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FOIA REQUESTS SIMPLIFIED -
FOIA BUDDY


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OUR FOIA REQUESTS PORTAL - OUR MISSION

 Our mission is to not only help you understand the differences between open
records laws, but also to simplify the process of requesting public records. We
are dedicated to continuously improving our site and services to make accessing
records easy and automated. Our ultimate goal is to provide you with the ability
to submit requests to any state, federal, or local agency with just the click of
a button. Whether you're a journalist, researcher, or concerned citizen, we're
here to make the process of obtaining public records as smooth as possible.

Submit FOIA Requests


HOW WE HELP:

The public can use the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and open records
requests to access government records and information. The FOIA, enacted in
1967, allows any person, whether a United States citizen or not, to request
access to records from any federal agency. Federal agencies are required to
disclose any information requested under the FOIA, unless it falls under one of
nine exemptions which protect interests such as personal privacy, national
security, and law enforcement.

There is no specific form that must be used to make a request, and a request can
be made for any agency record. Similarly, state and local governments have their
own public records laws, such as the Public Records Act (PRA) in Washington
State, which allows the public to request records from state or local government
agencies. These laws are designed to allow the public to access government
records, although they also have provisions making some records exempt from
public disclosure.

Requests can typically be made in writing, and agencies are required to respond
to requests within a certain timeframe. We provide an easy to use portal to
automate your public records request and provide anonymity if desired.


WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FOIA, FOIL, CPRA, PRA, RIGHT TO KNOW, SUNSHINE
LAW, OPEN RECORDS, OR OTHER TERMS THAT REFER TO PUBLIC RECORDS LAWS?

The difference between FOIA, FOIL, Right to Know, Sunshine Law, open records, or
other terms that refer to public records laws lies in the specific laws and
regulations of each state or jurisdiction. These laws generally provide the
public with the right to access government records and information. For example,
in California, the public records law is called the California Public Records
Act (CPRA), which allows the public to inspect and obtain copies of public
records, with certain exemptions. The CPRA defines public records as any writing
containing information relating to the conduct of the public's business
prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local agency regardless of
physical form or characteristics.

In New York, the public records law is known as the Freedom of Information Law
(FOIL), which provides the public with the right to access government records.
Each state may have its own specific laws and regulations governing public
records, but the overall purpose is to promote transparency and accountability
in government by allowing the public to access government records and
information.

Submit FOIA Requests


UNDERSTANDING FOIA REQUESTS: A GUIDE TO ACCESSING GOVERNMENT INFORMATION


WHAT IS FOIA?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), established in 1967, empowers the public
to request access to records held by federal agencies. It ensures transparency
and accountability by obliging agencies to disclose information unless it falls
under specific exemptions, such as personal privacy or national security.


NAVIGATING FOIA.GOV: YOUR COMPREHENSIVE RESOURCE

FOIA.gov serves as the go-to website for all things FOIA-related. This
centralized platform aids the public in comprehending FOIA, locating publicly
available records, and submitting requests for information not yet disclosed.
The site also fosters agency accountability through visually presented
statistics in Annual FOIA Reports, allowing for easy comparison across agencies
and over time.


WHO CAN MAKE A FOIA REQUEST?

Any individual, regardless of U.S. citizenship, can submit a FOIA request.




MAKING FOIA REQUESTS: A STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS


CHECK EXISTING RESOURCES

Explore agency websites and FOIA.gov to find publicly available information.


SUBMIT A WRITTEN REQUEST

If the desired information isn't public, submit a written FOIA request to the
agency's FOIA Office.


ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION

Most agencies accept electronic FOIA requests via web forms, email, or fax.

No Special Forms: Streamlining Your Request

There is no mandated form for FOIA requests. Free sample forms are available to
simplify the process.

Requestable Information: Understanding the Scope

A FOIA request can cover any agency record, and you can specify the desired
format (e.g., printed or electronic). The FOIA, however, doesn’t mandate
agencies to create new records or engage in extensive research.

