Legal Hotline

Q: Are 911 call recordings and transcripts public records under the Right-to-Know Law? A: The Right-to-Know Law allows agencies to deny access to 911 audio recordings and transcripts, but it […]

Q: A local agency is prohibiting the right to object during public meetings, requiring all objections to occur during public comment. Is that OK? A:  No. This is not consistent […]

Q: The Sunshine Act requires agencies to provide agendas in advance of public meetings, but some local agencies are providing agendas that list generic or all-encompassing subjects that have little […]

Q: Can we run ads for hemp and related products like CBD supplements and food additives?  If so, are there any laws or regulations that we should consider? A: State […]

Q: Many local agencies routinely take a 30-calendar-day extension to respond to Right-to-Know Law requests, even for simple, obviously public records like meeting minutes. Should they do that, and can […]

Q: Does HIPAA prevent hospitals from releasing all information about patients? Does HIPAA restrict our ability to publish medical information? A:  While HIPAA prohibits unauthorized release of individually identifiable health […]

Q: A borough facing budget shortfalls created a committee to offer advice and investigate potential funding streams. Our reporter asked when the first committee meeting will take place, but the […]

Q: We encourage our reporters to record interviews for accuracy, with interviews typically recorded over the phone or internet, and sometimes in person. Are there any legal issues associated with […]

Q: Which rules govern public access to arrest and search warrants and their supporting documentation, like complaints and affidavits of probable cause? A: Public access to arrest and search warrants […]