In January Michigan legislators introduced a proposed bill (HB 4011) that would exempt 911 calls from Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. FOIA allows citizens to request information from public bodies like police agencies. FOIA is important for criminal defendants and their attorneys because it is often the only way to obtain certain information. Currently 911 calls are not exempt and can be requested provided that the call does not fit into one of the well delineated exceptions. If HB 4011 passes it will create another exception to FOIA. According to the proposed bill 911 calls will only be released to the public if the person requesting the 911 call is the same person who made the call or it is either requested by a law enforcement agency or relevant to an investigation of a legal matter.
“It seems strange that the legislators would seek to remove a layer of transparency from the government and prevent citizens from obtaining information” says attorney Joshua M. Covert. Covert continues “a well-informed public is critical to our form of government and legislators should broaden FIA and not restrict its reach.” If you are charged with a crime where a 911 call is important call the Nichols Law Firm and speak with attorneys who understand FOIA and both its powers and limitations. Call 517-432-9000.
Link to the proposed bill:
http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2013-2014/billintroduced/House/htm/2013-HIB-4011.htm
The information contained in this web site is neither legal advice nor is it intended to be legal advice. The information contained in this web site is general information designed to give the reader a basic understanding of some legal concepts about what we do in these areas.
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East Lansing, MI 48823-1511
