Legal Hotline

Q: I submitted an RTKL request to a local agency’s RTKL officer on Monday morning via email, but didn’t get a response until Friday, when she “acknowledged receipt” of my […]

Q: I believe the Sunshine Act may have been violated. Are there penalties for violations and if so, how do I pursue them? A:  The Sunshine Act allows for the […]

Q: I filed a Right-to-Know request asking to inspect records. I want to look at the records to help decide which are most relevant, and to reduce copy fees. The […]

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: 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 […]