NCJ Number
116757
Date Published
1988
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This section reproduces the text of the Freedom of Information Act, 5 U.S. Code Section 552, as amended.
Abstract
The Act specifies that Federal agencies provide the public with information on the organization, policies, and procedures for requesting information under the Act. It describes the types of information that must be made available for public inspection and copying, including final opinions, policy statements and interpretations, administrative staff manuals and instructions that affect the public. It provides for the justified deletion of identifying details from such materials if needed to protect personal privacy. Also described are guidelines for the promulgation of agency regulations on fees for processing information requests and conditions under which fees are to be waived. The Act further requires that agencies maintain indexes on matters issued, adopted, or promulgated after July 4, 1967 and sets time limits for making a determination of whether to comply with requests for information. Also listed are nine types of information not covered by the Act, including that related solely to internal personnel policies and practices and those that must be kept secret in the interest of national defense and foreign policy. Also exempted are certain records or information, compiled for law enforcement purposes, the release of which would interfere with enforcement proceedings, deprive an individual of a fair trial, or constitute an invasion of personal privacy. The Act also requires agencies to submit an annual report on their administration of the Act.