Skip to main content

Overview

What is IPRA?​

IPRA stands for the Inspection of Public Records Act, a New Mexico state law that provides the public with the right to access public records held by government agencies, including the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC).

Under IPRA, any person has the right to inspect public records and may request copies of those records. The NMPRC Public Portal provides an online system to submit, track, and manage IPRA requests efficiently.

The Submit IPRA Request feature allows both Tier 1 and Tier 2 users to file a public records request under the Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA).
This functionality is designed to streamline the request process and ensure timely tracking, transparency, and communication with the NMPRC.

Example Scenario​

Real-World Example

Scenario

John is a researcher studying utility rate cases in New Mexico. He needs access to specific rate case documents from 2023 to complete his research. He wants to request these public records through IPRA.

What John Needs
  • Specific description of the records he wants (rate case documents from 2023)
  • Preferred format (Digital for easy research)
  • His contact information
What Happens
  1. John registers as a Tier 1 user (takes 10 minutes)
  2. He logs in and clicks "Submit IPRA Request"
  3. He fills out the request form with:
    • Detailed description: "All rate case documents and filings for docket numbers 23-XXXXX through 23-YYYYY from calendar year 2023"
    • Format: Digital
    • Submission type: Individual
  4. He submits and receives a Request ID
  5. Within 15 business days, PRC acknowledges his request
  6. PRC staff locates and prepares the documents
  7. When ready, documents are available for download in his dashboard
  8. He receives email notifications about status updates

Timeline: Registration (10 min) + Request (10-15 min) + Acknowledgment (within 15 business days) + Document preparation (varies)

Being specific in your request description helps PRC staff locate documents faster and may reduce processing time.

Quick Navigation​

This guide is organized into the following sections:

What You'll Need​

Before submitting an IPRA request, make sure you have:

  • Request Description - A detailed description of the records you're requesting
  • Document Format Preference - Choose between Digital or Printed format
  • Contact Information - Your name, email, and contact details
  • Submission Type - Decide whether to file as an Individual or Company
  • Delivery Preference (if Printed) - Choose Pickup or Mail delivery

Request Statuses​

Your IPRA request may go through several statuses:

  • Acknowledged – Pending Review - Request received and under review
  • Clarification Required - Additional information needed
  • Extension Request - Additional time needed to process
  • Payment Request - Payment required before processing
  • Production Documents Available - Documents ready for download
  • Rejected – Closed - Request was rejected
  • Wrong Custodian – Closed - Request filed with wrong department
  • Broad and Burdensome - Request is too broad and needs refinement
  • Closed - Request processing completed