In the 2016 fiscal year, OPR received 36% of all NMFS FOIA requests and has selected IBSS to assist with the backlog of these FOIA requests. IBSS reviews FOIA requests for completeness and adherence to DOC and NOAA policies, procedures, and regulations. Doing so helps facilitate the process and reduce backlog. Additionally, IBSS prepares reports and briefing documents to inform others of particular problems with the goal of getting others to address the issue as well. Maintaining the database and tracking system for FOIA requests are also a part of IBSS’ responsibility. We work with requestors to clarify and narrow requests as well as provide updates of the statuses of these requests.
In regards to administrative support, IBSS provides logistics support for meetings and conference calls, facilitation support, reviewing correspondences for consistency with procedures, preparing documents for international and domestic travel, and make recommendations for process improvements.
