What is the
Freedom of Information Act
Each State has their own version of the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act), which allows you to request public records from government agencies.
Calunah drafts your request letter so it’s professional and ready to submit—then you simply send it to the agency.
Our platform ensures your request is formatted correctly, saving time, and avoiding errors, while keeping your personal information private.
Whether it’s for business, research, or personal purposes, being able to request government records is your right.
How Calunah Works
Answer a few questions, let Calunah generate your letter, then download and send it confidently.
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We generate your letter, you submit it. We don’t contact agencies for you. That keeps your information in your control.
Michigan
State Records FAQs
Michigan FOIA (MCL 15.231 et seq.) provides the public the right to access records held by state and local government agencies, unless exempt.
Anyone — Michigan residents, out-of-state residents, businesses, journalists, and advocacy groups.
Agencies must respond within 5 business days. They may extend the deadline by up to 10 additional business days with written notice.
Yes. FOIA requests must be submitted in writing by mail, email, fax, or an agency’s online portal.
Yes. Agencies may charge for labor, copying, mailing, and the cost of electronic media. However, fees must be based on actual costs, and the first $20 may be waived for individuals on public assistance.
Examples include: police reports, inmate records, contracts, budgets, school performance data, and environmental permits.
Yes. Common exemptions include personal privacy, law enforcement investigations, medical records, attorney-client communications, and security information.
You can file an administrative appeal with the agency head. If denied again, you can sue in circuit court for disclosure.
Federal FOIA covers federal agencies. Michigan FOIA applies to state and local agencies, with shorter response deadlines (5 business days vs. 20 under federal law).
No. Michigan FOIA is open to any person, regardless of residency.




