Final answer:
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) establishes the public's right to access federal government information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), enacted in 1966, is the pivotal legislation that grants the public the right to access information held by the federal government. Mandating transparency, it compels the executive branch of the U.S. government to furnish requested information to citizens. The primary aim of FOIA is to enhance openness and transparency within the executive branch.
Citizens can exercise their right to information by submitting requests for documents to the relevant government agencies. However, it's important to note that FOIA includes certain exemptions, allowing agencies to withhold specific information deemed sensitive or confidential. Despite these exemptions, FOIA remains a crucial tool in promoting governmental accountability and ensuring that citizens can access essential information about the workings of their government.