Jason Leopold · @JasonLeopold
8th Dec 2014 from TwitLonger
Statement from Commerce Committee re: Rockefeller Lifts Hold on FOIA Bill
Chairman Rockefeller lifted his hold on the FOIA Improvement Act this evening. While the Senator retains some concerns with the bill, they have been addressed by report language that establishes Congressional intent that courts should take into consideration the concerns of agencies when they withhold information related to law enforcement efforts. Rockefeller placed the hold out of concerns that the bill would have a chilling effect on internal deliberations within government agencies when agency attorneys prepare for an enforcement action – a move that could potentially undermine consumer protection. The Judiciary Committee also agreed to a colloquy, based on Rockefeller’s concerns, which aims to make it clear that Congress places high value on law enforcement personnel’s continued ability to internally exchange ideas and legal strategies.
Chairman Rockefeller has made consumer protection a hallmark of his legislative career. He has also been an advocate of open government and transparency throughout his nearly 30 years in the Senate, including in his current role as Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee which oversees consumer protection. He appreciates the Judiciary Committee’s time in working through his concerns and he supports S. 2520.