R&B’s editorial assertion incorrect

The Red & Black’s editorial assertion is incorrect (“Redaction infraction,” Dec. 1) that the rules which govern redaction of information from open records are blurry, unclear or “more suggestion than iron-clad.” Items which are exempt from release under Georgia Open Records Act are specifically spelled out in the act — and the law is not a “suggestion.”

If there’s no exemption, then the information is required by law to be released. As the institution’s custodian of records, the Public Affairs office is meticulous in following the letter of the law. Members of the community who believe more protection should be afforded against release of certain information should discuss it with their legislator. It is no small irony that a member of the news media which in the past has fought so vociferously for expansion of openness in records now suggests the law allows too much openness.

TOM JACKSON

Vice President for Public Affairs