They encourage agencies to use information to create new services or to devise better ways of doing traditional business. The United States , Canada , and a number of other countries have adopted such policies. New York and other states have done the same, especially with respect to e-government services. The US Freedom of Information Act and Electronic Freedom of Information Act and similar state laws guarantee citizens a right of access to government records. Several government and nonprofit organizations have a mission to promote the use of government information.
Policies promote and guide interagency information sharing.
New York State s policy encourages sharing to support operations, better serve customers, avoid duplication, and improve accuracy. The Government Information Sharing Project at Oregon State University helps users find government information. US Digital Signature Legislation gives digital signatures the same legal basis as handwritten signatures. Similar state laws, such as New York s Electronic Signature and Records Act , provide authority to use this new form of identity to conduct government business within New York State. Top of page These two kinds of policies are complementary.