Ariel Roblin: Californians deserve more than 'no comment' from elected officials about NDAs in legislative negotiations

This legislative session lawmakers blocked a bill that would have banned the use of non-disclosure agreements during California's lawmaking process. Two Republicans supported the measure. Most Democrats on the Assembly Elections Committee refused to even cast a vote, except for the leader of the committee, Assemblymember Gail Pellerin, who voted no. (See the committee members here.)After the hearing, we tried to get more answers from Pellerin about her "no" vote. Her reply was "no comment." Repeatedly. Instead of granting an interview, Pellerin's office later released a statement that still didn't provide any substantive information as to why she voted no. KCRA 3 has repeatedly asked Gov. Gavin Newsom's office if it's OK with the use of NDAs in legislative negotiations. No answer. It is the job and expectation of KCRA 3 journalists to ask questions and get answers for the public as to how and why our government makes certain decisions. We know from our work with lawmakers on both sides as well as an overwhelming interest and feedback on this story, that the public cares about this issue. Lawmakers have an opportunity to give context, so the people can understand their process and thoughts surrounding important issues. But instead of that, they kill a bill that the people were interested in hearing more about.Transparency in the process is key to building trust. So the question seems to be, how valuable is the people's trust to our lawmakers?Ariel Roblin is the president and general manager of KCRA 3 and My58. See more of her editorials here.Read up on our coverage of the fast food law and the NDAs controversy that has followedCalifornia fast food workers to get $20 minimum wage under new deal between labor and the industryReport: California's fast food law exempts Panera because of Gov. Newsom's relationship with billionaire franchiseeCalifornia Republicans want investigation into Newsom's ties to Panera franchisee, new fast food lawCalifornia's top prosecutor responds to accusations involving Newsom, Panera franchiseePanera franchisee Greg Flynn says his California restaurants will pay a minimum of $20 an hourNon-disclosure agreements were used in negotiations of California's landmark fast food worker law'I think everyone's concerned': California lawmakers react to use of NDAs in fast food minimum wage lawCalifornia lawmaker introduces bill to prohibit NDAs in legislative negotiations