FOIA
It’s called the Freedom of Information Act, and it’s one of the best tools out there for prying information out of government officials who seem intent on keeping the public from having any real understanding about what is going on.
The following is a copy of a sample letter. Just cut and paste into a Word document, fill in the blanks, print it and mail it off. Keep copies of ALL correspondence. Contact the agencies by phone and ask for the the name, title, address, etc. of their public information officer.
If you have any questions, see the Illinois Attorney General’s office page.
Agency Head [or Freedom of Information Act Officer]
Name of Agency
Address of Agency
City, State, Zip Code
Re: Illinois Freedom of Information Act Request
Dear ________:
This is a request for information under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140.
I request that a copy of the following documents [or documents containing the following information] be provided to me: [be as specific as you can in identifying the documents or information you are seeking].
[Option:] I would like to inspect these records in person. [Option:] I would like to
obtain copies of these records.
[If you request copies of the records, you should consider adding the following text:] I understand that the Act permits a public body to charge a reasonable copying fee not to exceed the actual cost of reproduction and not including the costs of any search or review of the records. 5 ILCS 140/6.
[Option:] I am willing to pay fees for this request up to a maximum of $_____. If you estimate that the fees will exceed this limit, please inform me first. [Option:] I request a waiver of all fees for this request. Disclosure of the requested information to me is in the public interest because it is likely to contribute significantly to public understanding of the operations or activities of the government and is not primarily in my commercial interest. [Include a specific explanation of why your request is in the public interest.]
I look forward to hearing from you in writing within seven working days, as required by the Act. 5 ILCS 140(3).
Sincerely,
Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
[Optional:] Telephone number and e-mail
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