Legal Definitions - Freedom of Information Act

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that requires government agencies to disclose documents and information to the public upon request. The purpose of the law is to promote transparency and accountability in government.

For example, if a journalist wants to obtain information about a government program, they can file a FOIA request to the relevant agency. The agency is then required to provide the requested information, unless it falls under certain exemptions.

Another example is a citizen who wants to know how their tax dollars are being spent. They can file a FOIA request to obtain documents related to government spending.

Overall, the FOIA is an important tool for ensuring that the government is open and accountable to the public.