This year marks the 50th anniversary of the landmark 1974 amendments to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), a landmark law that guarantees public access to federal government records.  

To commemorate this milestone, the Center for Study of Responsive Law is hosting a special event on Dec. 19, 2024, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The celebration features a robust agenda with panels and presentations from prominent FOI experts, including: 

• Ralph Nader:  Founder of the Center for Study of Responsive Law 

• Anne Weismann: Adjunct Professor at George Washington University Law School  

• Alan B. Morrison: Lerner Family Associate Dean for Public Interest & Public Service at George Washington University Law School 

• Roberta Baskin: Award-winning investigative reporter 

• Allison Kole and Zehava Robbins: General Counsel and Senior Counsel at the Energy and Policy Institute 

• Thomas Susman: ABA Strategic Advisor, Global Programs & Governmental Affairs 

Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD) is also expected to share insights on federal legislative opportunities to strengthen FOIA. 

Initially enacted in 1966, FOIA promotes transparency and accountability by empowering citizens to request information from federal agencies. The 1974 amendments, passed in the aftermath of Watergate, strengthened FOI by imposing response deadlines, narrowing exemptions, and adding enforcement mechanisms. 

To RSVP to this free event, you can fill out this form.  

Posted: December 16, 2024
Category: Brechner News
Tagged as: Brechner FOI Project, Brechner Freedom of Information Project, First Amendment, FOIA, open records laws