Open records requests in Vermont

How the Vermont Public Records Law works

Vermont's Public Records Act (1 V.S.A. § 315 et seq.) provides any person with the right to inspect and copy public records of all state agencies and public bodies. The law is structured around a broad presumption of openness, and agencies must affirmatively justify any withholding by citing a specific statutory exemption. Vermont does not require requesters to provide a reason for their request. The Secretary of State's office provides guidance on the Act, and disputes are resolved through superior court proceedings.

Agencies must respond within five business days for most requests, with an extension available when records are not immediately available. Fees are permitted for reproduction at actual cost, and agencies may waive fees where disclosure primarily benefits the public interest. Courts may award attorney's fees to prevailing requesters. Common exemptions include personnel records, attorney-client privileged materials, certain law enforcement investigative records, and trade secrets. Vermont's framework is regarded as straightforward and requester-friendly.