Public Record Media to hold press conference on Attorney General data case before MN Supreme Court
Plus: Updates on open records issues pertaining to data from Trump and Walz administrations
November 9, 2021
For immediate release
St. Paul, Minnesota – On Wednesday, November 10, 2021, Saint Paul-based government transparency organization Public Record Media (PRM) will hold a press conference to discuss a Data Practices Act case currently before the Minnesota Supreme Court: Energy Policy Advocates v. Ellison. PRM is filing a friend-of-the-court brief in this important open records case, which will define the scope of Attorney General data available to the public. The event will be held in the Minnesota State Capitol Press Conference Room B971 at 9:30am. The main case is being litigated by the Upper Midwest Law Center, and questions on the underlying litigation should be directed to their office.
PRM Special Counsel Mahesha Subbaraman will discuss the implications for public access to government data that underly the Energy Policy Advocates case, and PRM Executive Director Matt Ehling will provide updates on two other matters that the organization is pursuing.
Update on DOD FOIA request
The day after the January 6th riot at the U.S. Capitol, PRM submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), seeking records about the transfer of military authority between the outgoing Trump administration, and the incoming Biden administration. PRM also sought records related to possible use of the U.S. military to perform election re-count duties. It is important that the public be provided a proper historical accounting of what transpired at the highest levels of the federal government during the tumultuous aftermath of the 2020 election. PRM will discuss its recent efforts in this regard.
Update on Governor Walz data request
PRM is also seeking data relevant to significant events in Minnesota’s recent history (including the COVID pandemic and civil unrest of 2020) and the role of the executive branch in those events. PRM has requested e-mails from Governor Walz regarding those topics, and will provide an update on the status of that request.
PRM is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that seeks out and publishes government documents, writes investigative stories and reports, and litigates open records issues.
Contact:
Matt Ehling, Executive Director, 651-556-1381(p); 651-335-2037(c); Admin@publicrecordmedia.org
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Public Record Media to hold 10th Anniversary event and open records overview
September 14, 2019
Saint Paul, Minnesota – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) is hosting a ten-year anniversary event on October 5, 2019, beginning at 7:00pm. The event is being held at the offices of Saint Paul Neighborhood Network – 550 Vandalia Street, Suite 170, Saint Paul, MN 55114.
Prior to the anniversary event, PRM will hold an Open Records Overview presentation to familiarize members of the public with how to request government information through Minnesota’s “open records” statute – the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The Open Records Overview begins at 6:00pm. Both events are free and open to the public.
PRM’s accomplishments
PRM is a non-partisan, non-profit organization whose mission is to pursue transparency and democracy through the use, application, and enforcement of freedom of information laws. During the last ten years, PRM has:
• Obtained hundreds of thousands of government records – and has made this library of records available to the public;
• Published scores of original articles and reports – including stories on public subsidies for Google, urban warfare training operations in the Twin Cities, and SEC citations regarding the State of Minnesota’s bond offerings;
• Filed multiple open record lawsuits, and secured previously unseen government documents. PRM also engaged in litigation that ultimately led to the release of the State of Minnesota’s bid for Amazon’s second corporate headquarters;
• Helped Minnesotans access government records through individual mentoring and state-wide education programs.
For questions, or to RSVP for the Open Records Overview event, call 651-556-1381.
Greater MSP announces that it will release Minnesota’s withheld Amazon bid – PRM to hold press conference
May 5, 2019
St. Paul, Minnesota – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nearly a year ago, Public Record Media (PRM)—a government transparency non-profit—filed suit to secure public disclosure of the State of Minnesota’s official bid for Amazon’s second corporate headquarters in North America (HQ2). PRM sued the State and Greater MSP, the economic development non-profit that the State worked with to produce the bid.
Now, in the wake of PRM’s decision to appeal a district court order in Greater MSP’s favor, Greater MSP has announced that the State’s HQ2 Bid will be made “publicly available this week.”
In an opinion piece published by the Star Tribune, Greater MSP CEO Peter Frosch writes that his organization “will disclose the Amazon HQ2 project submission in its entirety to the Department of Employment and Economic Development” (DEED). Frosch also notes that “client consent makes this change possible.”
Frosch’s announcement came two months after PRM filed an appeal to hold both the State and Greater MSP accountable under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, which “establishes a presumption that government data are public and are accessible by the public for both inspection and copying.” Minn. Stat. § 13.01, subd. 3.
PRM’s appeal was supported by a dozen organizations and individuals, who were granted court permission to file friend-of-the-court briefs in support of PRM’s position. These entities included the Associated Press, Gannett, Gray Television Group, the Minnesota Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, the Minnesota Coalition on Government Information, Minnesota Public Radio, the Saint Paul Pioneer Press, Tegna, Inc., Tony Webster, the Center of the American Experiment, the Freedom Foundation of Minnesota, and Saint Paul STRONG.
In pursuing its appeal, PRM also sent a letter to Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison asking them to “take all steps needed to achieve full disclosure of the State’s Amazon HQ2 Bid.”
PRM Executive Director Matt Ehling and members of PRM’s legal team will be available to respond to press questions at PRM’s office at 12:30pm on May 6th.
PRM is located at 2375 University Ave W., Suite 200, in St. Paul, MN 55114.
Minnesota’s Amazon bid
In September 2017, on-line retailer Amazon initiated a nationwide search for a location to build its second corporate headquarters, colloquially dubbed “HQ2.” Cities, counties, and states—including Minnesota— rushed to answer.
The State of Minnesota’s Amazon bid was a joint effort between DEED and Greater MSP. Following submission of the State’s Bid to Amazon, PRM sought disclosure of the Bid under the Data Practices Act.
DEED’s initial response to PRM’s request for the Bid consisted of just three pages of the Bid, including a cover sheet signed by then-Governor Mark Dayton, Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith, and leading members of the Minnesota legislature. According to DEED, the agency did not possess the remainder of the State’s HQ2 Bid because Greater MSP “took on the task of compiling Minnesota’s response and submitting it to Amazon.”
Greater MSP, in turn, responded to PRM’s request for the Bid by claiming that Greater MSP was not obligated to disclose the full HQ2 bid. Greater MSP cited a non-disclosure agreement with Amazon and further asserted “there is no contract between Greater MSP and DEED as to the subject of [PRM’s] request.”
PRM later received e-mails from DEED showing that DEED had access to Amazon-related bid materials through a file-sharing portal managed by Greater MSP.
PRM’s litigation
In June 2018, PRM sued DEED to secure public disclosure of the State’s HQ2 Bid and enforce the Data Practices Act. A month later, PRM named Greater MSP as a defendant. In pursuing this case, PRM’s Executive Director Matt Ehling explained: “If we can’t get this Amazon bid, and the state can continue to make these kinds of arrangements to hide economic development projects, it’s going to negatively impact every taxpayer in the state.”
PRM’s lawsuit was dismissed by a district court judge in January 2019. PRM appealed on February 28, 2019.
PRM’s mission
Public Record Media is a Saint Paul-based non-profit organization that makes open record requests for government information, publishes articles on public affairs issues, litigates open record matters, and engages in public education about government transparency.
For more information, contact Executive Director Matt Ehling at 651-556-1381. Mr. Ehling will be available by phone after 5:00pm on March 6th, or will be available at the May 6th press event at 12:30pm.
PRM to host open records training in Chanhassen, Minnesota
January 11, 2019
St. Paul, Minnesota – On Wednesday, January 30, 2019, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a free Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Chanhassen Library (Carver County) in Chanhassen, Minnesota. The event will will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The library is located at 7711 Kerber Blvd. in Chanhassen, Minnesota.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use the Minnesota’s Data Practices Act to obtain government records on a wide range of issues – from property records, to police reports, to school board plans and government budgets.
