Terry Mutchler Discusses Government Transparency Challenges Amid Public Records Staff Firings

Terry Mutchler, Chair of Obermayer’s Transparency & Public Data Practice, was interviewed by Poynter on February 21, 2025, discussing the impact of recent firings of staff responsible for handling public records requests on the public’s ability to access government records. Delays in fulfilling public records requests have long been an issue, but the removal of key staff may exacerbate the problem under the Trump administration.

“I think that reporters, as is the American citizen, are in for a boatload of trouble in the next four years in this regard,” said Terry who also serves as the vice president of the National Freedom of Information Coalition’s board.

Federal agencies must respond to records requests within 20 business days, even if they are short on staff. If they miss the deadline, requesters can sue.

“It’s going to come down to the courts, and it’s going to come down to whether or not this administration has any honor in honoring court opinions,” Mutchler said.

Litigation can be expensive, but Terry noted that a well-prepared FOIA request can help prevent unnecessary legal fees.

Read the full article here.