Texas open records act. 221 of the Government Code, the above request for information will be reviewed and processed within ten (10) days. 021 Availability of Public Information 552. 104 to governmental bodies. You may also contact the Office of the Attorney General’s Open Records Hotline, at 512-478-6736 or toll-free at 1-877-673-6839. 006 Notice Required Before Enforcement Action 209. 523 Re :. to complete information about the affairs of government and the official acts of public officials and employees. Open Records (1976). the scandal . 611. The McLennan Junior College District has received a request for Please contact your city attorney or the Texas Municipal League Legal Services Department at 512-231-7400 or . 007 Hearing Before Board 209. What to include in an open records request Submit all open records requests to To request information from the Texas Historical Commission, please send the Open Records Request Form or contact: Executive Assistant – Administration Texas Historical Commission P. TEXAS PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT INFORMATION REQUEST FORM For guidance regarding your rights as a requestor and the public information procedures adopted by this governmental body, you may review the governmental body’s notice required under section 552. By Mail. The Act Act does not apply to purely Texas Public Information Act , Chapter 552 of the Government Code (formerly V. This Open Meetings Act Handbook is intended to help public officials comply with the various Open Records Decision No, 418 (1984). "The Public Information Act, formerly known as the Open Records Act, is located at chapter 552 of the Government Code. OR99-0390. 005 gives the governing body of a local government the right and For questions about the Public To request information from the Texas Historical Commission, please send the Open Records Request Form or contact: Executive Assistant – Administration Texas Historical Commission P. edu/smulr This Comment is brought to you for free and open access by the Law Journals at SMU Scholar. Submit a request You can submit an open records request by mail, fax, in person or using our FYI Open Records Tool. 101 of the Government Code also encompasses the attorney-client privilege; whether the attorney-client privilege is mandatory and compelling for purposes of the Open Records Training 552. It requires that state and local governmental entities conduct public business responsibly and in accordance with the law. be noted that the common purpose or agency-type relationship that will subject a "private" . According to the Court in . The above stated requestor must be prepared to pay reasonable cost for copyingas indicated below. WD Letters. gov Please click on the tabs below for additional information about requesting open records from TMB. 012 Presentation Outline • Background of the legal requirements for open records and public information • Applicability of the Public Information Act • Procedures and Requirements regarding complying with a public information request • Role of the Attorney General under the Public Information Act For questions about the Public Information Act, please consult the website of the Texas Office of Attorney General, Open Records Division. 023 Special Right of Access to Confidential Information 552. You may send your request to: mail: 333 Guadalupe, Suite 3-500, Austin, Texas 78701. Learn how to request and access public information from governmental bodies in Texas under the PIA. “. 114 – student records Open Records Policy. An open records or public information request must be for inspection or copies of an existing document or record. Box 12276, Austin, TX 78711-2276. All Open Records Hotline, at 512-478-6736 or toll-free at 1-877-673-6839. You ask about specific provisions of the Racing Commission Act, articles 179e, V. Include your full first and last names, email address, daytime telephone number or other contact information and a clear description of the records you want. 010 Notice After Foreclosure Sale 209. , One of the changes to the Public Information Act (the “PIA”) as a result of the 2019 Texas Legislative Session is the creation of section 552. entity to the Open Records Act is not the equivalent of an The Texas freedom of information act, foia is a law that allows citizens partial or full access to government public records. 609. You may use the Texas Public Information Act Request Form to request information from the Office of the Governor. For example, Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Licenses, Registrations & Permits. It has been accepted for inclusion in SMU Law Review Open Records. Categories of Public Information; Examples Before we begin 1. Submit Comments on a Pending Ruling Request Requesting Records under the Public Information Act, Texas Government Code, Chapter 552 . 028 The Open Records section is responsible for processing Texas Public Information Act (TPIA) requests for the Building Code Enforcement and the Office of the City Engineer service lines. Rescinded. Forty-two years ago, the Texas Legislature passed what has become “widely regarded as the strongest and most successful open government law in the country. admin@thc. TMB receives a large number of public information requests for: complaint information and investigative files, disciplinary hearing materials, and; licensure application files. 235 of the Government Code. Lawmakers sought to close those this year — but may have created a loophole for themselves. 261 through 552. Scope and covered entities. At the same time the name of the law was changed to the Texas Public Information Act. James A. Office of the Governor OIG Open Records & Public Information. In conjunction with Texas. Exceptions to the Public Information Act. 107(1) of the Government Code; whether section 552. Open government laws like the Public Information Act and the Open Meetings Act are sometimes generically referred to as "Sun shine Laws. The Open Meetings Act Handbook helps public officials comply with the provisions of the Texas Open Meetings Act and familiarizes our citizens with using the Open Meetings Act as a resource for obtaining information about “The Act is intended to safeguard the public’s interest in knowing the workings of its governmental bodies. The general purpose of the Texas Open Records Act is the same as that of the federal Freedom of Information Act, 5 . The State Bar of Texas is committed to upholding the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552) (“the PIA”) and ensuring public access to its records. 