Paterson veteos N.Y. Sunshine Law amendment

New York Gov. David Paterson vetoed a bill that would have allowed judges to fine public agencies for violating the state open meetings law and to invalidate votes and actions taken in those behind-closed-doors meetings, the AP reported. Paterson said he vetoed the bill because it allows for civil penalties to be imposed on local governments, meaning that taxpayers would bear the burden.

New York Gov. David Paterson has vetoed legislation that would have allowed judges to fine school boards, municipal councils and other public bodies up to $500 for violating the state open meetings law.

The measure, which passed the Assembly 142-1 and the Senate by voice vote, would have amended the so-called "Sunshine Law" law that allows judges to invalidate for "good cause" votes or actions taken behind closed doors.

The law is meant to ensure deliberations and decisions are public, with exceptions for personnel matters, litigation, contract negotiations and secret police activities. Formal votes to spend public money must be done in public.

More here.