Due to the U.S. Freedom of Information Act, state governments put into practice their own regulations concerning government record transparency, and because of Montana’s Open Meetings Law, occupants of Harlowton can also enjoy transparency within their local government. This statute, itself based on the Freedom of Information Act at the national level, provides Harlowton locals with details relating to instances of governmental intervention, including the names and addresses of those involved, the situations leading up an event, outcomes and sentences passed down, and more. People of Harlowton have the ability to better understand their rights due to these laws, and the transparency provided by the release of these records maintains both criminals and regulators liable with regard to their actions, consequently leading to a more open and free society for all.