FOIL – Freedom of Information Law
Information related to the Precinct Strategy can be obtained (“FOILed”) from your county or state Board of Elections.
The United States Federal Freedom of Information Law or “FOIL” requires the full or partial disclosure of information and documents controlled by the government upon request. It was/is intended to make government more transparent.
Search their website or call to obtain their FOIL procedures. Often, a FOIL request can be submitted through their website or by email.
Sometimes there is a fee (25cents/page), but electronic copies can be requested, and when available, are typically free.
There are also (state) laws that require an acknowledgement of your request within approx. 5 business days and appeal procedures to ensure compliance. (The appeal officer may be an attorney in the county/state office.)
If you encounter problems, contact us for assistance.
Example 1: FOIL Bylaws
To: (your county/state BOE FOIL email)
Subject: *** FOIL Request ***
mm/dd/yyyy *** FOIL Request ***
Please provide a copy of the (your county/state) Republican Bylaws or equivalent.
A digital/electronic copy is preferred and can be sent by email.
Thank you.
Your name, address, phone, email.
Example 2: FOIL Committee Member list
To: (your county/state BOE FOIL email)
Subject: *** FOIL Request ***
mm/dd/yyyy *** FOIL Request ***
Please provide a copy of the (your county) Republican Committee Member listing with details, including but not limited to precinct/election district, member resident town and/or address, contact info.
A digital/electronic copy is preferred and can be sent by email.
Thank you.
Your name, address, phone, email.
Example 3: FOIL Appeal
Note: If your FOIL request is not acknowledged or denied in the required time allowed by (state) law, forward the original request with an appeal to the FOIL appeals officer.
To: (your county/state FOIL Appeal officer’s email)
Subject: RE: *** FOIL Request ***
mm/dd/yyyy *** FOIL APPEAL ***
To: The FOIL Appeals Officer
On (date) I submitted a FOIL request to __________ (see below/att).
I have not received a reply or acknowledgement.
Since this is considered a “constructive denial”, I am submitting this appeal.
Please advise. Thank you.
Your name, address, phone, email.