980 CMR, § 4.01 - General

(1) Purpose. The purpose of 980 CMR 4.00 is to provide for free public access to all records of the Council with certain exceptions. Exceptions shall be construed strictly and narrowly. The purpose of 980 CMR 4.00 is also to provide protection for certain trade secrets, where such protection is both appropriate and provided for by law.

(2) Scope. 980 CMR 4.00 shall apply to all records of the Council including all books, papers, maps, photographs, recorded tapes, financial statements, statistical tabulations, or other documentary materials or data, regardless of physical form or characteristics, made or received by any member of the Council in her or his official capacity or by any employee of the Council.

(3) Statutory Authority. 980 CMR 4.00 is promulgated pursuant to M.G.L. c. 4, § 7; c. 66, § 10; c. 164, § 69H; and c. 164, § 69L.

(4) Definitions. For purposes of 980 CMR 4.00, the definitions set forth in 980 CMR 2.03(3) apply, unless the context or subject matter requires a different interpretation.

(5) Application of 980 CMR 2.00. 980 CMR 2.00 shall apply to 980 CMR 4.00 except to the extent that 980 CMR 2.00 and 4.00 are in conflict. In the event of a conflict, 980 CMR 4.00 shall prevail.

Notes

980 CMR, § 4.01