Can administrative agencies gather information from individuals or businesses?

Administrative agencies have the authority to gather information from individuals or businesses as part of their regulatory functions. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a pertinent legislative framework that allows for the disclosure of information held by government agencies, promoting transparency. While FOIA specifically pertains to the public's right to access federal agency records, administrative agencies also possess other tools to collect information beyond what FOIA provides.

Agencies can conduct investigations, surveys, and audits to gather necessary data related to their regulatory oversight. This includes requesting information from individuals and businesses as deemed necessary to ensure compliance with laws and regulations within their jurisdiction. The ability to gather this information is fundamental to an agency's role in enforcing regulations, implementing policy, and ensuring public safety and welfare.

The other choices provided don't align with the realities of administrative law. While there are restrictions and procedures surrounding the gathering of information, it is incorrect to state that agencies cannot gather such information at all, or that they are limited to only businesses or criminal cases. Administrative agencies operate under a broader authority to collect information essential to their functions.