PANYNJ records request bill advances

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey lawmakers have advanced a bill that would require The Port Authority to comply with open public records laws in New York and New Jersey.

New Jersey's Senate on Thursday voted unanimously to approve the measure, which requires the agency to comply with New Jersey's Open Public Records Act and New York's Freedom of Information Law. It now moves to the Assembly.

The legislation comes as the Christie administration is under investigation for controversial lane closures at the George Washington Bridge. Christie has denied knowledge of the scheme, but the incident has brought the Port Authority, which controls the bridge, under scrutiny.

Bill sponsor Sen. Loretta Weinberg says the agency is not transparent enough under current rules.

The Democratic sponsors say similar legislation has been approved in New York.

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