Public Records Requests
The Massachusetts Public Records Law provides that every person has a right to access public information. This right of access includes the right to inspect, copy or have copies of records provided. The Secretary of State has published a guide that outlines the law and provides an FAQ and allowable exemptions.
Making a Request
The RAO has up to 10 days to respond to the request and is only required to provide records that are in existence. Under the updated Public Records Law, RAOs are required to provide public records in an electronic format, unless the record is not available electronically or the requester does not have the ability to receive or access electronic formats.
Requests should be written and may be made in person, through the postal mail, or through email. A reasonable description of the document(s) requested should be provided, to assist the RAO in identifying the requested documents.
