Recently, a data transparency advocacy group expressed support of a reintroduced bill that would allow public access to Congressional Service reports. The Congressional Research Service Electronic Accessibility Act of 2012 was introduced on March 7, 2013, but different versions of it date back to 2003.

If passed, the legislation would increase government openness by requiring the Congressional Research Service to publicly release all unclassified reports. Supporters of the act believe that this will increase transparency and empower citizens to continue being watchdogs for the government. They also believe that as long as information doesn’t threaten national security, there should be no reason to disclose it from citizens.

For more information on this legislation and its journey through Congress, please visit FCW.