RTKL

In Pennsylvania, the Right-to-Know Law (RTKL) ensures public access to government records. It allows citizens to request and receive records from state and local government agencies, promoting transparency and holding officials accountable.

1. General Information About the RTKL:

• All records are presumed public: Unless disclosure is barred by state or federal law, court order, privilege, or one of the 30 exceptions in Section 708 of the RTKL, records are presumed public.
• The OOR is the state entity responsible for administering the RTKL and hearing appeals. 

2. How to Submit a Request:

• Agency Open Records Officer (AORO): Oswaldo Tosado
• All requests must be sent to: tosado@allentownparking.com
• Accepted methods of submission: Requests can be submitted in person, by mail, email, or fax.
  1. It must be addressed to the AORO.
  2. It must include a name and address for the agency’s response.
  3. It must indicate it’s being made pursuant to the RTKL.
  4. It must be sufficiently specific to identify the requested records.
  5. It must be from a legal resident of the United States.

• The law prohibits agencies from requiring disclosure of a request’s purpose or motive. 

3. Response Process:

• Agencies generally have 5 business days to respond to a request, unless an extension is needed.
  • Possible responses:
    • Grant the request.
    • Deny the request (partially or fully), providing a legal basis for denial.
    • Invoke a 30-day extension, explaining the reason for the delay.
• State that appeals can be filed with the OOR within 15 business days of a denial or deemed denial.
• Include your address, phone number, and website. 

All requests must be sent to:  tosado@allentownparking.com