South Carolina closes concealed weapons permit records
The governor of South Carolina signed into law a measure that makes concealed weapons permits secret (see
story). About a half dozen state legislatures have considered similar secrecy laws this year, pushed by gun enthusiasts who say those records invade their privacy. Some of the laws were spurred by public outrage following The Roanoke Times posting permit holders online with their street addresses. This is illustrative of how journalists need to weigh the benefits to the public versus the negative ramifications when posting data online. How we use records and data can create a backlash if the public purpose is not apparent to citizens. It's also an example of how a strong lobbying group can push through secrecy laws if it has public support on its side.