FAS

FOIA Reform Advances in Senate

08.06.07 | 1 min read | Text by Steven Aftergood

The Open Government Act, a bipartisan bill to strengthen the Freedom of Information Act, passed the Senate on August 3 after objections from a lone Senator were finally overcome.

Senators Pat Leahy (D-VT) and John Cornyn (R-TX) successfully shepherded the legislation, which is intended to expedite agency responsiveness to FOIA requests and improve the freedom of information regime in various other ways.

Sen. Jon Kyl (R-AZ), who had earlier placed a hold on the bill blocking its advance, explained his concerns in an August 3 floor statement and how they had been resolved. The measure passed on a voice vote.

publications
See all publications
Emerging Technology
day one project
Policy Memo
Clearing the Path for New Uses for Generic Drugs

To encourage greater adoption of generic drugs in clinical practice the FDA should implement a dedicated regulatory pathway for non-manufacturers to seek approval of new indications for repurposed generic drugs.

01.09.25 | 16 min read
read more
Environment
day one project
Policy Memo
Using Pull Finance for Market-driven Infrastructure and Asset Resilience

The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, which caused over $200 billion in global economic losses in 2023, is disrupting global supply chains and exacerbating migration pressures, particularly for the U.S. Investing in climate resilience abroad offers a significant opportunity for U.S. businesses in technology, engineering, and infrastructure, while also supporting job creation at home.

01.09.25 | 10 min read
read more
Education & Workforce
Blog
Alaska Statewide Mentor Project is Reaching Rural Teachers

Early-career and out-of-state teachers tend to be most heavily concentrated in Alaska’s rural schools, where they face a steep curve in adjusting to a new way of life while learning the ropes of teaching.

01.08.25 | 3 min read
read more
Emerging Technology
day one project
Policy Memo
A National Guidance Platform for AI Acquisition

By leveraging its substantial purchasing power responsibly, the government can encourage high-quality, inclusive AI solutions that address diverse citizen needs while setting a strong precedent for innovation and accountability.

01.08.25 | 10 min read
read more