FAQs - Public Access to Member Information
California Public Records Act
The California Legislature created the California Public Records Act in support of the public’s right to access information held by California state and local agencies. Most LACERA member information is subject to disclosure under the CPRA.
- Why didn’t LACERA appeal the court order to release additional retiree data to the L.A. Times?
LACERA has a fiduciary duty to the retirement fund (Fund). After a careful review of the facts and recent court decisions, the Board of Retirement (BOR) determined there was no reasonable chance LACERA would prevail in an appeal. When the BOR weighed the low probability of victory against the substantial costs involved in litigating an appeal, it decided an appeal was not in the best interest of the Fund.
- Is LACERA bound by a court order?
Yes. Like any citizen or entity, LACERA is obligated to follow the law. Violation of a court order would make LACERA subject to contempt of court charges.
- Why isn’t my retirement data protected by federal and state consumer protection laws?
The L.A. Times filed its request for retiree data under the California Public Records Act (Govt. Code §§ 6250 - 6276.48), which is designed to give the public access to information in possession of public agencies. The law applies to all California state and local agencies, including LACERA. Any person or organization may file a request under this law.
- Does the CPRA permit public access to my social security number or contact information?
No. According to the CPRA, the following information is “confidential and shall not be disclosed to any person”:
- home address
- telephone number
- e-mail address
- California driver's license number
- California identification card number
- Social Security number
- How will the L.A. Times use the data LACERA provides?
The L.A. Times, as well as any other organization or individual that accesses records under the CPRA, may use the information as it sees fit. LACERA has no control over how the information is used. Moreover, the law prohibits LACERA from inquiring about the nature of its use.
- I object to the release of my information. Can I complain to the L.A. Times?
Keep in mind, the Times obtained this information lawfully. However, under the First Amendment, everyone has the right to express their opinion.
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