The law allows agencies to separate requests into different queues depending upon how much work or time it will take to fulfill the request. It also allows agencies to provide requesters an opportunity to narrow their requests to fit the fastest track.

Simply splitting up your request into smaller segments is probably not sufficient to gain a spot on the faster tracks. The new law allows agencies to “aggregate” requests that are clearly related and treat them as a single, larger request.

If an agency offers to negotiate, you should work with it to narrow your request. Ultimately if you sue the agency over its delays, a court will consider your efforts to cooperate or to negotiate in determining whether the agency is acting “reasonably” to exercise diligence in fulfilling your request.

Next section: You may be able to inspect the records personally