RS 13:5991: Legislative findings; intent

A. The legislature recognizes that the optimal functioning of the Louisiana criminal justice system is vital to the safety, prosperity, and well-being of Louisiana and its citizens. The legislature also recognizes that a fundamental requirement for the proper functioning of the Louisiana criminal justice system is the ability to view, review, and analyze the various documents, records, and databases evidencing the actions, decisions, and events occurring within the criminal justice system. Louisiana citizens, victims, and defendants should be able to readily find, access, and review these documents, records, and databases for relevant, timely information on matters pertinent to them and their communities. In addition, members of the legislature and other relevant stakeholders must have the ability to access and review the current and past actions, decisions, and events occurring within the criminal justice system in order to make educated, informed decisions regarding the current operation of the system and any necessary improvements or reforms.

B. It is therefore the intent of the legislature to provide for a program designed to promote transparency within the Louisiana criminal justice system by providing readily available and consistent access to minute entries evidencing the actions, decisions, and events occurring within the criminal justice system.