The Presidential Historical Records Preservation Act of 2008 [PL 110-404] requires that the Archivist of the United States submit to Congress a report on alternative models for Presidential archival depositories that: (1) Reduces the financial burden on the Federal Government; (2) Improves the preservation of Presidential records; and (3) Reduces…

Discusses events that led to the passage of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) of 1966. Problems and abuses associated with the law are described with excerpts of the law regarding required disclosures, disclosure under FOIA, fees, and subjects not available under FOIA. Seventeen references are listed. (CHC)

This information memorandum describes three federal laws which govern public access to federal records and the treatment of personally identifiable information by federal agencies or under federal programs. It is noted that these laws generally apply only to federal agencies in the executive branch of government. The first of four major sections…

Examines the Reagan administration's use of cost as an argument for amending the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Finds two general problems with the argument: (1) incomplete, inconsistent, and inaccurate reporting of FOIA costs and (2) agency attitudes that affected the cost estimates they presented. (FL)

This paper outlines the history and purpose of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which insures the right to access the voluminous files of U.S. government agencies, and explains FOIA implementation procedures for reference librarians assisting patrons. Recent attempts to amend the FOIA are discussed. Thirty-four references are cited. (EJS)

Discusses aspects of the administration of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), including operational and cost considerations. The idea of applying the FOIA to the legislative branch of the federal government is discussed. (Contains 64 references.) (KRN)

Discussion of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) focuses on its applicability to computer records. Agency practices to ensure access to information are considered; requests, litigation, and administrative appeals that have helped clarify the FOIA are described; and computer software, electronic mail, computer programing, and requested formats…

Describes activities of the Council on Competitiveness under the leadership of Vice President Dan Quayle. Regulatory interference, legislative projects, and policy proposals for special interests that have benefited business and industry are described; refusals to comply with the Freedom of Information Act are discussed; and recommendations for…

Discusses the 1996 Electronic Freedom of Information Act and examines 17 federal agency Web sites to see how well they comply. Topics include electronic reading rooms to disseminate documents and records, reference guides, annual reports, a lack of consistency, and a high level of wasteful duplication. (LRW)

In considering the purposes of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), it is essential to keep in mind that the Act is not, and never could be, a statute with the singleminded purpose of disclosing government information. Many kinds of information that the government has in its possession must be kept confidential to protect important public…

Five articles critique various aspects of the information policies and practices of the Reagan administration. Areas discussed include management of the Freedom of Information Act, the use of national security arguments to restrict access to information, Congressional access to Executive Branch information in the Iran-Contra affair, and policies…

The Law section of the Proceedings contains the following 13 papers: "Link Law: The Evolving Law of Internet Hyperlinks" (Mark Sableman); "Bits, Bytes and the Right to Know: How the Electronic Freedom of Information Act Holds the Key to Public Access to a Wealth of Useful Government Databases" (Martin E. Halstuk);…

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a limited tool for science reporters seeking information about federally funded university research. The act applies only to information that is considered a "record" in possession of an "agency," both as defined by the act. Most university research and most universities do not meet the…