New FOIA rules in Delaware

Delaware Governor Jack Markell (D) signed an executive order, and a bill approved by the General Assembly earlier this year, in an effort to ensure public access to public records.

Executive Order 31 requires agencies in the executive branch to adopt a standard policy for responding to requests under the state’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).  The more uniform response to FOIA requests should streamline the process and lower the government’s costs to respond.

Senate Bill 87 creates a standard form for FOIA request.  The form is designed to reduce confusion and simplify the process for making requests.  You can find the form here. 

“This order and Senate Bill 87 are an important part of our efforts to make state government more open, efficient and responsive to the needs of Delaware citizens,” said Governor Markell.  “Delaware’s Freedom of Information Act helps ensure transparency and accountability in government, which is the people’s business.”