Open Records Request

Overview

The Texas Public Information Act (Government Code, Chapter 552) grants the public the right to access government records. Unless otherwise exempt, all government information is presumed open to the public. The Board is committed to fulfilling requests promptly while adhering to confidentiality requirements set by law.

Click a link below to skip to that section on this page:

• Make a Public Information Request
• Response Timeline and Costs
• Requestor Rights

Make a Public Information Request

To request records from the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners: 

• Submit your request in writing via mail, email, fax, or in person. 
• Clearly describe the documents or information you seek, ensuring accuracy for quicker processing. 
• Requests for information must pertain to existing documents; government bodies are not required to create new records or conduct legal research. 

Contact Information for Requests

• Mail: 
  Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners 
  Open Records 
  1801 Congress Ave, Suite 8-800 
  Austin, TX 78701 
   
• Email: openrecords@veterinary.texas.gov 

• Fax: 512-305-7574 

• In Person: Visit the address above. 

You may also use the Open Records Request Form available on our forms page.

Key Guidelines for Requests

1. Address Requests Correctly: 
   All written requests must be sent to the Officer for Public Information or the Board’s Chief Administrative Officer to trigger a legal obligation for a response. 
    
2. Preserve Copies:  
   Retain a copy of your request and proof of its receipt. 
    
3. Exceptions to Disclosure:  
   Some records, including those related to complaints, investigations, or criminal proceedings, may be confidential. 

Response Timeline and Costs

Response Expectations

• You will be notified if your request cannot be fulfilled within 10 business days. A written response will include a timeline for when the records will be available. 

• If estimated charges exceed $40, you will receive an itemized estimate before any work begins. 

Cost Information

• Costs vary based on the type and volume of records requested. 
   
• Prepayment may be required for charges exceeding $100 (or $50 for agencies with fewer than 16 employees). 
   
• You may request a waiver or reduction of fees if the request primarily benefits the public. 

Requestor Rights

As a requestor, you have the right to: 

• Prompt access to non-confidential records. 
• Choose to inspect records, receive copies, or both. 
• Receive an itemized statement of costs exceeding $40. 
• Contest overcharges with the Office of the Attorney General. 

Confidential Information

Certain records are privileged and not subject to public disclosure, including: 

• Complaint and investigative files. 
• Attorney-client communications and work product. 
• The identities of non-testifying complainants. 

For details on what may be withheld, refer to Section 801.207 of the Veterinary Licensing Act. 

Filing Complaints

If you believe your request was not handled properly, you may file a complaint with: 

• Your Local County or District Attorney for non-state entities. 
• Office of the Attorney General’s Open Government Hotline:
  • Phone: 512-478-6736 
  • Toll-Free: 1-877-673-6839 

For complaints regarding overcharges, contact the Attorney General’s Cost Rules Administrator at 512-475-2497. 

ADA Accommodations

If you require accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please contact our ADA Coordinator at 512-305-7555.