[Ed note: My Southborough accepts signed letters to the editor submitted by Southborough residents. Letters may be emailed to mysouthborough@gmail.com.
The following letter is from Jason Feeney.]
To the Editor:
Massachusetts voters made their voices clear in 2024 when they overwhelmingly approved an audit of the Legislature, with 72% of voters supporting the measure. The message was clear no branch of government should be exempt from accountability.
That is why I am deeply concerned by House Bill H.5469, An Act Promoting Transparency and Public Access in State Government.
While supporters describe the legislation as a transparency measure, critics have pointed out that it would restrict the scope of the voter-approved legislative audit and could limit the ability of courts to enforce compliance when disputes arise. That would undermine the very accountability that voters demanded at the ballot box. Rather than embracing transparency, the Legislature appears poised to redefine it.
Equally troubling is the speed with which this proposal has emerged. Legislation affecting public access, government accountability, and the powers of the State Auditor deserves a full public debate, public hearings, and careful scrutiny. Major changes to a voter-approved law should not be rushed through the legislative process before citizens have an opportunity to understand the consequences.
Transparency is not achieved by allowing government officials to decide which records may be reviewed and which may remain hidden. Real transparency requires independent oversight and meaningful enforcement mechanisms.
Regardless of one’s political affiliation, every Massachusetts resident should support the principle that elected officials are accountable to the people they serve. H.5469 moves us in the wrong direction.
This bill has just passed the MA House of Representatives by a vote of 125-28. Our State Rep Kate Donaghue, supported the bill. I urge concerned citizens to contact their State Senator, who for Southborough residents is James Eldridge and make your voices heard. Tell him not to support this bill or any measure limiting the scope of the audit. He can be reached at James.Eldridge@masenate.gov or 617-722-1120.
Sincerely,
Jason Feeney
7 Grove St
