Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
What is a FOIA Request?
SURS is a public body subject to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140/1 et seq. A “FOIA request” is simply a written request to inspect or receive copies of public records, submitted to a public body. The Illinois Freedom of Information Act provides that a person can ask a public body to inspect or copy its records on a specific subject and the public body must provide those records, unless there is an exemption in the statute that protects those records from disclosure (for example: records containing proprietary information or trade secrets, personally identifying information (“PII”), and other confidential/private information).
Who Can File a FOIA Request?
Any person, group, association, corporation, firm, partnership or organization has the right to make a FOIA request to any state or local public body, including any city, township or county office. FOIA requests can even be submitted anonymously.
NOTE: SURS members/participants do not need to submit a FOIA request to receive their own personal benefit information. SURS members can access their personal benefit information on the SURS’ Member Website or contact (800) 275-7877 to speak with a Member Services Representative.
Where Should I File My SURS FOIA Request?
All requests for inspection and/or copying should be directed by email to SURS’ FOIA Team at [email protected] or delivered personally or mailed to the attention of the FOIA Team at 1901 Fox Drive, Champaign, IL 61820. SURS’ First FOIA Officer is Heather V. Kimmons, and SURS’ Second FOIA Officer is Bianca T. Green. The FOIA Officers and other members of the FOIA team may be reached directly by electronic mail sent to [email protected].
SURS has developed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)Request Form in order to ensure an easy and transparent way for the public to submit their requests. Although SURS recommends the use of this form, it is not required in order for your FOIA request to be filled.
SURS Rules and Statutes
Administrative Code hosted on the JCAR website.
Illinois Pension Code hosted on the ILGA website.