Update on Previous GAO Findings, Observations, and Recommendations Concerning the Freedom of Information Act

Several questions were asked regarding selected previous GAO findings concerning the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Previously, GAO stated that the reasons citizens were not exercisng their FOIA rights as had been expected may have been due to disinterest or a lack of awareness of the Act and how it can be used. While the Act was generally effective for meeting congressional policy on openess in Government, it was concluded that better oversight and executive direction could improve implementation.