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What is the Minnesota Data Practices Act?
The MGPDPA (Minn. Stat. Ch. 13) sets forth what government data is, who can access different types of government data, and how they can access government data. Learn more about Government Data Practices Statutes
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Who must comply?
State agencies, statewide systems, counties, charter cities, school districts, and some townships. The MGDPA also applies to private contractors performing government functions.
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Who can request data?
- Any member of the public can request public data (records open to all).
- Individuals can also request private data about themselves.
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How do I make a request?
Data Requests can be made here: JustFOIA
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Response timing?
- Data subjects (for private data regarding themselves): within 10 business days.
- Others: 'reasonable time,' which is largely dependent upon the size and complexity of the request. Typically, the City will respond within 30 days unless extended due to complexity.
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What data is not public?
The MGDPA categorizes some data as private, confidential, nonpublic, or protected nonpublic. Data with those classifications is not public. If data is withheld on the basis that it is not public, the City will cite the specific statutory bases in its response.
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Can I request data anonymously?
Yes. You do not need to give your name or explain why you're requesting public data. However, if you want a response or copies, you'll need to provide contact information. If you do not provide your name, all private data, including private data you would otherwise have access to, will be redacted.
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What's the difference between 'public,' 'private,' and 'confidential' data?
- Public data: Anyone can access.
- Private data (on individuals): Only the individual the data is about (and the agency) can access.
- Confidential data (on individuals): No one (not even the individual) can access it, except the agency.
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Can I be asked why I want the data?
No. Agencies cannot require you to state a reason for requesting public data.
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Can the data be redacted before it is released?
Yes. Agencies are required to withhold or redact non-public portions of a record before releasing the rest.
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What if the data doesn't exist or has been destroyed?
Agencies are not required to create or reconstruct data that does not exist.
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Are police records public?
It depends. Initial incident reports, response logs, and arrest data are generally public, with some exceptions. Active investigations may be confidential until closed, depending on the case.
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What about personnel data?
In general, personnel data is private, with some exceptions.
- Name, job title, salary, and dates of employment are public.
- Disciplinary actions are public once final.
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Can I request body-worn camera footage?
Body-worn camera footage is generally private, with a few exceptions. However, a data subject (e.g., if you're in the footage) will usually have a right to the portion of the footage that they are in.
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What if I haven't received the data I requested?
