What can I use FOIA for?

What can I use FOIA for?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides public access to all federal agency records except for those records (or portions of those records) that are protected from disclosure by any of nine exemptions or three exclusions (reasons for which an agency may withhold records from a requester).

What information can be obtained through FOIA?

FOIA covers records from all federal regulatory agencies, cabinet and military departments, offices, commissions, government-controlled corporations, the Executive Office of the President, and other organizations of the Executive Branch of the federal government. 5 U.S.C. § 552(f).

Do I have to respond to a Freedom of Information request?

You normally have 20 working days to respond to a request. For a request to be valid under the Freedom of Information Act it must be in writing, but requesters do not have to mention the Act or direct their request to a designated member of staff. you cannot provide the requested information straight away; or.

What is the advantage of freedom of information?

Easier information access; greater public awareness of laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; enhanced government efficiency and responsiveness; greater public participation in federal government affairs; enhanced public confidence in the federal government; and better quality information at reduced cost.

Why is the freedom of information bill important?

The passage of a Freedom of Information Law is crucial for Filipino citizens to exercise their right to access government-held information. The Law will mandate all branches of the government to disclose all documents as well as the procedures for accessing these documents.

What is freedom of information and how do you practice it?

Freedom of information is freedom of a person or people to publish and consume information. Public access to government information, including through the open publication of information, and formal freedom of information laws, is widely considered an important basic component of democracy and integrity in government.

How many countries have freedom of information laws?

119 countries