Nebraska
Nebraska Public Records Act
Neb. Rev. Stat. sections 84-712 to 84-712.09
Transparency Score: 62/100
Response Timeline
Nebraska has no fixed statutory deadline for responding to public records requests. The statute provides that records shall be available for examination and copying during normal office hours. Agencies must respond within a reasonable time.
No residency requirement. The statute grants access to 'citizens of this state, and all other persons interested in the examination of the public records.' This broad language covers both residents and non-residents.
How to Submit a Request
Accepted Methods
No specific format required. Written requests recommended for documentation. Must describe records with enough specificity for the agency to locate them.
Required Elements
- Description of records requested
- Requester contact information
Optional Elements
- Preferred format (paper vs electronic)
- Preferred delivery method
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Copies (per page) | USD0.25 |
Fees must be reasonably calculated to reflect actual costs. The Attorney General accepts $0.25 per page as a reasonable copying rate. Computer-generated records may include the cost of run time and materials. Advance deposit required when estimated costs exceed $50.
Fee Waivers
- Agencies may waive fees at their discretion
- No advance deposit required for costs under $50
No statutory fee waiver provision. Fee waivers are at agency discretion. The $50 threshold for advance deposits provides some protection for small requests.
Exemptions
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Medical records and personal health information (section 84-712.05(2))
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Trade secrets and proprietary information (section 84-712.05(3))
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Attorney work product and trial preparation materials (section 84-712.05(4))
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Law enforcement investigatory records (section 84-712.05(5))
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Personnel records excluding salary and compensation information (section 84-712.05(7))
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Tax returns and related financial records
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Attorney-client privileged communications
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Student educational records protected under FERPA
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Security measures and vulnerability assessments
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Adoption records and sealed court records
Exemptions are listed in section 84-712.05. Notable: personnel records are exempt EXCEPT for salary and compensation information, which must be disclosed. This is a significant transparency provision. The AG may review exemption claims and order disclosure.
Appeal Process
1
File petition with the AG for review of denial - AG has authority to investigate and may order disclosure
2
File civil suit in district court if AG relief is insufficient
The Attorney General has strong authority to review public records denials, investigate, and order disclosure. This is a more robust administrative review than many states provide. If the AG remedy is insufficient, requesters may file suit in district court.
Request Templates
NFOIC Nebraska Sample Request →
National Freedom of Information Coalition
RCFP Open Government Guide - Nebraska →
Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press
MuckRock Nebraska Guide →
MuckRock
Records Retention
Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 84-1201 through 84-1227
The Secretary of State serves as State Records Administrator, reviewing and approving retention schedules for all state and local agencies. Schedules require review by both the State Archivist and the Administrator before approval.