As lawmakers in the Kentucky General Assembly review
proposed legislation, two bills demand urgent scrutiny for
their implications on transparency and accountability in
our state government. House Bill 368 and Senate Bill 218
seeks to remove legal notices from newspapers and place
them on government websites. Websites run by the
government themselves. That is a recipe for disaster.
These bills threaten to erode the foundational principles of
open government, a cornerstone of democracy that
empowers citizens and holds public officials accountable.
At their core, HB368 and SB218 provide crucial guidelines
for the publication of public notices, ensuring that vital
information reaches the hands of citizens who have a right
to know about government actions and decisions. They
propose significant changes that could lead to reduced
public access to important information regarding local and
state government operations. This is a concerning
direction.
The importance of transparency in government cannot be
overstated. A government that operates in secrecy is one
that is unaccountable to its citizens. The proposed
amendments could lead to fewer public notices being
published in community papers, effectively diminishing
the opportunity for citizens to engage with their
government. It is essential that the citizens of Kentucky
remain informed about government decisions that may

affect their lives, from budget allocations to changes in
local ordinances.
Moreover, the move to limit the accessibility of public
notices could disproportionately impact rural
communities, including those without easy access to
online resources. In rural areas where internet
connectivity is often unreliable, traditional print media
remains a lifeline for accessing essential information.
Reducing the avenues for public engagement may further
alienate these communities and hinder their ability to
advocate for their rights and needs.
Lawmakers must prioritize the voices of their constituents
over bureaucratic convenience. A vote against HB368 and
SB218 is a vote in favor of transparency, public
engagement, and the protection of democratic principles.
By rejecting this measure, Kentucky lawmakers can
demonstrate their commitment to upholding the
democratic values that define our Commonwealth.
As engaged citizens, we must encourage our
representatives to understand the ramifications of their
votes on HB368 SB218. Let us remind them that an
informed electorate is the bedrock of a healthy democracy.
It is crucial that our lawmakers vote no on these bills to
ensure that the people of Kentucky continue to have access
to the information they need to hold their government
accountable.

In this pivotal moment, the choice is clear: let us stand
together in unwavering support of an open and
transparent government that serves all Kentuckians.
Voting against HB368 and SB218 is not just a legislative
decision; it is a commitment to our shared values of
democracy, freedom, and public engagement.
Call your state representative and state senator on the toll-
free message line (1-800-372-7181) and tell them to vote
NO on HB 368 and SB218.

Joe Imel is the publisher of 8 Carpenter Media Group
newspapers in Kentucky and State At-Large Kentucky
Press Association Board Member.