Government for the People: Leveraging Freedom of Information Laws to Procure Novel Records
Alec Ferretti
Content
About this webinar
This lecture will explain Freedom of Information Laws, and what genealogists can do with them. A variety of jurisdictions and case studies will be discussed.
About the speaker
Key points and insights
Unlocking History: Leveraging Freedom of Information Laws
Genealogists often encounter brick walls when seeking modern records held by government agencies. In the webinar "Government for the People: Leveraging Freedom of Information Laws to Procure Novel Records," professional genealogist Alec Ferretti provides a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and its state-level counterparts. This session is essential for researchers looking to move beyond standard census and vital records, offering strategies to access 20th-century immigrant files, military claims, and even federal passport applications. By understanding the statutory right to public information, researchers can transition from passive observers to active advocates for historical transparency.
Key Takeaways for Researchers- Navigating Exemptions and Backlogs: While the law presumes records are public, agencies often invoke specific exemptions—most notably for personal privacy (b6) and law enforcement (b7). Understanding that death typically nullifies privacy interests is crucial; for example, many agencies use a "100-year rule" to presume death if a formal record is unavailable.
- The Power of Diverse Federal Records: FOIA is the primary mechanism for obtaining vital genealogical documents like the SS-5 Social Security application and A-Files (Alien Files). Furthermore, researchers can uncover rich biographical details through often-overlooked sources such as Consular Reports of Death Abroad and Selective Service records for individuals born after 1960.
- State-Level Opportunities and Large-Scale Data: Beyond federal requests, every state has unique "Sunshine Laws" (like New York’s FOIL or New Jersey’s OPRA) that can be used to acquire voter registrations, occupational licenses, and even large-scale datasets. Groups like Reclaim the Records demonstrate how these laws can be leveraged to force the release of entire indices for the benefit of the whole genealogical community.
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Comments (38)
I can share a very recent change with the SS-5 requests. I order these fairly regularly and have done so for about 15 years. My three most recent requests were individuals born more than 120 years ago; however, the folks that handle FOIA requests at SS now require proof of death if they do not have death confirmation, even if the person was born more than 120 years ago. Case in point, I recently requested the SS-5 for an individual born in 1864 and died in 1947. They already appear in the Application Index with the 1864 birthdate. But because SS did not have a record this person died, I was required to provide proof of death. This happened two additional times. I then reached out to the agency who offers mediation services between government agencies and FOIA requestors. They advised SS's internal processes have changed (not the statute itself), and if SS does not have proof of death, the requestor must now provide it; hence me having to prove a 1947 death for someone born in 1864.
Alex certainly knows his subject. Such a large amount of information from so many different agencies. Patience seems to be a number one requirement in many cases described by Alex. Now we know where to go to get specific information. Thank you.
Always amazing, enthusiastic, persistent, and passionate information gatherer and analyst! Wealth of information! Provides variety of tips to acquire data!
Alec's knowledge and enthusiasm for public records are unmatched. This presentation was full of great examples records he's been able to obtain from various government agencies.
Great information presented in a clear manner! Syllabus is wonderful.
Awesome information! Such interesting research avenues to follow up on!
A great webinar on getting documents and information not readily available. Alex is a master at understanding the system and how to work through it.
Wow.....He definitely has passion for this topic! Such great information.