209. Find The Texas Public Information Act was originally known as the Texas Open Records Act, approved by the Legislature in 1973 in a reform atmosphere following the Sharpstown stock fraud Open Records Texas Government Code, Chapter 552 (the Texas Public Information Act), gives you the right to access government records and government officials may not ask why you U. Section 552. Collins Open Records Decision No. In Person Texas Parks and Wildlife Department 4200 Smith School Road Austin, Texas 78744. ,343 with regard to a "governmental body" under the act should not be relied upon. Public Information is data that is collected, assembled, or maintained under a law, ordinance, or in connection with official business by a governmental body. About open records Office of the General Counsel: Open Records. Texans have a right to know how their government is spending their tax dollars and exercising the powers granted by the people. These decisions usually address novel or problematic legal questions and are signed by the Attorney General. 2 16 Re: Whether a closed investiga- tive report is public under the Open Records Act. 8 of the Texas Constitution, the First Amendment to the United Footnotes. Street Box 7 Georgetown, Texas 78626 Requests Submitted by e-mail may be sent to openrecords@tfc. 581 (1990), this office determined that certain computer-related information, such as source codes, documentation information, and other computer Originally Adopted as the Open Records Act in 1973 Found in Chapter 552 of the Government Code 34,911 Open Records Letter Rulings issued in fiscal year 2019 688 Open Records Decisions issued since 1973 Chapters 63 and 70 of title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code have rules related to administration of the Act The Texas Public Information Act (Texas Open Records Act), Chapter 552, Texas Government Code, establishes requirements for governmental bodies to respond to written requests for access and/or reproductions of public information. The Texas Public Information Act (Texas Open Records Act), Chapter 552, Texas Government Code, establishes requirements for governmental bodies to respond to written requests for access and/or reproductions of public information. When confidential information is requested, or when a governmental body needs to protect its interests, a governmental body may need to seek to withhold certain information. The PIA requires governmental bodies, who allow What is the Open Meetings Act? • The Open Meetings Act is a Texas statute that provides for public access to meetings of governmental bodies. 012 requires elected or appointed public officials to complete an open records training course. • Requires that every meeting of a governmental body, with certain narrow exceptions, be open to the public with notice of the time, place, and subject of the Usually, a governmental body must seek a ruling from the Open Records Division before it can redact information from requested documents. Money: You ask whether certain information is subject to required public disclosure under the Public Information Act (the "Act"), chapter 552 of the Government Code. 497 Re: Whether information related to the University of Houston patent applications on superconductivity re- search is available under the Texas Open Records Act, article 6252-17a, V. Receive treatment equal to all other requestors, including accommodation in accordance with the; Americans with Disabilities Act Austin, Texas 76773 Gentlemen: Open Records Decision No. edu; U. Public Information Act Cost Rules 101 Copies or inspection? 1 Texas Administrative Code§70. Open Meetings Act Handbook Download the Open Meetings Act Handbook (PDF) File an Open Records Complaint Online File an Open Records Complaint Online. 151 General Powers of Commission 1701. Other options for Open Records Requests Hand Delivery. To request records under the Texas Public Information Act: Submit a request in writing via U. Box 672, Pasadena TX 77501 (10) business‐day period as required by Texas Open Records Act, Section 552. Learn how to make a request. The law The OAG provides a biennial update on public information requests, costs, fees, and time spent by state agencies under the Texas Public Information Act. Information of Basic Rights and Responsibilities Under the Act; Open Records Request Form (PDF Format) Open Records Letter Rulings comprise the bulk of the Open Records Division's workload. 152 Open Records. All government information is presumed to be available to the public, although exceptions may The Texas Public Information Act, originally known as the Texas Open Records Act, is addressed in Chapter 552 of the Texas Govern-ment Code. Open Records Hotline, at 512-478-6736 or toll-free at 1-877-673-6839. To The primary open government laws are the Texas Public Information Act and the Texas Open Meeting Act. Texas. To learn more, click one of the choices below. records@tdhca. 005 gives the governing body of a local government the right and For questions about the Public Information Act, reach out to the Open Records Division of the Office of the Attorney General at 1-877-OPEN-TEX The Attorney General of Texas maintains an Open Records Division, which plays the role of mediator and sometimes judge in open-records disputes. gov Open Records Requests (ORR) aka Public Information Act (PIA) requests should contain the following information: All open records requests must be sent to HHSC’s open records coordinator via one of the following: Mail : HHSC Open Records Coordinator, MC-1070, 4900 N. Houston, Texas 77023 Dear Mr. Texas A&M University-Central Texas is dedicated to the principles of open government and strives to ensure compliance as set forth by the Texas Public Information Act. Your request was assigned ID# 121901. Availability of Public Information 552. We are not required to generate a new Public Information Act Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, gives you the right to access government records. For a brief summary of the Texas Public Information Act CLICK HERE. Texas’ public information laws are unique: in most states, the decision to withhold/redact information is made by the governmental body, with the burden of proof of openness resting on the requester. 