Everyone knows that on the Fourth of July, amidst the fireworks and barbecues, we celebrate America’s declaration of independence from the British Crown. Fewer people are aware that this July 4th is also the 49th anniversary of the signing of the Freedom of Information Act by President Lyndon B.Johnson. The Freedom of Information Act (or FOIA) provides for the disclosure of unreleased information and documents controlled by the federal government and has paved the way for state and local government public records laws.