Public Records Request Form Under the Access to Public Records Act - Rhode Island

Public Records Request Form Under the Access to Public Records Act is a legal document that was released by the Rhode Island Department of Health - a government authority operating within Rhode Island.

FAQ

Q: What is the Access to Public Records Act?
A: The Access to Public Records Act is a law that allows the public to request access to information held by public agencies in Rhode Island.

Q: What is a public records request?
A: A public records request is a formal request by a member of the public to access information held by a public agency in Rhode Island.

Q: How can I request public records in Rhode Island?
A: You can request public records in Rhode Island by completing and submitting a Public Records Request Form.

Q: What information should I include in my public records request?
A: You should include as much detail as possible about the records you are requesting, such as dates, keywords, and any specific departments or individuals you believe may have the records.

Q: Is there a fee for requesting public records in Rhode Island?
A: In Rhode Island, there may be fees associated with public records requests, such as copying or search fees. The fees vary depending on the agency.

Q: What happens after I submit a public records request?
A: After you submit a public records request, the agency has 10 business days to respond. They may provide you with the requested records, deny your request, or ask for an extension.

Q: Can my public records request be denied?
A: Yes, your public records request can be denied in certain circumstances, such as if the records are exempt from disclosure by law or if they do not exist.

Q: What should I do if my public records request is denied?
A: If your public records request is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office.

Q: How long do public records need to be kept in Rhode Island?
A: The retention period for public records in Rhode Island varies depending on the type of record. Some records may need to be kept indefinitely, while others may have specific retention periods.