National Archives FOIA Ombudsman Hosts Briefing January 14
Media Alert · Thursday, January 7, 2010

Washington, DC

WHAT: The Office of Government Information Services (OGIS), referred to by the U.S. Congress as the “FOIA Ombudsman,” will host a briefing for journalists, updating them on the priorities, progress, and next steps for OGIS.

OGIS was created within the National Archives and Records Administration when the OPEN Government Act of 2007 amended the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552). The Office began operations in September, 2009, with the appointment of Miriam Nisbet as Director, and will shortly be at its full complement of six staff members.

OGIS is charged with:

• Providing services to mediate disputes between FOIA requesters and Federal agencies;
   
• Reviewing policies and procedures of administrative agencies under FOIA;
   
• Reviewing agency compliance with FOIA; and,
   
• Recommending policy changes to the Congress and President to improve the administration of FOIA.

WHO: Archivist of the United States David S. Ferriero
OGIS Director Miriam Nisbet

WHEN: Thursday, January 14, 2010, 10 a.m.

WHERE: National Archives, Madison Room
Press should enter through the Special Events Entrance
Constitution Avenue at 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC

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For press information contact the National Archives Public Affairs staff at 202-357-5300.

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