Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) FAQs
What is the Freedom of Information Act?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552, is a federal statute enacted
in 1966. It provides the American public access to federal agency records. The
FOIA requires that agencies: 1) automatically make public certain types of records,
and 2) establish procedures for the public to request copies of records that are
not routinely placed on public record. In general, FOIA advocates the public
availability of all federal records, unless the release of the information would
cause specific harm. For such circumstances, FOIA exempts some categories of documents from
public release.
How Do I Make a Request for Records?
The are several ways to submit a FOIA request for records:
- Option 1: Online Form
- Option 2: Mail request to:
Chief Administrative Officer and Secretary
Postal Regulatory Commission
901 New York Avenue, NW, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20268-0001
- Option 3: Facsimile: (202) 789-6886
- Option 4: Email: PRC-Admin@prc.gov
When making a FOIA request, provide: name, complete mailing address, telephone number,
and specifics about the record(s) being requested (such as docket number, subject
matter, type of record, time periods), and any other pertinent information. A request
should be clearly identified as "Freedom of Information Act Request." Include a
statement regarding ability to pay a research fee, if applicable, for the requested
information. In addition, please identify the category of requester as one of
the following: commercial, educational, noncommercial, scientific, news media,
or other. The Commission copy fee is 15 cents per copy page. Advance payment may
be required when the allowable fees are likely to exceed $250.
"Expedited processing" of a request may be made if the requester demonstrates a
compelling need. A demonstration of compelling need must be made by a certified
statement which is true and correct to the best of the requester's knowledge. A
request for expedited processing may be made at the time of the initial request
or at a later time.
How Does the Postal Regulatory Commission Respond to FOIA Requests?
Within 20 business days after receipt of the request, the Secretary of the Commission
will either:
1) comply with the request and immediately notify the requester of any fees that must be
paid OR
2) deny the request in writing.
With regard to expedited requests, the Secretary of the Commission has sole discretion
to grant the request for expedited processing. If the request is granted, the request
will be processed as soon as practicable; if it is denied, such a denial will be
explained to the requester in writing.
How Do I Appeal an FOIA Denial?
A requester denied access to a Postal Regulatory Commission record may appeal the
decision up to one year after the denial. A requester who seeks an appeal must
file it in writing with the Commission. Within 20 business days of the receipt
of the written appeal, the Commission will either grant or deny the appeal in writing.
The Commission will consider appeals of expedited processing requests in a timely manner.