Fla. Journos Whine About Guv's Inaccessibility & Slow Records Production

Image via WikipediaNine Tallahassee newsers have complained to the Florida Society of News Editors that  Republican Gov. Rick Scott's administration is running a too-tight ship that has dragged its feet in producing requested public records and kept reporters seeking access to Florida's 45th Governor at bay.

According to an Associated Press story, Scott, a former health care executive, has kept reporters away from traditionally open events, such as a recent post-inauguration reception.  An Orlando Sentinel reporter recounted being told he would be socked with a $400 printing bill based on his request for public records.

Although whining is second-nature to most journalists, "TUOL" humbly suggests that the journalists would be better served by educating the private sector bigwig Scott about his obligations to the public through the use of the Florida Public Records Law (Fla. Stat. ch. 19) and the importance of open meetings via the Florida Sunshine Law (Fla. Stat. Sec. 286.011) and the Sunshine State's constitution (Art. 1, Sec. 24(b)) for openers.