Classification | Center for Effective Government

Scaling Up Transparency: New Approaches Could Yield Greater Openness

Two reforms launched by federal agencies this month represent new approaches to more efficiently releasing government information. New websites to publish declassified documents and records released under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) could set new precedents and improve on older practices by making the information available to everyone online.

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New Report Reviews Obama Administration Progress on Open Government

Sep 12, 2012 by Gavin Baker

The 2012 Secrecy Report, released today by OpenTheGovernment.org, shows that the Obama administration has enacted a number of constructive transparency measures. The administration has made important strides toward a more open and accountable government during the past four years.

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Administration Moves to Postpone Records Declassification

Nov 30, 2009 by Roger Strother*

The Federation of American Scientists blog, Secrecy News, revealed early last week that a revised draft of an executive order on the classification of national security information was circulated by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in mid-November. Despite consulting with the open government community during the policy making process, the policy is rumored to be an unfortunate step backward.

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BREAKING: New FOIA Memo Released During Sunshine Week

Mar 19, 2009 by Roger Strother*

The Obama Administration has approved a new set of guidelines concerning implementation of the Freedom of Information Act. This memo replaces the aging Ashcroft memo and its antiquated transparency principles. In fulfillment of President Obama’s Jan. 21 order, the DOJ has acted with impressive speed and emphasis - this memo shows great promise for government openness and the public’s ability to access government information.

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