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KORA Information

Access to Kansas Open Records

Records Available

Most records maintained by public entities are open for public inspection and copying. Records commonly requested include, but are not limited to: statutes, regulations, policies, minutes/records of public meetings, salaries of public officials and agency budget documents.

Your Rights

  1. To inspect and obtain copies of public records that are not exempt from disclosure by a specific law.
  2. To obtain a copy of the agency’s policies and procedures for access to records and to request assistance from the agency’s Freedom of Information Officer.
  3. To receive a written response to your request within three (3) business
    1. The response may inform you that it will take additional time to produce the records.  Reasons for additional time may include voluminous records, complicated requests parameters, unresolved legal issues or difficulty in accessing archived records
    2. The response may deny your request in whole or in part. If the request is denied, the agency must identify generally the records to be denied and the specific legal authority for the denial.
  4. To bring a private lawsuit or to file a complaint with the District Attorney, County Attorney or the Attorney General if you feel you were wrongfully denied records.

Your Responsibilities

  1. You must request records--written, photographic or computerized. The Kansas Open Records Act does not require an agency to answer questions or prepare reports.
  2. An agency may require you to put your request in writing, and you must provide proof of your identity, if requested. 
  3. Reasonable fees, not exceeding actual cost, may be charged for access to records, copies of records and staff time for processing your request. 

Exceptions to the Kansas Open Records Act

The Kansas Open Records Act recognizes that certain records contain private or privileged information. The Act lists several exceptions including:

  • Some personnel records involving public employees
  • Medical treatment records
  • Records protected   by   attorney/ client privilege
  • Records closed by the rules of evidence
  • Records containing  personal information compiled for Census purposes
  • Notes and preliminary drafts
  • Criminal Investigations records
  • Several other specific types of records as outlined under Kansas law

A list of additional exemptions can be found in K.S.A. 45-221.

An agency is only required to provide public records that already exist. There is no requirement for the agency to create a record upon request.

Making a Request

  • Contact the District Attorney’s Freedom of Information Officer to determine if the record you need exists or is available.
  • Be prepared to provide a specific description of the record you are requesting
  • Your formal request for a record should be in writing. A form is available to assist you in making your request, but use of this form is not required.
  • Many records will be produced within three (3) business days from the time the written request is received
  • If the request is delayed or denied, you will receive a written explanation for the delay or denial within the three (3) day time period
  • If you wish to request a record and/or have questions about your request, contact the Freedom of Information Officer for the Office of the District Attorney
  • Submit request in writing to our office at 535 N. Main, Suite 235, Wichita KS  67203.