State Launches Project Sunlight Database

Gov. Cuomo announced today that the state has launched the Project Sunlight database.

The new database provides information about meetings between government officials and outside individuals, entities, and their representatives related to state procurement, rate-making, regulatory matters, agency-based judicial or quasi-judicial proceedings, and the adoption or repeal of rules and regulations since January 1, 2013. It does not include lobbying appearances related to passage of the budget or legislation.

According to the Governor’s announcement, “Project Sunlight is the only database of its kind in any state that tracks such a broad range of appearances across a state government.”

In his statement, Gov. Cuomo said:

“My administration is committed to increasing transparency in state government, and this Project Sunlight database is another important step to that end.  Sunlight is one of the best disinfectants for the public sector, and with this new information the state is continuing to open the doors of government to New Yorkers.”

Read my 2011 blog post explaining the language enacted relating to the Project Sunlight Database.