New Jersey Public Records Law

= Short Description =

Who is covered?
Governor: Covered with certain exemptions

Legislature: Covered with certain exemptions

Courts: not covered

Advisory Committees: covered

What is the process like?
Any citizen of the state (and the media). Records custodians are required to created a form for requests, including space for name, address, phone number, and a description of the records sought. But, these forms are not required to make a request. Requests must be in writing. Responses must be issued within 7 business days unless the record is archived, in storage, or would substantially disrupt agency operations. Fees for copies are specificed as follows: pages 1-10 $0.75, pages 11-20 $0.50, pages 20+ $0.25 unless the body can prove that the actual cost exceeds these rates. Labor and overhead costs are not to be included.

Most recent changes?
Totally new law passed in 2002

= Legislation =

The following are bills introduced in 2011:

= Articles, Blog Posts, etc =
 * N.J.'s top court rules League of Municipalities is subject to open records law - NJ.com, Aug. 23, 2011