The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. You can RSVP calling 651-556-1381.
PRM to host open records training in Roseville, Minnesota
August 21, 2018
St. Paul, Minnesota – On Wednesday September 12, 2018, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Ramsey County Library in Roseville, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s Community Program Room, and will run from 7:00pm-8:30pm. The Roseville Library is located at 2180 North Hamline Avenue in Roseville, MN.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use Minnesota’s Data Practices Act to obtain government records on a wide range of issues – from property records, to police reports, to school board plans and government budgets. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by Matt Ehling, PRM’s executive director.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. Since 2014, PRM has hosted public record trainings throughout the state.
Public Record Media files suit against Justice Department; seeks procedures, legal opinions about media investigations
May 7, 2018
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On May 3rd, Minnesota-based open government organization Public Record Media (PRM) filed suit in federal court, seeking access to U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) records requested under a 2017 Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.
PRM’s FOIA request seeks a variety of records about legal tools and techniques used to obtain information from members of the media. The request also seeks memoranda and correspondence related to the potential use of the Espionage Act to prosecute journalists.
PRM’s request covers a date range that includes two presidential administrations – those of presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump. Under President Obama, DOJ undertook several media leak investigations in which the agency sought information from members of the press – including reporters for Fox News and the New York Times. In the case of correspondent James Rosen, the FBI referred to Rosen as a potential criminal “co-conspirator” in a search warrant affidavit – sparking criticism that resulted in a 2013 review of DOJ investigative procedures. PRM’s request seeks documents about the policy measures that resulted from this review.
Several months after the inauguration of President Trump, Attorney General Jeff Sessions publicly stated that he had directed the National Security Division of DOJ to “prioritize cases involving unauthorized disclosures” and that his agency “was reviewing policies that impact leak investigations.” PRM is seeking correspondence and memoranda about Trump-era changes to DOJ investigative policies put in place under the previous administration.
Through its FOIA request and lawsuit, PRM is also pursuing legal memoranda related to whether DOJ believes the Espionage Act (often used to prosecute leakers) can also be used to prosecute journalists.
PRM seeks out and publishes government information, writes original investigative stories, conducts public education on government transparency, and litigates open records issues. PRM has secured thousands of pages of documents from federal agencies through past litigation.
The complaint in PRM’s case was filed on May 3rd in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. PRM is represented by Jan Evans and Eric Yaffe, Gray, Plant, Mooty, Minneapolis and Washington D.C.
Public Record Media to host public records workshop in Woodbury
March 9, 2018
St. Paul, Minnesota – On March 22, 2018, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a free Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the R.H. Stafford Library in Woodbury, Minnesota. The event will will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The R.H. Stafford Library is located at 8595 Central Park Place in Woodbury, Minnesota 55125.
Seating is limited. RSVP by calling Public Record Media at 651-556-1381, and leaving a message with your name and contact information.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use Minnesota’s Data Practices Act to obtain government records. Each year – in conjunction with long-time data advocate Rich Neumeister – PRM hosts FOI workshops across the state, with the aim of training people about how to use the state’s data access laws for research, education, and fostering government accountability.
PRM is hosting its March event in Woodbury in light of the city’s recent appeal to the Minnesota Legislature to make changes to the Data Practices Act – including eliminating the laws’ long-standing provision that allows the public to inspect data at no cost. Under current law, public requesters have the option to review data at government agencies for free, as opposed to paying for copies of data.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM to release journal, hold fundraiser at SubText Bookstore
November 7, 2017
St. Paul, Minnesota – Transparency nonprofit Public Record Media (PRM) will release its semi-annual journal on December 14, 2017 at SubText books in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The event will run from 7:00-8:00pm, and will coincide with PRM’s annual fundraiser.
Public record requester and independent journalist Tony Webster will deliver remarks on the state of public records in Minnesota, and will discuss the two-year litigation surrounding his outstanding data request to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office. PRM advsory board member and former state Data Practices official Don Gemberling will also share a historical perspective on Minnesota’s goverment records laws.
PRM is releasing volume two of its semi-annual journal, which covers material originally published on its website, including articles on the FBI files of anti-war activist Marv Davidov, proposed mining activity in northern Minnesota, and the state’s historical radiation data. The journal will also include reproductions of government documents on drones, military training exercises in the Twin Cities, and reviews of the state’s heath maintenance organizations (HMOs).
Included in the journal is advice from long-time data requester Rich Neumeister on seeking information from government agencies under Minnesota’s Data Practices Act, and the first installment of an interview series with Don Gemberling on the history of Minnesota’s government transparency laws.
The event will be held December 14, 2017 at SubText Bookstore from 7:00-8:00pm. SubText Bookstore is located at 6 West 5th Street in downtown Saint Paul. PRM’s journal will remain on sale at the store after the fundraiser event. Donations to PRM can also be made via the organization’s GiveMN page. For additional information, contact Public Record Media at 651-556-1381.
Public Record Media is a Saint Paul based non-partisan, non-profit organization that conducts public record-related research, publication, litigation, and education.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Duluth
September 21, 2017
St. Paul, Minnesota – Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Duluth Public Library, 520 West Superior Street, on October 12th, 2017 from 6:30pm-8:00pm.
Freedom of Information (FOI) laws allow the public to access government records – everything from city council e-mails to police reports. PRM’s workshop will highlight how people can use FOI laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain information relevant to their lives, and to foster government accountability.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present a primer on how to access government data in Minnesota. PRM’s executive director Matt Ehling will deliver an overview of the federal Freedom of Information Act. Local data requesters have also been invited to attend in order to share their experiences using FOI laws.
PRM’s FOI workshop comes in the wake of proposed changes to the city’s data access policies. Earlier this year, the City of Duluth proposed raising fees for accessing public records above the rate required by state law. The proposal was later withdrawn in the wake of criticism from media organizations and members of the public.
The event is free. PRM hosts public education events across the state of Minnesota related to government transparency. 2017 is the fourth consecutive year that PRM has hosted an FOI workshop in Duluth.
Public Record Media is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. More information is available at www.publicrecordmedia.org.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Minneapolis
August 17, 2017
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On September 11, 2017, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the North Regional Library in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s North Regional Meeting Room, and will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The North Regional Library is located at 1315 Lowry Ave. N. in Minneapolis.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use Minnesota’s Data Practices Act to obtain government records of interest to them. Body camera footage will be used as an example of government data that requesters can obtain, and a discussion of issues related to body camera footage will be held. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by a member of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381, as space is limited.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. Since 2014, PRM has hosted public record trainings throughout the state.
Public Record Media files suit against Justice Department; seeks legal opinions about mass surveillance programs covering U.S. persons
January 24, 2017
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On January 23rd, Minnesota-based open government organization Public Record Media (PRM) filed suit in federal court, seeking access to legal opinions and correspondence related to mass surveillance programs that capture the communications data of U.S. persons.
Since 9/11, two successive presidential administrations have engaged in sweeping communications surveillance operations – including the Bush administration’s “warrantless wiretapping” program, and the telephone metadata collection program operated by the Obama administration.
Over time, the public disclosure of such practices has resulted in modifications designed to address legal and constitutional problems posed by over-broad collection programs – including congressional limitations on collection activities enacted in June of 2015.
“Mass surveillance programs that cover U.S. citizens have been utilized by both Democratic and Republican presidents,” said PRM President Matt Ehling. “With a new administration in power in Washington, the public deserves to know the extent – and asserted legal basis – of any broad-based surveillance programs that capture the communications data of U.S. citizens.”
The FOIA request at the center of the lawsuit also seeks to shed light on the past surveillance practices of the Obama administration by requesting correspondence between members of Congress and the office of the U.S Attorney General.
