open records information and assistance to tennessee citizens

NASHVILLE — Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury John G. Morgan today announced two new resources for providing open records information and assistance to Tennessee citizens. Citizens may call toll free (866) 831-3750 or visit www.comptroller.state.tn.us/openrecords/index.htm.

The website includes background on the new Comptroller’s Office of Open Records; posting of informal advisory opinions produced by the office; and contact information for citizens to submit inquiries, concerns and questions regarding access to local government public records.

Director Ann Butterworth and Open Records Specialist Elisha Hodge jointly staff the new office, funded by the General Assembly in 2007. They will assist citizens in obtaining open records from local governments, both in guiding citizens to correct offices/officials and in working to resolve disputes regarding access. The effort is addressed both to citizens and to local governments. “The office will answer questions and provide information regarding open records to any person, including local government officials,” said Ms. Butterworth.