S.1510 - Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Reauthorization Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1510, the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Reauthorization Act, aims to strengthen the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board and facilitate the release of records related to civil rights cold cases. The bill amends the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Act of 2018 to clarify the Review Board's authorities and extend its tenure. It emphasizes the presumption of immediate disclosure for these records and allows for reimbursement of expenses incurred by state and local governments for digitizing and transmitting records.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to greater transparency and public access to information regarding civil rights cold cases. By extending the Review Board's tenure and clarifying its powers, the bill seeks to ensure a more thorough investigation and documentation of these historical events. The reimbursement provision may incentivize state and local governments to contribute to the collection of records.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency and public awareness of civil rights cold cases.
- Strengthened powers of the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board.
- Potential for more complete historical record through reimbursement for state and local government expenses.
- Addresses the need for justice and closure for victims and their families.
- Promotes a more informed public understanding of civil rights history.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with reimbursing state and local governments.
- Possible privacy concerns related to the disclosure of information, although the bill attempts to mitigate this.
- Risk of overwhelming the National Archives with a large influx of records.
- The legislation may open old wounds and create social division.
- The act does not allocate additional funding, potentially straining existing resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the spirit of the First Amendment, promoting freedom of information and the public's right to know. It also indirectly supports the Fourteenth Amendment's guarantee of equal protection under the law by seeking to uncover and address historical injustices. The bill's focus on transparency and accountability is consistent with constitutional principles of open government.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).