The People's Right to Know is a civil right that is derived from the right to hold government representatives accountable. This right covers all legislative and executive actions, including the way they are funded, financed, and managed. The entire process is done on our behalf. It's only natural that we would want to know how our government's money is spent. But how do we ensure that our government does the proper thing?
The People's Right to Know is an essential part of promoting democracy. Since World War II, the right to know has been promoted by various organizations. Many books and articles have been published declaring this right, and there are many other laws and regulations that support this idea. However, the solution is more complicated than simply condemning the government for encroaching on the rights of the public. It must include both the press and the people.
The report calls on governments to give priority to the right to know. It recommends that governments not allow judicial review of information released to the public, and severely limit the Homeland Security Act's "critical infrastructure" provisions. Routine environmental and health information cannot be kept secret from the public. The People's Right to Know advocates limiting federal preemption of successful state right-to-know laws and allowing states to experiment with innovative statutes.
The People's Right to Know is a laudable goal. It has influenced the development of our society and policy. A better-informed consumer or worker can press for safer products and demand wage premiums in dangerous jobs. Investors in the securities market can also act more wisely when they are aware of the risks and benefits of their investments. Studies have shown that when companies disclose information on environmental issues, stock prices respond. When information is released that reveals superior performance, stocks react upward; otherwise, they react downward.
The right to know laws are also a major tool in the economy. In addition to promoting free speech, the laws are enabling citizens to take an informed decision. If they can find out what a company is doing with regard to its products, they can push for safer products and improve their living conditions. In addition, they can demand a wage premium for those who work in hazardous industries. It is important to ensure that the information they receive is accurate and relevant.
The People's Right to Know laws promote democracy and empower ordinary citizens. They promote information-based decision-making. The power of the people is greater than ever. The government can do more to protect us by creating more transparent and accountable governments. The right to know laws can make government and media more responsive to the needs of the people. And in the end, the right to know law will ultimately improve the country's democracy.
