**
FOIA Request to Illinois Student Assistance Commission Regarding State Agency Contracts with Vendors on March 24, 2025.
As part of our commitment to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, North Cook News has submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the Illinois Student Assistance Commission. The request seeks documentation and details regarding the fulfillment of contractual obligations for all contracts executed or modified between this state agency and their vendors during January of the 2023 fiscal year. Specifically, we are interested in records that verify the scope of work performed, deliverables completed, and any reports or evaluations related to these contracts.
Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
This request is part of our broader effort as members of The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Missouri Corporation. This coalition assists news media companies, publications, and public advocacy groups in investigating state and federal governmental agencies. By leveraging Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws, we aim to pull back the curtain on government actions and help inform the American electorate. For more information about our mission and efforts, please visit [https://stopsecrecy.org/about/](https://stopsecrecy.org/about/).