Connecticut’s Freedom of Information (FOI) Act gives the public the right to inspect and copy the records of public agencies and to attend their meetings. It is the tool journalists, residents and watchdogs use to find out how local and state government spends money and makes decisions. This explainer summarizes how it works, drawing on guidance from the state’s Freedom of Information Commission.
Requesting public records
There is no required form for a records request. The FOI Commission says an agency may ask you to complete a form it has prepared, but the law does not require one. A request should be clear about what you want. A practical tip, not a legal requirement: put the request in writing and keep a copy, so there is a record of what you asked for and when.
How quickly must an agency respond?
The Commission’s FAQ says an agency must provide “prompt” access to public records. Promptness depends on factors such as how busy the agency is, how time-consuming the request is and how urgent your need is. Separately, under the Act’s denial provision, failure to respond within four business days is deemed a denial.
What can it cost?
The Commission says municipal agencies may charge up to 50 cents per page and state agencies up to 25 cents per page. Other fees can apply to certified copies, transcriptions, printouts or records on electronic media.
Public meetings
The Act gives the public the right to attend public agency meetings and to view them while they are taking place. According to the Commission, it does not give a right to speak. Any right of public comment comes from other rules, such as an agency’s own procedures.
- Minutes: regular and special meeting minutes must be available within seven days of the meeting (excluding weekends and holidays for special meetings). Minutes of emergency special meetings must be available within 72 hours, and the record of votes within 48 hours.
- Agendas: at a regular meeting, an agency can vote to take up an item not on the agenda only with a two-thirds vote of the members present and voting. At a special meeting it may not take up a matter not listed in the notice.
If your request is denied
If an agency denies access, or does not respond within four business days, you can file a complaint with the Freedom of Information Commission. The complaint generally must be filed within 30 days of the alleged violation. For an alleged secret or unnoticed meeting, the 30 days run from when you knew or could have known about it.
How to file
- Complete the Commission’s online Records Complaint Form.
- Print it and sign it.
- Attach your request and any denial you received.
- Email it to foi@ct.gov or mail it to the Commission.
You do not need a lawyer. The Commission’s staff counsel can help with procedural questions but will not represent you. The Commission is a quasi-judicial agency; it is not a place to ask where to find information, and it does not act on tips, only on written complaints against a public agency.
Tips for better requests
- Name the agency and describe the records, with dates or subjects where you can.
- Ask for records, not answers to questions.
- Keep a log of who you contacted and when.
- If you are a journalist or researcher, say what format you prefer.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check the linked Commission pages for the current rules and forms. If you find an error, tell us through our corrections page.
Sources
- Frequently asked questions, Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission
- Section 1-206, denial of access to public records or meetings, appeals
- Online filing of complaints, Connecticut FOI Commission
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to use a form to request public records?
No. The FOI Commission says there are no required forms, although an agency may ask you to complete a form it has prepared.
What can an agency charge for copies?
The FOI Commission says municipal agencies may charge a maximum of 50 cents per page and state agencies a maximum of 25 cents per page. Other fees may apply to certified copies, transcriptions, printouts or electronic media.
What if my request is ignored?
Under the FOI Act, failure to respond within four business days is deemed a denial. You then have 30 days to file a complaint with the FOI Commission.
Can I speak at a public meeting under the FOI Act?
No. The Commission says the Act gives the public the right to attend and view meetings, while any right to speak comes from other rules.