The Freedom of Information Act, commonly known as FOIA, is a law that requires the full or partial disclosure of previously unreleased or uncirculated information and documents controlled by the government upon request. Journalists, researchers, and everyday citizens commonly use FOIA to access information. 

The Office of Information Policy at the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) sought an easier way for citizens to understand how and when to make FOIA requests, where to direct their queries, and to streamline the process of getting to the information they seek.

With more than 100 agencies subject to FOIA and hundreds of FOIA offices, it can often be difficult for the public to find information efficiently. The SearchTool is designed to simplify the FOIA request process, direct users to the right agencies, and provide access to publicly available information to reduce the need for FOIA requests. It also decreases the number of misdirected requests, making it easier for agency managers to streamline their processes and respond efficiently to requests.

A strategic approach to content creation

This update reflects one of the most significant improvements to the FOIA site since the release of the National FOIA Portal in 2018 and fulfills one of the DOJ’s commitments made in the United States Fifth Open Government National Action Plan.

The team developed the search tool after in-depth research and information gathering from agencies and public users to help identify the best solution. These efforts identified six topical areas that comprise the largest portion of FOIA requests. These “common topics” launch users into logic-based pathways that ask a series of questions to help get the user to the right place. Alternatively, users can enter their own search terms. The tool relies on a combination of logic and machine learning to provide a user with publicly available documents and/or a suggestion of where to request information.

The FOIA.gov homepage was also refreshed to provide clear options for a user to start their FOIA journey. The agency search functionality, now on a new page, continues to provide quick access to agency mission information, contact information, and the option to submit a FOIA request directly from FOIA.gov.