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Review the Frequently Requested Records page to find records already posted online or how to gain access to frequently requested records that may be obtained outside of the FOIA process.
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The Freedom of Information Act, also known as the FOIA, was enacted in 1966 and is the primary means by which the public has access to records in the possession of Executive Branch agencies of the Federal Government. The FOIA is operated under the premise that the public has a right to know what the Government is doing, how it is being done, and what information is being collected. However, to prevent individuals, businesses, and government from harm resulting from the release of certain information, the FOIA provides a means by which limited information can be withheld from disclosure.
The Privacy Act provides safeguards for the protection of records the Federal Government collects on United States citizens or lawfully admitted permanent residents. Under the Privacy Act of 1974, an individual United States citizen or Legal Permanent Resident may seek to access, correct, or amend records that are retrieved by name or other personal identifier such as one's social security number (SSN) contained in a systems-of-records. Such requests will be processed in accordance with applicable legal requirements and exemptions under the governing regulations (e.g., 28 CFR 16.40 and 28 CFR 16.77) and statutes such as FOIA and the Privacy Act (cf. 5 U.S.C. 552a(j)-(k)), as appropriate. Requests may be made in any written form that bears the requester's signature. Requests for information contained in a PA system-of-records must: (1) be accompanied by a consent form or verification of identity attesting that you are the record subject (or his/her legal guardian) or that you have the record subject's consent; (2) clearly identify the particular record(s) at issue; and (3) indicate the precise nature of any amendment, correction, or other action sought, and the reason or justification for such action. See Chapter 13 of COMDTINST M5260.3 for specific information on providing verification of identity and/or consent from individuals.