What provides citizens access to government documents while promoting transparency?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a landmark piece of legislation that plays a crucial role in promoting governmental transparency by allowing citizens to access a wide range of government documents and records. Enacted in 1966 and amended several times since, FOIA provides individuals the right to request access to federal agency records, unless the information is protected from disclosure by one of nine exemptions, such as for national security or personal privacy.

This act serves several important functions: it empowers citizens to be informed about government activities, promotes accountability among public officials, and encourages public participation in government processes. FOIA is vital for investigative journalism, research, and civic engagement, as it helps uncover information that might not otherwise be available to the public.

The other options, while similar and may aim for transparency or access, do not encompass the broad access and the legal right to request information that FOIA provides to citizens at the federal level.