What is the Freedom of Information Act?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that allows citizens to access records from government agencies. In North Carolina, the FOIA gives the public the ability to request access to public records maintained by state and local government agencies. The law also allows the public to request access to records maintained by the courts and state universities. Under the FOIA, state and local government agencies must provide records in response to a public request. This can include documents, emails, photographs, video recordings, audio recordings, and other digital or paper records. The FOIA also requires information to be disclosed in a timely manner, although agencies can take up to fifteen days to respond to a request. The FOIA also includes provisions that ensure the confidentiality of certain records. These records can include records about personnel and labor relations, trade secrets, and records related to criminal investigations. To protect the privacy of individuals, personal information such as Social Security numbers, financial information, and medical records must be kept confidential. The Freedom of Information Act ensures that citizens of North Carolina have access to public records maintained by the state and local government. The FOIA is an important law that promotes transparency and accountability in government.

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What is the Freedom of Information Act?

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