A lot of reporters use the Freedom of Information Act — FOIA — to request documents from the government.
Last year, I asked the State Department for copies of some correspondence related to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. And it took me a while to hear back.
I received a response last week.
Evidently, there’s a huge backlog at the State Department in the office that handles requests like mine, and we now know why.
An inspector general looked into the matter and provided an explanation: “The office lacks copy machines that can handle the volume required.”
There aren’t enough copy machines. At the State Department. In 2015.
As a nonprofit news organization, our future depends on listeners like you who believe in the power of public service journalism.
Your investment in Marketplace helps us remain paywall-free and ensures everyone has access to trustworthy, unbiased news and information, regardless of their ability to pay.
Donate today — in any amount — to become a Marketplace Investor. Now more than ever, your commitment makes a difference.
