Courts Rule on Exemptions and Delays While Rhode Island Debates Access Reform

This week on our podcast, we delve into transparency in public records. In Rhode Island, candidates for attorney general are weighing in on proposed changes to the Access to Public Records Act and a bill to release traffic accident data. Candidates like Kim Ahern and Jason Knight emphasize transparency, while others call for careful study to avoid unintended consequences. In Michigan, journalist Charlie LeDuff has sued Attorney General Dana Nessel over delays in Freedom of Information Act requests, particularly concerning COVID-19 nursing home records. LeDuff challenges the "grant-and-delay" tactic and seeks timely responses and reasonable costs. Finally, in Tennessee, the Court of Appeals has ruled that writings from the Covenant School shooter must be released as public records, overturning a lower court decision. The case will return to Chancery Court for redaction oversight, with the potential release of all writings and investigative documents. 📚 Sources: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2026/02/02/metro/open-records-overhaul-debate-attorney-general-candidates-ri/?event=event12 https://san.com/cc/michigan-sued-for-covid-era-nursing-home-files-after-shirking-foia-law/ https://tennesseestar.com/covenant-school-shooting/michael-patrick-leahy-calls-appeals-court-ruling-in-covenant-case-a-major-victory-for-public-records/khousler/2026/02/05/