The background out of which "truth in testing" legislation arose is reviewed in this report, which also describes existing state and federal testing legislation, details arguments raised in hearings on the legislation, analyzes the legal issues raised, and provides a framework for simplifying the arguments and gathering more information. At the center of the debate are two definitions of fairness. On one side are the proponents of disclosure of the test instruments and results; on the other side are those who argue that test security ensures fairness. Proponents of the legislation believe that the principle of fairness outweighs technical objections to open testing. Opponents feel that supporters of the legislation should shoulder the burden of proof that the law is necessary. Issues related to the testing controversy include: the role and power of American testing organizations; the nature, quality, and use of standardized tests; and the consequences of government interference. Also discussed are the legislation itself, its legal implications (constitutional, due process, copyright, freedom of information), initial impact, and strategies for evaluating the debate. Appended are the texts of the Gibbons Bill (H.R. 3564--the "Truth in Testing Act of 1979"), the Weiss Bill (H.R. 4949--the "Educational Testing Act of 1979"), and the California and New York state laws pertaining to admissions testing. (MSE)