Freedom of Information Act
What is the Freedom of Information Act?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was passed by congress in 1966 and became
effective on July 4, 1967. Congress wanted to make sure that the people have
access the records of the Executive Branch of the United States Government.
Before the FOIA in 1966, the burden was on the individual to establish a right
to examine these government records.
With the passage of the FOIA, the burden of proof shifted from the individual
to the government. Those seeking information are no longer required to show
a need for information. The government now has to justify its need for not
releasing records.
The FOIA sets standards for determining which records must be made available
for public inspection and which records can be withheld from disclosure. The
law also provides administrative and judicial remedies for those denied access
to records. Above all, the statute requires federal agencies to provide the
fullest possible disclosure of information to the public.
Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forest FOIA Coordinator:
| Freedom of Information/Privacy Act Officer
USDA Forest Service
Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests
215 Melody Lane
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 664-9200
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