Federal Agencies Fall Behind on Public Document Requests, Analysis Finds

A new analysis by The Times reviews 16 years of federal data on public document requests. The study finds that agencies consistently lag in processing these A new analysis by The Times reviews 16 years of federal data on public document

requests. The study finds that agencies consistently lag in processing these requests. Thousands of requests remain in limbo or are left unfulfilled. Delays affect journalists, researchers, and citizens seeking official records. The

backlog has grown despite legal obligations for timely responses. Agencies cite staffing shortages and increasing demand as contributing factors. The findings raise concerns about transparency and accountability in government. Lawmakers

may consider reforms to improve response times and enforce penalties.