Open records requests in Kansas

How the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA) works

Kansas's Open Records Act (K.S.A. § 45-215 et seq.) declares it the public policy of Kansas that public records be open for inspection by any person, with no residency requirement, one of the more expansive eligibility provisions in the country. The law applies to all agencies of the state and its political subdivisions, including cities, counties, school districts, and other governmental bodies. Agencies must respond as soon as possible and no later than the close of the third business day following receipt.

Fees are permitted for the actual cost of copying; agencies may also charge for staff time in certain circumstances. The Kansas Attorney General's office handles open records complaints and may initiate civil enforcement actions. Willful violations may result in a civil penalty up to $500 per occurrence. Common exemptions include personnel records, attorney-client communications, certain law enforcement records, and trade secrets. Requesters may also seek relief in district court, with attorney's fees available for successful challenges.