Iowa Chapter 22 Requests For Public Information And Documents Iowa Open Records Law & Freedom of Information (FOIA)
It is the policy of Carroll County to assure open public access to all records of the County to the extent permitted by the Iowa State Open Records Act and Federal Freedom of Information Acts. Many public records can be accessed on line. If you cannot locate a specific record you are encourage to contact the appropriate department, or the Auditor’s office to obtain the record.
The County Auditor is designated to implement the requirements and procedures related to request for public records, should you need assistance. (712) 792-9802
State law permits certain records classified as confidential to be considered exempt from the public records requests. Confidential records include but are not limited to medical records, employee related files, documents concerning litigation or claims, and names or addresses of complainants. Confidential records may be withheld, and confidential information within an otherwise open record may be redacted prior to a record’s release for public examination and copying.
About Iowa Open Records and Open Meetings Laws
- The Iowa Open Records Law is a series of laws designed to guarantee that the public has access to public records of government bodies at all levels in Iowa. The law was first enacted in 1967.
- The Iowa Open Meetings Law legislates the methods by which public meetings are conducted.
- FOIA refers to the federal act.
- Anyone may request public records in Iowa. "Every person shall have the right to examine and copy public records".
- Examination of public records (Iowa Chapter 22 owa Chapter 22)
- Official meetings open to public (Iowa Chapter 21)