PRM seeks out and publishes government data, writes original investigative stories, conducts public education on government transparency, and litigates open records issues. PRM has secured thousands of pages of documents from federal agencies through past litigation, including in cases against the departments of Interior and Health and Human Services.
The complaint in Public Record Media v. U.S. Department of Justice was filed on January 23rd in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Washington DC attorney Scott Hodes is representing PRM.
Public Record Media to host open house on November 16th
November 7, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – On November 16th, Public Record Media will host an open house event at its office in Saint Paul. Join PRM’s board and staff for refreshments, plus a discussion about public record-based reporting.
Public Record Media (PRM) is a Saint Paul-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. Over the course of its history, PRM has obtained hundreds of thousands of pages of government records, and has engaged in extensive public records litigation. Since 2014, PRM has also trained scores of Minnesotans about how to utilize open records laws.
Seeking government records: PRM uses state and federal open records laws to obtain a wide variety of government documents. Records obtained by PRM are used for PRM’s original reporting, or are shared with local and national press organizations. Documents obtained by PRM have supported reporting efforts by the Star Tribune, the Pioneer Press, Minnpost, Minnesota Public Radio, and other new outlets.
Legal work: PRM has engaged in successful Freedom of Information Act lawsuits against a variety of federal agencies, and has submitted amicus briefs in multiple state-level legal disputes over access to government records. PRM’s legal work seeks to maintain robust case law in support of public access to government information.
Public education: PRM trains citizens across Minnesota about how to use state and federal open records laws, and answers citizen inquiries about access to government data.
PRM’s open house will run from 5:30pm to 8:00pm, with a short presentation at 7:00pm. PRM’s Executive Editor Mike Kaszuba will speak with Minnpost reporter Peter Callaghan about the state of public records in Minnesota.
Tax-deductible donations to support PRM’s work will be accepted at the event, or they can be made via PRM’s page on the GiveMN.org website.
PRM is located at 2375 University Ave. W., Suite 200 St. Paul, MN 55114. Call 651-556-1381 for directions, or with other questions.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Duluth
July 25, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Duluth Public Library, 520 West Superior Street, on Monday August 15th, 2016 from 6:30pm-8:00pm.
Freedom of Information (FOI) laws make government data – including city budgets, arrest information, and more – available to anyone. PRM’s workshop will explain how people can use Freedom of Information laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government records.
PRM’s workshop will also focus on two government records case studies. JT Haines, a Duluth attorney who previously served as special counsel to PRM, will discuss PRM’s use of FOI laws to obtain data on proposed mining operations in northern Minnesota – including the Twin Metals and NorthMet projects.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present an overview of the state of public access to police body camera data. The Minnesota Legislature recently made changes to state law that affect body camera use. How do such changes impact transparency, civil liberties, and other issues?
The event is free to the public. 2016 is the third consecutive year that PRM has hosted a public records event in Duluth.
Public Record Media is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. More information is available at www.publicrecordmedia.org.
Freedom of Information workshop to be held at Oakdale Library
July 8, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – On July 28th, PRM will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Oakdale Public Library, located at 1010 Heron Avenue North in Oakdale, Minnesota, from 6:30 pm-7:45 pm.
Freedom of Information laws make government data – including city budgets, arrest information, and more – available to anyone. PRM’s workshop will explain how people can use Freedom of Information laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government data and records.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present the workshop. PRM president Matt Ehling will give an introduction.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. Past events have been hosted in Duluth, Mankato, Rochester, Winona, St. Cloud, and throughout the Twin Cities area. The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Freedom of Information workshop to be held at Hosmer Library in Minneapolis
June 1, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – On June 20th, PRM will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Hosmer Library in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-7:45pm. The Hosmer Library is located at 347 E. 36th Street in Minneapolis.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
Since 2014, PRM has hosted FOI trainings throughout the state as part of its effort to increase public awareness of open record laws, and to provide citizens with tools to increase civic participation and government accountability.
Free workshop on public record laws at Anoka’s Rum River Library
April 12, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – Next month, St. Paul-based transparency non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will begin a year-long series of workshops on public records and government transparency. On May 2, 2016, PRM will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Rum River Branch of the Anoka County Library in Anoka, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-7:45pm. The Rum River Library is located at 4201 6th Ave. in Anoka.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester, educator, and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM has hosted FOI trainings throughout the state as part of its effort to increase public awareness of open record laws, and to provide citizens with tools to increase civic particpation and government accountability.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Winona
November 13, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – On Thursday, December 10, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Winona County Historical Center, located at 160 Johnson Street in Winona, Minnesota. The workshop will run from 6:30 to 8:00pm.
PRM’s event will explore how citizens can use FOI laws to obtain government records of interest to them. The event will feature Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester, educator, and open government advocate. Public Record Media’s president Matt Ehling will provide introductory remarks.
The event is free and open to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization has hosted throughout the state. Past events have been held in Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, Mankato, and various metro-area locations.
PRM files friend-of-the-court brief in Webster v. City of Bloomington data
lawsuit
October 26, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – Transparency non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) has filed a friend-of-the-court brief in the Tony Webster v. City of Bloomington data lawsuit. PRM’s brief was filed in support of plaintiff Tony Webster’s pending motion to compel the City of Bloomington to produce data in response to a freedom-of-information request. Webster’s request sought information about a December, 2014 Black Lives Matters protest at the Mall of America. Webster filed suit after city officials barred him from inspecting data responsive to his request, including various forms of computer metadata.
PRM’s interest in the Webster case ultimately stems from a letter that the City of Bloomington sent to Webster in which the City asserted that computer metadata was not covered by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act-the state law that governs public records requests. The City’s assertion is contrary to state law, and PRM has sought through its friend-of-the-court brief to help the court deciding the Webster case understand why this is so.
“If a city is free to withhold an entire category of information that plainly falls within the scope of the Data Practices Act, this would set a dangerous legal precedent,” said Mahesha Subbaraman, the attorney representing PRM in the matter. “It would also limit public access to government information by giving government agencies a ‘back door’ to escape their obligations under state law.”
PRM filed its brief in conjunction with the Minnesota Coalition on Government Information, and civic data activist William Bushey. A hearing in the Webster case will be held on October 28, 2015 at 9:00 AM at the Hennepin County Courthouse.
Press inquiries about PRM’s amicus brief can be directed to Mahesha Subbaraman of Subbaraman PLLC at 612-315-9210, or at mps@subblaw.com.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Mankato
September 10, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – How can you get access to records about your home or property? Or police records? What are your rights to obtain government records? What tools are available to get access to government information that is important to you?
On Thursday, October 1, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop to answer these questions and more during an event to be held from 6:30 PM-8:00 PM. The event will take place in the community room at Snell Motors, located at 1900 Madison Ave. in Mankato, Minnesota.
The workshop will explore how citizens can use FOI laws to obtain government records of interest to them. A particular focus of the workshop will be on government agencies that have enforcement powers. The event will feature Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester, educator, and open government advocate. Members of the Public Record Media board will provide introductory remarks.
The event is free and open to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, and various metro-area locations.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Duluth
August 4, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Duluth Public Library, 520 West Superior Street, on August 17th, 2015 from 6:30pm-8:00pm.
Freedom of Information laws make government data – including city budgets, arrest information, and more – available to anyone. PRM’s workshop will explain how people can use Freedom of Information laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government records.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present the workshop. PRM president Matt Ehling will give an introduction. Duluth resident Ann Redelfs will also discuss her own experiences obtaining government data, using techniques learned at a previous PRM workshop.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. More information is available at www.publicrecordmedia.org.
PRM continues transparency forums with Burnsville, MN open records event
July 19, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – PRM will continue its series of open records events with a Freedom of Information (FOI) forum on July 23, 2015, at the Burnhaven Library in Burnsville, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The Burnhaven Library is located at 1101 West County Road 42 in Burnsville.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Rochester, St. Cloud, Minneapolis, and Maplewood.
