Among the bills being considered by the General Assembly are several that would shield some information, including preliminary reports, from public scrutiny. Richard Wagner told the Raleigh News & Observer these efforts are alarming. “It’s a never-ending battle just trying to protect what’s already public record. And this is one of the worst years.” Draft documents are Wagner’s particular concern. “Anything can be said to be a draft. By the time something is “final,” it’s too late,” he said.
