Congressional records of John E. Moss, the author and sponsor of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The collection (1953-1978) contains correspondence with constituents, government officials, and personal acquaintances; notes; research materials gathered to frame legislation from subcommittee through publication; reports and investigations leading legislation; photographs; scrapbooks; films; awards and certificates.

In 1948, John E. Moss was elected to the California Assembly to represent the Ninth District. He was re-elected in 1950 and served two terms in all. While a member of the Assembly, he sponsored legislation dealing with public employees, land use, housing, and lobbying. While in the Assembly, Moss served on Education, Civil Service, State Personnel, and many other committees. In 1952, Moss was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for the Third District, where he served until 1979. Congressman Moss fought for consumer rights, First Amendment issues, and conscientious government. He was the chief sponsor of The Clean Air Act of 1970 and, most notably, the 1966 Federal Freedom of Information Act.

522.0 Linear feet (271 record cartons, 153 manuscript boxes and oversize)

Collection is open for research. Some restrictions may apply. Committee files have been relocated to the National Archives & Records Administration in Washington D.C. Also, 54 folders with classified information were recalled by the National Archives & Records Administration, San Bruno.