PRM to host public records workshop in Maplewood, MN
June 10, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – On July 16, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Maplewood Library in Maplewood, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The Maplewood Library is located at 3025 Southlawn Drive in Maplewood, Minnesota.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. A particular focus of the workshop will be on government entities that have an enforcement function – including police, housing, and related agencies. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Rochester, St. Cloud, and Minneapolis.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM to host public records workshop in Minneapolis, MN
May 18, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – On June 11, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the North Regional Library in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s North Regional Meeting Room, and will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The North Regional Library is located at 1315 Lowry Ave. N. in Minneapolis.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. A particular focus of the workshop will be on government entities that have an enforcement function – including police, housing, and related agencies. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Rochester and St. Cloud.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM Files Suit Against US Interior Department Over Mining Documents
December 4, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – One year ago November, Public Record Media submitted requests for mining-related documents to six state and federal agencies under open data laws. One of the six agencies has yet to respond to PRM’s request despite a legal obligation to do so and numerous follow-up communications.
“Over the course of a year, we have contacted Interior by letter, email, phone, and through their internal administrative appeal procedures,” said PRM President Matt Ehling. “It’s rare for us to receive no response at all to one of our requests. Given the clear importance of this issue to the public, we feel an obligation to get this properly resolved.”
PRM filed suit today in the US District Court, District of Minnesota, to pursue the requested records from Interior.
The suit will be PRM’s first in federal court since its 2013 settlement with the US Department of Health and Human Services, and 2013 victory over the US Department of Justice in front of the US District of Minnesota’s Chief Judge Michael Davis.
PRM Special Counsel JT Haines will again handle the case.
PRM to host public records workshop in Saint Cloud, MN
October 30, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – On December 2, 2014, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Great River Regional Library in Saint Cloud, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s Mississippi Community Room, and will run from 6:30pm-8:30pm. The Great River Regional Library is located at 1300 W. Saint Germain Street in Saint Cloud.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are requested, either by phone (651-556-1381) or by e-mail (info@publicrecordmedia.com).
PRM’s Saint Cloud workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting in greater Minnesota cities. PRM recently received funding from the Washington-based Sunlight Foundation to expand its education efforts around public records and government transparency. Most recently, PRM hosted an FOI workshop in Rochester, Minnesota that was attended by local citizens and representatives of regional media outlets.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM to host public records workshop in Rochester, MN
September 30, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – On October 21, 2014, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Heintz Center at Rochester Community and Technical College. The Henitz Center is located as 1926 College View Road, SE, in Rochester. The event will run from 6:00pm-8:00pm in the Heintz Commons.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws – both Minnesota and federal – to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are requested, either by phone (651-556-1381) or by e-mail (info@publicrecordmedia.com).
PRM’s Rochester workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting in greater Minnesota cities. PRM recently received funding from the Washington-based Sunlight Foundation to expand its education efforts around public records and government transparency.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Advisory Opinion favors PRM in data request for RFP, contract data
September 22, 2014
Saint Paul, MN — The Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Administration (ADM) issued a Data Practices Advisory Opinion on September 17 holding that Minnesota’s Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) “must provide access” to certain bid and contract data connected to oversight of the state’s public health care programs. Such programs are paid for with state and federal funds, and are largely administered by private, non-profit Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs).
Concerns about health care program oversight resulted in the passage of a 2012 law requiring independent audits of such programs. The law required OLA to hire a third-party vendor to undertake the audit work, starting with the 2014 program year.
ADM’s advisory opinion — 14-011 — pertains to an April 22, 2014, Data Practices Act request submitted by Saint Paul-based transparency organization Public Record Media (PRM). The request sought certain vendor information – including responses to RFPs and signed contracts – from OLA. OLA refused to produce such data, citing Minnesota Statute 3.979. PRM then submitted a request for an advisory opinion, asking for an interpretation of Minnesota law and OLA’s obligations thereunder. ADM subsequently held that much of the information sought by PRM must be made available as “public” data.
Commenting on the Commissioner’s opinion, PRM President Matt Ehling said,
“This is an important matter, and the correct result under the law. The public should be able to examine the identity and credentials of parties hired to audit Minnesota’s public health care programs, and their private HMO administrators.”
On September 19, PRM submitted a follow-up letter to OLA seeking a time to inspect the RFP and contract data sought in its original request.
Links to referenced documents:
- PRM DPA request seeking OLA RFP documents
- PRM request for advisory opinion
- OLA response to advisory opinion request
- Commissioner’s opinion
Public Record Media to host public records workshop in Duluth
July 14, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – On August 18, 2014, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the main branch of the Duluth Public Library at 520 West Superior Street. The event will run from 6:00pm-8:00pm.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws -including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government records on topics of interest to them.
The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Public Notice
RE: PRM State and Federal Public Data Requests – Mining Correspondence
March 3, 2014
Saint Paul, Minnesota – This public notice is to provide an update regarding the status of outstanding Public Record Media (PRM) data requests related to Minnesota mining proposals — including the PolyMet NorthMet and Twin Metals proposals — as well as the anticipated timeline for online availability.
The Requests: On November 21, 2013, PRM submitted state and federal public data requests to the following agencies regarding new mining plans and proposals in Minnesota:
- MN Department of Natural Resources
- MN Pollution Control Agency
- US Forest Service
- US Army Corps of Engineers
- US Environmental Protection Agency
- US Department of the Interior
The requests sought both intra-agency and agency-company correspondence, created or transmitted between January 1, 2012 and November 20, 2013, regarding mining plans and proposals in Minnesota and associated land exchanges. The full text of the requests is available here:
http://www.publicrecordmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/MNGDPAMNPCA2013_pd_001.pdf
Delivery Updates: As of this date, PRM has received the following document batches:
- DNR: Received February, 2014
- PCA: Received January, 2014
- USFS [Not yet received]
- ACE: Received January, 2014
- EPA: Received February, 2014
- Interior: [Not yet received]
Each of DNR, PCA, ACE and EPA has represented that their deliveries are complete.
Publication: PRM’s process of making the documents available at www.publicrecordmedia.org is ongoing. If you would like direct access to the data in the interim, please contact
info@publicrecordmedia.com.
PRM executive director to speak at AAAS National Conference
February 15, 2014
Chicago, Illinois – Matt Ehling, the executive director of Public Record Media, will speak at the 2014 meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Mr. Ehling will speak on a panel entitled “Data Availability: Making Sure the Gift Keeps Giving.” His presentation will cover challenges to obtaining data through public records laws. Other presenters include David Reitze of the California Institute of Technology, and Catherine Grosso of Michigan State University.
The abstract of Mr Ehling’s presentation is below:
In 1966, Congress passed the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which provided the public with unprecedented access to stores of government data. Many states later followed suit, and enacted their own statutory schemes to permit broad-based data accessibility. The open-government architecture that resulted has become a fundamental tool of the press, policy makers, academics, and the public. It has enabled reportage, scientific analysis, historical research, government oversight, and policy formulation.
Despite the existence of sophisticated public information mechanisms, ready access to government data remains elusive in certain circumstances, and several trends are exerting pressure on the nation’s open-government infrastructure. Such trends include the increased use of security claims as a basis for withholding previously public data, increasing agency non-compliance with statutory mandates, recalcitrance on the part of private contractors who hold government data subject to disclosure under public records laws, and a reduction in funding for open government compliance.
An examination of contemporary case studies demonstrates the impact of these trends on government data architectures. An analysis of specific responses to the trends at work in the case studies – ranging from statutory adjustments to court rulings – provides insights into how the nation’s open government architecture may be buttressed or reinvigorated to face current challenges. Specific tools for acquiring government data in the face of agency non-compliance are identified and discussed within the context of current trends.
