5.3.4: Freedom of Information Act

Respond to FOIA requests within 20 working days and minimize backlog.

Other Information:

GSA responds to FOIA requests within 20 working days and has a procedure in place to minimize backlog. GSA’s staffing, processes, and system for handling FOIA requests ensure that all responsive, non-exempt information is provided to the requester. GSA also strives to make discretionary releases of information that could be withheld. Staff members assess inquiries and coordinate with others in the agency to develop timely and thorough responses. In FY 2009, GSA reported 1306 full grants and 168 partial grants. The majority of denied requests were for contract information. GSA’s backlog to date this year is 0. If a request becomes untimely, GSA contacts the requestor and completes the request in the shortest possible timeframe. GSA’s Office of General Counsel counsels clients looking for ways to make government more transparent, participatory, and collaborative. GSA’s attorneys are actively engaged with the open government working group and work with clients like the FOIA Office to discover new ways to proactively make information available to the public. GSA’s attorneys also work with clients to satisfy security, privacy and other concerns. For more information about GSA’s FOIA program, visit the FOIA Open Government Webpage and visit GSA’s FOIA Reading Room to view the FOIA Chief Information Officer Report.

Indicator(s):

Indicator:1

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