Corrections Policy
We are committed to accuracy. When errors occur, we correct them promptly and transparently. This policy explains how we handle corrections.
Types of Corrections
Minor Corrections
Examples: Typos, grammatical errors, broken links, formatting issues
Handling: Corrected without notation. The "last updated" date may be updated.
Standard Corrections
Examples: Factual errors, incorrect statistics, misattributed quotes, wrong dates
Handling: Corrected with a correction notice at the bottom of the article explaining what was changed.
Significant Corrections
Examples: Errors that substantially affect the meaning or conclusions of an article, major factual misstatements
Handling: Corrected with a prominent correction notice at the top of the article. If the error was in a widely shared article, we may issue a separate correction notice.
Retractions
Examples: Content that cannot be corrected due to fundamental accuracy issues
Handling: The article is marked with a retraction notice explaining why. Original content is preserved for transparency but clearly labeled.
Correction Format
Our correction notices include:
- Date of the correction
- Description of what was incorrect
- The corrected information
- For significant errors, how the error occurred (when relevant)
Example Correction Notice
Correction (January 15, 2024): An earlier version of this article stated that the Freedom of Information Act was passed in 1966 and amended in 1974. The article has been corrected to note that the Act was signed into law in 1966 but took effect on July 4, 1967.
Content Updates vs. Corrections
We distinguish between:
- Corrections: Fixing information that was incorrect when published
- Updates: Adding new information or reflecting changes that occurred after publication
Updates are noted with an "Updated" notice rather than a correction notice.
How to Report an Error
If you believe we've published inaccurate information:
- Email corrections@opengovtplatform.org
- Include the URL of the article
- Identify the specific claim you believe is incorrect
- Provide evidence supporting your correction (e.g., links to primary sources)
Response Time
We aim to:
- Acknowledge receipt within 1 business day
- Investigate and respond within 5 business days
- Correct confirmed errors immediately upon verification
Complex issues may require additional time to investigate properly.
Recent Corrections
No corrections in the past 90 days.
Questions
For questions about our corrections policy, contact editorial@opengovtplatform.org.
Last updated: January 2024