'EFOIA' opens electronic data, speeds access: provisions will expedite certain requests, require electronic formats

Article Abstract:

The Electronic Freedom of Information Act was enacted in 1996 to expedite requests for government information under the Freedom of Information Act and provide improved access to government records held in electronic form. The new law requires that records created beginning in Nov 1996 must be made available in electronic form, either via online access, CD-ROM or diskette. The law provides for indexing of materials, improved search systems, and prioritization of requests. To increase accountability, agencies will have to submit detailed annual freedom of information reports.

United States, Public records, Information services, Databases

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Court orders round-the-clock access to jail log

Article Abstract:

The Arkansas Supreme Court ruled that the state's open records law did not exempt arrest records or jail logs from public access and that such records must be available at all times. The police argued that the records were exempt under the law's undisclosed investigations exemption, but the court ruled that such records are not necessarily investigative and, therefore, not exempt. However, in a case involving juveniles, a county court ruled that not releasing the names of children was proper according to public policy.

Juvenile offenders, Criminal registers

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Bills would expand FOI act, improve access

Article Abstract:

Senator Patrick Leahy introduced two freedom of information bills in early Nov 1991. The first bill would require government agencies to search not only their file cabinets but their computer databases as well when responding to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. The bill would also provide economic incentives for agencies to meet the FOIA deadlines for responding. The second bill would make the Congress and the President subject to FOIA and curtail the use of exemptions in the law.

Access control, Confidential communications, Journalistic privilege, Computer files

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