The Freedom of Information Act, commonly known as the FOIA (FOY-uh), is a law that gives you the right to access information from the federal government. It is often described as the law that keeps citizens "in the know" about what their government is doing.
Under the FOIA, agencies must release any information that is requested unless that information is protected from disclosure by law. The FOIA also requires that agencies automatically disclose certain information, including frequently requested records.
As Congress, the President and the Supreme Court have all recognized, the FOIA is a vital part of our democracy.
As a communication warrior, you comply with FOIA regulations and understand their importance, including the concepts behind them. Caution should be taken to ensure that any information released under FOIA is also balanced against the Privacy Act.