Submit North Dakota Public Records FOIA Requests
Introduction To North Dakota Public Records
Embarking on a journey through North Dakota’s transparency laws, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Open Meetings Statute, is crucial for understanding the state’s commitment to an open and accountable government.
Overview Of North Dakota Open Records

Decoding the Open Meetings Statute
The Open Meetings Statute governs the conduct of public meetings in North Dakota. Covering gatherings of a quorum, whether in person or electronically, this statute ensures discussions on public business are accessible. Violations can lead to voided actions, attorney fees, and fines up to $1,000.
Navigating the Open Records Statute
The Open Records Statute guarantees public access to government records. Defined broadly, records include any information related to public business. North Dakota upholds a citizen-friendly approach, allowing anyone to request records without specifying a purpose.

History Of North Dakota Public Records
The roots of North Dakota’s commitment to transparency can be traced through the evolution of its FOIA and Open Meetings laws. These statutes have undergone changes to adapt to the dynamic needs of the state and its citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - North Dakota Open Records
Defining a Meeting
A meeting includes any gathering of a quorum of public body members, whether in person or through electronic means, to discuss and decide on public business. Even a series of similar gatherings with less than a quorum may be covered if they constitute a quorum collectively.
Closed Meeting Exemptions
Closed meetings are permitted for scenarios such as attorney consultations during pending litigation, non-renewal hearings between school boards and teachers, juvenile proceedings, and the hiring/firing of college or university personnel by the State Board of Higher Education.
Requesting Public Records
The Open Records Statute allows anyone to request records without specifying a purpose. There are no restrictions on the use of records, and a response time is not specified, ensuring accessibility.
Use of Records
North Dakota places no restrictions on the use of public records, emphasizing openness and ease of information dissemination.
Exemptions in Public Records
Exempt records include juvenile records, trade secrets, public employee medical records, workers’ compensation, unemployment, tax information, law enforcement investigation records, and most Department of Human Services records.

Additional Information About North Dakota Open Records
For detailed insights into North Dakota’s transparency laws, refer to NDCC 44-04-19 et seq. for the Open Meetings Statute and NDCC 44-04-18 et seq. for the Open Records Statute.
Closing Thoughts On North Dakota Public Records
North Dakota’s commitment to transparency is exemplified through its FOIA and Open Meetings laws, fostering a culture of openness, accessibility, and citizen engagement.
Submitting North Dakota Open Records FOIA requests through FOIA Buddy revolutionizes the process of accessing government information in the Peace Garden State. FOIA Buddy offers a user-friendly platform designed to simplify the submission process while ensuring compliance with North Dakota’s public records laws. Whether you’re a journalist, researcher, or concerned citizen, FOIA Buddy empowers you to navigate the complexities of FOIA requests with confidence and ease.
With FOIA Buddy, submitting a FOIA request under North Dakota’s Open Records Act becomes a streamlined and intuitive process. The platform provides clear guidance and tools to craft well-formulated requests that increase the likelihood of success. By leveraging FOIA Buddy’s resources, users can navigate the process efficiently, knowing they have a trusted partner to assist them every step of the way.
Furthermore, FOIA Buddy offers comprehensive support and assistance throughout the entire FOIA process. From educational materials on understanding North Dakota’s public records laws to personalized guidance on drafting effective requests, FOIA Buddy is committed to empowering users with the knowledge and tools necessary to access government records effectively and efficiently.
By choosing FOIA Buddy, users gain access to a reliable ally dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and open access to information in North Dakota. Experience the convenience and reliability of FOIA Buddy today and unlock the power of submitting North Dakota Open Records FOIA requests with confidence.