Is there a limit number of Foia request we can ask the school systems I made a couple of request last week, and if payment is needed I will always made the payment. but does the lady making the request get mad when I made the request? the person in Loudoun County Public Schools sounded like he didn't seem very happy when I asked for the request. why do they get mad?

You may submit a request at any time under Virginia's Freedom of Information Act law.


Starting on page 4 of the link at
http://foiacouncil.dls.virginia.gov/2014Law.pdf

§ 2.2-3704. Public records to be open to inspection; procedure for requesting records and responding to request; charges; transfer of records for storage, etc.

You can ask for as many records as you want and there is nothing they can do to you except send you a bill. They tried putting through an addition to VFOIA where an agency could refuse based on the premise that it was affecting their ability to do their work. It failed. They are also working on some anti-retaliation legislation.

Sometimes if it is a large request, or they have trouble locating the records, they will notify you and you can work out an extension beyond the 5+7.

Let the sun shine!

The FCPS and Fairfax County FOIA offices are well trained in the law and how to respond to customers (that's you). Be specific in what you want and provide as much info as you can so they know who to ask and what to ask for. Don't use those nasty form letters you find on the internet - not needed and they assume a negative tone that the clerks are hiding something or won't comply. Include your phone number and email so they can contact you with questions.

My requests usually are for the City of Alexandria, but whether it be Fairfax or Alexandria I found them responsive.

Then pay the fee, even if it's tiny. They won't come after you, but they do keep track.

You also need to provide your address. Only Virginia residents are eligible to obtain records via VFOIA.

A simple, clear request is all that is needed. It doesn't even need to be in writing. A verbal request also works, but you don't have any record of it then. Plus, if you just wander in to an office and ask for records it upsets the apple cart for the day. Records need to be screened, checked for redacting, etc. However, if you are meeting with a school official and ask to see some information, you have the right to do that and see it if they can produce it and screen it and everything.

You don't have to give a reason why you want the records, and you don't have to apologize.

They are mad they have to DO THEIR JOBS that's all!

Make them earn their pay- FOIA Away!

Man-Ass-As Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> They are mad they have to DO THEIR JOBS that's
> all!
>
> Make them earn their pay- FOIA Away!

+1. This is true. It's a nuisance to them b/c they MUST do it by law, but it's not part of their normal job duties so they view it as a nuisance.

What information are you requesting? What other information may you request.


Thanks for your reply.

Producing the records IS part of their job. It isn't being a nuisance.

I have used foia with several local agencies and never had a problem.

OK. We’ve been getting requests like this in dribs and drabs. If this is part of an organized effort, it might be easier to submit them all at once.