The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides that any person has the right to request access to federal agency records or information. Like all federal agencies, the Department of Labor (DOL) is required to disclose records requested in writing by any person. However, agencies may withhold information pursuant to nine exemptions and three exclusions contained in the statute. FOIA applies only to federal agencies and does not create a right of access to records held by Congress, the courts, or by state or local government agencies.
Office of the Secretary FOIA Information
How to make a FOIA request - Requests can be in writing, either handwritten, typed or faxed. Requests can also be submitted electronically. No special form, however, is required by the Office of the Secretary. To check the status of FOIA requests, you may email the FOIA Service Center at OSEC-FOIA@dol.gov.
You should send your FOIA request to: U.S. Department of Labor, Office of the Solicitor, 200 Constitution Ave NW, Room N-2420, Washington, DC, 20210, and Attention FOIA Request. If you fax your request, the fax number is 202-693-5389.
In making your request, you should be as specific as possible with regard to names, dates, places, events, subjects, etc. When the Office of the Solicitor receives your FOIA request, we will assign it an initial request number and send you a letter, fax, or e-mail acknowledging receipt of your request.
If you believe that the Labor Department maintains the records you are seeking, but are uncertain about which component has the records, you may send your request to: Office of the Solicitor, Division of Legislation and Legal Counsel, 200 Constitution Ave NW, Room N-2428, Washington, DC, 20210, Attention: FOIA Request. Personnel in that division will then forward your request to the components of the Labor Department that they believe are most likely to maintain the records you are seeking. You may also view FOIA Agency Descriptions.
Under the statute, all federal agencies are required to respond to a FOIA request within 20 business days excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. This period does not begin until the request is actually received by the FOIA office that maintains the records sought.