When did the Right-To-Know Law take effect? (Section 3104)
The Right-To-Know Law was signed on February l4,2008. Most of the new law took effect on January 1,2009, but the entire law took effect in three stages: The title, definitions and creation of the Office of Open Records took effect on February 14,2008. Effective July 1, 2008: All state contracts exceeding $5,000 must be posted on Treasury’s Web site. Each agency must submit to the Treasury these contracts or a summary of thereof. Effective January 1,2009, the remaining portion of the law.
How can I request information from my local government or state agency? [Section 7031)
You can make a request four ways: mail, fax, e-mail or in person. The request must be sufficiently “specific” to allow the public body to identify what you are seeking.
Is there a form I can use to use to obtain records? [Section 505]
Yes, a standard Office of Open Records request form is available on the Office of Open Records Web site (FORMS) that you can use. A local government agency can use its own form, but they also must accept the Office of Open Records Request form. The Township Office has the form available for your use:
PA Standard Right To Know Request Form
Can a public body ask why a person wants to obtain the information? (Section 130S)
No. The law prohibits a public body from requiring a person ‘to disclose the purpose or
motive in requesting access to records”
Can a state agency or local agency charge me for copying records? [Section 1307)
Yes; agencies must establish a fee for records duplication. The Township has enacted a
Fee Schedule which includes costs for duplication of records.
Can a public body limit the number of requests that a citizen can make? [Section1308(1)1.
No. The law states that a state or local agency cannot limit ‘the number of records which may be requested or made available for inspection or duplication.” However, citizens should use good judgment in seeking records from the public body and not use this law to harass or overburden a public body from performing its job. Also, a public body can deny repeated requests for the same records by the same requester. [Section 506]
What are some examples of public records?
Grant applications, contracts, and agreements. Agency decisions. Applications for subdivision or land development.
What are some types of information that will NOT be available?
Social Security, Driver’s License and Employee Numbers. Home, cellular or personal phone numbers. Home addresses.
Personal financial information.
Who to call when a deer has been hit: If you encounter a deer in front of your house, you can call the Pennsylvania Game Commission at (610) 926-1966.