Federal law that allows people to request any existing record from Executive Branch departments, agencies, and offices; federal regulatory agencies; and federal corporations
Legislative Branch and the Judicial Branch are not subject to FOIA
Some records may be already published online in the Federal Register
FOIA Wiki, from the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, includes details on FOIA exemptions and fees, contact information for federal agencies and an open forum for questions. There's also a page with FOIA basics.
MuckRock tracks how states impose exemptions that allow them to withhold records; how quickly each state responds; and other factors affecting government transparency. This is intended to help make FOIA requests easier.
Texas Public Information Act
Allows people to request records from Texas agencies and governmental bodies by writing a letter
A record is any information assembled or maintained by any Texas public entities at the state or local level
Confidential information is not covered by this act
Search by zip code, state, or by type of record. Note: the blue search bar at the top of this site will take you to an Intelius search which charges a fee for its report; use the information below it to access wanted data.
Tips for Requests
Be specific in stating what you want. Example: employee records related to person X between the dates of ...
Request a waiver of fees. There may be fees for copying associated with your request.
Legally, the recipient has to at least respond to your request within 10 days, even if they send the requested records at a later time.
