Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests

What is the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)?

Saginaw Valley State University must comply with the Michigan Freedom of Information Act.  As provided in Section 1 of this act, "It is the public policy of this state that all persons, except those persons incarcerated in state or local correctional facilities, are entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and the official acts of those who represent them as public officials and public employees, consistent with this act.  The people shall be informed so that they may fully participate in the democratic process.” 

To that end, all people, excluding prisoners, are allowed to file FOIA requests with Saginaw Valley State University (“SVSU”).  A requester must simply file a request in writing with SVSU’s FOIA Office (or Coordinator), and SVSU will begin processing his or her request.

To view the entire policy along with procedures and guidelines on submitting a request to SVSU - view Freedom of Information Act Compliance Policy 4.51 .

What to do if you or your office receives a FOIA request?

The General Counsel is the University's FOIA Officer.  An employee or office receiving a FOIA request should forward the request to the Office of the General Counsel promptly.  A request received by email may be forwarded to FOIA@svsu.edu.  The Freedom of Information Act requires the University to respond to request within 5 business days.