The Latest: Court says officials’ emails are public records

SAN FRANCISCO – The Latest on the California Supreme Court’s ruling on public access to officials’ private phones and email accounts (all times local):

10:15 a.m.

The California Supreme Court says the public has the right to access emails and text messages about government business sent on California officials’ private accounts.

The ruling by a unanimous court on Thursday clears up a murky area of law in the Golden State.

The use of private email accounts by public officials has faced scrutiny in recent years, with some using it as a way to avoid disclosure. Many states treat those emails as public records.

But opponents have raised privacy concerns. They say public officials sometimes need confidentiality to discuss unpopular views.

The lawsuit before the California Supreme Court involved messages on private devices used by San Jose’s mayor and members of the city council.

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12:15 a.m.

Are emails and text messages about government business on California officials’ private phones and accounts public records?

The California Supreme Court is set to decide that question on Thursday in a ruling that could clear up a murky area of law in the Golden State.

The use of private email accounts by public officials has faced scrutiny in recent years. Many states treat those emails as public records.

But opponents have raised privacy concerns, and said public officials sometimes need confidentiality to discuss unpopular views.

The lawsuit before the California Supreme Court is over messages on private devices used by San Jose’s mayor and city council.