Connecticut mandates open data access plans for executive branch agencies

On April 9, 2025, the Connecticut State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 1249, aimed at enhancing the state's data management and accessibility framework. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive approach to data governance across executive branch agencies, focusing on transparency, innovation, and economic development.

Key provisions of Senate Bill 1249 include mandates for each executive branch agency to conduct annual inventories of high-value data, which will be presumed public unless classified otherwise. Agencies are also required to develop open data access plans, detailing how they will publish public data and potentially share protected data through aggregation or redaction. The Office of Policy and Management is tasked with maintaining an online repository for this open data, ensuring that it is easily accessible to the public.

A significant aspect of the bill is its emphasis on utilizing data for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning applications. By January 1, 2026, the Chief Data Officer, in collaboration with designated agency data officers, will review the collected data to identify information that could foster economic opportunities and support state development goals. This initiative aims to leverage data for the benefit of private businesses and nonprofit organizations, potentially driving innovation and economic growth in Connecticut.

The introduction of Senate Bill 1249 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and stakeholders regarding its implications. Proponents argue that the bill will enhance government transparency and promote data-driven decision-making, while critics express concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of public data. Amendments to the bill may arise as debates continue, particularly around the balance between data accessibility and individual privacy rights.

As the legislative process unfolds, the bill's potential to reshape Connecticut's data landscape remains a focal point of interest. If passed, Senate Bill 1249 could position the state as a leader in data governance, fostering an environment conducive to technological advancement and economic development. The upcoming discussions and votes will be crucial in determining the bill's final form and its impact on the state's future.