Final answer:
The law described in the question is the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which gives citizens the right to access information from the federal government. FOIA was passed in 1966 to increase openness in the executive branch. Citizens can request documents from government agencies, and agencies are generally required to provide the information.
Step-by-step explanation:
Your statement accurately describes the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Enacted in 1966, FOIA is a federal law in the United States that empowers citizens to access information held by the federal government. The primary objective of FOIA is to enhance openness and transparency within the executive branch, allowing citizens to request and receive documents from government agencies.
While there are some exemptions to protect sensitive information, the general principle is that government agencies are obligated to provide requested information to the public. FOIA plays a crucial role in promoting accountability, facilitating public scrutiny of government activities, and fostering an informed citizenry by ensuring access to government records within the bounds of legal and security considerations.