Introduction to Freedom of Information (FOIA)
FOIA is the state Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140), certain records in possession of public agencies may be accessed by the public upon written request. Pursuant to 5 ILCS 140, Section 2 ( c ), a public record is any records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memoranda, books, papers, maps, photographs, cards, tapes, recordings, electronic data processing records, electronic communications recorded information and all other documentary materials pertaining to the transaction of public business, regardless of physical form or characteristics, having been prepared by or for, or having been or being used by, received by, in the possession of or under the control of any public body.
Some records are, however, not subject to release via the FOIA process; these types of records are described under 5 ILCS 140, Section 7 (1) (a) thru (y). And some records may also be subject to confidentiality provisions imposed by other state statutes; the FOIA process for disclosure of information does not supercede these other applicable statutory and judicial mandates.
How to submit a FOIA request
To access information from the Illinois State Police Merit Board, please submit a written request by means of facsimile, the US mail or special carrier, or email to the Freedom of Information Officer, Daniel Dykstra. A written request will ensure proper compliance with the requirements of the Act.
Requests can be addressed to:
Illinois State Police Merit Board
ATTN: Daniel Dykstra, FOIA Officer
531 Sangamon Avenue East
Springfield, Illinois 62703
Phone: (217) 785-2620
Fax: (217) 786-0181
Email: ddykstra@ispmeritboard.org
The Illinois State Police Merit Board does not require that FOIA request be submitted in any particular form. However, we strongly prefer that your request, at a minimum, includes the phrase "Freedom of Information Act" or "FOIA"; contains a description of the types of records sought; and contains contact information so we may follow up to clarify or narrow a request if necessary.
Authority
This website information concerning the FOIA is being provided as required by Section 4 of the FOIA (5 ILCS 140/4). This website information may be revised and/or updated in the future.
Immediate Resources
Please refer to our website first for immediate resources. The Illinois State Police Merit Board has an extensive amount of information about the purpose of the Illinois State Police Merit Board, the Recruitment/Selection Process, the Promotional Process, the Discopline Process and information on Merit Board Members.
Fees associated with FOIA
The first 50 pages of black and white, legal or letter sized copies of records requested are free. Anything that surpasses 50 pages is generally 15 cents per page. If, for some reason, copies of records are provided to a requester that is not on black and white, legal or letter sized paper, the Governor's office will charge a fee that will not exceed the actual cost of reproduction.