Massachusetts Public Records Search

What Records Are Public In Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, the public records law is cited as Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 66, Section 10. This law outlines which records are deemed public and must be made available upon request. Under this law, any record that is created, received, maintained, or used by any agency or employee of the state, county, or municipal government is considered a public record, unless it falls under one of the exemptions outlined in the law. Some of the exemptions include certain medical or financial information, trade secrets, and law enforcement records. Examples of public records include meeting minutes, budgets, personnel files, building plans, and licenses. The law also requires that these records be provided to the public in a timely manner, usually within ten days of the request. It's important to note that while many records in Massachusetts are considered public, there are still some restrictions and exemptions that may apply. It's always a good idea to consult the specific language of the law or seek legal advice if you have questions about accessing public records in Massachusetts.

Who Do You Contact For Public Records In Massachusetts?

In the state of Massachusetts, public records are maintained by the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Specifically, the Public Records Division is responsible for processing requests for records kept by state agencies and municipalities. To request public records in Massachusetts, individuals can submit a request through the Public Records Division’s online portal, via email, or by mailing in a request form. The request should include as much detail as possible to help the agency locate the records, including the name of the agency or municipality, the specific records requested, and the timeframe in which they were created. It is important to note that some records may be exempt from disclosure under certain circumstances, such as when they involve personal privacy, ongoing investigations or litigation, or trade secrets. If a request is denied based on an exemption, the requester has the right to appeal the decision to the Secretary of the Commonwealth or file a lawsuit. Overall, the Public Records Division in Massachusetts strives to provide timely and efficient access to public records while balancing the need for transparency with the need to protect certain sensitive information.

How Do I Make A Change To Public Records In Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, there is a process for making changes to public records. The first step would be to identify which agency or office is responsible for maintaining the specific record in question. Once you have identified the agency, you can request a correction or amendment to the record. The process for requesting a correction or amendment varies depending on the agency or office, but generally involves submitting a written request that includes a detailed explanation of the correction or amendment you are requesting, as well as any supporting documentation or evidence. For example, if you want to correct a mistake in a birth certificate, you would need to contact the Massachusetts Registry of Vital Records and Statistics and provide them with the correct information, along with any supporting documentation, such as a passport or driver's license. It is important to note that not all requests for corrections or amendments will be granted. Each agency or office will have specific rules and requirements for what changes can be made to public records and under what circumstances. If your request is denied, you may be able to appeal the decision by filing a formal administrative appeal or seeking help from a lawyer or advocacy group. Overall, the process for making changes to public records in Massachusetts can be complex and time-consuming, but it is important to ensure that public records are accurate and up-to-date.

Massachusetts State Resources

• Governor Maura Healey
• Secretary of State
• State Agencies
• State Personnel Directory
• Association of Counties
• Department of Social Services
• Department of Justice
• Department of Rehabilitation
• Legislative Branch
• Judicial Branch
• Census
• RMV

Massachusetts State Charities