Freedom of Information Commission – Hartford, CT

Freedom of Information Commission

The Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC) is located at 165 Capitol Avenue in the State Office Building. This independent government oversight agency is dedicated to administering and enforcing the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act. The Commission ensures that the public has access to the records and meetings of all public agencies in the state. It serves as the venue for hearing complaints from citizens who believe they have been denied access to public documents or excluded from public meetings.

Commission Functions

• Appeals and Hearings: adjudicates complaints filed by the public regarding denials of information by state and local agencies.
• Declaratory Rulings: Issues formal rulings on the applicability of the FOI Act to specific situations.
• Training and Education: Conducts workshops for public officials and the public to ensure understanding of open government laws.
• Ombudsman Services: Staff attorneys and specialists answer questions and mediate disputes to resolve issues without formal hearings.

Visiting the Commission

The Commission’s offices are in a secure state facility. Visitors attending hearings or visiting the office must pass through security screening. The hearing room is open to the public, and citizens are encouraged to attend if they have an interest in the proceedings. Valid identification is required for entry into the building.