DOJ denies Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce’s request
The Justice Department is facing a lawsuit after denying access to requested records from Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC), according to a complaint filed in Dane County Circuit Court. The Department initially stated it was processing the request in April 2022, but later claimed the records were protected by attorney-client privilege in September 2023.
Violation of DOJ policy
According to the complaint, WMC argues that the Department’s denial is a violation of its own policy. WMC’s attorney, Scott Rosenow, stated in the complaint that “10 business days would have been a reasonable timeframe for either granting WMC access to the requested records or providing a written denial.”
DOJ reviewing the filings
The Department of Justice is currently reviewing the filings in response to an email seeking comment. Department spokesperson Gillian Drummond confirmed this on Thursday, indicating that the department is actively considering the situation.
Request for confidential review
The complaint submitted by WMC requests a judge to conduct a confidential review of the requested records. The aim is for the judge to determine what can be made public, thereby resolving the issue at hand.