Electronic Government Publications and Definitions in State Legislation

by Siekiera, Beth

State governments have shifted their publication practices from producing mainly print-only formats to creating electronic publications. In 2003, the American Association of

Law Libraries conducted a survey that indicated that few states were collecting and preserving these electronic documents. It also showed that few state laws reflected the

change in publication formats. The purpose of this study is to examine the language used in state law regarding electronic government publications as of 2008. The results show

that most states have a broad definition that does not mention electronic formats, but includes them by interpretation. Further studies regarding the relationship between these

laws and collection, compliance from state agencies, and funding are suggested.