entities that submit a formal public budget to the public. Access to the digital version of the budget would then be made available through the internet facilities of the secretary of state.

“What we want to do here, “ said Representative Solomon, “ is make it easy for the public to access all budgets of public entities, whether it be the state, municipalities, fire districts or other entities. Making these budgets readily available via computer is an important part of open government.”

The bill, which has been referred to the House Judiciary committee, is co-sponsored by Representatives K. Joseph Shekarchi (D-Dist. 23, Warwick), Helio Melo (D-Dist 64, East Providence), Robert A. Nardolillo III (R-Dist. 28, Coventry) and Sherry Roberts (R-Dist. 29, West Greenwich, Coventry).

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