Rhode Island § 38-2-7 - Access to Public Records
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 38-2-7 — Access to Public Records, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 38-2-7. Access to Public Records
R.I. Gen. Laws § 38-2-7
§ 38-2-7. Denial of access.
(a) Any denial of the right to inspect or copy records, in whole or in part provided for under this chapter shall be made to the person or entity requesting the right in writing giving the specific reasons for the denial within ten (10) business days of the request and indicating the procedures for appealing the denial. Except for good cause shown, any reason not specifically set forth in the denial shall be deemed waived by the public body.
(b) Failure to comply with a request to inspect or copy the public record within the ten (10) business day period shall be deemed to be a denial. Except that for good cause, this limit may be extended in accordance with the provisions of § 38-2-3(e). All copying and search and retrieval fees shall be waived if a public body fails to produce requested records in a timely manner; provided, however, that the production of records shall not be deemed untimely if the public body is awaiting receipt of payment for costs properly charged under § 38-2-4.
(c) A public body that receives a request to inspect or copy records that do not exist or are not within its custody or control shall, in responding to the request in accordance with this chapter, state that it does not have or maintain the requested records.
History of Section.
P.L. 1979, ch. 202, § 1; P.L. 1991, ch. 263, § 1; P.L. 1998, ch. 378, § 1; P.L. 2012,
ch. 448, § 1; P.L. 2012, ch. 454, § 1.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 38-2-7
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 38-2-7 cover?
Section 38-2-7 ("Access to Public Records") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 38-2-7?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 38-2-7" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 38-2-7 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.