Final answer:
The guidelines for marking classified information in directives are defined by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which allows access to government information while protecting issues related to national security and foreign policy. The Supreme Court allows the press to print classified material only if it doesn't compromise troops or covert operatives.
Step-by-step explanation:
Directives that contain classified information are marked according to the guidelines prescribed by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which was passed in 1966. The FOIA promotes transparency within the U.S. government by requiring the executive branch to provide information requested by citizens unless it falls under certain exemptions. These exemptions include sensitive matters concerning national security or foreign policy, trade secrets, and other protected information. Moreover, employees or contractors in the intelligence community who wish to report an urgent concern involving classified information to Congress may do so according to 50 U.S.C. § 3033(k)(5).
Additionally, the Supreme Court has determined that the press's right to print classified material is partial, and it is permissible only if it does not compromise troops or covert operatives. This underscores the delicate balance between the freedom of information and maintaining national security.