While Congress passed the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to increase government accountability and transparency, the FOIA process may seem to further mystify government relations. Many agree that the anatomy of the FOIA is actually more art than science.
The National Security Archive has committed an entire section of its website, thirteen blog entries, and one 122-page manual, among other resources, to explain how users can effectively engage FOIA. My purpose in writing this blog is to provide you with a single reference for all FOIA inquiries. Ambitious, but possible through the invention of hyperlinks.
First, a brief overview. Enacted in 1966, the FOIA allows the public to access government records and requires agencies to respond within 30 days; however, the process may take months or, in the case of National Security Archive Analyst Bill Burr’s request filed to the US National Archives, 18 years! For the full history and politics of the FOIA, click here.
A FOIA request requires three simple steps: 1) research; 2) draft; and 3) submit your request. (more…)
