Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has mandated public access to government records since 1851. The law evolved into its present form in the mid-1970s.
To read the law in its entirety, click on the link below. You can also visit Frequently Asked Questions, which provides in summary form information about certain aspects of the law.
Access Massachusetts Public Records Law
William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth
Also see the Secretary's guide to Mass. public records