At a glance: Oklahoma's Open Records Act

Oklahoma's Open Records Act, passed in 1985, allows people to review and get copies of most government records.

At a glance

State Open Records Act

Who is covered?

The law covers state government agencies and the governor's office but does not apply to the state Legislature. It also covers county and municipal governments, as well as school boards. Other entities that receive primary funding from the government also may be covered. The law does not cover the federal government.

What is open?

All government records, including expenditure reports, communications and personnel data, are considered open unless they are specifically exempted under the Oklahoma Open Records Act or some other law. An agency denying access to records has the burden of proving that the record is privileged and must cite the specific exemption that allows them to deny release of the records. Some of the records exempt from the law include:

• Certain personnel records such as evaluations, payroll deductions, home phone numbers and addresses.

• Law enforcement investigatory records. Initial offense reports, arrest records, jail registers, radio logs and crime summaries are among the police records required to be open. Court records also are open unless sealed by the courts.

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