Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) — 20 + 10 Workdays
Foundation
FOIA Foundation
The Freedom of Information Act provides access to federal agency records (or parts of these records) EXCEPT those protected from release by specific exemptions.
FOIA Requests
FOIA Requests
Freedom of Information Act requests are written requests that cite or imply the Freedom of Information Act.
FOIA Provisions
FOIA Provisions
The law:
- Establishes rigid time limits for replying to requesters
- Permits assessing fees in certain instances
FOIA Time Limits
FOIA 20 Workdays
The Freedom of Information Act imposes mandatory time limits of 20 WORKDAYS to either:
- Deny the request
- Or release the requested records
FOIA Extension
FOIA 10-Workday Extension
The law permits an additional 10-WORKDAY extension in the event that specific unusual circumstances exist.
Denial Process
FOIA Denial Process
Denials require notification of appeal rights.
Requester Recourse
Requester Recourse
Requesters can:
- File an appeal
- Litigate
Reference
DoDM 5400.07-R Reference
Refer to DoDM 5400.07-R_AFMAN 33-302 for:
- Specific policy and procedures on the Freedom of Information Act
- Guidance on disclosing records to the public