FOIA Public Liaison [Federal Elections]: Key to Transparency and Dispute Resolution

Definition & meaning

The term FOIA Public Liaison refers to an individual designated by the Chief FOIA Officer of the Election Assistance Commission. This person is responsible for helping to resolve disputes between those requesting information under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Commission itself. The role is crucial in ensuring transparency and facilitating communication regarding public records.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A journalist submits a FOIA request for election data and encounters delays. The FOIA Public Liaison steps in to clarify the request and expedite the process.

Example 2: A researcher seeks access to public records about voter registration. The liaison helps resolve a misunderstanding regarding the scope of the request (hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
FOIA Requester An individual or entity that submits a request for information under FOIA. FOIA Public Liaisons assist requesters but are not the requesters themselves.
Chief FOIA Officer The official responsible for overseeing FOIA compliance within an agency. The Chief FOIA Officer designates the Public Liaison but has broader responsibilities.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself needing to request information under FOIA, consider the following steps:

  • Identify the information you need and ensure it falls under FOIA guidelines.
  • Utilize resources like US Legal Forms to find templates for submitting your request.
  • If you encounter issues, reach out to the FOIA Public Liaison for assistance.
  • For complex matters, consider seeking professional legal help.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical fees Varies by agency; some may charge for extensive searches.
Jurisdiction Federal level, applicable to the Election Assistance Commission.
Possible penalties Improper denial of requests can lead to legal challenges.

Key takeaways

FAQs

A FOIA Public Liaison helps resolve disputes between requesters and the Election Assistance Commission regarding information requests.