What are exempt records?

Exempt records refer to specific documents that are not publicly accessible and may be disclosed only at the discretion of the Department of Corrections. This implies that while these records exist, the department has the authority to withhold them from public view based on certain criteria, such as the need to maintain security, privacy, or the integrity of investigations.

The context of the other options clarifies why they don't fit the definition of exempt records. Publicly accessible records without restrictions would not be considered "exempt," and sensitive security information is typically kept confidential rather than being termed as exempt. Permanent confidentiality implies a stronger stance on non-disclosure than merely being at the discretion of the department. Thus, option C correctly encapsulates the nature of exempt records as those that the Department of Corrections can choose to disclose, based on their judgment and the circumstances surrounding the records.