FOIA

Due to COVID-19 precautions,  please note that we are not currently able to process Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests received through the U.S. mail. If you would like to submit a FOIA request, please send the request to foia@fmcs.gov or through the Public Access Link  https://palfmcs.efoia-host.com/.  FOIA requests mailed to our office will be processed as soon as we return to the building.

The 1996 Amendments to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) require publicly accessible “electronic reading rooms” which contain FMCS’ FOIA response documents and other information routinely available to the public, and which include electronic search and indexing features.

Before submitting a FOIA request, please check to see if the information you are seeking is already available in the FOIA Reading Room.

FMCS also maintains a conventional reading room where paper copies of documents  are available for inspection and copying. You may visit FMCS’s public reading room in person by appointment at One Independence Square, 250 E Street SW, Washington DC 20427, Monday through Friday except legal holidays, between the hours of 9:00 am and 4:00 pm.

How do I make a FOIA request to FMCS?
Beginning October 26, 2020 FOIA requests may be submitted through the Public Access Link (PAL): https://palfmcs.efoia-host.com/. This link will enable users to submit FOIA requests, check the status of requests, receive requests, and appeal responses to requests. Due to the current situation, we cannot ensure the timely processing of requests received in the mail and encourage requesters to use the link above. If you are unable to use PAL, we are still accepting FOIA requests via foia@fmcs.gov or via fax at 606-202-5444.

Chief FOIA Officer:
The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) has designated Sarah Cudahy, General Counsel, as its Chief Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Officer with overall responsibility under Executive Order 13392 of December 14, 2005, on Improving Agency Disclosure of Information. Ms. Cudahy can be reached at Tel. 202-606-5444.

FOIA Public Liaison:
FOIA Liaison, Greg Raelson, director Congressional and Public Affairs – Tel. 202-606-8081

FOIA Requester Service Center:
FOIA requesters who have any questions on the status of their request should contact the FMCS FOIA Contact:  Program Assistant by calling 202-606-5444.

FMCS FOIA Regulations:
29 CFR Part 1401,  Subpart B, Sec. 1401.20 -1401.36

FMCS FOIA Reporting can be found here.

Where can I find more information about releasing and withholding information under FOIA ?
Check Your Right To Federal Records here.