Liberty cannot be preserved without a general knowledge among the people, who have a right … and a desire to know. – John Adams
The New Jersey Open Public Records Act, commonly abbreviated OPRA, is a state law that provides a right for the public to get access to public records, as well as the law defining the process by which that right is exercised. In general, OPRA provides that "government records shall be readily accessible for inspection, copying, or examination by the citizens of this State, with certain exceptions, for the protection of the public interest." OPRA is often viewed as New Jersey's equivalent to the United States Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
I received several questions about some of my earlier posted that have references OPRA, so I thought share more details as OPRA is such an important tool of our democratic society supporting accountability, transparency, and citizen engagement. More details about the New Jersey Open Public Records Act and helpful related links have been posted to the following page of my RIH Board Watch Blog. If you have any questions, please reach out.
Link to RIH Board Watch OPRA Resources: Click Here