Public Records
Open Records Requests
How to request public records from the Georgia State Election Board.
The records of the State Election Board are subject to the Georgia Open Records Act (O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq.). Any member of the public may request records the Board maintains, including meeting agendas, minutes, transcripts, decisions, investigation files (where disclosure is permitted), and correspondence.
How to Submit a Request
The Georgia State Election Board accepts Open Records requests through our online public records portal. Submitting online lets you file your request, track its progress, and receive records electronically.
What to Include in Your Request
A clear, specific request helps us respond faster. Please include:
- Your name and a contact method (email or phone).
- A description of the records you are requesting — be as specific as you can about date ranges, subjects, meeting dates, or case numbers.
- Whether you want copies or to inspect the records in person.
- Any preferred format for delivery (electronic PDF, printed, etc.).
What Happens Next
Under the Georgia Open Records Act, the Board will respond within three business days of receiving your request. The response will either:
- Produce the responsive records;
- Provide a timeline for production of records that require additional time to retrieve, review, or redact;
- State that no responsive records exist; or
- Cite the legal basis for any records being withheld or redacted.
Some categories of records — notably open investigations under O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72 — are statutorily exempt from disclosure until the investigation has been concluded.
Fees
Under O.C.G.A. § 50‑18‑71, the Board may charge a reasonable fee for the cost of producing records, including staff time and copy charges. Electronic delivery of records already in digital form is typically provided at no cost. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 50‑18‑71(c)(2), charges will be applied to any request that requires more than 15 minutes to complete. The Board will provide an estimate before completing work on any request that is expected to incur fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a Georgia resident to make a request?
No. The Georgia Open Records Act applies to any requester, regardless of residency, citizenship, or affiliation.
Do I have to say why I want the records?
No. You are not required to explain why you are requesting records. The Board may ask clarifying questions only to help locate the responsive records you are asking for.
What if my request covers a large number of records?
The Board will work with you to narrow the request where possible and will advise you of any portions that require substantial staff time to complete.
Can I get records related to an open investigation?
Investigation files are confidential until the investigation has been concluded and the Board has taken action, per O.C.G.A. § 50-18-72. Once an investigation is closed, the file is generally available subject to ordinary redactions for personal information.
What if I don’t agree with the response?
If you believe the Board’s response was incomplete or unlawful, you may contact the Georgia Attorney General’s Open Government Mediation Program, or file a civil action under O.C.G.A. § 50-18-73.