Article archive / June 1, 2015
Originally published: . Volume 6, No. 6. Source pages: 10.
Psych Board Continues to Violate Open Meetings Law Public Participation, Notice, Request for Documents all Flag
On Monday, June 1, the psychology board held a special meeting where the chair, Dr. Rita Culross, told the public members, “There will be no comments during the board’s discussion of our agenda item.”
Open Meetings Laws protect the public’s right to observe and influence the power and directions of government officials. Direct participation is protected, “…each public body conducting a meeting which is subject to the notice requirements of R.S. 42:19(A) shall allow a public comment period at any point in the meeting prior to action on an agenda item upon which a vote is to be taken.”
There was no indication that the chair, or the Executive Director, attempted to correct the violation to public participation.
The meeting was also improperly noticed. The agenda did not give the substance of the topic to be discussed, which is required by law so participants can prepare. Since the board’s website was not functioning, the meeting was also not posted on its web site. There was no announcement made at the regular board meeting on Friday, May 29, the preceding workday.
The board is also in violation regarding public records request. On May 21 the Times submitted a request to the state psychology board for documents and communications regarding the board’s role in SB 113. The Times received a letter dated May 21, but postmarked May 26, from the Executive Director, Ms. Kelly Parker. She wrote back noting a variety of delays. “… your request for emails will require a search through the Office of Statewide Email and this may impact response time. State offices will also be closed in observance of Memorial Day…” And, “Finally, we reserve the right to consult with our legal counsel regarding your request to guarantee we release the appropriate documents.” She also noted that the required fee must be paid before release.
According to state law R.S. 44:32, “… the public record shall be immediately presented to the authorized person applying for it.” If it is not immediately available for some reason or reasons, “… the custodian shall promptly certify this in writing to the applicant, and in his certificate shall fix a day and hour within three days, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal public holidays, for the exercise of the right granted by this Chapter.”
The Times has previously pointed out violations to the board but problems still remain. Last year the board created a media policy that further blocks transparency and accountability.
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