9150 Submit request via Open Records Decisions are formal opinions relating to the Public Information Act (formerly the Open Records Act). Craig Doyal: A provision of the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) makes it a crime if a member or We discuss Boeing in detail in our blog post, Texas Supreme Court Opens the Floodgates to Open Records Litigation. BOX 99 disclosure by the Open Records Huntsville, Texas 77342-0099 Act, article 6252-17a, V. Find out the requirements, tips, and resources for obtaining The Texas Supreme Court has recently recognized that the legislature loosely patterned the Texas Open Records Act after FOIA. Art. gov, the Open Records Division (ORD) provides the Public Information Act (PIA) Electronic Filing System to accept online electronic submissions related to decision requests. Commissioner Texas Department of Health 1100 West 49th Street Austin, Texas 78756 Mr. 028 Information held by state and local governmental bodies in Texas is deemed to be open to the public, but certain records are off limits under about 50 exceptions. Brent A. The bill was passed in response to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, the state’s highest criminal court, down the criminal conspiracy provisionprior “striking ” in the TOMA. The purpose of the Act is to maintain the people's control "over the instruments they have created. All government information is presumed to be available to the public. ” A Short History of Open Records in Texas. In other words, a governmental body is not required to withhold requested information, but it may use its discretion to withhold the information. The Texas Public Information Act gives the public the right to request access to government information. 574 (1990) regarding the scope of the attorney-client privilege under section 552. gov. Box 12697 Re: Whether a copy of the Austin, Texas 78711 state's contract with West Pub- lishing Company regarding the Texas Administrative Code is protected from disclosure under sections 3(a)(4) or 3(a)(lO) of the Texas Open Records Act, TEXAS OPEN RECORDS LAWS MADE EASY ANSWERS TO THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OPEN RECORDS ATTORNEY GENERAL’S MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Texas Open Records Laws Made Easy Page 6 of 49 Act to the extent the entity spends or is supported by public funds, Open Records Letter Rulings comprise the bulk of the Open Records Division's workload. 004 of Texas Local Government Code has prohibited the alienation of records since 1989 and Section 202. TAMIU Open Records Portal; Email: RecordsManagement@tamiu. D. In Executive Directive 15. It is TCCO's policy to provide the public with the fullest possible access to public information. legalinfo@tml. 2 1. org with questions regarding the application of the Act. Fill Accessing Records Under the Texas Public Information Act. 001. Open Records Decisions may be cited as precedent in briefing to the Open Records Division. 3031 of the Texas Government Code section 552. 104 Qualifications and Standards of Conduct Information 1701. However, a governmental body can redact without requesting a ruling if: The governmental body has a previous determination for that information. Texas Statutes Title 5, Open Government; Ethics; Subtitle A, Open Government; Chapter 552, Public Information. (RQ-2048) Dear Mr. Include contact information and a clear description of the records you are requesting. These informal letter rulings are based on established law and practice and are signed by assistant attorneys general in the Open Records Division. 221(a),(b),(c), and (d). Texas Open Meetings Act: The FOI Foundation submitted a friend of the court, or amicus, brief supporting the Texas Open Meetings Act after several public officials challenged the provision of the act allowing criminal sanctions for public officials who hold meetings out of public view. Currently, all records are housed in the Bond Review Board's offices at 300 West 15th Street, Room 409, Austin, Texas, and access is made available to or copies of public records can be made at these offices. " However, the Act is often referred to as the Open Records Act, its former name. Requests to Texas A&M University, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Open Records Requests. These concerns are handled by the Office of Consumer Affairs . 028 Open Records Request Office of Public Utility Counsel ATTN: Public Information Coordinator P. 616. Your request must be in writing. ” Tex. For the detailed Public Information Act Handbook, please visit the Texas attorney general’s Web site at www. The letter can be mailed, emailed or faxed. Below e-mail or in person to Open Records, Texas State Board of Pharmacy. 009 Foreclosure Sale Prohibited in Certain Circumstances 209. You may also contact the Office of the Attorney General, Open Records Hotline, at 512-478-6736 or toll-free at 1-877-673-6839. Email Public. Dear Mr. 022 Categories of Public Information 552. The 69th Texas Legislature amended the Open Records Act to protect from disclosure the home addresses and telephone numbers of public employees and officials Mr. You have the right to: Prompt access to information that is not confidential or otherwise protected. Money. You have the right to: Prompt access to information that is not confidential or otherwise protected; Receive treatment equal to all other requestors, including accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements; The Texas Open Meetings Act Made Easy The Open Meeting Act Made Easy is a handbook in a question-and-answer format that covers the most frequently asked questions about the Texas Open Meetings Act (“the Act”). Box 12397 Austin, TX 78711-2397 Fax your request to: 512/936-7525 E-mail your request to: open_records@opuc. Greenville, Texas 75403-1353. article 6252-17a, of a police "mug shot" taken in connection with a single identifiable arrest (RQ-567) Open Records Training 552. Open Records Act Rights of the Requestor. Learn Learn how to access government records in Texas under the Texas Government Code, Chapter 552. Find out your rights and responsibilities as a requestor and the procedures and Learn how to request government records from TSLAC or the Texas State Archives under the Public Information Act. Mail. The legislation was in response to the Sharpstown scandal. Open Records or Public Information requests are governed by provisions of the Public Information Act, Texas Government Code, Chapter 552. (RQ-1321) You ask whether information related to patent An open records or public information request is a request for public information contained in the files or records of a Texas governmental agency, including the Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending. 274. The information is subject to: Section 552. The Open Records Division is the entity responsible for deciding what information must be disclosed under the Texas Public Information Act (PIA). THE PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT. Physical address: 1511 Colorado St. The training requirement applies to: for administering the responsibilities of the public official or governmental body under the Public Information Act. Pursuant to Texas Open Records Act Chapter 552. All State Bar of Texas records are available to the public unless an exception to disclosure provided in the PIA or other law applies. article 6252- Open Records Steering Committee: Advice to Attorney General 552. Open Records Request The Texas Government Code, Chapter 552 The Act. Gov’t Code § 552. The Act provides a mechanism for citizens to inspect or copy government records. Law Texas Statutes; Remove ads; Open Records Training 552. The TPIA gives the public the right to request government documents without The Texas Open Records Act, article 6252-17a, V. 1902 East US HWY 175. 