Data Requests

Who can request data?

Data classified as public under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act are available to anyone who submits a valid data request to the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). This includes, but is not limited to, private individuals, reporters, attorneys, and businesses. Individuals who are the subject of data – meaning that the data are about the requestor or someone for whom the requestor is parent or a legal guardian – can obtain both public and private data about themselves.

How do I make a data practices request?

To make a data practices request, you must submit your request in writing (see below for form options, depending on if you are asking for data about yourself or for public data). We may ask you to clarify what data you are requesting. If we are unable to contact you, the request will be put on hold for 15 days. If we do not hear from you during that time, the request will be considered abandoned and closed.

Please use the appropriate form for your request:

• Data Request Form – Data Subject. Use this form when requested data are about you, your minor child, or someone for whom you serve as a legal guardian.
• Data Request Form – Public Requestor. Use this form for general public data requests.;

When will I get the information?

If you are requesting data about yourself, OCM will provide the data within 10 business days of receiving your request. OCM will complete other requests within a reasonable time based on the size and complexity of the request. Following our response, if you do not make arrangements within 15 business days to inspect the data or pay for the copies, we will conclude that you no longer want the data and will consider your request abandoned and closed.

Will there be a charge?

The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act allows OCM to charge certain costs it incurs when fulfilling requests for copies or electronic transmittal of governmental data. OCM will not generally charge for data requests unless total costs exceed $50. If OCM anticipates that your request will result in costs exceeding $50, staff will attempt to contact you with an estimate of costs before fulfilling your data request. Half of the estimated cost must be paid before staff begin the search and retrieval process. OCM will provide an invoice with the final cost that must be paid before the requested data are released. For significant requests, the entire estimated cost must be paid before staff will begin the search and retrieval process.

Where do I send questions?

Email your questions to data.practices.ocm@state.mn.us.