What is one requirement specified by the Freedom of Information Act for agencies concerning document availability?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) mandates that federal agencies make requested records available to the public, ensuring transparency and accountability. One of the significant requirements under FOIA is that agencies must establish systems for the electronic dissemination of information. This includes making documents available electronically within a specified timeframe after their creation, thereby facilitating easier access for the public.

This requirement encourages agencies not only to maintain transparency but also to adapt to the growing reliance on digital platforms for information access. By stipulating that documents should be available electronically, FOIA aims to make government information more accessible and manageable for citizens who seek to understand governmental activities and decisions.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the principles and requirements stated in FOIA. For example, limiting document availability to printed formats would contradict the emphasis on electronic access, and archiving documents for five years before release is not a FOIA requirement. Further, the idea that documents can be withheld indefinitely contradicts the fundamental goals of FOIA to promote openness, making the specified electronic availability a vital aspect of the legislation.