What is the purpose of the Freedom of Information Act?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that gives citizens of the United States and South Carolina the right to access documents and information held by the government. FOIA was passed in 1966 with the goal of promoting transparency in government. It was designed to help the public gain access to information about the government’s decisions and actions, as well as those of their representatives in Congress and state legislatures. FOIA applies to federal and state agencies, as well as other entities that fall under the control of the government. The purpose of FOIA is to ensure that citizens have the right to know what their government is doing. By granting access to government-held information, FOIA helps to promote an informed public that is able to hold its elected leaders accountable for their actions. In addition, FOIA helps citizens to access information about laws and regulations that are important to them, such as those governing housing, healthcare, and the environment. FOIA also prevents the government from withholding requested information simply because it might be embarrassing or politically damaging. It requires agencies to make certain records available and encourages them to make others available. FOIA encourages the dissemination of information and holds government accountable to its citizens.

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