By Associated Press - Wednesday, March 15, 2017

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - Gov. Asa Hutchinson says a new law grants broad secrecy to the state Capitol Police force but says the overall purpose of the bill “was good,” so he let it become law.

Act 474 lets Capitol Police shield information about officers from the public, such as the size of the force and their gender and race.

In a response to questions emailed to his office, Hutchinson said Wednesday the intent of the bill was honorable, so he let it become law without his signature. Sen. Gary Stubblefield said he wants to keep the public’s eyes off Capitol security plans.

Hutchinson said he hoped that any gap in what the bill intended and what it actually does could be addressed by the Secretary of State, who oversees the Capitol Police, or in future legislation.

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