Open Records

Open records process

  • Requests submitted after close of business will be considered to be received on the next business day.
  • Surplus lines policy information is confidential by state law under Texas Insurance Code section 981.158 and may not be released to the public.
  • SLTX is exempt from Texas Government Code Chapter 441 in accordance with Texas Insurance Code section 981.159 regarding Library and Archives Law.
  • If the information cannot be produced within 10 working days, SLTX will notify you in writing of the reasonable date and time when it will be available.
  • You must respond to a written estimate of charges within 10 days of the date the estimate was sent or the request is considered automatically withdrawn.
  • If estimated costs exceed $100, you must submit a deposit before work begins on your request.
  • All requests by media outlets should be requested via the Open Records Page.
  • Meeting Minutes are permanent records. Don’t see specific minutes you’re looking for? Email openrecords@sltx.org or visit our Open Records page to make a request, we’d be more than happy to help!

Question: What type of documents may I request?
Answer:

Your request should be for documents or other information already in existence. SLTX is not required to create information, perform legal research, or comply with a continuing request to supply information on a periodic basis such as information that may be prepared in the future.

Question: Can I make a public information request without using the online portal?

Answer:

 

We encourage you to use the online portal above to submit your Open Records request, and you will receive a confirmation that it was received. However, if you prefer to make your request in writing, you may email, mail, or hand deliver requests.

Requests sent via email should be submitted via the form above. You may also submit a request by mail or in person to:

Open Records Request
Surplus Lines Stamping Office of Texas
1601 E Pflugerville Pkwy, Suite 3301
Pflugerville, TX 78660

Question: Can my request be expedited? Would it be faster to submit my request in person?
Answer:

No. The Public Information Act requires a response be produced within 10 business days from the date the request was received.

Question: Can I submit my request multiple ways/times to expedite?
Answer:

No. We encourage you to use the online portal to submit your Open Records request, and you will receive a confirmation that it was received.

Question: What happens if the requested information cannot be produced within 10 working days?
Answer:

If the information cannot be produced within 10 business days, SLTX will notify you in writing of the reasonable date and time it will be available.

Question: Why do I have to submit a deposit for my information?
Answer:

If estimated costs exceed $100, you must submit a 50% deposit before work begins on your request.

Question: What are SLTX's procedures to request public information?
Answer:

Tips to request information

  • Your request must be in writing. Only written requests trigger obligations under the Public Information Act.
  • Your request should be for documents or other information already in existence. SLTX is not required to perform legal research or comply with a continuing request to supply information on a periodic basis as such information is prepared in the future.
  • Be as specific as possible in your request and include a time frame for the information you are requesting as appropriate.
Question: What happens if the information I'm requesting is not publicly available?

Answer:

  • If the information requested may be withheld due to an exception, SLTX has 10 business days after receiving the request to:
    • Request an Attorney General opinion and state which exceptions apply.
    • Notify you of the referral to the Attorney General.
    • Notify third parties if the request involves their proprietary information.
  • Requestors may send a letter to the Attorney General arguing for release and may review arguments made by SLTX. If the arguments disclose the requested information, you may obtain a redacted copy.
  • The Attorney General must issue a decision no later than the 45th working day from the day after the Attorney General received the request for a decision. The Attorney General may request an additional 10 working day extension.