September 2010 Newsletter
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VCOG’s annual conference returns to Richmond
VCOG’s annual conference returns to Richmond, CapitolTwo-day event features newsworthy topics on access and transparency in governmentThe Virginia Coalition for Open Government will present its 11th conference on access Oct. 21-22 in Richmond.Each year VCOG brings together experts from the access community, the press, the government and citizen activists to discuss the issues of the day…
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The FOIA process often works differently
The FOIA process often works differently for media, citizensBy MEGAN RHYNEVCOG Executive Director One of the ideals underlying VCOG’s formation in 1996 was the notion that Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act was a citizens’ law, not a press law. It was the people’s right to know, not just a reporter’s right to know. VCOG’s first…
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VCOG Bulletin Board
VCOG Bulletin Board This summer, VCOG welcomed five new members to its board. Olga Hernandez, Frosty Landon and Jeff South will fill at-large seats, while Ed Reams and Melody Scalley will take up two of the five seats reserved for broadcasters. Hernandez is president of the Virginia League of Women Voters. Landon, former editor of…
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Access Across America tour stops for VCOG
Access Across America tour stops for VCOG What kind of records are there out there, and what can I learn from them? What do I do when estimated fees are too high? What if my request for records is denied? Should my request letter be sweet, salty, or downright bitter? These were but some of…
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Big turnout for VCOG FOIA records management seminar
Big turnout for VCOG FOIA, records management seminar Nearly 100 people turned out for VCOG’s first seminar on records management and the Freedom of Information, held Sept. 13 at the Library of Virginia. Representing 48 state and local agencies throughout the state, attendees received tips and strategies about using effective records management to make filling…
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FOIA citizenship case can proceed
FOIA citizenship case can proceed A 4th Circuit panel reviewed the part of Virginia’s FOIA that says the law can be used only by Virginia citizens (and media operating in the state). The appeals court determined that two out of three plaintiffs challenging the provision could continue their suit. A lower court threw out the…
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A ruling, but the Social Security numbers game continues
A ruling, but the Social Security numbers game continues A unanimous 3-judge panel of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, a federal appeals court governing Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia and Maryland, ruled that privacy advocate BJ Ostergren could not be punished under a law prohibiting the publication of Social Security numbers…
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Board of Equalization violated FOIA
Bd. of Equalization violated FOIA Augusta County Circuit Judge Victor Ludwig ruled Sept. 2 that the Augusta County Board of Equalization violated FOIA when it met in a small conference room and posted a sign on the outside door directing citizens to “please wait here until your case is called.” The judge said the room’s…
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Around the Commonwealth
Around the Commonwealth FRONT ROYAL – It’s been a roller coaster ride in Front Royal over bribery allegations involving a solar farm. For months the town refused to give out much information about the allegations, legitimately citing various FOIA exemptions. Then in July, the mayor announced that to clear the air, he was going to…
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FOIA 101 – Requests for records
FOIA 101 Virginia’s FOIA says only this about making a request for records: “A request for public records shall identify the requested records with reasonable specificity. The request need not make reference to this chapter[.]” There is no requirement that the request be in writing. A request for records is therefore valid whether you ask…