What does a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request enable?

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request enables individuals to seek access to records held by the federal government. The FOIA is a critical tool that promotes transparency and accountability in governmental agencies by allowing the public to request information related to government operations and decisions. The law applies to federal executive branch agencies and mandates that they disclose records unless they are protected from disclosure by specific exemptions.

This means that citizens can request documents, emails, reports, and other types of information that agencies create or receive in the course of their official duties. The goal is to ensure that government actions are open to scrutiny by the public, fostering trust and participation in governance. This ability to access federal records is particularly significant for journalists, researchers, and citizens interested in understanding government activities.