The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), outlined in §2.2-3700 et seq. of the Code of Virginia, provides citizens of the Commonwealth and media representatives with access to public records held by public bodies, officials, and employees. Public records include any form of writing or recording—whether a paper document, electronic file, audio, video, or other format—that is created, owned, or held by a public body or its representatives in conducting public business. While public records are generally presumed to be open, access may be restricted if a specific statutory exemption applies.As set forth in the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, § 2.2-3704(F) of the Code of Virginia, the City of Martinsville may make reasonable charges not to exceed its actual cost incurred in accessing, duplicating, supplying, or searching for requested records. You have the right to request an advance estimate of these costs before the records are provided.
A public record refers to any document or recording—be it a paper file, electronic record, audio or video recording, or any other format—that is created, owned, or held by a public body, its officers, employees, or agents in the course of conducting public business.