Arkansas Senate OKs FOIA Exemption for Accident Reports

Arkansas lawmakers have given final legislative approval to a bill exempting from the state’s Freedom of Information Act the identities of minors involved in motor vehicle accidents.

The Senate voted 33-0 Thursday for the legislation requiring police to redact the names and addresses of children under the age of 18 from the accident reports. The measure would allow the release of the information to parents and legal guardians.

The measure now heads to Gov. Mike Beebe’s desk. A spokesman said the governor was reviewing the proposal.

The Senate had approved an earlier version of the bill last month, but had to agree with an amendment that would have the exemption not take effect until 2015.

The measure was opposed by press groups, who say it weakens the state’s FOI law.