I assume that this is part and parcel to the online records mandates that the Feds have put in place in order for counties to continue to receive Federal dollars. 

The Federal Government gives out money so that counties put their records online?  Can you give me a source for this information, or do you know anything about what law or agency this money flows from?  I've never heard of this before, and if it is true, I would like to look into it.