FREEDOM OF INFORMATION LAW

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION LAW (FOIL)

The Freedom of Information Law provides the public with the right to access certain government records.
The New York State Legislature clearly noted the purpose of FOIL:

The legislature hereby finds that a free society is maintained when government is responsive and responsible to the public, and when the public is aware of governmental actions. The more open a government is with its citizenry, the greater the understanding and participation of the public in government. (New York State Public Officers Law §84. )

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. (Laws of Rockland County, Chapter 329-1)

On-Line Requests

Rockland County wishes to assist the general public to make FOIL requests on-line. If you wish to make a FOIL request for documents on-line, you may click on the "On-Line Requests" link above to direct your FOIL request to the appropriate County Agency. Your request will be processed from the date it is received.
In order for your on-line request to be processed, you must provide the following required information:
         * Name
         * Address
         * Telephone number
         * Valid email address

Please Note: If your Email address is incorrect your submission can not be processed

Mail Requests

If you wish to make a FOIL Request for documents by mail, you may click on the "Mail Requests" link above to direct you to a list of Agencies to obtain a printable FOIL Form. Please complete the form and mail to the Agency's address indicated on the top of the form.

Reminder

When requesting records, please:
         * Include as much detail about the record as possible, such as relevant dates, names, descriptions, etc.
         * Make sure that your request is not too broad.
         * Make sure to reasonably describe the records .

If for any reason any portion of your request is denied, you will be informed of the reasons for the denial in writing and provided the name, address and email address of the person or body to whom an appeal should be directed.
If you wish to submit an electronic appeal, you may click on the appropriate FOIL APPEAL link.

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