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DLA

To submit a FOIA request via this portal, you must REGISTER and then SIGN IN.

DLA's FOIA PROGRAM

DLA has one central FOIA Service Center that processes all FOIA requests. The following information will assist you in submitting a proper FOIA request.

DOD Small Arms/Light Weapons Registry -- If you are seeking records for serialized weapons from the DOD Small Arms/Light Weapons Registry, please be advised that DLA does not own, maintain, or control this data. Please submit your FOIA request for serialized weapons records data directly to:

HOW TO OBTAIN INFORMATION FROM DLA:

By using the DLA FOIA Portal at https://pal.whs.mil/app/Home.aspx

By using the FOIA.Gov website.

From DLA’s FOIA Reading Room:

 

FOIA REQUEST RESPONSE TIME:

DLA processes all requests on a "First-In, First-Out" basis. The Department of Defense has established three queues for FOIA requests: Expedited, Simple, and Complex. The Expedited queue is for those requests that seek and receive expedited processing pursuant to subsection (a)(6)(E) of the FOIA and pursuant to the criteria established in 32 CFR Part 286 (see Expedited Processing). The Simple queue is for those requests that do not involve voluminous records or lengthy consultations with other entities. The Complex queue is for those requests that involve voluminous records and for which lengthy or numerous consultations are required. Your request will be assigned to either the simple or complex queue unless you request expedited processing and substantiate your claim with supporting documentation. DLA will provide you with a response as soon as possible, based on your position in this queue; the need to collect responsive records from other offices; whether the request involves a "voluminous" amount of records which must be located, compiled, and reviewed; and whether DLA must consult with another agency which has a substantial interest in the responsive document(s). For requests within the Simple queue, DLA strives to provide a final response within 20 business days. When an extension is needed, the requester may be notified and offered the opportunity to modify or limit his or her request.

SUBMITTING A FOIA REQUEST

Recommended Method: To submit a FOIA request via this portal, you must REGISTER and then SIGN IN.

Alternative Method: A FOIA request made by mail must:

  • Include your name and complete mailing address. Provide a daytime telephone number and/or an e-mail address so that we may be able to contact you if needed.
  • Indicate that it is a "FOIA Request" on both your letter and envelope or in the subject line of your e-mail.
  • Indicate your willingness to pay fees (or specify the amount you are willing to pay) or ask for a fee waiver.
  • Identify which fee category of requester you are -- commercial, news media, educational / scientific, all others. Each of these has a different fee structure.
  • Describe the records you are seeking as clearly and precisely as you can. The more specific you are, the easier it will be for DLA to locate the records. In your description include information such as the date and place the records were created, the file descriptions, subject matter, persons involved, and other pertinent details that will help identify the records.

DoD FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT HANDBOOK.

DoD provides an informational handbook about making FOIA requests at https://open.defense.gov/Transparency/FOIA/FOIA-Handbook/