The Introduction of the Disposition Schedule of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The records included in this schedule encompass the records maintained at FBI Headquaters, field, and Legal Attache offices, including, but not limited to, the Central Records System. As of December 3, 1980, the FBI had established 214 classifications in its basic filing system. They pertain to Federal violations over which the FBI has investigative jurisdiction and included personnel, applicant and administrative matters. The records contained in the system are used by the FBI in support of its mission to conduct various administratrive purposes. Information from the files is disseminated to appropriate Federal, state, local and foreign agencies and to private citizens and Congressional offices when the right and need to have access to this information exists. The system consists of a numerical sequences of subject matter files, an alphabetical index to the files, and an automated system to facilitate processing and accountability of the documents which the system has replaced the dual manual abstract system. Field offices and Legal Attache offices operate in much the same manner, but without abstracts. All information on a given subject matter or case is channeled into one file. In order to facilitate control of the file and accommodate multiple subject(s) matters, a numerical system is used to indicate: (a) general classification or nature of violation, (b) the individual case file in the category, and (c) the serialization of individual documents. Therefore, the file number 7-100-10 would indicate the 10th place of mail in the 100th file assigned to the Kidnapping (7) classification. In order to best portray the mission and identify the functions of the FBI, cases at Headquarters have been selected through a systematic sampling procedure and by "exceptional case" and multisection (two or more sections) distinctions. The systematic sample will produce a minimum number of records within a classification to document FBI procedures in conducting investigations. Designation of the exceptional case category evoleved from review of files, controversial subject matter, and suggestions from outside historical consultants. Implementation of the systematic sampling alone will produce approximately 100,000 cases (opened before 1978) for eventual transfer to the National Archives. While the schedule will generally permit disposal of field office records, certain field office classifications have been designated for permanent retention. All exhibits, bulkies, subs, attachments and enclosures would accompany case files which have been evaluated as permanent for eventual transfer to the National Archives. Provisions have been made in the schedule to retain disposable files beyond the approved retention periods to satisfy both investigative and administrative needs and obligations.
