Media Policy

Shawnee Mass Transit Districts social media accounts are not official Shawnee Mass Transit District websites, but rather its presence on a third-party service provider’s platform, which means Shawnee Mass Transit District has limited control over how each platform uses personal data provided by users. Users are encouraged to read the privacy policy of each social media platform in advance of engaging with Shawnee Mass Transit District via these platforms.

As a reminder, communications with Shawnee Mass Transit District, whether on social media or in an e-mail or traditional mail, are subject to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Social media and e-mail interactions are public information, and are subject to disclosure, according to that Act.

Shawnee Mass Transit District recommends that users of social media platforms refrain from including personal information that they wish to remain confidential when interacting with the social media accounts.

In an effort to comply with the Illinois FOIA and other laws, including copyright laws, Shawnee Mass Transit District may seek to limit or remove information from social media platforms. For example, it may limit or remove information pertaining to Shawnee Mass Transit District personnel, whose personal data is generally protected under the Act. Shawnee Mass Transit District takes public comments seriously and will consider comments. Removal of data from a social media platform does not mean that the comments were not given appropriate consideration.