Access to public records

Access to public records means the ability to view or obtain documents and information maintained by government agencies. These records can include things like property records, court documents, licenses, and meeting minutes. Generally, they are available to the public to promote transparency, accountability, and informed citizenship. While some records may have restrictions due to privacy concerns, most are accessible upon request, often with minimal procedures or fees. Laws vary by jurisdiction, but the core idea is that government-held information should be reasonably available to the public, ensuring transparency in governmental operations.