Freedom of Information Act

What is FOIA?
FOIA is the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140), records in possession of public agencies may be accessed by the public upon written request. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 140/2(c), "public records" means all records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memoranda, books, papers, maps, photographs, cards, tapes, recordings, electronic data processing records, recorded information and all other documentary materials, regardless of physical form or characteristics, having been prepared, or having been or being used, received, possessed or under the control of any public body. Records that are not subject to release via the FOIA process include confidential and trade secret information.

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requires that all FOIA officers receive training on compliance with this law. Each public body must submit the list of designated persons to the Public Access Counselor at the Office of the Attorney General.

FOIA Officers must successfully complete the electronic training on an annual basis. When a public body designates an additional Officer to receive this training, that person must successfully complete the electronic training within 30 days after that designation.