2.32—How long does DOI have to respond to my appeal?
(a)
The statutory time limit for responding to an appeal is 20 workdays after receipt of an appeal meeting the requirements of § 2.30.
(b)
If you request expedited processing of your appeal, you must demonstrate to the Department's satisfaction that the appeal meets one of the criteria under § 2.14(a). The FOIA Appeals Officer will advise you whether the Department will grant expedited processing within 10 calendar days of its receipt of your appeal. If the FOIA Appeals Officer decides to grant expedited processing, he/she will give your appeal priority and process it ahead of other pending appeals.
(c)
If you have not received a decision on your appeal within 20 workdays, you have the right to seek review in a District Court of the United States (see 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(4) and (6)). In the event that the Department is unable to reach a decision within the given time limits, the FOIA Appeals Officer will notify you of the reason for the delay and the right to seek judicial review.