Commission publishes notice of new and revised systems of records

The Commission requests comment on new and revised systems of records maintained by the FEC. The Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, regulates the collection, maintenance, use and dissemination of information about individuals by the Commission. 5 U.S.C. §552a. The Privacy Act requires periodic review of the Commission's systems of records. Following this review, the Commission published a notice in the Federal Register (73 FR 336) detailing proposed new systems and modifications to current systems. This notice is available on the Commission's web site at https://transition.fec.gov/law/cfr/ej_compilation/2008/notice_2007-28.pdf.

The Privacy Act generally prohibits the disclosure of an individual's "record," if contained in a "system of records," to a third party without the individual's consent. 5 U.S.C. §552a(b). There are exceptions to the rule, including disclosure pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, disclosure to a Congressional committee on a matter within its jurisdiction and disclosure pursuant to a "routine use" published in a "system of records notice" in the Federal Register. Among other things, the current notice includes publication of these "routine uses." In most cases, individuals may access their own information and request amendment if they believe the records are inaccurate.

Comments on the Commission's proposed new systems of records and modifications to current systems must be received by February 1, 2008. The new systems of records and revisions will be effective February 11, 2008, unless the Commission receives comments that would result in a contrary determination. Comments should be addressed to Lawrence L. Calvert, Co-Chief Privacy Officer. Comments may be sent via e-mail to Privacy@fec.gov. Written comments should be sent to 999 E St. N.W., Washington, DC 20463.