North Dakota, the fourth least populous state in the U.S., has a population of approximately 783,926 as of 2023. (en.wikipedia.org) The state has a high citizenship rate, with 97.4% of residents being U.S. citizens, surpassing the national average of 93.4%. (datausa.io)
Public Records Access in North Dakota
North Dakota’s open records laws ensure that public entities provide access to their records upon request. Requests can be made through various mediums, including phone, email, mail, or in person, and do not need to be in writing. Public entities are required to respond within a reasonable time, either by providing the records or citing the legal authority for denying the request. They may charge fees for providing records and can require payment of estimated charges before fulfilling a request. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Key Points:
- Request Methods: Phone, email, mail, or in person.
- Response Time: Within a reasonable period.
- Fees: Public entities may charge for providing records.
- White Alone: 86.4%
- Black or African American Alone: 3.8%
- American Indian and Alaska Native Alone: 5.3%
- North Dakota Attorney General’s Office
- North Dakota State Data Center
Privacy Considerations
While North Dakota promotes transparency through its open records laws, certain records are exempt from disclosure to protect individual privacy. For instance, records related to ongoing investigations or personal information that could lead to identity theft are typically withheld. It’s important to note that the courts and the state’s legislature are not subject to open records laws, and certain legislative records are exempt from disclosure. (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
Demographics and Population Data
As of July 1, 2024, North Dakota’s population was 796,568, marking a 2.2% increase from the 2020 Census. (census.gov) The state’s population is predominantly White, comprising 86.4% of residents, followed by Black or African American (3.8%) and American Indian and Alaska Native (5.3%). (census.gov)
Population Breakdown:
Geographic and Regional Context
North Dakota is bordered by Canada to the north, Minnesota to the east, South Dakota to the south, and Montana to the west. The state’s diverse geography includes the Red River Valley, the Missouri Plateau, and the Badlands, offering a variety of landscapes and natural resources.
Comparisons with National Averages
North Dakota’s citizenship rate of 97.4% exceeds the national average of 93.4%. (datausa.io) The state’s population growth rate of 2.2% from 2020 to 2024 is higher than the national average, indicating a trend of increasing residency. (census.gov)
Local Resources and Contacts
For assistance with public records requests or inquiries about citizenship matters, residents can contact the following:
– General Inquiries: (701) 328-2210
– Consumer Protection: (701) 328-3404
– Website: (attorneygeneral.nd.gov)
– Website: (commerce.nd.gov)
Conclusion
North Dakota’s commitment to transparency through its open records laws provides residents with the right to access public records. Understanding the state’s demographics and the nuances of public records access and privacy can empower citizens to make informed decisions and engage effectively with state resources.