Members of the public, including foreign citizens, military and civilian personnel acting as private citizens, organizations and businesses, and individual members of the Congress for themselves or constituents, may request records in writing. It is important to remember that the Freedom of Information Act applies only to federal agencies. It does not create a right of access to records held by Congress, the courts, state or local government agencies, or by private businesses or individuals. Each state has its own public access laws that should by consulted for access to state and local records.
NOTE: Air Force-affiliated requesters, to include military and civilian employees, should not use government equipment, supplies, stationary, postage, telephones, or official mail channels to make FOIA requests. Requests should be made through personal e-mail via the Public Access Link, organizational e-mail or postal service.