At the MACo Winter Conference, attendees received expert guidance on Maryland’s Public Information Act and best practices for handling those requests.
The session, led by Lisa Kershner, Maryland’s Public Access Ombudsman, explored what types of information should be released to the public upon request and offered best practices to navigate common challenges. Attendees gained valuable insights into the requirements of the PIA and learned practical strategies for managing public records requests effectively and in compliance with state law.
The Public Information Act is the general right to information:
All persons are entitled to have access to information about the affairs of government and the official acts of public officials and employees.
Thank you to Dorchester County Council Member Mike Detmer for moderating the #PublicInformationAct panel at #MACoCon. pic.twitter.com/qOvcNoVgki
— Karrington Anderson (@Kanderson_MACo) December 11, 2024
Speaker: Lisa Kershner, Public Access Ombudsman, Office of the Attorney General
In the “Public Information Act” session, Lisa Kershner provided an in-depth discussion on the state law governing public records requests and its importance for local government officials. Understanding and abiding by the Public Information Act (PIA) is critical for transparent governance and for ensuring these requests are handled with the care and gravity they deserve.
Moderator: The Honorable Mike Detmer, Council Member, Dorchester County
More about MACo’s Winter Conference:
