The FOIA’s expedited processing provision, added in 1996, is intended to help journalists who need to get information quickly for publication and others who have an urgent need for records. Expedited processing is available in cases where the requester can show “compelling need” for the information, as defined in the statute, and in other situations determined by the agencies.
When should I request expedited processing?
Congress intended expedited processing to be an exceptional option for matters that are truly urgent, not simply an opportunity to circumvent delays in ordinary circumstances. Because granting expedited processing means that some requests will be processed quickly at the expense of others, agencies require a strong showing that one or more of the criteria are met. Agencies rarely grant expedited processing. Therefore, it is important to request expedited processing only when you can reasonably argue that your request is urgent and falls within one of the grounds for expedited processing.