The presentation will occur on February 15, 2014 from 10:00AM-11:30AM, in the Regency D room of the Hyatt Regency Chicago.
Federal Court orders DOJ to pay Minnesota-based Public Record Media fees in drone case
February 05, 2013
Saint Paul, Minnesota – The United States District Court for the District of Minnesota has ordered the US Department of Justice to pay Minnesota-based Public Record Media fees in its drone-related lawsuit.
PRM filed suit under the Freedom of Information Act in May, 2012, to compel the DOJ to produce documents relating to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to deliver lethal force against persons inside the United States. PRM’s lawsuit was based on DOJ’s November 2011 statement that it possessed and was withholding records responsive to PRM’s FOIA request. Following the initiation of litigation, DOJ changed its position, filing a sworn declaration stating that – as of April 2012 – the agency in fact possessed no records related to the potential use of drones to deliver force within the United States.
In response to PRM’s subsequent motion, the Court agreed that as a result of the government’s change in position and the benefit provided to the public by PRM’s suit, PRM was entitled to fees. In his Order dated January 29, 2013, Chief Magistrate Judge Arthur J. Boylan stated that although PRM’s litigation did not result in the production of documents,
“The public at large can still glean important information … namely, the government does not possess any documents related to the lethal use of UAVs within U.S. jurisdiction.”
PRM’s fee award recognizes that the FOIA cannot function properly if government agencies do not make accurate representations to the public. “In this case, the government did not provide sufficient information in a timely manner under the FOIA,” said JT Haines, PRM’s attorney. “This is the right result, and a victory for transparency.”
Links to Judge Boylan’s order, as well as PRM’s and DOJ’s briefs can be found here:
Order on Motion for Fees and Costs
Memorandum in Support of Motion for Fees and Costs
Defendant’s Memorandum in Opposition to Plaintiff’s Motion for Fees
Plaintiff’s Reply Memorandum in Support of Fees Motion
Public Record Media files suit against Justice Department; seeks legal opinions on use of lethal force by aerial drones inside the United States
May 23, 2012
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On May 22nd, Minnesota-based journalism organization Public Record Media (PRM) filed suit in federal court, seeking access to legal opinions relating to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to deliver lethal force against persons inside the United States.
In October of 2011, PRM sent a Freedom of Information Act request to the Justice Department, seeking UAV-related opinions and memoranda. The agency acknowledged that it held responsive documents, but denied the request in its entirety. PRM subsequently filed an administrative appeal. After four months without a response to its appeal, PRM is seeking the documents through litigation.
“It is our contention that the law requires more of the government than they are providing. Given the seriousness of this issue and the implications for fundamental rights, we believe the public has a right to this information,” said JT Haines, a Twin Cities attorney who is handling PRM’s case.
The Obama administration has described its rationale for using lethal force against certain U.S. citizens overseas, but it has yet to release Justice Department documents that fully detail its legal position. Those documents are at the center of at least two other ongoing lawsuits. PRM’s lawsuit seeks the disclosure of legal opinions that expressly deal with how UAVs and lethal force issues might intersect on the domestic front.
“The Obama administration has engaged in a practice of withholding documents that describe the legal framework for government actions,” said Matt Ehling, the president of Public Record Media. “The American public has a right to understand how the government views the scope of its powers – particularly within our borders.”
Public Record Media to host public records event in Roseville, Minnesota
August 21, 2018
St. Paul, Minnesota – On Wednesday September 12, 2018, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Ramsey County Library in Roseville, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s Community Program Room, and will run from 7:00pm-8:30pm. The Roseville Library is located at 2180 North Hamline Avenue in Roseville, MN.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use Minnesota’s Data Practices Act to obtain government records on a wide range of issues – from property records, to police reports, to school board plans and government budgets. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by Matt Ehling, PRM’s executive director.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. Since 2014, PRM has hosted public record trainings throughout the state.
Public Record Media files suit against Justice Department; seeks procedures, legal opinions about media investigations
May 7, 2018
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On May 3rd, Minnesota-based open government organization Public Record Media (PRM) filed suit in federal court, seeking access to U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) records requested under a 2017 Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.
PRM’s FOIA request seeks a variety of records about legal tools and techniques used to obtain information from members of the media. The request also seeks memoranda and correspondence related to the potential use of the Espionage Act to prosecute journalists.
PRM’s request covers a date range that includes two presidential administrations – those of presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump. Under President Obama, DOJ undertook several media leak investigations in which the agency sought information from members of the press – including reporters for Fox News and the New York Times. In the case of correspondent James Rosen, the FBI referred to Rosen as a potential criminal “co-conspirator” in a search warrant affidavit – sparking criticism that resulted in a 2013 review of DOJ investigative procedures. PRM’s request seeks documents about the policy measures that resulted from this review.
Several months after the inauguration of President Trump, Attorney General Jeff Sessions publicly stated that he had directed the National Security Division of DOJ to “prioritize cases involving unauthorized disclosures” and that his agency “was reviewing policies that impact leak investigations.” PRM is seeking correspondence and memoranda about Trump-era changes to DOJ investigative policies put in place under the previous administration.
Through its FOIA request and lawsuit, PRM is also pursuing legal memoranda related to whether DOJ believes the Espionage Act (often used to prosecute leakers) can also be used to prosecute journalists.
PRM seeks out and publishes government information, writes original investigative stories, conducts public education on government transparency, and litigates open records issues. PRM has secured thousands of pages of documents from federal agencies through past litigation.
The complaint in PRM’s case was filed on May 3rd in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. PRM is represented by Jan Evans and Eric Yaffe, Gray, Plant, Mooty, Minneapolis and Washington D.C.
Public Record Media to host public records workshop in Woodbury
March 9, 2018
St. Paul, Minnesota – On March 22, 2018, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a free Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the R.H. Stafford Library in Woodbury, Minnesota. The event will will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The R.H. Stafford Library is located at 8595 Central Park Place in Woodbury, Minnesota 55125.
Seating is limited. RSVP by calling Public Record Media at 651-556-1381, and leaving a message with your name and contact information.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use Minnesota’s Data Practices Act to obtain government records. Each year – in conjunction with long-time data advocate Rich Neumeister – PRM hosts FOI workshops across the state, with the aim of training people about how to use the state’s data access laws for research, education, and fostering government accountability.
PRM is hosting its March event in Woodbury in light of the city’s recent appeal to the Minnesota Legislature to make changes to the Data Practices Act – including eliminating the laws’ long-standing provision that allows the public to inspect data at no cost. Under current law, public requesters have the option to review data at government agencies for free, as opposed to paying for copies of data.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM to release journal, hold fundraiser at SubText Bookstore
November 7, 2017
St. Paul, Minnesota – Transparency nonprofit Public Record Media (PRM) will release its semi-annual journal on December 14, 2017 at SubText books in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The event will run from 7:00-8:00pm, and will coincide with PRM’s annual fundraiser.
Public record requester and independent journalist Tony Webster will deliver remarks on the state of public records in Minnesota, and will discuss the two-year litigation surrounding his outstanding data request to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office. PRM advsory board member and former state Data Practices official Don Gemberling will also share a historical perspective on Minnesota’s goverment records laws.
PRM is releasing volume two of its semi-annual journal, which covers material originally published on its website, including articles on the FBI files of anti-war activist Marv Davidov, proposed mining activity in northern Minnesota, and the state’s historical radiation data. The journal will also include reproductions of government documents on drones, military training exercises in the Twin Cities, and reviews of the state’s heath maintenance organizations (HMOs).
Included in the journal is advice from long-time data requester Rich Neumeister on seeking information from government agencies under Minnesota’s Data Practices Act, and the first installment of an interview series with Don Gemberling on the history of Minnesota’s government transparency laws.
