My request for access to public records was denied. Is there an appeals process?

If you object to the Town’s response, in accordance with G.L. c. 66, §10 and 950 CMR 32.00, you may appeal to the following office via mail, fax, or e-mail: Supervisor of Public Records, Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Public Records Division, One Ashburton Place, 17th Floor, Boston, MA 02108. Fax: (617) 727-5914 Email: pre@sec.state.ma.us  

Under the Public Records Regulations, all appeals to the Supervisor must include a copy of the original request, any response by the RAO and a statement indicating the reason for the appeal. The requester must also provide a copy of the appeal petition to the RAO. By law, the Supervisor is required to respond within 10 business days of receipt of your appeal. In accordance with G.L. c. 66, §10A(c), you have the right to seek judicial review of an unfavorable decision by commencing a civil action in the Superior Court.

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1. How do I obtain a copy of my Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, or Death Certificate?
2. My request for access to public records was denied. Is there an appeals process?
3. How do I submit a Public Records Request?
4. What is a public record?