Section 280 - Information as to violations of civil rights and other mattersThe Department of State shall have the power, and its duty shall be so far as practicable--
(a) Upon request in writing, to furnish, or cause to be furnished, to any person, association or corporation, data and information pertaining to the various affairs of the Commonwealth: Provided, That nothing herein contained shall be deemed to authorize or require the department-- (1) to make public any data or information in the possession of the Commonwealth that is declared by law to be confidential; or (2) to render or furnish any opinion on any legal matter.(b) Upon written complaint filed with the department, to refer to such civil groups or organizations, as the department deems appropriate, alleged violations of the rights of free speech and assembly, the rights of labor to organize and bargain collectively, and other civil rights and constitutional guarantees.1937, June 5, P.L. 1688, § 1.