FOIA Request Handling: The Inside Scoop
 1. No Centralized Office: Each federal agency manages its FOIA requests
    independently.
 2. Dedicated Professionals: FOIA professionals, contacts, liaisons, and Chief
    FOIA Officers collectively ensure the FOIA’s effectiveness.

Processing Your FOIA Request: A Snapshot
 1. Acknowledgment Letter: Upon receipt, you’ll get a letter with a tracking
    number.
 2. Additional Information: If needed, the agency may request more details.
 3. Record Search and Review: The agency searches for and reviews records,
    redacting sensitive information.
 4. Release of Records: Accessible records are sent to you, promoting
    transparency and public awareness.

Cost of Making a FOIA Request:
 * No Initial Fee: There’s no upfront cost for submitting a FOIA request.
 * Chargeable Fees: Agencies may charge for search time and duplication of
   records.
 * Limits on Charges: Typically, the first two hours of search time and the
   initial 100 pages of duplication are free.
 * Fee Agreement: You can specify the maximum amount you’re willing to pay in
   your request.

Fee Waivers: Can I Ask for Them?
 * Limited Waivers: Fee waivers are available in cases contributing
   significantly to public understanding, not primarily for commercial
   interests.
 * Exceptions: Self-requested records and financial inability to pay are
   generally not eligible for fee waivers.

FOIA Response: What to Expect?
 * Written Response: Agencies will provide a written response indicating whether
   records were found and include all releasable documents.
 * Withheld Information: If any parts of the records are withheld, the agency
   will specify the applied FOIA exemption.

Response Time: How Long Will It Take?
 * Order of Processing: Requests are typically processed in the order received.
 * Varied Timelines: Response time varies based on request complexity and agency
   backlog.
 * Assistance Available: The FOIA Requester Service Center can help track your
   request and expedite responses.

Expedited Processing: Can It Be Faster?
 * Conditions for Expedited Processing: Expedited handling is possible in
   life-threatening situations or urgent matters of public interest.
 * Agency Standards: Some agencies may have additional standards for expedited
   processing outlined in their regulations.

What FOIA Reveals:
 * Empowering Access Since 1967: FOIA grants the public access to federal agency
   records, promoting transparency and awareness.
 * Exemptions: Agencies disclose information unless it falls under one of nine
   exemptions, protecting privacy, national security, and law enforcement
   interests.

FOIA Request Confidentiality:
 * Not Confidential: FOIA requests are not confidential; they become public
   records upon receipt.
 * Redaction for Privacy: Personally identifying information may be redacted
   under FOIA Exemption 6 (personal privacy).
 * Requester Identity: The requester’s identity doesn’t impact the outcome of
   the FOIA request, aligning with the goal of informing the public about agency
   actions rather than benefiting individual litigants.

Navigating FOIA is made easier with this comprehensive guide, ensuring a clear
understanding of costs, processes, and outcomes.


NEW YORK STATE FOIL EXPLAINED: YOUR GUIDE TO NEW YORK'S FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
LAW

Overview: The Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) in New York, governed by Article
6 of the Public Officers Law, empowers the public to request records from state
and local government agencies. Here's your comprehensive guide to understanding
and utilizing FOIL for transparency and accountability.

Key Points:

 * What is FOIL?
 * * FOIL grants public access to government records.
   * Applies to various New York government agencies, excluding judicial and
     most state legislature documents.
   * Federal records are covered by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
 * Why Use FOIL?

 1. * Encourages transparency and accountability.
    * Enables the public to force document disclosures, gather information for
      advocacy, investigate government issues, shape public policy, and more.

 * FOIL Process:

 1. * Draft a FOIL request outlining the specific records you seek.
    * Submit the request to the relevant agency.
    * Maintain communication with the agency.
    * Receive a response or reasons for denial.

If necessary:

 1. * File an administrative appeal.
    * File a lawsuit (Article 78 Petition).

Drafting an Effective FOIL Request:

 1. Identify the information you need.
 2. Recognize the agency with the desired records.
 3. Clearly describe the records you seek.

