Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

Can anyone see my records?
Yes, except as restricted by specific provisions in state or federal law, anyone may consult public records. Code of Virginia§ 2.2-3704 instructs:

Except as otherwise specifically provided by law, all public records shall be open to inspection and copying by any citizens of the Commonwealth during the regular office hours of the custodian of such records. Access to such records shall not be denied to citizens of the Commonwealth, representatives of newspapers and magazines with circulation in the Commonwealth, and representatives of radio and television stations broadcasting in or into the Commonwealth.

Do I have to make drafts awaiting approval available to the public?
Yes. Any record that is not confidential by law must be provided when a request is received, whether it is "finished" or not.

Our old records are stored in the basement, the attic or an off-site building. Do we have to honor requests to see them?
Yes, as long as the records are not confidential by law. Please be aware the confidentially can expire, especially for records held by the Library of Virginia.

What should I do if I receive a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for documents?

If you receive a request for documents, regardless of whether the request specifically cites FOIA, you should immediately contact the General Counsel office at (804) 828-6610. Do not delay in contacting them after receiving a request for documents. The University has only five working days from receipt of the request to respond, so it is important to notify them immediately. Do not begin searching for or copying documents before talking to General Counsel.