The Freedom of Information Law, commonly known as “FOIL” (Public Officers Law, Article 6, Sections 84-90) is a New York State’s statute regarding public access to government records with certain exceptions. As set forth in the Legislative declaration to the law:
The people’s right to know the process of government decision-making and the documents and statistics leading to determinations is basic to our society. Access to such information should not be thwarted by shrouding it with the cloak of secrecy or confidentiality.
These regulations provide information concerning the procedures by which records may be obtained.
Personnel shall furnish to the public the information and records required by the Freedom of Information Law, as well as records otherwise available by law.
Any conflicts among laws governing public access to records shall be construed in favor of the widest possible availability of records.
Public Officers Law § 84
“Record” means any information kept, held, filed, produced or reproduced by, with, or for this agency, in any physical form whatsoever including, but not limited to, reports, statements, examinations, memoranda, opinions, folders, files, books, manuals, pamphlets, forms, papers, designs, drawings, maps, photos, letters, microfilms, computer tapes or disks, rules, regulations or codes.
VIEW EFD SUBJECT MATTER LIST
Questions:
Call FOIL Officer at 914-740-6984
Email FOIL Officer