102 Personnel 1701. Mauro: You have received two requests under article 6252-17a, V. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) is responsible for the integrity of the public information process under the Public Information Act (PIA) and the PIA authorizes the OAG to interpret its requirements. Find out your rights, the process, the exceptions, and how to report violations or complaints. Chafin: open Records Decision No. tx. , gives the general public access to information held by governmental bodies: [a]ll information collected, assembled, or maintained by or for governmental bodies . Both requestors and governmental bodies can call the Open Government Hotline to ask questions or get information about the Public Information Act or Open Meetings Act. Open Records Hotline, at 512-478-6736 or The Office of the Attorney General has no independent enforcement authority under the Act. El Paso, Texas 79999. Agency. With this tool you can make requests and track the progress online. Certain exceptions may apply to the disclosure of the information. Flint Commissioner Texas Department of Insurance P. Other options are: For more information about the Texas Public Information Act or open records requests, you may wish to refer to the Attorney General’s Public Information Handbook. The new Section 209. Honorable Sonya Letson County Attorney Potter County 303 Courthouse Amarillo, Texas 79101. To make a request for public records, please complete the Open Records Request form listed below and return it to the City Secretary's Office. State of Texas v. Attn: Civil Division - Open Records. Rains Open Records Decision No. TDLR processes thousands of open records request per year, and the online portal should help speed up the fulfilment process when compared with emailing, faxing or mailing in open records requests. If you believe that we have not responded as required by the Public Information Act, you may contact the Attorney General’s Open Records Division Hotline at 512-478-6736 or toll-free 1-877-673-6839. Section 3(a)(3) of the Open Records Act excepts from disclosure: information relating to litigation of a criminal or civil nature and settlement negotiations, to which the state or political subdivision is, or may be, a party, or to which an officer or The Public Information Act, chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, guarantees the public access to information maintained by a government agency. Advocates say recent court rulings created loopholes in laws meant to make government transparent. act such that subsection (b) of section 3A applies to change the character of information once an open records -has been made. § 202), and the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code Chapter 552), as well as industry best practices that include the following organizations: The Information Technology Laboratory (ITL The Public Information Act. Links. Howard Lane, Suite 250 Austin, TX 78728 Fax: (512) 671-2117 E-Mail: oig. The main requirements to submit an open records request is that it must be submitted in writing for existing government documents. Governmental bodies subject to section 552. The toll-free number is 877-OPEN TEX (877-673-6839). 10 Hypothetical D December 21, 2020 To Whom It May Concern, The Honorable Jack M. The Texas Open Meetings Act legislates the methods by which public meetings are conducted. publicrecords@gov. P. The Open Records Division also provides an Open Government Hotline staffed by attorneys who specialize in both the Public Information Act and Open Records Request. Alternative Methods to Make a Request Mail Open Records Coordinator 4200 Smith School Road Austin, Texas 78744. 026 Education Records 552. 025 Tax Rulings and Opinions 552. Longview, Texas 75601 By email: GreggCounty@co. 024 Electing to Disclose Address and Telephone Number 552. The hotline is staffed by Open Records Division Attorneys with experience in these areas of law. 104and expressly limited the protections of Section 552. O. Enacted in 1973, the Texas Public Information Act (formerly known as the Texas Open Records Act) ensures public access to government records, including Texas criminal records. " Before you submit public information materials online, learn about the process, guidelines, and costs involved. oag. 127 (1976): • Detailed description of the offense confidential by law outside of the Act, including constitutional, statutory, other than the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services or the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, on Open Records Act Overview Bottom Line for Researchers: Unless your research project and associated data has been pre-determined by the Texas Tech Office of General Counsel to be exempted, then your research data, communications, analysis, and activity is likely subject to the Texas Open Records Act. Unlike judicial courts, SOAH is an executive branch state agency that is subject to the Texas Public Information Act (PIA), Texas Government Code Chapter 552. Twitter; Facebook; PO Box 12548 Austin, TX 78711-2548 Open Records - Subdivision HOAs are now subject to a lite version of the Texas Open Records Act. 022. 011 Right of Redemption What is an "open records request"? An open records request is a request for public information contained in the files or records of a Texas governmental agency, including the Finance Commission (the "Commission"). If you wish to request records under the Public Information Act please refer to the following requirements. Hotline staff can answer questions and provides information about open government laws. Tips for Open Records Requests. PIRs will be accepted only at the following email address: open. 005 now prescribes what records are subject to inspection, specific guidelines for requesting and producing records, and the ability to charge the requesting Homeowner for costs associated with the production and copying of records. 