Region 1: EPA New England

Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments of 1996

FOIA was significantly amended in 1996 (The Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments of 1996) to embrace the revolution in electronic data collection and communication. The term "Records" was redefined to include those maintained in computerized/electronic formats. Most records created as of November 1, 1996 must be made available online (if the Agency has on-line capability) or in another electronic format (i.e., CD-ROM or computer diskette). Federal agencies (including EPA) must create an index of material previously released under FOIA and must make that index available online by the end of 1999.