Open Records

What is the Texas Public Information Act?

Chapter 552 of the Texas Government Code, also known as the Texas Public Information Act (TPIA), gives the public the right to access the files or records of a Texas governmental entity such as The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). The TPIA requires governmental entities to produce information it holds in response to appropriate requests, unless that information is exempt from disclosure under the TPIA or other state or federal law. The TPIA does not require a governmental entity to prepare answers to questions, perform legal research, create a new document in response to a request, or comply with a continuing request to supply information on a periodic basis.

How to make a Public Information Request

Requests for information under the TPIA must be in writing. Including the following information in your request will help ensure that you may receive the information you are requesting:

Name and contact information (so UTRGV can provide the requested information or seek clarification of your request)
Phone number (to clarify any questions UTRGV may have about how to respond to your request)
A description of the specific information you are interested in, including time periods. Try to be as specific as possible about the information you are seeking.

Where to request information:

Requests can be mailed, hand-delivered, faxed, or submitted by email. Requests should be directed to the Chief Legal Officer:

Costs and Billing:

Charges for copies for public information are set by the Office of the Attorney General. If the charge for fulfilling a request for information exceeds $40.00, UTRGV will provide an itemized written estimate of the charges and indicate if a less costly alternative is available. Requestors must respond in writing within ten (10) business days after the estimate is sent accepting the costs or indicating a preferred alternative. If no written response is received in the time allowed by law, the request will be considered withdrawn.

TPIA Requests Received:

Public information requests receiving by UTRGV can be viewed at our records page. From there, you should be able to access records already produced in response to prior public information requests.

Student Directory Information:

Please visit student directory information and privacy, including the form for withholding directory information, for more details.