The event will be held December 14, 2017 at SubText Bookstore from 7:00-8:00pm. SubText Bookstore is located at 6 West 5th Street in downtown Saint Paul. PRM’s journal will remain on sale at the store after the fundraiser event. Donations to PRM can also be made via the organization’s GiveMN page. For additional information, contact Public Record Media at 651-556-1381.
Public Record Media is a Saint Paul based non-partisan, non-profit organization that conducts public record-related research, publication, litigation, and education.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Duluth
September 21, 2017
St. Paul, Minnesota – Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Duluth Public Library, 520 West Superior Street, on October 12th, 2017 from 6:30pm-8:00pm.
Freedom of Information (FOI) laws allow the public to access government records – everything from city council e-mails to police reports. PRM’s workshop will highlight how people can use FOI laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain information relevant to their lives, and to foster government accountability.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present a primer on how to access government data in Minnesota. PRM’s executive director Matt Ehling will deliver an overview of the federal Freedom of Information Act. Local data requesters have also been invited to attend in order to share their experiences using FOI laws.
PRM’s FOI workshop comes in the wake of proposed changes to the city’s data access policies. Earlier this year, the City of Duluth proposed raising fees for accessing public records above the rate required by state law. The proposal was later withdrawn in the wake of criticism from media organizations and members of the public.
The event is free. PRM hosts public education events across the state of Minnesota related to government transparency. 2017 is the fourth consecutive year that PRM has hosted an FOI workshop in Duluth.
Public Record Media is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. More information is available at www.publicrecordmedia.org.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Minneapolis
August 17, 2017
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On September 11, 2017, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the North Regional Library in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s North Regional Meeting Room, and will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The North Regional Library is located at 1315 Lowry Ave. N. in Minneapolis.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use Minnesota’s Data Practices Act to obtain government records of interest to them. Body camera footage will be used as an example of government data that requesters can obtain, and a discussion of issues related to body camera footage will be held. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by a member of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381, as space is limited.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. Since 2014, PRM has hosted public record trainings throughout the state.
Public Record Media files suit against Justice Department; seeks legal opinions about mass surveillance programs covering U.S. persons
January 24, 2017
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On January 23rd, Minnesota-based open government organization Public Record Media (PRM) filed suit in federal court, seeking access to legal opinions and correspondence related to mass surveillance programs that capture the communications data of U.S. persons.
Since 9/11, two successive presidential administrations have engaged in sweeping communications surveillance operations – including the Bush administration’s “warrantless wiretapping” program, and the telephone metadata collection program operated by the Obama administration.
Over time, the public disclosure of such practices has resulted in modifications designed to address legal and constitutional problems posed by over-broad collection programs – including congressional limitations on collection activities enacted in June of 2015.
“Mass surveillance programs that cover U.S. citizens have been utilized by both Democratic and Republican presidents,” said PRM President Matt Ehling. “With a new administration in power in Washington, the public deserves to know the extent – and asserted legal basis – of any broad-based surveillance programs that capture the communications data of U.S. citizens.”
The FOIA request at the center of the lawsuit also seeks to shed light on the past surveillance practices of the Obama administration by requesting correspondence between members of Congress and the office of the U.S Attorney General.
PRM seeks out and publishes government data, writes original investigative stories, conducts public education on government transparency, and litigates open records issues. PRM has secured thousands of pages of documents from federal agencies through past litigation, including in cases against the departments of Interior and Health and Human Services.
The complaint in Public Record Media v. U.S. Department of Justice was filed on January 23rd in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Washington DC attorney Scott Hodes is representing PRM.
Public Record Media to host open house on November 16th
November 7, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – On November 16th, Public Record Media will host an open house event at its office in Saint Paul. Join PRM’s board and staff for refreshments, plus a discussion about public record-based reporting.
Public Record Media (PRM) is a Saint Paul-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. Over the course of its history, PRM has obtained hundreds of thousands of pages of government records, and has engaged in extensive public records litigation. Since 2014, PRM has also trained scores of Minnesotans about how to utilize open records laws.
Seeking government records: PRM uses state and federal open records laws to obtain a wide variety of government documents. Records obtained by PRM are used for PRM’s original reporting, or are shared with local and national press organizations. Documents obtained by PRM have supported reporting efforts by the Star Tribune, the Pioneer Press, Minnpost, Minnesota Public Radio, and other new outlets.
Legal work: PRM has engaged in successful Freedom of Information Act lawsuits against a variety of federal agencies, and has submitted amicus briefs in multiple state-level legal disputes over access to government records. PRM’s legal work seeks to maintain robust case law in support of public access to government information.
Public education: PRM trains citizens across Minnesota about how to use state and federal open records laws, and answers citizen inquiries about access to government data.
PRM’s open house will run from 5:30pm to 8:00pm, with a short presentation at 7:00pm. PRM’s Executive Editor Mike Kaszuba will speak with Minnpost reporter Peter Callaghan about the state of public records in Minnesota.
Tax-deductible donations to support PRM’s work will be accepted at the event, or they can be made via PRM’s page on the GiveMN.org website.
PRM is located at 2375 University Ave. W., Suite 200 St. Paul, MN 55114. Call 651-556-1381 for directions, or with other questions.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Duluth
July 25, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Duluth Public Library, 520 West Superior Street, on Monday August 15th, 2016 from 6:30pm-8:00pm.
Freedom of Information (FOI) laws make government data – including city budgets, arrest information, and more – available to anyone. PRM’s workshop will explain how people can use Freedom of Information laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government records.
PRM’s workshop will also focus on two government records case studies. JT Haines, a Duluth attorney who previously served as special counsel to PRM, will discuss PRM’s use of FOI laws to obtain data on proposed mining operations in northern Minnesota – including the Twin Metals and NorthMet projects.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present an overview of the state of public access to police body camera data. The Minnesota Legislature recently made changes to state law that affect body camera use. How do such changes impact transparency, civil liberties, and other issues?
The event is free to the public. 2016 is the third consecutive year that PRM has hosted a public records event in Duluth.
Public Record Media is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. More information is available at www.publicrecordmedia.org.
Freedom of Information workshop to be held at Oakdale Library
July 8, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – On July 28th, PRM will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Oakdale Public Library, located at 1010 Heron Avenue North in Oakdale, Minnesota, from 6:30 pm-7:45 pm.
Freedom of Information laws make government data – including city budgets, arrest information, and more – available to anyone. PRM’s workshop will explain how people can use Freedom of Information laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government data and records.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present the workshop. PRM president Matt Ehling will give an introduction.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. Past events have been hosted in Duluth, Mankato, Rochester, Winona, St. Cloud, and throughout the Twin Cities area. The event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Freedom of Information workshop to be held at Hosmer Library in Minneapolis
June 1, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – On June 20th, PRM will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Hosmer Library in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-7:45pm. The Hosmer Library is located at 347 E. 36th Street in Minneapolis.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
Since 2014, PRM has hosted FOI trainings throughout the state as part of its effort to increase public awareness of open record laws, and to provide citizens with tools to increase civic participation and government accountability.
Free workshop on public record laws at Anoka’s Rum River Library
April 12, 2016
St. Paul, Minnesota – Next month, St. Paul-based transparency non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will begin a year-long series of workshops on public records and government transparency. On May 2, 2016, PRM will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Rum River Branch of the Anoka County Library in Anoka, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-7:45pm. The Rum River Library is located at 4201 6th Ave. in Anoka.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester, educator, and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM has hosted FOI trainings throughout the state as part of its effort to increase public awareness of open record laws, and to provide citizens with tools to increase civic particpation and government accountability.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Winona
November 13, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – On Thursday, December 10, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Winona County Historical Center, located at 160 Johnson Street in Winona, Minnesota. The workshop will run from 6:30 to 8:00pm.
