As public agencies try to strike a balance between protecting both public health and the public's right to know, let's not forget the frequently overlooked counterpart to Kentucky's open records law.

The open meetings law has taken center stage in recent days as agencies close their doors while continuing to conduct public business.

Their goal should be maximizing compliance with the law within the constraints imposed by the health crisis we face.

We must not abandon the principles of open government to fear, panic, or political opportunism.