FAQ
What is a public record?
A public record means all documents, papers, letters, books, maps, tapes, photographs, recordings and other materials, regardless of physical form or characteristics, that are used, created, received, maintained or held by or on behalf of any public body and relate to public business, whether or not the records are required by law to be created or maintained.
Who can make a request for public records?
Every person has the right to make a public records request. The Inspection of Public Records Act defines a person as any individual, corporation, partnership, firm, association or entity.
How do I submit a request for public records?
You may use the submission form on this website to submit your request here: Request a public record
You can also submit written requests via email, mail, fax or walk in. Please submit email requests to records.custodian-gsd@gsd.nm.gov
Is there a charge to use this portal?
No. The portal is free to use. We will upload any requested responsive documents to this portal for free if they are already in electronic format. If they are not available in electronic format and you only wish to inspect them, that will be arranged for you at no charge. If you want physical paper copies or copies of electronic documents on CD or flash drive, we will charge a fee. All requesters will be notified in advance of any fees related to their public records copying requests, should they request paper copies, a CD or a flash drive. Payment must be received before copies of the records will be created and released.
How long will it take to process my records request?
We strive to fulfill requests in three days. However, the Inspection of Public Records Act allows for up to 15 days for processing requests, unless we determine the request is excessively burdensome. In that case, we may take longer than 15 days and will notify you of our anticipated fulfillment time.
Are there public records I will not be able to get through this portal?
Yes. The Inspection of Public Records Act exempts the following records from disclosure:
- Medical records;
- Letters of reference concerning employment, licensing or permits;
- Certain personnel records;
- Certain law enforcement records;
- Tactical response plans;
- Protected personal identifier information; and
- Other records protected by law.
Who can I contact if I have questions about the process or the portal?
You can contact: Sharon Alexander, IPRA Records Custodian, P.O. Box 6850, Santa Fe, NM 87502 Records.Custodian-GSD@nm.gsd.gov 505-372-9905