Records responsive to records requests
Primary source
Verbatim text below is from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the current version with the eCFR before relying on it for any legal matter.
Full Text
(a) In determining which records are responsive to a request, a component ordinarily will include only records in its possession as of the date that the component begins its search.
(b) A component is not required to create a new record in order to fulfill a request for records. The FOIA does not require agencies to do research, to analyze data, or to answer written questions in response to a request.
(c) Creation of records may be undertaken voluntarily.
(d) A component will provide a record in the format specified by a requester, if the record is readily reproducible by the component in the format requested.
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.