[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 103 (Friday, July 12, 1996)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1281] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] ELECTRONIC FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AMENDMENTS OF 1996 ______ HON. RANDY TATE of washington in the house of representatives Friday, July 12, 1996 Mr. TATE. Mr. Speaker, in commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Freedom of Information Act [FOIA], joined by my colleagues on the Government Management, Information and Technology Subcommittee, including Chairman Steve Horn, Ranking Minority Member Carolyn Maloney, and Representative Collin Peterson, today I introduce the Electronic Freedom of Information Amendments of 1996. The Freedom of Information Act [FOIA] was enacted in 1966 in order to provide the public with a presumptive and clear right of access to government information. In the 30 years since the implementation of the original Freedom of Information Act, our Nation has witnessed enormous technological advances. The laptop computer, cellular phone, fax, and Internet are just a few of the technological achievements that have brought us into the information age. The Electronic Freedom of Information Amendments of 1996 [EFOIA] makes it clear that FOIA applies to Government records in any form, including electronic records, while increasing on-line access to Government information. This legislation successfully harnesses the benefits of computer technology and, with common-sense reforms, delivers to the public increased Government efficiency, accessibility, and responsiveness. The Freedom of Information Act turns 30 this year--it is time to bring the law into the modern information age, using cutting edge technology to deliver cutting edge service to the American people. We in Congress, as their public servants, should aspire to nothing less. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support enactment of this bipartisan and important legislation this year. ____________________