Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Electronic Freedom of Information (EFOIA)

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.

Northern Region FOIA Coordinator:

Freedom of Information/Privacy Act Officer
USDA Forest Service
200 E. Broadway
P.O. Box 7669
Missoula, MT 59807-7669
(406) 329-3256

Related Links:

Frequently Requested Records
Freedom of Information Act
Electronic Freedom of Information Act
Privacy Act of 1974
FOIA Contacts
FOIA Reference Guide
Forest Service Privacy Act Systems of Records

You may also want to visit the web sites of the National Forests and Grasslands in the Northern Region.

USDA Forest Service - Northern Region
Last Modified: Wednesday, 15 September 2004 at 15:16:57 EDT