FAQs
Where can I learn more about the Maryland Public Information Act?
Please visit the Office of the Attorney General's website.
Where can I find DHS data and reports?
On the DHS website, click the Business Center tab. There are links to Documents, Open Solicitations, Closed Solicitations and much more. Check here first for the information you need before filing a Public Information Act request.
To search for and view statutorily legislatively mandated DHS reports, visit the Maryland Legislative Library & Information Services in the Maryland Department of Legislative Services (DLS) at https://mlsd.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/default/.
Is there a fee to file a PIA request with DHS?
DHS may charge reasonable fees for the search and preparation of records for inspection and copying beyond the first two hours. Search fees are the costs to DHS for locating requested records. Preparation fees are the costs to DHS to prepare a record for inspection or copying. DHS may appropriately require prepayment of fees. For information on requesting a fee waiver, please refer to the Maryland Public Information Act.
How much do you charge for copies?
For each copy made by a standard printer or photocopying machine within the Department, the fee is 25 cents per page. For certification as a true copy of a copy of a public record, an additional fee of $1 per page, or if appropriate, per item, also will be assessed. A charge may not be made if the total fee is $10 or less (or 40 pages minimum).
How long does it take to receive records?
In some instances, DHS will be able to respond to your request immediately. In fact, for some frequently requested records, we may already have records available on our website. Otherwise, DHS has 30 days to respond, but there may be instances where we need additional time to locate and review the requested records. If there is a reason why the search or review of the records will take more than 10 working days, we will send an email within that 10-day period explaining the reason for the delay, the time needed to respond, and an estimate of the range of fees that might be charged.
Can I request records regarding a child abuse or neglect investigation that identified my child as a possible victim?
Child abuse and neglect reports and records are deemed highly confidential and may not be disclosed absent an exception allowed by law. Human Services § 1-202(a). One exception grants DHS the discretion to determine whether to make certain disclosures to "a parent or other person who has permanent or temporary care and custody of the child." Human Services 1-202(c)(1)(vi). In deciding whether to exercise its discretion, DHS considers whether the disclosure is consistent with its mission to provide preventative services and protect vulnerable children, otherwise serves the purposes of the statutory exception, and enhances the child's best interests. COMAR 07.02.07.21(D), (G). Any disclosure made by DHS will be redacted to protect "the identity of the reporter and any other person whose life or safety is likely to be endangered by disclosing the information." Human Services 1-202(c)(1)(vi). If DHS denies the request in whole or in part, DHS will issue a letter providing the reason for the denial.
Where can I find Licensing and Monitoring reports for Residential Child Care programs and Child Placement Agencies?
On our website, click the DHS Oversight tab and select Licensing and Monitoring. Check here first for the information you need before filing a Public Information Act request.