11 Conclusion

Now that you have the step-by-step understanding of how the FOIA works, and how to submit and follow up on requests, share the information with others in your community!  This is an important tool to hold the government accountable. The idea of making this guide free and available to all is to increase the use of this method of citizen oversight.

If you want to step up your game, review the “additional resources” section, and reach out to collaborate with other people doing this work. Keep filing more requests! The more requesting you do, the better you will get at it, and the more you will learn about how the process works. You can also further explore filing requests in your state and municipal government to augment your work at the federal level. Most states have public records laws. You can also look at filing requests in other countries, though rules, regulations, and accessibility varies widely.

Remember, keep knocking, keep asking. It is our right, and our responsibility! Happy FOIA-ing!