Oregon senate approves new public records exemption

Proponents say the measure is needed to get ranchers to participate in the voluntary conservation program, which aims to keep the grouse off the endangered species list. They say many ranchers are concerned about protecting their personal and business information.

Government transparency advocates worry about the erosion of access to public information. There are more than 400 types of public records that are exempt from disclosure under Oregon law.

The bill returns to the House, which unanimously approved it but must sign off on changes made in the Senate.