The Department of Homeland Security has released revised Freedom of Information Act regulations. EPIC submitted extensive comments on the proposed changes to the agency's open government practices. The DHS agreed to make some changes, recommended by EPIC, that should improve the processing of FOIA requests. The agency maintained a broad definition of "educational institutions" so that individual researchers will be able to access government records at minimal cost, and clarified steps that could be taken to delay "administrative closure," a controversial agency practice. The agency disagreed with EPIC about agency referrals, the definition of "commercial interest," and the routine release of public information to general public.
In comments to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, EPIC has backed strong privacy and safety standards. Responding to the "Federal Automated Vehicles Policy," EPIC said self-regulation would not be enough to protect drivers in the United States. EPIC urged the safety agency to mandate the Consumer Privacy Bill of Rights, establish new oversight authority, and protect state privacy rules for autonomous vehicles. EPIC is on the front lines of vehicle privacy as well as efforts to regulate the "Internet of Things." EPIC also defends the right of states to develop strong privacy laws.
In comments to the FTC, EPIC continued support for the FTC's Disposal Rule, which requires that businesses to take reasonable steps to protect consumer information against unauthorized access or use. EPIC told the FTC that the Rule protects consumers from identity theft. EPIC backed the initial Disposal Rule. In the 2016 comments, EPIC explained that information that can identify an individual should be covered by the rule.
