NCJ Number
116758
Date Published
1988
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This section reproduces the text of the Privacy Act of 1974, 5 U.S. Code Section 552a.
Abstract
Following definition of the terms used in the Act, the Act specifies that no Federal agency shall disclose any record by any means of communication to any person or another agency except pursuant to a written request by or with the prior written consent of the individual to whom the record pertains. The Act specifies conditions to which this requirement does not apply (i.e., disclosures to Congress, those used for statistical purposes, or compelling circumstances affecting the health and safety of another). The Act also specifies procedures through which individuals can gain access to their own records, request amendments to such records, and require a review of agency denial of a requested amendment. Guidelines are provided for collecting information, maintaining records, and disseminating information. The Act also calls for the establishment of administrative, technical, and physical, safeguards to ensure the security, integrity, and confidentiality of such records. Civil remedies and criminal penalties for violations of the requirements of the Act are specified. General and specific exemptions to the Act are described. Additional provisions relate to the rights of legal guardians, the handling of archival records, alterations to the record system, and the sale of information for mailing lists. An annual report also is required.