Nebraska

Definition of Public Record

Public records include all documents, no matter the form, belonging to any government agency. 1

Exemptions to Public Records

Exempt: Personal information on student and personnel records; medical records; trade secrets; academic and scientific research; attorney work product; law enforcement or investigative records; some archeological records; and real estate appraisals. 2

Who Can Make The Request?

Anyone.

Response Timeframe

4 days. 3

Information on Fees

Individuals that wish to inspect and make copies on their own equipment may do so at no additional cost. Agencies can charge fees, but they must not exceed the actual costs to provide the record. The agency shall not charge for the first four hours of staff time; after that time, a special service fee may be charged, but it may not include the cost of an attorney to review the materials. NRS 84-712.03(c) 4

Enforcement Mechanisms

Though there are no provisions for an administrative appeal option, an informal appeal to the head of the agency may prove effective. The law provides for judicial relief by filing a writ of mandamus in the district court. One may also petition the Attorney General. NRS 84-712.03 5

Attorney Fees

The court may award a prevailing complainant reasonable attorney’s fee. 6

Do You Want to Make a Public Records Request?

The public records process begins with a public records request. Our guide outlines best practices for drafting well-defined requests for public information.

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Questions? Contact the Goldwater Institute.

If you have any questions regarding this guide or your rights to public information, please contact the Goldwater Institute at info@goldwaterinstitute.org to determine if the Institute can help you access information necessary to hold your government accountable.

Goldwater Institute