Getting Public Records
R.I. Gen. Laws § 38-2-7 — ten business days, a written denial with reasons, and silence counts as a denial
Ten business days. A public body lets a requester inspect or copy records within ten business days of the request, or explains in writing, specifically, why it needs more time.
A denial is in writing, gives the specific reasons, and explains how to appeal, within ten business days. A reason left out of it is waived unless there is good cause.
Not answering within the ten business days counts as a denial, and search, retrieval and copying fees are waived when the records come late.
Many kinds of records are exempt under the act. A particular request is a question for a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 38-2-3 — Right to inspect and copy records; Duty to maintain minutes of meetings; Procedures for access
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 38-2-7 — Denial of access
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Rhode Island attorney.