24.201
Authority
FAR 24.201 mandates that federal agencies provide public access to information through publication, inspection, or upon request, as required by the Freedom of Information Act.
Overview
FAR 24.201 establishes the authority for making federal information available to the public under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552. This section outlines the three primary methods by which government agencies must provide access to information: publication in the Federal Register, making records available for inspection and copying at convenient locations, and providing copies of reasonably described records upon request. The purpose is to ensure transparency and public access to government records, subject to certain exemptions and procedural requirements outlined elsewhere in the FAR and FOIA regulations.
Key Rules
- Publication in the Federal Register
- Agencies must publish certain information in the Federal Register to ensure public access.
- Inspection and Copying at Convenient Locations
- Agencies must provide opportunities for the public to read and copy records at accessible locations.
- Providing Copies Upon Request
- Agencies must supply copies of reasonably described records when requested by the public, in accordance with FOIA procedures.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure that contract-related records are managed in compliance with FOIA requirements and are available for disclosure as appropriate.
- Contractors: Be aware that information submitted to the government may be subject to public disclosure under FOIA, unless protected by exemption.
- Agencies: Implement procedures to facilitate public access to records and respond to FOIA requests in a timely manner.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to promote government transparency and accountability.
- Contractors should understand that information provided to the government could be released to the public unless it qualifies for an exemption.
- Common issues include improper withholding of information, delays in responding to requests, or failure to properly describe records for disclosure.