VITA launches NextRequest FOIA Portal
The Virginia IT Agency (VITA) is modernizing how the public submits Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. In early March, VITA's Legal and Legislative Services team moved from manually processing FOIAs that are submitted via a shared email address to a new online portal.
The new integrated, user-friendly system makes submitting, tracking and responding to records requests more efficient.
Powered by CivicPlus, NextRequest is a one-stop portal that brings every part of the FOIA process into a single system. Instead of emailing FOIA@vita.virginia.gov, requesters will now submit through the portal, which keeps all related information in one record, provides visibility into the request's status and improves consistency across the process. The platform also positions VITA for future capabilities, such as online payment processing through the same system.
Accessing the portal is simple and familiar: the path doesn't change. Visit the VITA website to find the FOIA link, now updated to point to the NextRequest portal. Navigate to the portal two ways:
- Homepage > Footer > FOIA
- About > Legal and Legislative Services
This upgrade underscores VITA's commitment to using innovative technology to enhance performance and improve the experience for both requesters and staff.