Ensuring Open and Honest Government

Public Access and Opinions Division

Public Access Counselor

Opinions

To the People of Illinois:

Open and honest government depends on the full participation of citizens in their government and the free exchange of information between the government and its citizens. Here in Illinois, we have two important laws designed explicitly to ensure that citizens have access to information regarding the affairs of government: the Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140 (FOIA), and the Open Meetings Act, 5 ILCS 120 (OMA). Both of these laws are intended to foster government accountability and increase the public’s ability to participate fully in government.

However, FOIA and OMA are only effective when citizens, the media and public officials understand their rights and obligations under these laws. As the state’s chief legal officer, I have worked closely with members of the public, the media, and government officials to resolve disputes under these laws and ensure greater enforcement and compliance with them. As part of our continuing efforts in this area, I have established the position of Public Access Counselor within the Public Access and Opinions Division of my office. Working with Michael J. Luke, the Chief of the Public Access and Opinions Division, Public Access Counselor Terry Mutchler [PAC] will take an active role in ensuring that public bodies conduct their business openly and that members of the public have access to the governmental information to which they are entitled.

The Public Access Counselor will offer education and training programs to government officials, members of the public, and the media; will answer questions concerning FOIA and OMA; and will work to resolve disputes under these laws and ensure compliance.

This website offers an introduction to the work of the Public Access Counselor and vital information concerning both the Freedom of Information Act and the Open Meetings Act. I hope that you will contact us when you have questions about FOIA or OMA or ideas for improving the effectiveness of and compliance with these laws.

Lisa Madigan
Illinois Attorney General

Information and Documents:

Public Access Counselor

Public Access Counselor Annual Report 2007

Public Access Counselor Annual Report 2006

Public Access Counselor Annual Report 2005

Opinions

Press Release 12/20/04

Training Offered by the Public Access and Opinions Division

Sample Illinois Freedom of Information Act Request

Sample Freedom of Information Act Appeal

Return to Home Page