What is the primary purpose of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was enacted in 1966 with the fundamental purpose of promoting transparency in government by allowing the public to access records from federal agencies. This law empowers individuals, organizations, and the media to request and receive information held by the government, thereby fostering accountability and informed citizenry. FOIA serves as a critical tool for ensuring government actions are open to public scrutiny, enabling citizens to understand government operations and decisions impacting their lives.

The act does have certain exemptions to protect sensitive information, such as personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement interests, but its core intention is to enhance public access rather than restrict it. Through FOIA, citizens can hold governmental bodies responsible and engage more deeply with democratic processes. This access to agency records directly supports a well-informed democracy, making the option reflecting public access to federal records the accurate choice.