Open Government

Chapter 28. Toads on the Road to Open Government Data

Bill Schrier

One of the latest trends in governing is exposing many of the records and much of the data collected by governments for public viewing, analysis, scrutiny, and use. This trend started a number of years ago, with the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and local government equivalents such as Washington state’s Public Disclosure Act. The trend has recently accelerated with the election of President Barack Obama, who has promised an “open and accountable” government.

While open government advocates applaud this movement, and it has many notable benefits, there are also noticeable “toads” obstructing the road to an open government future. Some of these toads are implicit in the nature and culture of government. Others represent simple resistance to change. Still others present troubling ethical issues.

What Is Government?

Government is about services and geography and information. Governments should provide services which are difficult or impossible for the public to provide for themselves, or which are hard to purchase from private businesses. It is difficult, or at least troubling, to envision a police force or fire department operating as a for-profit business. Regulatory agencies such as those issuing building permits or enforcing food safety codes also are a natural fit for government. Of course, one can envision—or experience—a private water company, ambulance company, or even for-profit parks department. Still, ...