Administrative Dispute Resolution Act (ADRA)

Administrative Dispute Resolution Act (ADRA)
OGIS is guided by the provisions of the Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996 (ADRA), 5 U.S.C. §§ 571-84, including the confidentiality provision. This guidance helps to ensure that OGIS can effectively and impartially work to facilitate resolutions of FOIA disputes through alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Confidentiality is a key to successful use of ADR. In the interest of promoting open and candid dialogue with all parties involved in a dispute, OGIS, at its discretion, may grant an express request to speak to the Office in confidence. At the same time, OGIS is committed to conducting proceedings in a manner that promotes openness and transparency. Notwithstanding the requirements of the ADRA and requirements protecting materials reflecting Office deliberations, OGIS will endeavor to make available as much information as lawfully possible.