003 Applicability of Chapter 209. Find out what types of records are available, how to submit a Open Records Decisions are formal opinions relating to the Public Information Act (formerly the Open Records Act). In person at the following address: Kaufman County Criminal District Attorney's Office. OpenRecords@dshs. 127 (1976): • Detailed description of the offense confidential by law outside of the Act, including constitutional, statutory, other than the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services or the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, on Open records requests may also be sent to the County department that holds the records requested. ATTORNEY GENERAL OF TEXAS GREG ABBOTT . Re: Whether documents relating to a police department's investigations of family violence are excepted from required public disclosure under the Open Records Act, V. Box 1353. S. See Act of May 25, 2019 Attn: Civil Division - Open Records. For more information on the Open Meetings Act, please see our Open Meetings Handbook. The act is triggered when a person submits a written request to a governmental body. These decisions usually address novel or problematic legal questions and Information Act assures that government entities give citizens access to information about the business government officials are conducting on their behalf—information that enables the The Texas Public Information Act (Texas Open Records Act), Chapter 552, Texas Government Code, establishes requirements for governmental bodies to respond to written requests for Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, gives you the right to access government records. ”1 Just three years later, in this Court’s first opinion addressing the new Texas Open Records Act,2 we confirmed that it is Texas Health and Human Services is committed to providing full access to public information. , requires that you release the home addresses of certain retired city employees. Street Suite 229 Georgetown, Texas 78626. Phone: 512-776-7119 Waco, Texas 76708 Dear Mr. Open Records - Public Information Requests. ” To ask a jail or county office for records, documents or information, click here for a letter for request of open records. 581 (1990), this office determined that certain computer-related information, such as source codes, documentation information, and other computer programming, that has no significance other than its use as a tool for the maintenance, manipulation, or protection of public property is not the kind of information made public under The Texas Public Information Act, previously known as the Texas Open Records Act, was adopted in 1973 and provides the public a right of access to information collected, assembled, maintained, owned or controlled by a governmental body unless the information fits within one of the exceptions to disclosure. More than 40,000 Open Records Letter Rulings were issued in 2023. 4 Texas Public Information Act foift. org GUIDE TO TEXAS OPEN RECORDS AND OPEN MEETINGS LAWS 5 Texas Open Meetings Act The Texas Open Meetings Act is addressed in Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code. Open Records are available in person, Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. A governmental body has the option to withhold non-confidential information in certain circumstances. 684 (2009) covers several types of information: • Direct deposit authorization forms • Form I-9 and attachments • W-2 and W-4 forms The Texas Public Information Act (the "TPIA") gives the public the right to request access to government information. Request an attorney general open records decision and submit material electronically to the Office of the Attorney General's (1 T. In Open Records Decision No. 3(d) • Locate • Time spent finding the records that are responsive to the request • Compile • Time spent gathering and pulling together the responsive information • Manipulate data • Section 552. , and the exceptions to disclosure embodied in sections 3(a)(4) and 3(a)(lO) of the Open Records Act. ) Your Name Return Address Telephone Number (business hours) Date Name of Government Agency Address of Government Agency Dear Officer for Public Records: This request is made under the Texas An open records or public information request is a request for public information contained in the files or records of a Texas governmental agency, including the Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending. Open Government Hotline. Fax : 512-424-6586 The Texas Open Records Act was revised in the 1995 session of the legislature to include for the first time information stored electronically in computers. 563, 555 Section 552. Graham Hill Follow this and additional works at:https://scholar. 012 Open Records Training 552. Mr. Under the Texas Open Meetings Act (the Act), the general rule is that every regular, special, or called meeting of a governmental body, including a city council and most boards and commissions (depending on membership and authority)must be open to the public, and comply with all the requirements of the . " It doesn't matter what someone calls it so long as their request is in writing and reasonably identifies the Texas General Land Office 1700 North Congress Avenue Austin, Texas 79701-1495. A newly enacted state law requires the Texas Attorney General's Office to make available to the public a searchable database of attorney general rulings issued under the Texas Public Information Act. Members of the News Media . is public information and available to the public during normal business hours . By FAX: 512-475-1610 By mail If you need special accommodation pursuant to the Americans With Disabilities Act, please contact our Workplace Accommodations Coordinator at 512-475-3560. 676. 008 Attorney’s Fees 209. Open Records Policy The Texas Bond Review Board intends to expediently provide access to all public records. The stakes are high for public officials who handle open records requests. 505 (1988); Attorney General Opinion H-008 For similar reasons, Certain types of information are available from the Plano Police Department under the Texas Open Records Act. However, hotline staff cannot provide legal advice to private citizens or governmental entities. Re: Whether insurance under- writing guidelines are trade secrets exempt from the Texas Open Records Act (RQ-413) Texas Open Records Act, article 6252-17a, V. A public body’s willingness to comply with the Open Meetings Act should be such that the citizens of Texas will not be compelled to resort to the courts to assure that a public body has complied with its statutory duty. you may contact the Attorney General’s Open Records Division Hotline at 512-478-6736 or toll-free 1-877-673-6839. RE: Re-evaluation of Open Records Decision No. E-mail: PIA@tdcj. It should . exposed some of Act recognizes The Open Records and incorporates protection for information deemed confidential by specific statutes. The best way for a governmental body to respond to a request for information is to promptly release the requested information. Mail: See mailing and physical address below. A records request, cannot address questions or complaints about DFPS. The database, called for in House Bill 3033, is now available on the agency's website. If a governmental body feels requested information is exempt in whole or in part from release under the Public Information Act, then the governmental body must write to the Attorney General's office and request an open records What’s more, my office’s Open Go vernment Hotline is available to answer any questions about open government in Texas. Williamson County Attorney's Office Attn: Public Information Requests 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Kaufman, TX 75142 . Information concerning the Texas Public Information Act may be found at the Texas Attorney General's Open Government Section. 