FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
FOI/FOIA RESOURCES
The Freedom of Information Act was adopted by Congress in 1966 and on July 4 of that year, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed it into law. FOIA gives the public the right to request access to records from any federal agency. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens in the know about their government. Federal agencies are required to disclose any information requested under the FOIA unless it falls under one of nine exemptions that protect personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement.
Here’s a 41-second video explainer.
And, here is FOIA’s legislative history of amendments.
Muckrock
A non-profit collaborative news site that provides tools to keep our government transparent and accountable, Muckrock offers dozens of freedom of information guides, tips and flowcharts that range from beginner to intermediate to expert.
The Society for Professional Journalists FOI Resources
Includes links to stories, websites and document-driven ideas you can use in your own community.
SPJ’s step-by-step guide on FOI
If you’re unfamiliar with FOI laws, need help submitting a records request or simply don’t know where to start, this guide can help.
SPJ How to Conduct an Audit ToolKit
Details on how to perform an audit to monitor government compliance with freedom of information laws.
Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press
Of particular note are the:
First Amendment Handbook
Open Government Guide (by state)
Open Courts Compendium
National Freedom of Information Coalition
This nonpartisan alliance of state open government groups publishes state FOI news and other resources. It also maintains a listserv, used by open government experts, as well as novices seeking help in accessing public records
FOIA Wiki
Federal Freedom of Information Act resources. Maintained by the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, with contributions from The FOIA Project at TRAC, MuckRock, The National Security Archive, FOIA Mapper, Project on Open Government and users like you.
First Amendment Coalition
Their Asked & Answered database is helpful.
New England First Amendment Coalition
They offer a FOI Guide to states in New England and public records law video tutorials.
Ashley’s Totally Basic FOIA Tutorial (Full Frontal with Samantha Bee.)