California Public Records Act
You may have heard reference to the California Public Records Act and be wondering just what that is. The public is supposed to have access to certain information in the possession of public agencies. Getting that information may be another matter, even though the agency has the burden of justifying any nondisclosure. You must submit a proper request and then know your rights in case the agency is slow or not forthcoming at all.
CPR urges you to educate yourself beforehand so that if the need arises you or your group can request public documents that you are interested in.
The First Amendment Project has a great little brochure, The Pocket Guide to The California Public Records Act that sums up what is and is not covered under the act and what to do if your request is denied.
The California First Amendment Coalition has a Sample California Public Records Act request letter that can be used to request information from your favorite public agency.