GOV. PHIL MURPHY SIGNED A BILL THAT OVERHAULS HOW PEOPLE CAN ACCESS GOVERNMENT RECORDS

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill that overhauls access to the state's public records, which critics argue will make it harder for the public and media to obtain documents. Despite objections from various groups, Murphy defended the bill, claiming the changes are modest and necessary. Critics, including the League of Women Voters of New Jersey, believe the legislation will hinder transparency and trust in democracy.

The new law allows officials to charge commercial interests higher fees, permits agencies to sue requesters, and ends the requirement for towns to pay attorneys' fees in lost records requests cases. 

Opponents argue these provisions will make it expensive and difficult to challenge government decisions. Murphy noted that courts could still impose fee structures if public entities act in bad faith, though critics doubt judges will frequently make such rulings. The Associated Press and other organizations have opposed the legislation.