I have been a licensed private investigator in the state of Rhode Island since moving here in 1996. In my professional career, I have constantly been induced into battle with the majority of governmental agencies from which I’ve sought public records in the course of performing my duties.

The default position upon my requests has typically invited the questions, “Who are you?”, “Why do you want these records?”, “Who sent you here?”, and various unlawful delays and dissuasive responses.

In their quest to increase fees for public records searches, I would propose at a minimum prohibiting increased charges for any entity found to be in violation of APRA in the previous five years. Perhaps this would serve as an (unfortunately necessary) added deterrent for entities repeatedly flouting the law.

Charlie Galligan
Bristol