As a general rule,
the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) does not require a public body to
create records – instead, it requires a public body to provide access to
records the public body already has in its possession or under its control,
subject to applicable exemptions. However, there are a few provisions in FOIA that
do require the creation, retention, and, in some cases, the posting of certain
records by public bodies. These requirements are listed below:
- List
of documents or categories of records that are immediately disclosable upon
request. - Current
list of all types or categories of records under the control of the public
body. - A
description of the manner in which electronic records will be provided to
persons who do not have reasonable access to computers or printers. - A
brief description of the public body. - A
short summary of the public body’s purpose. - A
block diagram of its functional subdivisions. - Total
amount of the operating budget. - Number
and location of the public body’s offices. - Approximate
number of full and part time employees. - Membership
of all advisory boards, commissions, committees, or councils. - Description
of the method by which persons can file FOIA requests. - Directory
of FOIA Officers. - Address
where FOIA requests can be directed. - FOIA
fees.