FOIA – Freedom of Information Act
The Rights of Requesters and the Responsibilities of the Central Virginia Criminal Justice Academy under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act
The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), ยง 2.2-3700 et seq. of the Code of Virginia, guarantees citizens of the Commonwealth and representatives of the media access to public records held by public bodies, public officials, and public employees.
A public record is any writing or recording, regardless of whether it is a paper record, an electronic file, an audio or video recording, or any other format, that is prepared or owned by, or in the possession of a public body or its officers, employees or agents in the transaction of public business. All public records are presumed to be open, and may only be withheld if a specific, statutory exemption applies.
The policy of the FOIA states that the purpose of the FOIA is to promote an increased awareness by all persons of governmental activities. In furthering this policy, the FOIA requires that the law be interpreted liberally, in favor of access, and that any exemption allowing public records to be withheld must be interpreted narrowly.
For FOIA requests, please contact Ron Staton at ron.staton@lynchburgva.gov