The topic of open records laws and how they apply to geospatial data is a proverbial slippery slope that GIS professionals have struggled with for years. The community anxiously awaits a Wisconsin Supreme Court verdict on the WIREdata case, and the impact it could have on geospatial data copyright and distribution policies in Wisconsin.
While that case winds its way through court, anyone looking to gain a basic understanding of open records laws can check out a “WisLine” teleconference offered by the UW-Extension Local Government Center on April 17th from 2:30 to 4:20. Intended to be a primer on open records, the teleconference is not focused specifically on geospatial issues.
The live teleconference costs $20, and pre-registration is required. After the seminar, you may also purchase an audio CD, or access an online streaming video feed for an additional fee. Visit the LGC Web site for more details.