Frequently asked questions about public records

  1. I think UC should create a report that will have the information that I want. Can I request this under the Public Records Act?
    • The University releases non-exempt, existing records in response to requests. The Public Records Act does not require that the University answer questions, perform research, or create new records or reports.
  2. Can I drop in to inspect the records that I want?
    • The volume of requests received by UCOP does not permit instant response to records requests. There is no public counter service for on-demand, same day public records inspections; nor does the law require such a public counter. Identification and collection of potentially responsive records are only some of the steps involved in responding to requests. The collected records must be reviewed to ensure that they are in fact responsive to the request and to assess whether they are subject to redaction to protect the privacy rights of others and consistent with applicable legal privileges & exemptions. Each of the steps in the process takes time. When records requests are available for release, we will contact you. If you prefer to inspect the records before paying for copies, we are happy to set up a mutually convenient time for such an inspection.
  3. Can I obtain campus records from UC Office of the President?
  4. It’s been 10 days – where are my records?
    • Agencies have 10 days to “determine whether the request…seeks copies of disclosable public records in the possession of the agency and shall promptly notify the person making the request of the determination and reasons therefore.” (Government Code 6253(c).) This means that agencies are supposed to notify the requester within 10 days if they have requested deliverable public records or exempt material or some combination of the two. The law, however, does not require production within 10 days. (Motorola v. Department of General Services (1997) 55 Cal. App. 4th 1340, 1349). The law requires that production be made in a “reasonable” amount of time, based upon the volume of the records requested and the necessary review process.