FOIA Requests

Under the Freedom of Information Act (5 ILCS 140), records in the possession of public agencies may be accessed by the public upon request. The Act defines a public record as, "all records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memoranda, books, papers, maps, photographs, microfilms, 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, Sections 2.15, 7, and 7.5. Some records may also be subject to provisions imposed by other state statutes. The FOIA process for disclosure of information does not supersede other applicable statutory and judicial mandates.

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) function is housed in, funded by, and overseen as part of the Legal Affairs and General Counsel's Office at Northeastern Illinois University. The University's General Counsel and Associate General Counsel provide legal guidance for FOIA requests, when needed. Most requests received by the University under the banner of FOIA are made by email, however requesters may also mail, fax, and deliver written requests as permitted by the statute. The University endeavors to make reasonable accommodations for all information requests.

Quick links to university information:

Freedom of Information Act (and ferpa-related directory information) requests should be directed to:

foia@neiu.edu

Attention:

Karl Voigt, FOIA Officer
Legal Affairs Department
c/o Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
Phone: (773) 442-5416
Fax: (773) 442-5070