The Department of Justice announced today new policies and procedures for the government’s assertion of the state secrets privilege in litigation. Outlined in a memo from Attorney General Eric Holder, the new policies represent a huge step in the right direction towards a more open and accountable government.
POGO Executive Director Danielle Brian had this to say about the new checks and balances:
“The Administration’s new policy to ensure the appropriate use of the State Secrets privilege finally provides checks and balances to a tool that has too often been used to suppress claims against the government. Requiring a review committee, Attorney General approval, Congressional oversight and Inspector General review allows for a reasonable balance between preserving legitimate secrets and protecting the public interest. POGO applauds this open government breakthrough.”
You may read the new policies and procedures in Holder's memo here.
-- Bryan Rahija
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