LANSING, Mich., March 13, 2024 — State Rep. Kara Hope (D-Holt) introduced House Resolution 207 today to declare this week, March 10-16, 2024, as Sunshine Week in Michigan. Sunshine Week is a national initiative by the American Society of News Editors to educate the public about the importance of open government and the dangers of excessive and unnecessary secrecy.
Michigan is one of only three states that does not allow the Freedom of Information Act to apply to the executive office and Legislature and ranks last among all states in ethics transparency and accountability. Sunshine Week, which serves as an annual reminder of the foundational right of citizens to access government information and actively participate in the democratic process, plays a critical part in addressing these issues and improving transparency in Michigan’s government.
“In our roles as representatives of the people, it’s our duty to ensure transparency and accountability in government,” said Hope, majority vice chair of the House Ethics and Oversight Committee. “Intentional or unintentional withholding of information deprives voters of their political power. It is essential in a democratic society that we work collectively to ensure that the people’s voices are heard and their rights are upheld.”
“In a time when trust in government is on the decline, it’s crucial that we take proactive measures to restore faith in our government. As chair of the Ethics and Oversight Committee, one of my main goals is to pass policies that will increase transparency in our state,” said resolution co-sponsor Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn). “Sunshine Week provides an opportunity for us to reaffirm our commitment to transparency and to engage with our constituents in an open and honest dialogue.”
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