Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Electronic Freedom of Information (EFOIA)
What is the Freedom of Information Act?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was passed by congress in 1966
and became effective on July 4, 1967. Congress wanted to make sure that
the people have access the records of the Executive Branch of the United
States Government. Before the FOIA in 1966, the burden was on the individual
to establish a right to examine these government records.
With the passage of the FOIA, the burden of proof shifted from the individual
to the government. Those seeking information are no longer required to
show a need for information. The government now has to justify its need
for not releasing records.
The FOIA sets standards for determining which records must be made available
for public inspection and which records can be withheld from disclosure.
The law also provides administrative and judicial remedies for those denied
access to records. Above all, the statute requires federal agencies to
provide the fullest possible disclosure of information to the public.
Northern Region FOIA Coordinator:
Freedom of Information/Privacy Act Officer
US Forest Service
200 E. Broadway
P.O. Box 7669
Missoula, MT 59807-7669
(406) 329-3256
FAX: (406) 329-3124
Related Links:
Frequently
Requested Records
Freedom of Information
Act
Electronic Freedom
of Information Act
Privacy Act of 1974
FOIA
Contacts
FOIA Reference
Guide
Forest Service
Privacy Act Systems of Records
You may also want to visit the web sites of the National Forests and
Grasslands in the Northern Region.
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