Gov. Whitmer Streamlines Process for FOIA Requests, Promotes Transparency

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 18, 2022

Contact: press@michigan.gov

Gov. Whitmer Streamlines Process for FOIA Requests, Promotes Transparency

Executive directive requires departments to accept credit card payments for FOIA requests, empowers members of the public to find and access information more efficiently

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed executive directive 2022-3, requiring State of Michigan departments to accept credit card payments for any fees associated with the production of records under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This directive builds on efforts spearheaded by Attorney General Dana Nessel and her late Communications Director Kelly Rossman-McKinney to promote transparency.

“This executive directive furthers transparency and openness in state government, making it easier for any Michigander to access department records,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Effective immediately, all State of Michigan departments are required to begin modifying their systems to accept credit card payments for any fees associated with the production of records under FOIA. We will continue getting things done and ensure we make improvements whenever possible.”

Executive Directive Background

In executive directive 2019-11, signed in her second month in office, she directed all departments to make the process of requesting public records under the Freedom of Information Act user-friendly.

FOIA gives people the right to receive copies of or inspect most public records of public bodies upon request. In some cases, FOIA authorizes a government department to charge a fee to facilitate the delivery of the requested records. Today’s executive directive streamlines the payment of any fees associated with accessing records by directing departments to accept credit card payments rather than requiring more cumbersome forms of payment, such as a check.

The executive directive can be viewed here.

Transparency Actions

Governor Whitmer has taken several steps to increase government transparency and accountability. She established high standards of ethical conduct for employees within the executive branch including all department directors and appointees, required reporting of irregularities relating to public money or property, banned the solicitation and receipt of political contributions in state government facilities, and prohibited the use of private email for the conduct of state business, among other actions.

Governor Whitmer is the first governor in state history to voluntarily disclose personal financial information, income tax returns, travel records, and public calendars online at www.michigan.gov/sunshine. 

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