The FOIA became effective in 1967, and its purpose was to provide a statutory basis for public access to official agency information previously restricted from public view.

Through the FOIA, Congress made it clear that the public has the right to know what its government is doing, for an informed public is vital to democracy.

Under the FOIA, official information is now available to "any person," without regard to need for or interest in the material. The Agency and its FOIA staff are committed to ensuring the fullest possible disclosure of records, consistent with the letter and spirit of the law.

FOIA Reading Room

• BBG FOIA Annual Reports
• BBG's Improvement plan Under Executive Order 13392(FOIA) (June 2006) (PDF, 39KB)

FOIA Request

We can no longer accept FOIA requests for Agency information through our Internet address.

However, you may still make written requests to our BBG mailing address:

BBG, FOIA/PA Unit
Room 3349
330 Independence Ave. SW
Washington, D.C. 20237
(202) 203-4550

We will also accept FOIA requests to our fax number:
(202) 203-4585