Which aspect of a demand for information may limit an agency’s authority?

The burdensome nature of a request for information can significantly limit an agency's authority because it can impose practical constraints on the agency's ability to collect, process, and respond to that request. If a request is overly extensive or complicated, the agency may lack the necessary resources—such as personnel, time, or funding—to fulfill it effectively. This can result in the agency being unable to comply, or it may lead to a significant diversion of resources away from its primary responsibilities, potentially hindering its operations.

While the specificity, time allocated, and financial resources of the agency are also important factors in the context of information requests, their limitations typically don't have the same immediate and overwhelming impact as the burdensome nature of a request. A highly specific request can often be met adequately if the agency has sufficient capabilities and time, and while financial resources are crucial, they may not always preclude the agency’s ability to manage a compliant request effectively. The burdensome nature cuts to the core of the agency's operational capacity, making it the most critical aspect that may limit its authority in handling information requests.