CEQFinal RuleJanuary 21, 2025

Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act Regulations

EnvironmentOther

Summary

This regulation updates how the Council on Environmental Quality handles requests for government information and protects people's personal privacy. It sets rules for how quickly the government must respond to requests for documents and what information can be kept private.

Key Points

1Establishes timelines for the government to respond to public records requests, typically within 20 business days
2Protects personal information like Social Security numbers, medical records, and financial details from being released to the public
3Allows people to appeal if their request for government documents is denied
4Applies to all environmental documents and records held by the Council on Environmental Quality
5Requires the agency to clearly explain why they are withholding any information from public disclosure

Impact Assessment

If you are a Federal Employee or member of the public, this means the Council on Environmental Quality will respond to your document requests faster and protect your personal information according to updated procedural rules.

Impact Level

Routine

Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

Minimal

Who is Affected

Federal EmployeesState Governments

Key Dates

Published

January 21, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Authorized By

Freedom of Information Act 5 U.S.C. 552 Privacy Act 5 U.S.C. 552a

Amends CFR Sections

40 CFR Part 1450

Other Documents in This Rulemaking (CEQ_FRDOC_0001)

CEQEnvironment

Removal of National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Regulations

CEQEnvironment

Office of Environmental Quality Management Fund

Read on Federal Register View Docket

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.