Frequently Asked Questions
What is Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) ?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that gives the public the right to request access to records from U.S. government agencies. It promotes transparency by requiring agencies to release information unless it falls under one of nine exemptions (like national security or personal privacy). FOIA requests are usually low-cost, can be submitted online, and must be answered within 20 business days. Similar “Sunshine Laws” apply at the state and local level.
What is Privacy Act (PA) ?
The Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. § 552a) is a federal law that protects your personal information held by U.S. government agencies. It gives you the right to see, correct, and control records the government keeps about you — such as personnel files, medical records, or investigation reports. Agencies generally can’t share your information without your written consent, except in certain limited cases (like law enforcement or routine government use). You can also request corrections to fix errors in your records and appeal or take legal action if your privacy rights are violated.
What is Prohibited Activities and Conduct (PAC)?
Prohibited Activities and Conduct (PAC) refers to a military process for handling complaints about inappropriate or unprofessional behavior that doesn’t rise to the level of a crime — such as harassment, offensive comments, or other conduct that makes others uncomfortable. Each military branch has its own system to receive, investigate, and review these complaints. The investigation records can usually be requested through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) process, and both parties generally have the right to appeal the findings.
What is Physical Evaluation Board (PEB)?
The Department of Defense has created the Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) to assist service members who are disabled due to a condition suffered while on active duty be compensated for their pain, suffering and lifetime of ailments. The PEB can recommend medical retirement, medical separation or no findings of a condition. The PEB can grant life time compensation and medical care.
What is the Military Boards of Corrections?
The Military Board of Corrections is an independent board that reviews and fixes errors or injustices in a service member’s official military records. Each branch has its own board — like the Board for Correction of Military Records (BCMR) or Board for Correction of Naval Records (BCNR) — which can correct issues such as discharges, awards, fitness reports, or administrative actions. If a service member believes their record is wrong or unfair, they can apply for a review. If the board’s decision is unjust or against regulations, it can even be challenged in federal court.
Can I Actually Get My Records?
Yes. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act, you have the right to request and access your own records or many types of government records. The process is generally free, agencies must respond within strict deadlines, and the law generally favors public access. Submitting a request is often the first step to seeing what’s in your file or understanding how the government operates.
Is it Worth the Hassle?
Yes — absolutely. FOIA and Privacy Act requests are usually free or low-cost and can give you valuable insight into your own records or government actions. A well-written request can help you get information faster, avoid unnecessary fees, and reduce heavy redactions. Rights to Records guides you through every step of the process at fair, market-based rates.
What Can You Do For Me?
Rights to Records helps individuals, journalists, researchers, businesses, and organizations get access to federal and state government records under the FOIA and Privacy Act. We’ve helped clients obtain everything from medical and personnel files to law enforcement and intelligence reports, government emails, policy documents, safety investigations, and more. We also handle fee waivers, expedited processing, appeals, and litigation — guiding you every step of the way to make sure you get the records you need.