Lexington, Kentucky, January 7, 2026
The Lexington Herald-Leader has filed a lawsuit against Governor Andy Beshear’s office for violating the Kentucky Open Records Act by denying access to the governor’s schedule. The legal challenge aims to overturn a previous court ruling that exempts the governor’s schedule from public disclosure. Increased transparency and public access to government records are at stake as the lawsuit progresses.
Lexington Herald-Leader Sues Governor Beshear’s Office Over Open Records Act Violation
Lexington, Kentucky – The Lexington Herald-Leader has initiated legal action against Governor Andy Beshear’s administration, alleging a breach of the Kentucky Open Records Act. The lawsuit, filed on January 5, 2026, seeks to overturn a longstanding court decision that exempts the governor’s schedule from public disclosure.
Details of the Lawsuit
The Herald-Leader requested access to the official schedules of Governor Beshear, Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, and senior advisor Rocky Adkins. These requests were denied, prompting the newspaper to file the lawsuit. The denial referenced a 1995 court case, Courier Journal v. Jones, which determined that the governor’s appointment schedule is considered a preliminary draft and thus exempt from disclosure under the Open Records Act. The Herald-Leader’s lawsuit challenges this precedent, aiming to make the governor’s schedule accessible to the public.
Governor’s Office Response
In response to the lawsuit, a spokesperson for Governor Beshear’s office stated that they had not yet been served with the legal documents. The spokesperson emphasized that the law clearly exempts the governor’s schedule from Open Records requirements, aligning with the 1995 court ruling.
Background on Open Records Act Exemptions
The Kentucky Open Records Act allows residents to inspect public records, with certain exemptions. One such exemption pertains to records that are considered preliminary drafts or notes, which are not subject to disclosure. The 1995 Courier Journal v. Jones case established that the governor’s appointment schedule falls under this exemption. The Herald-Leader’s lawsuit seeks to overturn this decision, arguing that the public’s right to know should take precedence over the exemption.
Implications of the Lawsuit
If successful, the lawsuit could lead to increased transparency in the governor’s office by making the governor’s schedule publicly accessible. This case may also prompt a reevaluation of other exemptions under the Open Records Act, potentially affecting how public records are disclosed in Kentucky.
Related Legal Precedents
Similar legal challenges have occurred in Kentucky concerning the Open Records Act. For instance, in 2012, the Kentucky Court of Appeals ruled that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services violated the Act by withholding records related to a child’s death. This case underscored the importance of transparency and the public’s right to access government records.
Next Steps
The lawsuit is currently in its early stages, with the Herald-Leader awaiting a response from the governor’s office. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for public access to government records in Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Kentucky Open Records Act?
The Kentucky Open Records Act is a law that allows residents to inspect public records, promoting transparency in government operations. Certain exemptions apply, such as records considered preliminary drafts or notes.
Why did the Lexington Herald-Leader file a lawsuit?
The newspaper filed the lawsuit after its requests for the governor’s schedule were denied, citing a 1995 court case that exempts such schedules from disclosure. The Herald-Leader seeks to overturn this exemption to enhance public access to government information.
What is the Courier Journal v. Jones case?
The Courier Journal v. Jones case, decided in 1995, determined that the governor’s appointment schedule is a preliminary draft and exempt from disclosure under the Open Records Act. This precedent is central to the Herald-Leader’s current lawsuit.
What could be the impact of this lawsuit?
If successful, the lawsuit could lead to increased transparency in the governor’s office by making the governor’s schedule publicly accessible, potentially prompting a reevaluation of other exemptions under the Open Records Act in Kentucky.
Key Features of the Lawsuit
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Parties Involved | Lexington Herald-Leader vs. Governor Andy Beshear’s administration |
| Lawsuit Filed | January 5, 2026 |
| Subject of Dispute | Access to the governor’s official schedule |
| Legal Precedent | 1995 Courier Journal v. Jones case exempting governor’s schedule from disclosure |
| Governor’s Office Response | Not yet served with the lawsuit; cites existing legal exemption |
| Potential Implications | Increased transparency in the governor’s office; possible reevaluation of Open Records Act exemptions |
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