The law builds on previous legislation prohibiting lawmakers from using NDAs to conceal information relating to the legislative process. Photo designed by Magnific

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – Assemblyman Joe Patterson, R-Rocklin, announced today that AB 1652 has been signed into law, strengthening transparency and accountability in California state government by prohibiting the Governor and top state officials from using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to conceal discussions related to legislation and regulations.

AB 1652 closes a gap in existing law by ensuring state elected and appointed officials, including the Governor, cannot use NDAs to shield government actions from public scrutiny.

“It is vital that every part of state government works for Californians, not to hide information from them,” Assemblyman Patterson said. “Public officials should be accountable to the people they serve.”

The new law builds on Assemblyman Patterson’s previous legislation prohibiting lawmakers from using NDAs to conceal information related to the legislative process. AB 1652 extends the prohibition to the Governor, administration officials, and state agencies as well.

“When state leaders make decisions that impact Californians, the public deserves to know how and why those decisions are being made,” Assemblyman Patterson said. “This law makes clear that confidentiality agreements should never be used to avoid public accountability.”

“Transparency should be the standard at every level of state government,” Assemblyman Patterson added. “Californians have a right to know how their government operates and how taxpayer dollars are being used.”

Patterson represents the 5th Assembly District, which is comprised of the communities of Roseville, Rocklin, Lincoln, Granite Bay, Auburn, North Auburn, Loomis, Meadow Vista, Newcastle, Penryn, El Dorado Hills, Cameron Park, Diamond Springs, Placerville, Shingle Springs, Auburn Lake Trails, Georgetown, Cold Springs, Coloma, Rescue and Cool.