Polluters Anonymous: How Exemptions to the Freedom of Information Act Contradict American Environmental Law
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Date
2024-05-01
Authors
Cramer, Benjamin W.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon School of Law
Abstract
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) includes exemptions that allow agency officials to withhold certain documents on a case-by-case basis. Two of those exemptions are relevant for the environmental matters described in this Article: Exemption 3 on types of information that can be withheld per the mandates of other statutes and Exemption 9 on information about wells that are drilled on public land in search of water or fossil fuels. This Article argues that exemptions to FOIA enable secrecy that contradicts that statute’s fundamental spirit of governmental openness, and the informational and public participation ideals of environmental law.
Description
38 pages
Keywords
Pollution, Environmental Protection Agency, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Citation
39 J. Env't L. & Litig. 125