Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Stakeholder Engagement • Asset Management • Federal Register

Sunshine Laws

Term from Public Administration industry explained for recruiters

Sunshine Laws are government transparency rules that require public access to government meetings and records. Think of them as "open door policies" that make sure government business happens in public view, not behind closed doors. These laws exist at federal, state, and local levels, with the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) being the most well-known example. When you see this term on a resume, it usually means the person has experience handling public records requests, organizing public meetings, or ensuring government compliance with transparency requirements.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Sunshine Laws compliance for city council meetings and public records

Processed over 200 Freedom of Information Act requests under Sunshine Laws

Trained staff on Open Records Laws and Sunshine Laws requirements

Typical job title: "Public Records Officers"

Also try searching for:

Records Manager FOIA Officer Public Information Officer Government Transparency Specialist Open Records Coordinator Public Records Clerk Information Access Specialist

Where to Find Public Records Officers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a complex public records request involving multiple departments?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss coordinating with different departments, setting up efficient tracking systems, understanding exemptions, and managing timelines while maintaining good communication with the requester.

Q: How would you improve your organization's transparency procedures?

Expected Answer: Look for answers about streamlining request processes, implementing digital solutions, training staff, creating clear guidelines, and balancing transparency with privacy requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take to ensure compliance with Sunshine Laws during public meetings?

Expected Answer: Should mention proper notice of meetings, maintaining accurate minutes, ensuring public access, and handling executive session requirements appropriately.

Q: How do you determine if a record is exempt from public disclosure?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of common exemptions like personal privacy, ongoing investigations, and confidential business information, plus the process for reviewing and redacting documents.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic requirements of Sunshine Laws?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic concept of public access to meetings and records, notice requirements, and general timelines for responding to requests.

Q: How do you track and respond to a basic public records request?

Expected Answer: Should describe the process of receiving requests, logging them, gathering documents, reviewing for exemptions, and communicating with requesters.