Clinton Signs Electronic Freedom of Information Act

October 2nd, 1996

October 2nd, 1996

Clinton Signs Electronic Freedom of Information Act
How Long Ago?

28 years, 5 months, 13 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Bill Clinton
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Clinton Signs Electronic Freedom of Information Act

President Bill Clinton signed the Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments to enhance public access to government information. This act aimed to increase transparency by allowing individuals to access government documents electronically. The legislation built on earlier laws and emphasized the importance of public oversight. By facilitating the electronic dissemination of information, it marked a significant step in the evolution of government transparency.

Amendments enhanced access to government information.

Public could access records via electronic databases.

Bill Clinton emphasized government accountability.

Legislation balanced transparency with privacy concerns.

What Happened?

The Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments were a pivotal point in U.S. advocacy for government transparency, enhancing the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) introduced in 1966. Signed by President Bill Clinton, these amendments aimed to modernize the accessibility of government information in an increasingly digital age. The act mandated federal agencies to make their records available electronically, which aimed at improving public access and fostering a culture of accountability within government operations. The 1996 amendments were prompted by the technological advancements that made information dissemination faster and more efficient, reflecting a growing recognition of the public's right to know what their government is doing.The law required agencies to create computerized databases of public records, ensuring citizens could more easily obtain information about government activities. Furthermore, it established provisions for protecting personal privacy when releasing documents, striking a balance between transparency and confidentiality. Certain exemptions remained to safeguard sensitive information, although the act encouraged a process for challenging such redactions. This act empowered citizens and media organizations, paving the way for a more informed public and reinforcing the concept of government accountability.The historical context of this legislation cannot be overlooked. The 1990s saw a surge in public interest in accountability and transparency, spurred by various scandals and a growing distrust in government institutions. The amendments responded to these societal needs by equipping citizens with tools to scrutinize government operations. As technology evolved, so did the methods for accessing and sharing information, marking the transition into the digital age for public records. The Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments thus represents a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to ensure that government remains answerable to its constituents.

Why Does it Matter?

The Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendments are significant as they transformed public access to government records by embracing technology. This shift made it easier for citizens to gain insight into government operations, fostering accountability. As information access has become vital in modern democracies, this act laid foundational principles for future transparency initiatives.

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