Publication of information, rules, opinions, orders, and public records

§ 552. Publication of information, rules, opinions, orders, and public records (a) This section applies, according to the provisions thereof, except to the extent that there is involved— (1) a function of the United States requiring secrecy in the public interest; or (2) a matter relating solely to the internal management of an agency. . (b) Each agency shall separately state and currently publish in the Federal Register— (1) descriptions of its central and field organizations, including delegations of final authority by the agency, and the established places at which, and methods whereby, the public may obtain information or make submittals or requests; (2) statements of the general course and method by which its functions are channeled and determined, including the nature and requirements of the formal or informal procedures available and forms and instructions as to the scope and contents of all papers, reports, or examinations; and (3) substantive rules adopted as authorized by law and statements of general policy or interpretations adopted by the agency for public guidance, except rules addressed to and served on named persons in accordance with law. A person may not be required to resort to organization or procedure not so published. (c) Each agency shall publish or, in accordance with published rule, make available to public inspection all final opinions or orders in the adjudication of cases (except those required for good cause to be held confidential and not cited as precedents) and all rules. (d) Except as otherwise required by statute, matters of official record shall be made available, in accordance with published rule, to persons properly and directly concerned, except information held confidential for good cause found.