 1. * Examples include policy documents, emails, databases, contracts, etc.

 1. Keep requests simple and specific.
 2. Consider splitting complex requests into smaller, manageable ones for
    quicker fulfillment.

Remember, FOIL is a tool for promoting a responsive and responsible government,
fostering public awareness, and enhancing democratic participation. Your access
to information empowers you to play an active role in your community.

Submit FOIA Requests


WASHINGTON STATE PUBLIC RECORDS ACT (PRA)

Navigating WA State Records Law: A Simple Guide


UNDERSTANDING PUBLIC RECORDS

The Washington Public Records Act (PRA) emphasizes transparency, requiring
agencies to provide public access to records. The act has specific exemptions
but generally ensures broad accessibility.


DEFINING PUBLIC RECORDS

According to the PRA:

 * A "public record" encompasses any document related to government activities,
   regardless of form.
 * "Writing" includes various means of communication or representation, such as
   letters, images, sounds, or data compilations.




PRESUMPTION OF DISCLOSURE

All public records are presumed to be disclosable unless they fall under
specific exemptions outlined in the PRA or other related statutes. The goal is
to prioritize openness while respecting necessary exceptions.



Exemptions Overview: Explore detailed information on exemptions within the PRA
and other statutes, as well as the City's obligations under the PRA, through the
following resources:

 * http://www.atg.wa.gov/public-records-and-open-public-meetings
 * http://mrsc.org/Home/Explore-Topics/Legal/Open-Government/Public-Records-Act.aspx 

Key Takeaways:

 1. Wide Definition: Public records encompass diverse formats, ensuring
    comprehensive access.
 2. Presumption of Disclosure: The default is openness, promoting transparency
    in government activities.
 3. Detailed Resources: Refer to official sources for in-depth insights into
    exemptions and legal obligations.

By understanding the basics of the Washington Public Records Act, you can
navigate the landscape of public information with confidence and awareness. For
specific details, explore the provided resources for a comprehensive overview.

Submit FOIA Requests


PENNSYLVANIA RIGHT-TO-KNOW LAW: UNVEILING GOVERNMENT TRANSPARENCY


OFFICE OF OPEN RECORDS: YOUR SOURCE FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION



 * Mission: Enforce and implement the Right-to-Know Law (RTKL) to provide
   citizens, agencies, officials, and media access to government records.
 * Guide Overview: Explore the Citizens' Guide for a basic understanding of RTKL
   principles.
 * Patience and Cooperation: Encouragement for responsible use without hindering
   the functions of public bodies.




AGENCIES COVERED BY RTKL:



 * Commonwealth Agencies: Executive branch, state-affiliated entities, and key
   officials.
 * Local Agencies: Political subdivisions, schools, and various governmental
   entities.
 * Legislative and Judicial Agencies: Inclusive of the Senate, House, and
   judicial entities.




FILING A REQUEST: FOUR SIMPLE STEPS



 * Modes of Filing: Submit requests via fax, email, U.S. mail, or in person.
 * Retain a Copy: Keep a copy for potential appeals; a denied appeal requires
   the original request.
 * Identifying Officers: Locate the Open Records Officer and adhere to agency
   requirements for filing.




DISMISSAL CRITERIA: ENSURE INCLUSION OF ESSENTIAL INFORMATION



 * Mandatory Information: OOR must dismiss appeals lacking required information.
 * Requester Identity: Appeals with anonymous or misrepresented identities will
   not be processed.




PROCESSING TIMELINE: A 30-DAY WINDOW



 * Receipt to Final Determination: OOR has 30 days from the date of receiving
   the appeal to issue a Final Determination.
 * Decision Basis: Final Determination may be based on filed information,
   hearings, or in-camera reviews.




FILING AN APPEAL: A USER-FRIENDLY PROCESS



 * Timeline: Appeals must be filed within 15 business days of the agency's
   response.
 * Submission Options: Mail appeals to the Office of Open Records or submit via
   fax or email.