PRM’s event will explore how citizens can use FOI laws to obtain government records of interest to them. The event will feature Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester, educator, and open government advocate. Public Record Media’s president Matt Ehling will provide introductory remarks.
The event is free and open to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization has hosted throughout the state. Past events have been held in Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, Mankato, and various metro-area locations.
PRM files friend-of-the-court brief in Webster v. City of Bloomington data
lawsuit
October 26, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – Transparency non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) has filed a friend-of-the-court brief in the Tony Webster v. City of Bloomington data lawsuit. PRM’s brief was filed in support of plaintiff Tony Webster’s pending motion to compel the City of Bloomington to produce data in response to a freedom-of-information request. Webster’s request sought information about a December, 2014 Black Lives Matters protest at the Mall of America. Webster filed suit after city officials barred him from inspecting data responsive to his request, including various forms of computer metadata.
PRM’s interest in the Webster case ultimately stems from a letter that the City of Bloomington sent to Webster in which the City asserted that computer metadata was not covered by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act-the state law that governs public records requests. The City’s assertion is contrary to state law, and PRM has sought through its friend-of-the-court brief to help the court deciding the Webster case understand why this is so.
“If a city is free to withhold an entire category of information that plainly falls within the scope of the Data Practices Act, this would set a dangerous legal precedent,” said Mahesha Subbaraman, the attorney representing PRM in the matter. “It would also limit public access to government information by giving government agencies a ‘back door’ to escape their obligations under state law.”
PRM filed its brief in conjunction with the Minnesota Coalition on Government Information, and civic data activist William Bushey. A hearing in the Webster case will be held on October 28, 2015 at 9:00 AM at the Hennepin County Courthouse.
Press inquiries about PRM’s amicus brief can be directed to Mahesha Subbaraman of Subbaraman PLLC at 612-315-9210, or at mps@subblaw.com.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Mankato
September 10, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – How can you get access to records about your home or property? Or police records? What are your rights to obtain government records? What tools are available to get access to government information that is important to you?
On Thursday, October 1, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop to answer these questions and more during an event to be held from 6:30 PM-8:00 PM. The event will take place in the community room at Snell Motors, located at 1900 Madison Ave. in Mankato, Minnesota.
The workshop will explore how citizens can use FOI laws to obtain government records of interest to them. A particular focus of the workshop will be on government agencies that have enforcement powers. The event will feature Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester, educator, and open government advocate. Members of the Public Record Media board will provide introductory remarks.
The event is free and open to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, and various metro-area locations.
Public Record Media to host Freedom of Information workshop in Duluth
August 4, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information workshop at the Duluth Public Library, 520 West Superior Street, on August 17th, 2015 from 6:30pm-8:00pm.
Freedom of Information laws make government data – including city budgets, arrest information, and more – available to anyone. PRM’s workshop will explain how people can use Freedom of Information laws – including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government records.
Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate, will present the workshop. PRM president Matt Ehling will give an introduction. Duluth resident Ann Redelfs will also discuss her own experiences obtaining government data, using techniques learned at a previous PRM workshop.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education. More information is available at www.publicrecordmedia.org.
PRM continues transparency forums with Burnsville, MN open records event
July 19, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – PRM will continue its series of open records events with a Freedom of Information (FOI) forum on July 23, 2015, at the Burnhaven Library in Burnsville, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The Burnhaven Library is located at 1101 West County Road 42 in Burnsville.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Rochester, St. Cloud, Minneapolis, and Maplewood.
PRM to host public records workshop in Maplewood, MN
June 10, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – On July 16, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Maplewood Library in Maplewood, Minnesota. The event will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The Maplewood Library is located at 3025 Southlawn Drive in Maplewood, Minnesota.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. A particular focus of the workshop will be on government entities that have an enforcement function – including police, housing, and related agencies. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Rochester, St. Cloud, and Minneapolis.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM to host public records workshop in Minneapolis, MN
May 18, 2015
St. Paul, Minnesota – On June 11, 2015, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the North Regional Library in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s North Regional Meeting Room, and will run from 6:30pm-8:00pm. The North Regional Library is located at 1315 Lowry Ave. N. in Minneapolis.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. A particular focus of the workshop will be on government entities that have an enforcement function – including police, housing, and related agencies. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by members of the PRM board.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are encouraged by calling 651-556-1381.
PRM’s workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting throughout the state under a grant from the Washington DC-based Sunlight Foundation. Past events have been hosted in Rochester and St. Cloud.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM Files Suit Against US Interior Department Over Mining Documents
December 4, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – One year ago November, Public Record Media submitted requests for mining-related documents to six state and federal agencies under open data laws. One of the six agencies has yet to respond to PRM’s request despite a legal obligation to do so and numerous follow-up communications.
“Over the course of a year, we have contacted Interior by letter, email, phone, and through their internal administrative appeal procedures,” said PRM President Matt Ehling. “It’s rare for us to receive no response at all to one of our requests. Given the clear importance of this issue to the public, we feel an obligation to get this properly resolved.”
PRM filed suit today in the US District Court, District of Minnesota, to pursue the requested records from Interior.
The suit will be PRM’s first in federal court since its 2013 settlement with the US Department of Health and Human Services, and 2013 victory over the US Department of Justice in front of the US District of Minnesota’s Chief Judge Michael Davis.
PRM Special Counsel JT Haines will again handle the case.
PRM to host public records workshop in Saint Cloud, MN
October 30, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – On December 2, 2014, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Great River Regional Library in Saint Cloud, Minnesota. The event will be held in the library’s Mississippi Community Room, and will run from 6:30pm-8:30pm. The Great River Regional Library is located at 1300 W. Saint Germain Street in Saint Cloud.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws (both Minnesota and federal) to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are requested, either by phone (651-556-1381) or by e-mail (info@publicrecordmedia.com).
PRM’s Saint Cloud workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting in greater Minnesota cities. PRM recently received funding from the Washington-based Sunlight Foundation to expand its education efforts around public records and government transparency. Most recently, PRM hosted an FOI workshop in Rochester, Minnesota that was attended by local citizens and representatives of regional media outlets.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
PRM to host public records workshop in Rochester, MN
September 30, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – On October 21, 2014, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the Heintz Center at Rochester Community and Technical College. The Henitz Center is located as 1926 College View Road, SE, in Rochester. The event will run from 6:00pm-8:00pm in the Heintz Commons.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws – both Minnesota and federal – to obtain government records of interest to them. The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests. RSVPs are requested, either by phone (651-556-1381) or by e-mail (info@publicrecordmedia.com).
PRM’s Rochester workshop is one in a series of events that the organization is hosting in greater Minnesota cities. PRM recently received funding from the Washington-based Sunlight Foundation to expand its education efforts around public records and government transparency.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Advisory Opinion favors PRM in data request for RFP, contract data
September 22, 2014
Saint Paul, MN — The Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Administration (ADM) issued a Data Practices Advisory Opinion on September 17 holding that Minnesota’s Office of the Legislative Auditor (OLA) “must provide access” to certain bid and contract data connected to oversight of the state’s public health care programs. Such programs are paid for with state and federal funds, and are largely administered by private, non-profit Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs).
Concerns about health care program oversight resulted in the passage of a 2012 law requiring independent audits of such programs. The law required OLA to hire a third-party vendor to undertake the audit work, starting with the 2014 program year.
ADM’s advisory opinion — 14-011 — pertains to an April 22, 2014, Data Practices Act request submitted by Saint Paul-based transparency organization Public Record Media (PRM). The request sought certain vendor information – including responses to RFPs and signed contracts – from OLA. OLA refused to produce such data, citing Minnesota Statute 3.979. PRM then submitted a request for an advisory opinion, asking for an interpretation of Minnesota law and OLA’s obligations thereunder. ADM subsequently held that much of the information sought by PRM must be made available as “public” data.