6252-17a, § 3(a)(l). Mail, fax or email. Information Act. 001 Short Title 209. e-mail: openrec@pharmacy. Make sure to include the following information with your written request: Open Records Division. OR2012-00584. Open Government 2023 Texas Legislative Session Update. 205 of the Government Code. Open Records Center, for accepting and processing requests for records under the Texas Public Information Act. Do I need to Public Information Act. For this reason, the determination in Open Records Decision No. Program. You ask whether the Texas Open Records Act, article 6252-17a, V. PO Box 729. If you have any questions, you may contact the Records Division of the Amarillo Police Department at 806-378-6169 or Open Records at 806-378-3579. The Texas Public Information Act (TPIA) Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, gives you the right to access government records; and an officer for public information and the officer’s agent may not Policy Letter Details for Requests for Records Under Texas Open Records Act; Guidance Number Status Type Keywords Letter Change Number Publication Date Additional Attachments; WD 111-98. Box 9307 San Antonio, Texas 78204 Gentlemen: Open Records Decision No. texas. 308. Open Records requests must be submitted in writing. Texas Comptroller open. Title 5A, Chapter 551 of the Texas Government Code defines the law. Most OIEC records and information are available to the public pursuant to Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code (commonly known as the Open Records Act). 003(4) of the Government Code • Time spent modifying, reordering, or decoding information with human Open Government Request NOTE: We are not required to answer questions, perform legal research, or create new information in response to your request. We also include a public posting of your rights regarding open records law in Texas. 8 of the Texas Constitution, the First Amendment to the United Public Information Act. The Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code, Open Records/Public Information Act Requests Dallas County Health and Human Services - 2377 N. Georgia D. Back to top. FYI Open Records Tool. 002 Definitions 209. The State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) is committed to providing access to public information maintained by the agency. 8 of the Texas Constitution, the First Amendment to the United The City of Longview complies with the Texas Public Information Act, which provides a mechanism for citizens to inspect or copy government records. 07/20/1998. Lamar Blvd. The fundamental purposes of the Open Records Act and of civil discovery provisions differ. A & T Consultants, Inc. Supreme Court orders new look at case of arrested Texas journalist; Five transparency experts on why AG Paxton’s Open Meetings Act lawsuit against Travis County has merit; 2024 You ask whether certain information is subject to required public disclosure under the Public Information Act (the "Act"), chapter 552 of the Government Code. Texas has had an open or public records law since 1973. Learn what is covered under the Texas freedom of information act, the records exempt from foia in Texas, how to file an Texas foia request and the cost and lenght of time it takes to process a foia request in Texas. The hotline is staffed by OAG Open Records Attorneys with experience in these areas of law. Executive Administrative Services Public Information Act Requests. Security concerns and ongoing investigations: Disclosing certain information could compromise ongoing investigations or pose a threat to public safety. Your request was Learn how to make a successful Public Information Act (PIA) request to any governmental body in Texas. Open Records Requests made by fax must be addressed to the Public Information Coordinator to trigger an obligation under the Public Information Act. Staff The City of Lewisville is committed to open government and transparency by providing access to public records in accordance with the Texas Public Information Act (formerly Open Records Act), Chapter 552, Texas Government Code. In order to view or obtain copies of agency records, you may hand-deliver a written request or send a written request using one of the following designated methods: By E-mail. The request must ask for records or information already in existence. Public information is defined in Texas law as that which is “written, produced, collected, assembled or maintained under a law or ordinance or in connection with the transaction of official business. Information@tpwd. Texas Government Code, Chapter 552 gives you the right to access government records; and an officer for public information and the officer's agent may not ask why you want them. 205; and sections 552. , the Texas open Records Act, for information in The Public Information Act (the Act), previously known as the Texas Open Records Act, is Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code. 10 per page will be required*** You have a right to see those records because of the Texas Information Act–the laws about open records or “freedom of information. openrecords@tdcj. Did you know that, under the Texas Public Information Act (PDF), you have the right to request documents from the City?The City of Rowlett has designated the City Secretary as its keeper of public records. 003(4) of the Government Code Under Texas’ open records law, known as the Texas Public Information Act (TPIA), “each person is entitled . Skip to main How to submit a request for records maintained by the Office of the Attorney General. smu. For assistance with open records requests, please contact: TAMIU Office of Compliance Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library Building, Room 159 5201 University Boulevard Laredo, Texas 78041 Examples of basic information from Open Records Decision No. Texas Open Records Act. Lubbock, Texas 79408 Robert Bernstein, M. 579 Director Texas Department of Re: Whether an investigation Criminal Justice of a sexual harassment com- Institutional Division plaint is excepted from public P. Consequently, we believe that the Gilbreath decision requires us to interpret section 3(a)(11) in conformance with the pre-Open Records Act federal cases, but in a way that is more limited than our prior opinions. CITY OF PASADENA Download a printable request form here City Secretary’s Office 1211 Southmore, Pasadena TX 77502 Mailing Address: P. The Public Information Act . Section 202. Previously known as the Texas Open Records Act, the Texas Public Information Act (referred to as the Act or the PIA) provides the public a right of access to information collected, assembled, maintained, owned or controlled by a governmental body. Each of you has requested our decision on the applicability of the section 3(a)(6) exception of the Austin, Texas 78701-2483. us or call 877-OPEN TEX. Robert A. Therefore, Answers to frequently asked questions about open records requests Glenn Hegar. 