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From: Catherine Magruder
Date: 2/21/98
Time: 6:34:55 PM
Remote Name: 38.217.62.132
A subscription basis or per case basis seem to be the most fair. Per minute charges, especially when dealing with the internet and the routine "clogging" it experiences, could quickly become outrageous. I routinely collect public information via public information and FOIA requests. A simple open records request can take up to 10 days and requires at least 20 minutes of my time (to draft and mail the letter and then get a check cut and pay the invoice). That assumes that everything goes smoothly (the request was clear and that the agency could find what I was asking for, etc.) An online search on the other hand can usually be done in less than five minutes, without leaving my desk. The saved time saves money for my firm and our clients. I am willing to pay for the convenence.