Information Request Templates

Every information request requires individualized components. Here are two sample templates showing the kind of information to be included in a request.

Montana Transparency Project
Simple Information Request Template

Hello [Agency Public Information Officer],

Under the Montana Constitution, Article II, Section 9 and implementing statutes, I request to inspect or receive copies of [communications/documents/records] relating to [detailed description of information OR specific terms] from [date range] sent [to/from identified people/organizations]. I am seeking [short, plain statement of the information you are seeking, or the question you would like answered].

Given the narrowness of my request, because I do not seek this information for commercial purposes, [and, if relevant, because release of this information would be in the public interest] I request a fee waiver. If I will be charged a fee, please include an itemized receipt of charges.

Thank you for your help.  Please do not hesitate to be in touch with me if anything about my request is not clear or if the search results appear unexpectedly expansive. I’m happy to work with you to narrow the request as appropriate.  I look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,

[Name]
[Phone]
[Email]

Montana Transparency Project
Complex Information Request Template

Hello [Agency Public Information Officer],

Under the Montana Constitution, Article II, Section 9 and implementing statutes, I request to inspect or receive copies of [communications/documents/records] relating to [detailed description of information OR specific terms] from [date range] sent [to/from identified people/organizations]. I am seeking [short, plain statement of the information you are seeking, or the question you would like answered].

In searching for these documents, please include the following search terms:

  • [Bulleted list of search terms, being as narrow as possible]

Because I do not seek this information for commercial purposes [and, if relevant, because release of this information would be in the public interest], I request a fee waiver. If I will be charged a fee, please include an itemized receipt of charges.

Thank you for your help.  Please do not hesitate to be in touch with me if anything about my request is not clear or if the search results appear unexpectedly expansive. I’m happy to work with you to narrow the request as appropriate.  I look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,

[Name]
[Phone]
[Email]