What is the
Right-to-Know Law
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.
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Pennsylvania
State Records FAQs
The RTKL (65 P.S. §§ 67.101–67.3104) gives the public access to records of Pennsylvania state and local agencies, unless exempt.
Anyone — residents, non-residents, journalists, advocacy groups, or businesses.
Agencies must respond within 5 business days. They may extend the deadline by up to 30 days with written notice.
Yes. Requests must be submitted in writing, either by mail, email, fax, or online form if the agency provides one.
Yes. Agencies may charge up to 25¢ per page for copies, plus postage or certification costs. Electronic records are often free or low-cost.
Examples include: police reports, contracts, budgets, emails of officials, environmental records, and meeting minutes.
Yes. Exemptions include personal medical or student records, ongoing criminal investigations, security-related records, and attorney-client privileged material.
You can appeal to the Pennsylvania Office of Open Records (OOR) within 15 business days. If denied again, you can seek judicial review in court.
FOIA applies to federal agencies. The RTKL applies to Pennsylvania state and local agencies, with stricter 5-day deadlines and an independent appeals process.
No. The RTKL is open to any person, regardless of residency.