Who oversees the implementation of the Missouri Open Records Law?

The implementation of the Missouri Open Records Law is overseen by the Secretary of State. This role is critical as it ensures that the public has access to government records, fostering transparency and accountability within state and local government agencies. The Secretary of State’s office provides guidance on how the law should be applied and manages the resources for public record requests.

In this context, the Attorney General primarily serves as the chief legal officer of the state and can provide opinions or legal interpretations regarding the law but does not oversee its implementation. The Governor, while holding executive authority, does not directly manage the day-to-day enforcement of open records requirements. The Legislative Research Office focuses on legislative processes and providing support to lawmakers, but it is not involved in the oversight of public records laws. This delineation of responsibilities highlights the specific role of the Secretary of State in maintaining the accessibility of government information to the public.