Open records requests in Arkansas

How the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act works

Arkansas's Freedom of Information Act (A.C.A. § 25-19-101 et seq.) is one of the strongest open records statutes in the United States, consistently recognized for its short response deadlines, broad coverage, and meaningful enforcement. The FOIA applies to all three branches of state government, executive, legislative, and judicial, as well as to counties, municipalities, and any entity receiving public funds. Any person may request records regardless of residency.

Agencies must respond within three business days, one of the shortest mandatory timelines in the country, and records must be provided immediately when readily available. Violations are treated seriously: negligent noncompliance is a Class C misdemeanor, and courts may award attorney's fees to successful requesters. Common exemptions include medical records, personnel evaluations, and active law enforcement investigation files. Fee waivers are available in the public interest.