Commenting on the Commissioner’s opinion, PRM President Matt Ehling said,
“This is an important matter, and the correct result under the law. The public should be able to examine the identity and credentials of parties hired to audit Minnesota’s public health care programs, and their private HMO administrators.”
On September 19, PRM submitted a follow-up letter to OLA seeking a time to inspect the RFP and contract data sought in its original request.
Links to referenced documents:
- PRM DPA request seeking OLA RFP documents
- PRM request for advisory opinion
- OLA response to advisory opinion request
- Commissioner’s opinion
Public Record Media to host public records workshop in Duluth
July 14, 2014
St. Paul, Minnesota – On August 18, 2014, Saint Paul-based non-profit Public Record Media (PRM) will host a Freedom of Information (FOI) workshop at the main branch of the Duluth Public Library at 520 West Superior Street. The event will run from 6:00pm-8:00pm.
The workshop will explore how members of the public can use FOI laws -including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act – to obtain government records on topics of interest to them.
The presentation will feature comments by Rich Neumeister, a long-time public record requester and open government advocate. An introduction will be given by PRM president Matt Ehling.
The event is free to the public. Participants are encouraged to bring ideas for their own public record requests.
Public Record Media is a Minnesota-based non-profit organization that conducts public record-centered publication, legal work, and education.
Public Notice
RE: PRM State and Federal Public Data Requests – Mining Correspondence
March 3, 2014
Saint Paul, Minnesota – This public notice is to provide an update regarding the status of outstanding Public Record Media (PRM) data requests related to Minnesota mining proposals — including the PolyMet NorthMet and Twin Metals proposals — as well as the anticipated timeline for online availability.
The Requests: On November 21, 2013, PRM submitted state and federal public data requests to the following agencies regarding new mining plans and proposals in Minnesota:
- MN Department of Natural Resources
- MN Pollution Control Agency
- US Forest Service
- US Army Corps of Engineers
- US Environmental Protection Agency
- US Department of the Interior
The requests sought both intra-agency and agency-company correspondence, created or transmitted between January 1, 2012 and November 20, 2013, regarding mining plans and proposals in Minnesota and associated land exchanges. The full text of the requests is available here:
http://www.publicrecordmedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/MNGDPAMNPCA2013_pd_001.pdf
Delivery Updates: As of this date, PRM has received the following document batches:
- DNR: Received February, 2014
- PCA: Received January, 2014
- USFS [Not yet received]
- ACE: Received January, 2014
- EPA: Received February, 2014
- Interior: [Not yet received]
Each of DNR, PCA, ACE and EPA has represented that their deliveries are complete.
Publication: PRM’s process of making the documents available at www.publicrecordmedia.org is ongoing. If you would like direct access to the data in the interim, please contact
info@publicrecordmedia.com.
PRM executive director to speak at AAAS National Conference
February 15, 2014
Chicago, Illinois – Matt Ehling, the executive director of Public Record Media, will speak at the 2014 meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Mr. Ehling will speak on a panel entitled “Data Availability: Making Sure the Gift Keeps Giving.” His presentation will cover challenges to obtaining data through public records laws. Other presenters include David Reitze of the California Institute of Technology, and Catherine Grosso of Michigan State University.
The abstract of Mr Ehling’s presentation is below:
In 1966, Congress passed the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which provided the public with unprecedented access to stores of government data. Many states later followed suit, and enacted their own statutory schemes to permit broad-based data accessibility. The open-government architecture that resulted has become a fundamental tool of the press, policy makers, academics, and the public. It has enabled reportage, scientific analysis, historical research, government oversight, and policy formulation.
Despite the existence of sophisticated public information mechanisms, ready access to government data remains elusive in certain circumstances, and several trends are exerting pressure on the nation’s open-government infrastructure. Such trends include the increased use of security claims as a basis for withholding previously public data, increasing agency non-compliance with statutory mandates, recalcitrance on the part of private contractors who hold government data subject to disclosure under public records laws, and a reduction in funding for open government compliance.
An examination of contemporary case studies demonstrates the impact of these trends on government data architectures. An analysis of specific responses to the trends at work in the case studies – ranging from statutory adjustments to court rulings – provides insights into how the nation’s open government architecture may be buttressed or reinvigorated to face current challenges. Specific tools for acquiring government data in the face of agency non-compliance are identified and discussed within the context of current trends.
The presentation will occur on February 15, 2014 from 10:00AM-11:30AM, in the Regency D room of the Hyatt Regency Chicago.
Federal Court orders DOJ to pay Minnesota-based Public Record Media fees in drone case
February 05, 2013
Saint Paul, Minnesota – The United States District Court for the District of Minnesota has ordered the US Department of Justice to pay Minnesota-based Public Record Media fees in its drone-related lawsuit.
PRM filed suit under the Freedom of Information Act in May, 2012, to compel the DOJ to produce documents relating to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to deliver lethal force against persons inside the United States. PRM’s lawsuit was based on DOJ’s November 2011 statement that it possessed and was withholding records responsive to PRM’s FOIA request. Following the initiation of litigation, DOJ changed its position, filing a sworn declaration stating that – as of April 2012 – the agency in fact possessed no records related to the potential use of drones to deliver force within the United States.
In response to PRM’s subsequent motion, the Court agreed that as a result of the government’s change in position and the benefit provided to the public by PRM’s suit, PRM was entitled to fees. In his Order dated January 29, 2013, Chief Magistrate Judge Arthur J. Boylan stated that although PRM’s litigation did not result in the production of documents,
“The public at large can still glean important information … namely, the government does not possess any documents related to the lethal use of UAVs within U.S. jurisdiction.”
PRM’s fee award recognizes that the FOIA cannot function properly if government agencies do not make accurate representations to the public. “In this case, the government did not provide sufficient information in a timely manner under the FOIA,” said JT Haines, PRM’s attorney. “This is the right result, and a victory for transparency.”
Links to Judge Boylan’s order, as well as PRM’s and DOJ’s briefs can be found here:
Order on Motion for Fees and Costs
Memorandum in Support of Motion for Fees and Costs
Defendant’s Memorandum in Opposition to Plaintiff’s Motion for Fees
Plaintiff’s Reply Memorandum in Support of Fees Motion
Public Record Media files suit against Justice Department; seeks legal opinions on use of lethal force by aerial drones inside the United States
May 23, 2012
Saint Paul, Minnesota – On May 22nd, Minnesota-based journalism organization Public Record Media (PRM) filed suit in federal court, seeking access to legal opinions relating to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to deliver lethal force against persons inside the United States.
In October of 2011, PRM sent a Freedom of Information Act request to the Justice Department, seeking UAV-related opinions and memoranda. The agency acknowledged that it held responsive documents, but denied the request in its entirety. PRM subsequently filed an administrative appeal. After four months without a response to its appeal, PRM is seeking the documents through litigation.
“It is our contention that the law requires more of the government than they are providing. Given the seriousness of this issue and the implications for fundamental rights, we believe the public has a right to this information,” said JT Haines, a Twin Cities attorney who is handling PRM’s case.
The Obama administration has described its rationale for using lethal force against certain U.S. citizens overseas, but it has yet to release Justice Department documents that fully detail its legal position. Those documents are at the center of at least two other ongoing lawsuits. PRM’s lawsuit seeks the disclosure of legal opinions that expressly deal with how UAVs and lethal force issues might intersect on the domestic front.
“The Obama administration has engaged in a practice of withholding documents that describe the legal framework for government actions,” said Matt Ehling, the president of Public Record Media. “The American public has a right to understand how the government views the scope of its powers – particularly within our borders.”