The IRE Resource Center is a major research library containing more than 23,250 investigative stories — both print and broadcast. Add to that more than 3,000 tipsheets from our national conferences on how to cover specific beats or do specific stories and you have a resource that no reporter or editor should be without. These stories and tipsheets are searchable online or by contacting the Resource Center directly (573-882-3364 or rescntr@ire.org) where a researcher can help you pinpoint what you need. Browse or search the tipsheet section of our library below. Logged-in members can view the tipsheets free online:
Search results for "freedom of information act" ...
-
Public Records Act
Tipsheet on profiling the Public Records Act and ways in which journalists can garner information.
-
A Citizen's Guide to Using the Illinois Freedom of Information Act
7 chapters of useful information on the IL FOIA. Including what a FOIA request is, how to request a document, and what to do if your request is denied.
Tags: FOIA; freedom of information act; Illinois; IL
-
Hiding in Plain Sight: The Power of Public Records
Mulvihill provides examples of stories done with public records, and outlines your right to access. She discusses how denials of public records requests can become part of the story.
Tags: public records; FOIA; Freedom of Information Act; transparency; data; state audits; federal audits
-
Making the most of FOIA
Alexander discusses using FOIA for your reporting. He addresses considerations you should make before you proceed with a FOIA request; what to ask for when you file your request; and follow-up once you have submitted your request. He also includes some helpful web links, and insights from fellow reporters.
Tags: FOIA; Freedom of Information Act; open records;
-
Data Negotiation: All you've got to do is ask...
This PowerPoint walks you through the process of negotiating for data. Key to successful data requests is knowing the law. O'Neil and Dowdell provide excellent resources for FOIA information. They suggest who to speak to about documents; what to expect; what to ask for and to ask often. They also recommend always getting electronic records when available. Included are recommendations when your requests are denied.
Tags: FOIA; open records; data negotiation; government records; open records; close records; freedom of information act; sunshine laws
-
Public Information 101: How to obtain public records to hold government accountable
A short tipsheet on the Freedom of Information Act as it applies to federal agencies. Hall also includes details about the Illinois Freedom of Information Act and 10 survival tips for journalists.
Tags: FOIA; Illinois; watchdog; government; state government; federal government; agencies
-
You have the right to remain silent: FOIA in the Bush Administration
This powerpoint presentation discusses how policy regarding the Freedom of Information Act has changed in recent years. Cochran uses graphs and charts to illustrate trends in the amount of data requests filed and number actually filled by the government. He also discusses the appeals process, and speculates about how the issue may change in the future.
Tags: FOIA; open records; federal government; Bush administration
-
Access Arizona: Training and tips for acquiring public records and covering meetings in Arizona
This handout begins with a general overview of story ideas derived from FOI laws and guidance on creating a document driven newsroom. The second part of the handout details FOI laws specific to the state of Arizona.
Tags: Arizona; FOIA; Freedom of Information Act; open records; sunshine laws; story ideas; documents; open meetings; FOI request
-
Chapter 44-14 WAC Public Records Act - Model Rules
This is a guide from the office of the Attorney General of Washington about public records. It covers each part of the law, and how public officials are supposed to respond to requests.
Tags: public records; open records; freedom of information; state government
-
You have the right to remain silent: FOIA in the Bush Administration
This powerpoint presentation discusses how policy regarding the Freedom of Information Act has changed in recent years. Cochran uses graphs and charts to illustrate trends in the amount of data requests filed and number actually filled by the government. He also discusses the appeals process, and speculates about how the issue may change in the future.
Tags: FOIA; public records; federal government; Department of Defense; Bush; Rumsfeld; privacy; data negotiation