The Freedom of Information Act: A Powerful Tool for Transparency
Understanding FOIA
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), enacted in 1967, empowers citizens to request and access non-classified government records and information. It holds federal agencies accountable for transparent operations and ensures that the public has a right to participate in government affairs.Filing a FOIA Request
To obtain records under FOIA, individuals must submit a written request to the relevant agency's FOIA Office. The request should clearly describe the specific records sought. While agencies may charge reasonable fees to process FOIA requests, these fees must be justified and proportional to the costs incurred.FOIA requests provide a valuable tool for citizens to hold their government accountable and promote transparency in public affairs. By understanding the provisions of FOIA, individuals can effectively exercise their right to access government information and ensure that the government remains responsive to the public's needs.
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