Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA) Requests

How to Submit a Request ›

To submit a request for records under the MPIA, please fill out the MPIA Request Form and submit it to MPIA@pgcc.edu.

For more information on the MPIA, visit the Maryland Attorney General’s website. You can also review our frequently asked questions (FAQs) and the fee structure chart below.

Frequently Asked Questions ›

What is the Public Information Act?

Maryland’s Public Information Act (“MPIA”) gives the public the right to access government records without unnecessary cost and delay. The MPIA is found in the General Provisions Article (“GP”), §§ 4-101 through 4-601, Annotated Code of Maryland. It is similar to the federal Freedom of Information Act, which applies to federal executive branch agencies and independent federal regulatory agencies.

The MPIA grants you the right to review the available records that are disclosable and to obtain copies of those records. It does not require an agency to answer informational questions or to create a record to satisfy your request.

What is a Public Record?

A “public record” is defined under MPIA GP § 4-101 as the original or copy of any documentary material in any form, to include written materials, books, photographs, photocopies, films, microfilms, records, tapes, computerized records, maps, and drawings created or received by the College in connection with the transaction of public business. Records covered under the MPIA are only those in existence at the time of the request.

Who can submit a Public Information Act request?

Anyone can submit a Public Information Act request.

Can I have access to all College records?

The MPIA attempts to balance the public’s right to access government records with other policies that respect the privacy and confidentiality of certain information. Records may be withheld or redacted if confidential by law or exempt from disclosure under the MPIA, such as those subject to attorney-client privilege, court orders, medical records, personnel records, confidential commercial and financial information, and student records (protected by both the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and the MPIA under GP § 4-313). Disclosure of other records may be determined by the College to be contrary to the public interest after careful consideration of the possible consequences of disclosure, such as pre-decisional and deliberative discussions, ongoing research projects, emergency procedures, and academic testing data. In certain cases, a “person in interest” – typically the subject of the document or information as defined by MPIA GP § 4-101 (g) – may have a greater right of access to otherwise exempt documents.

Will I need to pay to access College records?

If the College determines it will take more than two hours to research, gather, and prepare the records related to your request, the College will charge the prorated hourly salary of the individual or individuals working on your request. The College also charges where information is requested in the form of paper copies, photos, or audio or video recordings. The College will provide you with an estimate of the charges prior to gathering the information. Fee waivers may be available in certain circumstances.

How long does the College have to respond to my request for information?

The Act provides that a governmental body must respond promptly to a request for information. If the College is unable to produce the requested information within (ten) 10 business days, we will contact the requester to let them know that we are unable to do so, and will set a date and time when the records will be available. This will include letting the requester know by the 10th business day if the College is seeking an open records decision to withhold any information.

MPIA Services and Fees ›