FOIL

[ex-commish 490]

I know that records of public agencies ( such as fire districts) are open to the public under the Freedom of Information Law. What about fire companies that have tax id numbers and accept public donations. Are they subject to FOIL as well?

[jack10562 414]

All government agencies by law are subject to giving the public access to many of their records. Depending on the nature of your request the information may or may not be made available by the agency your request is directed to.

Here are some FAQ's from NY State:

http://www.dos.state.ny.us/coog/freedomfaq.html

[helicopper 1,050]

I know that records of public agencies ( such as fire districts) are open to the public under the Freedom of Information Law. What about fire companies that have tax id numbers and accept public donations. Are they subject to FOIL as well?

If you're referring to a 501-c3 tax exempt organization (by your reference to tax id #), there are other requirements that have nothing to do with FOIL - such as the filing of an annual report with the IRS, etc.

p557.pdf

The above is a publication from the IRS detailing reporting requirements for 501-c3 organizations. You may not have to disclose under FOIL but you absolutely must file with the IRS and most of those records are public.

If in doubt, consult your agency's attorney and/or accountant.