Disclosure may be made to a congressional office from the record of an individual in response to an inquiry from the congressional office made at the request of that individual. Records are stored by computer index, optical image and in file folders. Records are retrieved by name, document number, date, and subject. Access to textual records is strictly controlled by system managers and staff. Records may be removed from files only at the request of system managers or other authorized employees.
Computer files are password protected.
Refer to the NIH Manual Chapter for specific disposition instructions. The requester must also verify his or her identity by providing either a notarization of the request or a written certification that the requester is who he or she claims to be and understands that the knowing and willful request for acquisition of a record pertaining to an individual under false pretenses is a criminal offense under the Act, subject to a five thousand dollar fine. Same as Notification Procedures. Requesters should also reasonably specify the record contents being sought. Individuals may also request listings of accountable disclosures that have been made of their records, if any.