Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Services

Provided by Information and Systems Management Service

Offered to: HHS
Contact: 301-443-5252; foiarequest@psc.hhs.gov

The Division of FOIA Services has specialists experienced in processing FOIA requests and appeals to ensure compliance with Federal laws, HHS FOI regulations, and policies. The Division provides consultation services to all public health agencies and responds to all requests for records in the custody and control of any components of the Office of Public Health and Science, PSC, and the Rockville, Atlanta, and Baltimore Human Resource Centers.

Services offered include:

• Tracking appeals/requests from receipt to completion
• Coordinating searches for responsive records
• Advising regional staff and/or other officials who administer the FOIA
• Negotiating with requesters on the scope and/or time needed to process requests
• Reviewing documents for responsiveness and public disclosure
• Interpreting case law and Department of Justice guidance on complex disclosure issues
• Drafting appeal and response letters
• Preparing memorandums to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs (Media) recommending the Department’s final response on appeal issues

Performance: 95% of requests and appeals will be logged into the tracking system and interim letters generated to the requesters/appellants identifying the assigned case numbers and office contact information within 1 business day of receipt.

95% of requests and appeals will be controlled to reach appropriate Operating Divisions (OpDivs) to begin a search for and duplication of responsive records within 1 business day of receipt.

Rate: By agreement per participating OpDiv