What is FOIA?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) has provided the public the right to request access to records from any federal agency. Federal agencies are required to disclose any information requested under FOIA unless it falls under one of nine exemptions which protect interests such as personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement. FOIA also requires agencies to proactively post online certain categories of information, including frequently requested records.

As Congress, the President, and the Supreme Court have all recognized, FOIA is a vital part of our democracy.