“The liberties of a people never were, or ever will be, secure when the transactions of their rulers may be concealed from them.” Patrick Henry’s words at the time of our nation’s founding continue to hold true.
The Freedom of Information Act, or FOIA, allows citizens the right to access records from any federal agency. You simply need to submit a written request for the information you are seeking to the FOIA service of the agency that you would like information from.
You can make a FOIA request for agency documents, investigative reports, and even communications like emails and text messages on government phones. Each federal agency has its own FOIA office. The White House and Congress are exempt from FOIA and requests can be denied because of national security concerns and ongoing investigations.
In addition to FOIA, open record requests can be made of state governments and agencies as well as local governments. Each state has its own individual laws for record requests and open meeting requirements.
Government accountability is fundamental to the preservation of our republic. With some in our government today targeting law-abiding citizens and political opposition, and poisonous ideas like critical race theory infiltrating federal agencies, the military, and federal curriculum, we must stand up and demand transparency at the federal, state, and local level. Your voice and values can make the difference!
Your Steps to Make a Difference:
LEARN: Review the FOIA.gov instructions on How to Make a FOIA Request, then watch the short videos, How do I make a FOIA request? and How is a FOIA request processed?
SHARE: Forward this email to 5 of your friends and encourage them to consider submitting a FOIA or public record request to gain information on an issue important to them.
ACT: Submit a FOIA request on an issue that is important to you. Learn more on how to submit an open records request on the Citizen’s Guide resource page. Then begin your request by searching the FOIA index of government agencies to find the correct agency contact information and submission form.
EXTRA CREDIT: After receiving the information and documents from your FOIA request, share what you learned and the materials received with The Daily Signal editorial team by emailing [email protected] or sending a tweet to @DailySignal.
Track your progress and start receiving actions items to your inbox today! Sign up for the Citizen's Guide here.
