The costs and benefits of openness for governance of higher education are analyzed through a survey of state sunshine laws, relevant case law, state attorney generals' opinions, and interviews with a cross-section of individuals representing the range of openness. (MSE)

The impact of sunshine laws on college governance is discussed based on field and legal research, a Wingspread symposium (Racine, Wisconsin, September 4-5, 1984), and a follow-up meeting (Washington, D.C., October 1, 1984). In addition to open meeting laws, the way that the democratic process currently operates, and should work, is examined. A…

Serving the public interest is the basis for most state open meeting laws (sunshine laws). To education administrators, the public interest lies in allowing public officials freedom to make decisions according to procedures they determine best meet the needs of their institutions. The conflict among viewpoints is discussed. (MLW)

The advantages and disadvantages of laws mandating openness in decision-making are outlined, and their particular relevance in the case of collegial decision-making is discussed. (MSE)