Act 442 of 1976 Michigan Freedom of Information Act

1. Act 442 of 1976 Michigan Freedom of Information Act By Troy J. Cook

2. Intentions and “Public” Definition • To regulate and set requirements for all “public bodies” to disclose public information. • Public refers to: • Agency, employee, commission, council, division, etc. • Agency board, commission, or council within the state • County, city, township, village, school district, and municipal corporations • Any other body created by state or local authority

3. Records Open to Disclosure • Working papers • Research materials • Meeting minutes • Voting records • Staff Manuals • Final Orders in contested cases • Other rules that are written

4. Articles accepted • Handwritten, typed, printed, or photostated • Use of letters, words, pictures, and symbols • Paper, maps, punch cards, discs, and drums • Or any other means of recording

5. Exempt Records • Individual private affairs • Investigations for law enforcement purposes • Trade secrets • Information subject to attorney-client privilege and doctor-patient • Pending public bids for contract • Test questions and answers • Law enforcement communication codes and deployment plans

6. Availability of Records • Any person can make a request • Within five days a reply from the public body • The right to request a subscription • Public agency has the duty to provide adequate facilities

7. Fees, Denials, and Penalties • Fees cannot exceed the cost of printing , preparing, and mailing • Low income individuals • Written notice within 5 days • Reason for denial • Requester’s rights • Actual and compensatory damages

8. Question and Answer Period