STANDARDS FOR USE OF PUBLIC RECORDS

Heritage Hunters recently heard Robert J. Freeman. He spoke on what the public may request from clerks and historians concerning governmental records. He suggested that many municipal employees do not clearly understand what is to be available to anyone who wishes it, regardless of their reason. We have a right to use public records and in a timely manner.

If you have difficulty in obtaining records in New York State, you may wish to turn to Mr. Freeman with particular problems. Vital records, as described by law, are protected for a specific time period, but you may obtain unprotected, i.e. older records from the town of record (if they possess them) instead of being directed to the Health Department in Albany, NY. You may also examine old town records that are in their holdings.

For help or further information, contact Robert J. Freeman, Director, Committee on Open Government
Telephone 518-474-2518
Fax - 518-474-192741
State Street, Albany, NY 12231

To gain access to the text of open government statutes, you can use the following Internet address:
ACCESS

Each index to advisory opinions will be updated periodically to ensure that interested persons and government agencies will have access to opinions recently rendered.

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If you have any questions or comments about this page, please contact: Nancy Dixon

http://jefferson.nygenweb.net/tid1.htm updated March 7, 2009