Delaware officials face scrutiny over transparency and privacy laws

Delaware Secretary of State Charuni Patibanda-Sanchez has faced criticism from open government advocates after requesting that a legislative taskforce meeting regarding the state’s unclaimed property program be held in executive session. The request, made without citing a specific legal justification under the Freedom of Information Act, has raised concerns that officials may be attempting to avoid public discussion of the escheat program, which serves as the state’s third-largest revenue source.

Separately, law enforcement agencies in Delaware are navigating a new law, House Bill 59, which restricts the release of names and photos of individuals charged with felonies. Under this legislation, authorities may only disclose such identifying information if it is deemed “necessary to protect the public’s safety.” Attorney General Kathy Jennings has issued guidance to police departments, noting that names should not be released for suspects already in custody, as they do not pose an immediate threat to the public. Jennings has expressed support for amending the law to allow for greater disclosure.