Define: Freedom Of Information Act

The FOIA is a federal law that allows for the full or partial disclosure of previously unreleased information and documents controlled by the United States government.

Any individual, organisation, or company can make a FOIA request, including foreign citizens and foreign governments.

You can request any agency records, such as emails, memos, reports, and other documents, as long as they are not exempt from disclosure.

Yes, there are nine exemptions and three exclusions that agencies can use to withhold information from the public.

You can make a FOIA request by writing a letter to the specific agency’s FOIA office or by using the agency’s online FOIA request form.

There may be fees associated with processing a FOIA request, such as search, review, and duplication fees. However, these fees can be waived or reduced in certain circumstances.

The FOIA requires agencies to respond to requests within 20 business days, although this timeframe can be extended under certain circumstances.

If your FOIA request is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision within the agency and, if necessary, in federal court.

The FOIA only applies to federal agencies, but most states have their own public records laws that allow for similar requests.

Yes, you can request personal information about yourself or others under the FOIA, but there may be exemptions that apply to certain types of personal information.