About OGIS

Congress refers to OGIS as "the Federal FOIA ombudsman." What does this mean? In short, OGIS serves as a bridge between requesters and agencies, particularly in situations where clear, direct communication has been lacking.

OGIS was created within the National Archives and Records Administration when the OPEN Government Act of 2007 amended the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. § 552). (View the Changes) OGIS's key responsibilities include:

1. Reviewing compliance and policy.  Review policies and procedures of administrative agencies under the FOIA.  Review compliance with FOIA agencies.  Recommend policy changes to Congress and the President to improve the administration of FOIA
2. Mediate disputes.  Offer mediation services to resolve disputes between persons making FOIA requests and agencies (non-exclusive alternative to litigation). May issue advisory opinions if mediation has not resolved the issue. 
3. Serve as ombudsman. Solicit and receive comments and questions from Federal agencies and the public regarding the administration of FOIA to improve FOIA processes and facilitate communication between agencies and FOIA requesters.

In addition to these responsibilities, OGIS also provides dispute resolution training for the FOIA staff of Federal agencies, works closely with key FOIA stakeholders like the requester community and open government advocates, and more.

OGIS can also help you. If you want more information on how to file a FOIA request see the Government FOIA Guides or Additional FOIA Resources for assistance. If you have already made a FOIA request but are interested in using OGIS's facilitation and mediation services see our page on Requesting OGIS Assistance. If you are not sure whether or not OGIS can help, please contact us.

More information about OGIS:

For FOIA Requesters
For Federal Agencies
OGIS Fact Sheet 
OGIS Overview  
Contact OGIS