FOIA Requests
How to File a FOIA Request
- The request must be in writing.
- The request must be submitted by mail, facsimile or email.
- The request, the envelope, the fax cover sheet or the email subject section must be identified as a FOIA request and include a daytime telephone number where the requester can be reached.
- The request must provide enough detail to allow identification of the requested records.
- The request must include an agreement to pay fees charged under by USCCR’s fee schedule or provide justification to support a fee waiver request.
The Commission will respond to requests promptly to advise the requester of the date of receipt and whether the records sought are under the Commission’s control. Whenever possible, the Commission will process the request within twenty working days. The Commission’s policy is to release information to the maximum extent possible. However, if information must be withheld, the requester will be notified of the amount of information withheld, the basis for the withholding, and how to appeal the withholding.
For more information concerning how to file a FOIA request or to mail, fax or email a request you should contact:
Solicitor
U.S. Commission on Civil Rights
624 Ninth Street, NW
Suite 621
Washington, DC 20425
Phone: (202) 376-7796
Fax: (202) 376-1163
E-mail: emonroig@usccr.gov
Contact for Information about Your FOIA Request
FOIA Requester Service Center
Phone: (202) 376-8351
Fax: (202) 376-7597
vwilliamson@usccr.gov
FOIA Public Liaison
Phone: (202) 776-8110
Fax: (202) 376-7597
bfontana@usccr.gov
Appeals
You may file an administrative appeal of a FOIA request negative determination. All appeals must be in writing, sent by certified mail and received within 90 days of the date of the decision. It should include a copy of the written denial, and may include a statement of the circumstances, reasons or arguments advance in support of disclosure. You should send your appeal to:
Staff Director
U.S. Commission on Civil Rights
624 Ninth Street, NW
Suite 621
Washington, DC 20425
Phone: (202) 376-7700
Fax: (202) 376-7672
E-mail: awright@usccr.gov