The Freedome of Information Act, or the FOIA, was enacted by Congress to allow the public access to documents in the possession of federal agencies.

There are exemptions, however, and the following documents do not fall within the Act:

1. Those classified to be in the interest of national security;

2. Those that, if disclosed, would interfere with law enforcement operations;

3. Those statutorily prohibited from disclosure;

4. Those that describe personnel practices;

5. Intra-and-Interagency memorandums;

6. Medical, personnel, and similar files;

7. Those that contain trade secrets, confidential, or privileged materials;

8. Those that pertain to operation of financial institutions; and

9. Geological and geophysical data and maps.

The Act also requires agencies to publish their procedures, rules, regulations, interpretations, and other information in the Federal Register.

There is a limited time frame within which the agency must respond to a FOIA request and limits on copying charges.

Disciplinary action may be taken against someone who violates the provisions of the FOIA. Agency decisions not to disclose information is reviewable by the U.S. District Court.

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