Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Requirement: All federal public websites* must comply with existing laws and directives that relate to the Freedom of Information Act. The principal requirement is that websites must have a page that includes certain content as required by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This page should include information about how the public can request information under the Act. Organizations should review the FOIA and implementation guidance to ensure that their public websites meet the full range of requirements:
Examples:
- The Federal Communications Commission FOIA page clearly explains the required steps to complete a FOIA request and spells out the name of the program on the homepage.
- The Department of Labor has a detailed and comprehensive FOIA page.
- The Department of Justice provides a list of FOIA contacts at each agency, a FOIA reference guide, an e-mail newsletter with FOIA updates, and information about making a FOIA request at the Department of Justice.
* These requirements apply to executive departments and agencies and their public websites. Check the specific law to see if it also applies to judicial or legislative agencies or to intranets.
Page Updated or Reviewed: December 14, 2005
