This issue of "Client" discusses the "Freedom of Information Act" which was enacted in 1966 and amended substantially in 1974. The general philosophy underlying the Act is that all records in the possession of federal government agencies should be available for public inspection. The Act applies to federal agencies, which are defined to include any executive department, military department, government corporation, government controlled corporation, or other establishment in the executive branch of the government (including the Executive Office of the President), or any independent regulatory agency. The federal statute does not apply to Congress (or its committees) or the judiciary. The nine exemptions to mandatory disclosure which refer to the types of documents which the government may withhold are discussed. A section on how to use the act, including a discussion of the initial request, appeal to the head of the agency from an initial adverse decision, and appeal to the courts is also included, as well as a listing of additional sources for assistance and information. (LL)