HB122 » A bill restricting public access to certain government records is poised to clear its final hurdle in the Senate before being sent to the governor for signing.

Sponsored by Rep. Douglas Aagard, R-Kaysville and Sen. Curtis Bramble, R-Provo, the bill passed its initial Senate vote 27 to 1, with Sen. Ross Romero, D-Salt Lake City voting against the measure.

The Utah Media Coalition, including The Salt Lake Tribune , initially opposed the measure, which came forward at Attorney General Mark Shurtleff's request after a several recent court cases forced some documents into the open.

A compromise was struck between the two parties that led to an amended, more relaxed bill, leaving seven categories the same but raising the level of proof required for the release of documents that could endanger someone's life.

Bramble said he plans to introduce additional intent language to the bill Thursday when it comes up for a final vote, aimed at Utah's judges as they consider record appeals.

-- Cathy McKitrick