DISMISSAL CRITERIA: ENSURE INCLUSION OF ESSENTIAL INFORMATION



 * Mandatory Information: OOR must dismiss appeals lacking required information.
 * Requester Identity: Appeals with anonymous or misrepresented identities will
   not be processed.




MEDIATION PROGRAM: A COLLABORATIVE OPTION



 * Voluntary Process: Mediation assists in resolving disputes before reaching
   the OOR.
 * Benefits: Time and cost savings.
 * Details: Refer to the Mediation Program for more information.




TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES: ENHANCING UNDERSTANDING



 * Training Calendar: Access the OOR Training Calendar for informative sessions.
 * Customized Sessions: Request a customized training session through the online
   Training Request form.






PRESUMPTION OF OPENNESS:



 * Default Presumption: All records are presumed public unless restricted by
   state or federal law, judicial order, privilege, or specified exceptions.
 * Burden of Proof: Government agencies must justify why a record is not
   available.




RECORDS COVERED BY RTKL:



 * Defining Records: Information documenting agency transactions or activities,
   regardless of form.
 * Forms of Records: From papers to emails, records take various forms,
   including electronic data.
 * Exceptions: While all agency records are subject to RTKL, 30 exceptions allow
   withholding of certain information.




SUBMISSION OF APPEALS: KEY INFORMATION REQUIRED



 * Writing Requirement: All appeals must be in writing.
 * OOR's Appeal Form: Utilize the OOR's Appeal Form for convenience.
 * Essential Information to Include:

 * * Copy of the original Right-to-Know Request.
   * Copy of the denial letter from the Agency.
   * Specify grounds for believing the record is public.
   * Address each ground raised in the Agency's denial.




AGENCY RESPONSE: TIMELY AND INFORMATIVE



 * Response Time: Agencies have five business days to grant, deny, or extend a
   request.
 * Acceptable Extensions: Legitimate reasons for a 30-calendar day extension
   include legal reviews or complex requests.
 * Appeal Right: If an agency fails to respond, the requester can appeal to the
   Office of Open Records.




SUBMISSION FORMAT FOR HARD COPY APPEALS: SIZE MATTERS



 * Paper Size Requirement: Hard copy appeals (by mail) must be on 8 ½ x 11 or 8
   ½ x 14 inch paper.
 * Dismissal Warning: Failure to adhere to paper size requirements may result in
   dismissal unless specific permission is granted.




FEE STRUCTURE: UNDERSTANDING COSTS



 * Document Fees: Up to 25 cents per page for standard 8.5" x 11" black and
   white documents.
 * Postage Fees: Limited to actual mailing cost.
 * Electronic Access Fees: Must be approved by OOR if offered by the Agency.
 * No Fees for Redaction or Legal Review: Agencies cannot charge for redaction
   time or legal review.
 * Pre-Payment Requirement: Agencies may request pre-payment for fees exceeding
   $100.




APPEALING AN OOR DECISION: LEGAL STEPS



 * Binding Final Determination: OOR's Final Determination is binding on both the
   Agency and requester.
 * Filing an Appeal: Appeals must be filed with the appropriate court within 30
   calendar days of OOR's Final Determination.
 * Notice to OOR: The Right-to-Know Law mandates serving notice of appeal to
   oor-postfd@pa.gov or by postal mail.




PENALTIES AND ATTORNEYS' FEES: LEGAL CONSEQUENCES



 * Civil Penalties: Up to $1,500 for bad faith denial; up to $500 per day for
   non-compliance with a court order.
 * Attorneys' Fees: Agencies may be required to pay if records were denied
   unreasonably or in bad faith.
 * Frivolous Appeals: Courts may impose attorneys' fees on frivolous appeals.



For additional details or inquiries, contact the Office of Open Records at (717)
346-9903 or via email.

Navigating the Right-to-Know Law is simplified through this guide, ensuring
citizens’ access to government records while promoting responsible use and
transparency. For additional information, contact the Office of Open Records at
(717) 346-9903 or via email.

