The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law passed in 1967, and since amended, that requires federal agencies to disclose information both proactively at at the public's request. The law applies to federal agencies and outlines nine exemptions to disclosures. Its purpose is to increase the transparency and accountability of government. *FOIA does not apply to states and local jurisdictions though states may have their own free of information laws and processes.
