NARA Requests Assessment of Presidential Records from Past Administrations to Ensure Compliance with Presidential Records Act

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) has sent a letter to representatives of the six most recent past presidential administrations, asking them to conduct an assessment to determine if they have any classified materials in their possession. This request comes after reports of records containing classified information being found outside of NARA’s physical custody.

The Presidential Records Act, passed during former President Jimmy Carter’s administration, outlines requirements for the preservation and turning over of all presidential records. The letter states that the responsibility to comply with the act does not diminish after the end of an administration.

The letter also requests that representatives of the past administrations review their records and turn over any classified materials to NARA. It also requests that the representatives provide a written report to NARA regarding the assessment and any records that have been identified.

NARA has not yet commented on the letter or the reports of records being found outside of its physical custody. It is unclear what prompted the letter or what the consequences may be for failing to comply with the Presidential Records Act.

The letter is the latest development in the ongoing effort to ensure that all presidential records are properly preserved and accounted for. It is also a reminder of the importance of the Presidential Records Act in preserving the history of the nation’s highest office.