Freedom of Information Request Question

[bradlm]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? SC

Pursuit the Freedom of Information ACT (FOIA), can one request payments made to contractors?

I'm concerned about: "(6) personnel and medical files and similar files the disclosure of which would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy;" - would this be considered personnel files? I don't need amounts paid, just to know if payments were made to a certain business.

Thanks!

References:

Freedom of Information Act (United States) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

FOIA Update: The Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S.C. sect. 552, As Amended By Public Law No. 104-231, 110 Stat. 3048

 

[swalsh411]

What agency are you requesting information from?

I don't see any harm in making your request. You will be notified if any fee exceeds some nominal amount.

 

[bradlm]

swalsh411,

Thank you - I wasn't sure if they'd try to claim this was personal information and deny my request. Should this be something an agency would typically provide?

This would be directed to a local utility company.

 

[FlyingRon]

The sections you quoted (5 USC) is the FEDERAL FOIA. It applies only to the FEDERAL government agencies.

SC has it's own FOIA here:
http://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t30c004.htm

Only state agencies and state-owned corporations (like the SC Public Service Authority) are bound by this statute.
Independent corporations like SCE&G and municipal agencies can't be FOIA'd under this law, though the city may have a similar local law.