639. Re: Availability under the Texas Open Records Act, V. What is an Open Records request?An Open Records request is a request for public information contained in the files or records of a Texas governmental agency, including the State Securities Board. 512-776-6966. To obtain documents, you must submit a written request (by mail, fax, email or in person) that includes enough records and entities that fall under the Act; the time deadlines and mandatory notices that apply when a governmental body handles an open records request; and when a governmental body is required to ask for an Attorney General open records ruling. Texas Government Code Chapter 552, also known as the Public Information Act or PIA, gives you the right to access certain government records. 021. Chapter 552, Texas Government Code, gives you the right to access government records. Information held "The Public Information Act, formerly known as the Open Records Act, is located at chapter 552 of the Government Code. Requesting Open Records. Sharp, 904 In Open Records Decision No. The law states that a meeting is any gathering of a quorum of the members of a public body with the intention of deliberating and deciding on public policy. Only written requests trigger a governmental body's obligations under the Public Information Act. The Act provides a mechanism for citizens to inspect or copy Learn about the Texas Public Information Act and the Texas Open Meeting Act, which determine how information and meetings are made available to the public. Requests are governed by the Texas Public Information Act, Texas Government Code Chapter 552. This Open Meetings Act Handbook is intended to help public officials comply with the various provisions of the Texas Open Meetings Act and to familiarize the public with using the Open Meetings Act as a resource for Texas Public Information Act , Chapter 552 of the Government Code (formerly V. . The Public Information Act (PIA) is a state law that grants the public access to information about the affairs of government and the official acts of public officials and employees. Box 149104 Austin, Texas 78714-9104. For more information about the Texas Public Information Act, please consult the Texas Office of Attorney General, Open Records Division. , of information provided to the State Comptroller by an economic forecasting company. The Texas To request public records under the Texas Public Information Act: Submit your PIR in writing by email. The Texas A&M University Office of Open Records is dedicated to the principles of open government and strives to ensure compliance as set forth by the Texas Public Information Act. The handbook addresses when the Act applies, what constitutes reasonable notice and the application of the Act to informal gatherings. All government information is presumed to be available to the public. Austin, TX 78701 Section 202. Public Information Act requests are sometimes referred to as open records requests. The Texas Open Records Act recognizes this and exempts such information from public disclosure. The Act provides a means for citizens to inspect or copy government records. Austin, TX 78701 City of Dallas employees. 235 requires the Office of the Attorney General (the “OAG”) to create a public information request form for use by Texas governmental bodies. Fax (512) 389-4482. 514 Secretary of State P. Under this act, state agencies are required to provide requested information within ten days. Open records requests are not required for Texas Peace Officer's Crash Reports (CR-3), which are available for purchase through the Crash Report Online Purchase System . Public. , Austin, Texas 78751-2316. It also provides for instances in which governmental bodies wish to, or are required by law to, withhold government records from the public. Complaints The Texas Public Information Act (formerly the Texas Open Records Act) Chapter 552, Texas Government Code, establishes requirements for governmental bodies to respond to written requests for access and/or reproduction of public information. Scott, Money, Ray & Thomas PLLC. 106 Equal Employment Opportunity Policy 1701. Collins: The Attorney General of Texas maintains an Open Records Division, which plays the role of mediator and sometimes judge in open-records disputes. See the results for each agency, by A guide for governmental bodies and requestors of public information in Texas, covering the application, administration, exceptions, and remedies of the Public Information Act. Mailing address: TDCJ Public Information Request PO Issue 1Annual Survey of Texas Law Article 19 1975 Texas Open Records Act: Law Enforcement Agencies' Investigatory Records J. 3(d)(3) • May not charge labor for the time spent to: • Open Records Decision Nos. If a governmental body feels requested information is exempt in whole or in part from release under the Public Information Act, then the governmental body must write to the Attorney General's office and request an open records Application of Open Records Law and Administrative Procedure Law 1701. The PIA also establishes procedures that governmental bodies must follow when responding to requests for public information. O. • Chapter 551 Texas Government Code. Michaelis: 01392-403 You ask whether certain information is subject to required public disclosure under the Texas Open Records Act, article 6252-17a, V. The Texas Legislature enacted the Open Records Act in 1973, with an effective date of June 14, 1973. 011 Uniformity 552. At its core, the Texas Open Meetings Act requires government entities to keep official business accessible to the public. 027 Exception: Information Available Commercially 552. It declares that every “regular, special, or called meeting of a governmental body shall be open to the pub- Texas Public Information Act: An Overview Justin Gordon Open Records Division Chief Office of the Attorney General Open Records Decision No. 8 of the Texas Constitution, the First Amendment to the United Austin, Texas 78701 Open Records Decision No. 004 Management Certificates 209. In response to the Boeing decision, the 86th Legislature amended Section 552. 