Submit FOIA Requests


CALIFORNIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT – CPRA FAQS


WHAT IS THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC RECORDS ACT (CPRA)?

The California Public Records Act (CPRA), enacted in 1968, mandates government
agencies to disclose records to the public upon request. Exceptions exist for
privacy and public safety concerns. For detailed information, refer to the
California Attorney General’s Office Summary of the California Public Records
Act (pdf).

What is a Public Record? According to Government Code §7920.530, a public record
encompasses any document containing information related to the public's
business, regardless of form or characteristics. The California Commission on
Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) acknowledges the public's right to
access its records and emphasizes the need for precise requests. POST oversees
records within its jurisdiction, excluding items like 911 transcripts, accident
reports, warrants, and county arrest records, unless relevant to an officer's
serious misconduct investigation.

Information to include with your request To facilitate efficient processing,
adhere to the guidelines below when making a request under Government Code
§7922.600:

 * Specify the subject of the record.
 * Provide a clear, concise, and specific description of the requested
   record(s).
 * Include the date(s) or time period for your request (e.g., calendar year
   2020).
 * Furnish full names, correct spelling, and POST ID(s) for individuals/agencies
   in your request.
 * Supplement with additional information aiding record identification.
 * Include your contact information, preferably an email address.

Before submitting a request, conduct research using the POST Website, utilizing
the search tool, or exploring relevant topics for commonly requested
information.

How to make a Public Records Act Request Choose from the following methods to
submit a request:

 * Online: Visit the POST website and select "Submit Records Request."
 * Mail: Send your request to the Commission on POST, Attention: California
   Public Records Act Request, 860 Stillwater Road, Suite 100, West Sacramento,
   CA 95605-1630.

For inquiries, contact: CPRA@post.ca.gov.

Understanding Sunshine Laws: A Guide to Open Government Practices

Origins of Sunshine Laws: The term "Sunshine Law" finds its roots in Florida's
Government-in-the-Sunshine Law, established in 1967. While Public Records Laws
existed earlier, these Sunshine Laws broadened public access, covering various
forms of records.

Scope of Florida Sunshine Laws (Chapter 119 of the Florida Statutes): Under
Florida's Sunshine Laws:

 * All records of state, county, and municipal entities are open for personal
   inspection and copying.
 * Public agencies must provide reasonable access to electronically maintained
   records, ensuring confidentiality compliance.
 * Access via remote electronic means is encouraged, balancing
   cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
 * Agencies must not hinder public access when using proprietary software for
   record maintenance.

Making a Public Records Request in Florida: When requesting public records in
Florida:

 * Specify the subject and description of the record(s).
 * Include relevant details like date(s), names, and agency information.
 * Make requests clear, concise, and specific.
 * Access records electronically when feasible, and agencies should strive for
   cost-effective access.

Sunshine Laws Beyond Florida: Numerous jurisdictions have adopted similar
Sunshine Laws:

 * Missouri: Applies to all records and meetings, even on non-government servers
   or social media platforms.
 * Ohio: Emphasizes freedom of information, providing access to government
   meetings and records.
 * Hawaii: Legislates methods for monitoring and conducting public meetings and
   records.
 * New Mexico: Governs public records access through the Inspection of Public
   Records Act (IPRA) and the Open Meetings Act (OMA).
 * North Dakota: Requires openness in government records and meetings, unless
   specific statutes dictate closure.
 * Louisiana: The Public Records Act and Open Meetings Law, known as Louisiana’s
   Sunshine Law, grant public access to records.

Understanding and navigating these Sunshine Laws ensures transparent and open
government practices. For specific jurisdictional details, refer to the
respective state statutes.


