Title 5: Government Organization and Employees
Structure of the federal government, civil service employment, administrative procedure, freedom of information, and federal employee benefits.
99 chapters · 1,536 sections · 6 key sections available
Key Sections (6)
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
The Freedom of Information Act requires federal agencies to make their records available to the public upon request. Agencies must respond within 20 business days and can only withhold information under specific exemptions.
Privacy Act of 1974
Federal agencies generally cannot share an individual's personal records without that person's written consent. The Privacy Act gives citizens the right to see and correct their own records.
Prohibited Personnel Practices — Whistleblower Protection
Federal employees who report waste, fraud, abuse, or dangers to public safety are protected from retaliation under whistleblower protection laws.
Federal Service Labor-Management Relations — Findings and Purpose
Congress recognizes the right of federal employees to form unions and bargain collectively, balancing worker rights with the need for effective government operations.
Employment of Relatives — Anti-Nepotism
Federal officials cannot hire or promote their relatives in the agency they oversee. Any such appointment is void, and the relative cannot be paid.
Freedom of Information Act
Requires federal agencies to disclose records requested by the public unless they fall under one of nine exemptions covering national security, personal privacy, law enforcement, and trade secrets.