USA (Conneticut)
However, the Commissioner for Connecticut which since 1975 has had its own FOI Act claims that Sept 11 has also seen innocuous requests rejected e.g. for Town Maps, on the basis that they show where the town reservoir is.
The Commission in Connecticut (pop. 3.5 million) deals with c 10,000 enquiries per annum regarding FoI operation and rights.
It receives c 600-700 formal complaints pa. Around 50% of complaints are settled by mediation conducted by a member of the Commission's staff.
Hearings before a Commissioner are designed so as not to require counsel. However public authorities are usually represented by an Assistant Attorney General, whilst the complainants are usually unrepresented.
The Commission can order the disclosure of public records and impose civil penalties up to $1000 for violations of the FOI Act without reasonable grounds.