STATE & NAME OF OPEN RECORDS LAW

 1.  Alabama: Alabama Open Records Act
 2.  Alaska: Alaska Public Records Act
 3.  Arizona: Arizona Public Records Law
 4.  Arkansas: Arkansas Freedom of Information Act
 5.  California: California Public Records Act (CPRA)
 6.  Colorado: Colorado Open Records Act (CORA)
 7.  Connecticut: Connecticut Freedom of Information Act
 8.  Delaware: Delaware Freedom of Information Act
 9.  Florida: Government-in-the-Sunshine Law (Chapter 119 of the Florida
     Statutes)
 10. Georgia: Georgia Open Records Act
 11. Hawaii: Hawaii Sunshine Law
 12. Idaho: Idaho Public Records Law
 13. Illinois: Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
 14. Indiana: Indiana Access to Public Records Act (APRA)
 15. Iowa: Iowa Open Records Law
 16. Kansas: Kansas Open Records Act (KORA)
 17. Kentucky: Kentucky Open Records Act
 18. Louisiana: Louisiana Public Records Act
 19. Maine: Maine Freedom of Access Act
 20. Maryland: Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA)
 21. Massachusetts: Massachusetts Public Records Law
 22. Michigan: Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
 23. Minnesota: Minnesota Government Data Practices Act
 24. Mississippi: Mississippi Public Records Act
 25. Missouri: Missouri Sunshine Law (Chapter 610)
 26. Montana: Montana Public Records Act
 27. Nebraska: Nebraska Public Records Statutes
 28. Nevada: Nevada Public Records Act
 29. New Hampshire: New Hampshire Right to Know Law
 30. New Jersey: New Jersey Open Public Records Act (OPRA)
 31. New Mexico: New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA)
 32. New York: New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL)
 33. North Carolina: North Carolina Public Records Law
 34. North Dakota: North Dakota Open Records Statute (N.D.C.C. §44-04-18 et
     seq.)
 35. Ohio: Ohio’s Public Records and Open Meetings Laws (Ohio Revised Code
     149.011)
 36. Oklahoma: Oklahoma Open Records Act
 37. Oregon: Oregon Public Records Law
 38. Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania Right-to-Know Law
 39. Rhode Island: Rhode Island Access to Public Records Act (APRA)
 40. South Carolina: South Carolina Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
 41. South Dakota: South Dakota Open Records Law
 42. Tennessee: Tennessee Public Records Act
 43. Texas: Texas Public Information Act (PIA)
 44. Utah: Utah Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA)
 45. Vermont: Vermont Public Records Act
 46. Virginia: Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
 47. Washington: Washington Public Records Act
 48. West Virginia: West Virginia Freedom of Information Act
 49. Wisconsin: Wisconsin Public Records Law
 50. Wyoming: Wyoming Public Records Act




CONCLUSION - FOIA REQUESTS PORTAL

In conclusion, our website serves as a comprehensive resource for individuals
seeking to navigate the diverse landscape of state and federal open record laws
across the United States. With a commitment to transparency and accessibility,
we strive to empower the public by providing clear information about each
state’s open record law. Our diligent efforts aim to demystify these legal
frameworks, enabling users to comprehend their rights and make informed
requests. Whether you are exploring the nuances of California’s Public Records
Act or delving into the specifics of Texas’ Public Information Act, our platform
is designed to be a user-friendly guide. We believe that by fostering
understanding and simplifying the request process, we contribute to a more
transparent and accountable government.

Submit FOIA Requests

Disclaimers: We are not licensed attorneys, and the information provided here
should not be construed as legal advice. Our responses are purely hypothetical
and should be used in conjunction with consultation from a qualified legal
professional. It is essential to seek the guidance of an attorney for accurate,
personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Legal matters are
intricate, and relying solely on general information without professional
assistance may lead to unintended consequences. Our aim is to offer general
ideas and strategies that should be discussed with a legal professional before
implementing. The views and opinions expressed may be a reflection information
sourced from the web and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of
any entities they represent. FOIA Buddy and ALL associations assume no
responsibility or liability for the accuracy of the data or any errors or
omissions in the content of this site. The information contained in this site is
provided on an “as is” basis with no guarantees of completeness, accuracy,
usefulness or timeliness.

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