AUSTIN _ The Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas will host an Open Government Seminar in McAllen on Thursday, June 9, featuring training in the state’s public meetings and public records laws.

The non-profit FOI Foundation will partner with the Texas Attorney General’s Office in offering the one-day seminar. It is designed for government employees, journalists, attorneys and members of the general public who want to learn more about the Texas Public Information Act and Texas Open Meetings Act.

“This seminar highlighting Texas’ open government laws helps to inform citizens of their rights and responsibilities as they participate in our democracy,” said Kelley Shannon, executive director of the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas. “It also assists public officials in carrying out our open government laws.”

Supporting the FOI Foundation as sponsors of the seminar are The Monitor of McAllen and IntegrityTitle.com

The event will take place at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave., in McAllen from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Attorney General’s Office will begin the day with training on the Texas Public Information Act at 9 a.m. followed by training on TPIA cost rules. Those sessions are free and conclude at 11:30 a.m.

The FOI Foundation will present a session on the Texas Open Meetings Act by attorney Thomas Williams, the foundation’s vice president, starting at 1 p.m. Admission for this session is $50.

Participants may attend either or both sessions, which are approved by the Attorney General’s Office as meeting the state requirements for open government training for public officials. The seminar also qualifies for Continuing Legal Education through the State Bar of Texas.

To register, click here or contact the FOI Foundation office at 512-377-1575.

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