The first solid reforms to the federal Freedom of Information Act in 11 years are close to becoming reality, and we urge the House and Senate to work out a compromise and President George Bush to sign it.

Being able to see government documents is an essential part of the media's ability to inform the public about the nuances of newsworthy laws, court cases and investigations. But just as important are the mundane, day-to-day records compiled by government agencies that can be useful in explaining to the public how wisely their tax dollars are being spent.

And the law also applies to private citizens, who have the right to view most government documents, but often lack the financial resources to put up a legal fight when their requests are denied.

A long-standing roadblock for the public and reporters in newspapers, television and radio has been a lack of cooperation from government agencies at all levels. To be fair, many village, town, city, state and federal officials promptly comply with requests for documents. But requests are sometimes illegally denied or delayed to the extent that their usefulness has all but expired.

Just before adjourning for summer vacation last week, the Senate passed the Open Government Act of 2007. The act broadens the definition of “news media” to include Internet-based reporters; allows recovery of attorney's fees for those forced to go to court to gain access to records that had been delayed or denied; and institutes penalties for government agencies that delay requests for records.

The House passed similar legislation months ago, but there are slight differences between the bills.

We hope the House and Senate can work out the details and create a strengthened Freedom of Information Law.

And when they do, the president should sign it into law.