OCR Text |
Show GRAMA helps public riqhts The Department of Commerce is committed to releasing information which it acquires and maintains, as required by the new Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA), effective July 1992. In passing GRAMA, the Legislature recognized two constitutional con-stitutional rights: the public's right of access to information, and the right of privacy. The Legislature also recognized a public policy in-; in-; terest in allowing an agency to restrict re-strict access to certain records for the public good. Under this act, the department will promote the right to easier access of public records. For example, exam-ple, an application for licensure by a professional will be private until the license is granted. After licensure, information that is relevant to the public interest will be made available. According to the statute, all records are public, unless otherwise noted by a court rule or another state or federal statute. Except in instances where records are easily accessible to the public, such as corporations filings, requests for records are to be made in writing. Within ten business days, the agency will respond by approving the request and providing the record; denying the request (with a reasonable explanation); or notifying notify-ing requester that it does not have the record but providing the name of the agency which does. Persons wishing access to Department of Commerce records should contact the records officer of the division where the specific records are kept. |