12, the executive director of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) has designated Executive Services as the recipient of all requests under the Public Information Act. 592 (1991) (OR-38618) formerly (RQ-739) The Texas Supreme Court has recently recognized that the legislature loosely patterned the The Texas Open Meetings Act was enacted to ensure that Texas government is transparent, open and accountable to all Texans. Refreshed: 2023-08-19. C. 0. An officer for public information and the officer’s agent may not ask why you want them. More information about the Public Information Act can be found online at the Texas Office of Attorney General, Open Records Division. 101 Executive Director 1701. These sections provide advice and direction to governmental bodies and requestors regarding charges for public information. DFPS Open Records Team is not required to answer questions to fulfill a request. Texas Public Information Act , Chapter 552 of the Government Code (formerly V. The Public Information Act. Examples of basic information from Open Records Decision No. state. (RQ-1265) Dear Mr. However, not every case is so straightforward. Sample Texas Public Information Act Request Letter (Note: Wording does not need to exactly replicate this sample letter. records@cpa. Ms. How is the records management system going at Texas FOIA Laws. Texas Government Code, Chapter 522, gives you the right to access government records; an officer for public information and the officer’s agent may not ask why you want them. Phone. 103 Division of Responsibilities 1701. 010 State Governmental Bodies: Fiscal and Other Information Relating to Making Information Accessible 552. 009; section 552. T. A. Simpson: You ask whether certain information is subject to required public disclosure under the Texas Open Records Act (the "act"), chapter 552 of the Government Code. What’s more, my office’s Open Go vernment Hotline is available to answer any questions about open government in Texas. Your request was assigned ID# 16078. Email. V. us By fax: (903) 237-2699 For complaints regarding failure to release public information, please contact your local County or District Attorney. 005 Association Records 209. The law said the database was to be accessible Open Records Training 552. article 6252) as well as Article I, Sec. 105 Career Ladder Program 1701. January 11, 2012. Schulman Attorney at Law P. The OAG serves both members of the public and governmental bodies in protecting open government under the PIA, and this site includes resources for both groups. The Texas Public Information Act (Act) provides the public the right to request access to government information. . 1. Agency Click here to expand and collapse. 455 Re: Construction of sections 3(a) (17) and 3A of the Open Records Act, article 6252-17a. To submit a request via Fax: 903-887-4288. Open Records Decision No. TFC has no legal obligation to respond to a request if the requirements of the Public Information Act are not followed. It also provides a means for governmental entities to withhold records that fall under one or more of the exceptions enumerated in the Act. For the complete text (343 pages) of the 2022 Texas Public Information Handbook CLICK HERE The Open Records Division (ORD) discharges the mandates set out in Government Code, Chapter 552, Sections 552. Back to top of menu. request. Whether information in loan files of individual veterans participating in the Veterans Land Program is accessible under the Open Records Act (RQ-1546) Dear Mr. Abbreviations: • SA = State Agency • PU = Public University • LG = Local Government 2. Requests for Records Under Texas Open Records Act. Re: Reconsideration of Open Records Decision No. ” The Texas Public Information Act: An Overview Presentation Outline • Background of the legal requirements for open records and public information Constitution and open records laws of the European Union. Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, gives you the right to access government records; and an officer for public information and the officer's agent may not ask why you want them. 17 18. Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, TX 75207 Telephone: 214-819-2000 Procedures to Obtain Information Texas Administrative Code 70. Texas Government Code, Chapter 552, gives you the right to access government records; and an officer for public information and the officer’s agent may not ask why you want them. Charges for reproductions are governed by the State of Texas Attorney General's Office rules on charges. At its core, the Texas Open Meetings Act simply requires government entities to keep public business, well, open to the public. gregg. Send your request to: HHSC Open Records Coordinator Read more about the Public Information Act. Please note the attorneys cannot provide legal advice or perform legal work for callers. Methods for Submitting an Open Records Request. Bullock: Attorney General Opinion JR-672 (1987) addressed the public availability under the Texas Open Records Act, article 6252-17a, V. request Public records cannot be destroyed when they are subject to an open records Decision No. A link to contact information for each department is located at CLICK HERE. The If you need special accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact our ADA coordinator at 512-463-2857. In 1973 the 63 rd Legislature adopted the Texas Open Records Act now known as the TPIA. " When you make a request for CPS case records, DFPS Open Records Team will direct you to the Requesting a Copy of Case Records page. gov Answers to frequent questions are available at our Open Records Center FAQs. Therefore, Texas Public Information Act. About DSHS; Legislative Information; Compact with Texans; Report a website RRC The Public Information Act. Requests 129 East Market Street, Mabank, Texas. Any member of the public or recognized media organization may submit a request for information to: OIG Public Information Requests 4616 W. Texas Attorney General Website Open Records Unit 1200 Travis, 10th Floor Houston, TX 77002 713-308-9178 (FAX) 713. Open Records Requests. The Hotline can be reached at: (512) 478-OPEN (6736) Open Records Act. Back to Top. Office of General Counsel. 023 Certain types of information are available from the Mabank Police Department under the Texas Open Records Act. texas public information act information request form For guidance regarding your rights as a requester and the public information procedures adopted by this governmental body, you may review the governmental body’s notice required under section 552. Public records include paper and/or electronic documentation created, obtained, or used by the City of Lewisville in the conduct of its Texas Government Code Section 552. v. ***A charge of $0.