If you filed a FOIA request with the Department of Energy Headquarters (DOE HQ) any time before October 1, 2024, it might get wiped off the books if you don’t step up and make some noise.

“Still Interested”

DOE HQ claims it’s drowning in public records requests.

Over the past four years, incoming FOIA requests have more than tripled, hitting 4,000 in fiscal year 2024  and on track to top 5,000 in FY25, according to the department.

DOE says it’s also dealing with waves of requests from bots and repeat filers that are clogging the queue. And when DOE staff reach out for clarification, they often don’t get a response.

The DOE said it has limited resources and is trying to make the case a significant portion of those are being squandered.

Canon EOS R50 Mirroless Camera & Creator Bundle | Mics, Lenses, Tripod & More

“To free up government resources to better serve the American people” the DOE is warning it could close requests made before Oct. 1, 2024 if requesters don’t reach out and say they’re still interested.

DOE said it’s sending “Still Interested” emails to the addresses on file. If you received one of those emails and you still want the information you requested, you reach out.

If you have a pending request, and you haven’t received an email, I wouldn’t wait for it. I’d be proactive. Either way, you’re going to have to reach out to keep your request alive.

Who Is Affected?

• Anyone with an open DOE HQ FOIA request filed before October 1, 2024.
• This doesn’t apply to FOIA requests made to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), or DOE field sites.
• If your request is under active litigation, you’re also exempt.

Step Away From Your Laptop Without Fear  | AboveTEK  Universal Laptop Security Lock

What To Do?

• Respond: Send an email to StillInterestedFOIA@hq.doe.gov.
• Include: Your DOE HQ FOIA control number(s) (example: HQ-2024-xxxxx-F) and request the department continue processing your request. You must include the control number.
• Don’t: Respond via other email addresses or mail—these will not be counted.

The deadline is to let the DOE know you’re still interested is September 15, 2025.

DOE said this effort does not alter its existing FOIA regulations.

Listen To:

Clicks, Views, & Criticism About the Media

Listen to “Clicks, Views, & Criticism about Quality of Media” on Spreaker.