What is FOIA and what are typical steps to file a public-records request?

• A. FOIA is a private-data access law; no steps needed.
• B. FOIA stands for Federal Open Information Act; file with the library.
• C. FOIA stands for Freedom of Information Act; identify the agency and records, draft a clear written request citing the statute, submit electronically or by mail, track status, follow up, and appeal if denied.
• D. FOIA applies only to international organizations.

Answer: (C)

FOIA is the Freedom of Information Act, a federal law that gives the public the right to access records held by federal agencies. The typical steps to file a public-records request reflect a practical, orderly process: first, identify which agency holds the records you want and specify those records as clearly as possible; second, draft a written request that cites the statute and describes the records in concrete terms; third, submit the request to the agency’s FOIA office—usually electronically or by mail; fourth, keep track of the request and follow up if there’s no timely response; and fifth, if access is denied or partially denied, pursue an internal appeal and, if necessary, seek a legal remedy. This sequence ensures the request is directed to the right place, clearly communicates what you want, and uses the agency’s processes to obtain the records or challenge a withholding.

Other options get the basics wrong: FOIA is not a private-data access law, nor is that the correct name; it isn’t filed with a library, and it doesn’t apply to international organizations.