At the state Capitol, the FOI Foundation of Texas supports bills promoting transparency in government and protecting the rights of free speech and free press. The foundation’s staff and volunteers advocate for legislation that strengthens the Texas Public Information Act, the Texas Open Meetings Act and other state laws. Here are updates about transparency efforts in recent Texas legislative sessions.
First Amendment attorney Laura Prather to receive James Madison Award
Aug. 27, 2018 For Immediate Release AUSTIN – First Amendment attorney Laura Lee Prather, a champion of free speech and government transparency, is the recipient of the 2018 James Madison Award presented by the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas. The award honors those who demonstrate outstanding commitment to upholding the principles of the First Amendment and open government. Prather will receive the award [...]
State audit slams Alamo oversight, appears similar to ‘doctored’ draft
By Jonathan Tilove Austin American-Statesman Originally published May 31, 2018 The Texas General Land Office released an internal audit Thursday critical of accounting practices at the Alamo that is consistent with a draft report from September that the American-Statesman had obtained and written about in February but which Land Commissioner George P. Bush had described as “doctored.” The document, which questions the use of [...]
Corpus Christi community members, civic leaders talk importance of open government
By Kelley Shannon Executive Director Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas CORPUS CHRISTI - The public must have access to information about how taxpayer money is spent and other basic government data, transparency advocates said Thursday at a forum organized by state Rep. Todd Hunter of Corpus Christi. The event focused on the importance of access to information in holding government accountable. "This isn't partisan," [...]
Spirit of FOI Award – Call for Entries 2018
The FOI Foundation of Texas is pleased to announce 2018 guidelines for the Nancy Monson Spirit of FOI Award contest. The contest is open to newspaper, broadcast and online media. The Spirit of FOI Award recognizes outstanding work in promoting open government and the public’s right to know. The deadline for submission of entries is Thursday, May 31, 2018. Nominations must be for work [...]
KXAN’s ‘State of Texas’: A look at laws that block access to information
KXAN-TV's weekly program "State of Texas" focused on state laws that deny public access to government information: http://www.kxan.com/news/texas/state-of-texas-a-look-at-laws-that-deny-access-to-information/1147532344
Denied: KXAN series reports on police withholding records when suspect dies
KXAN television in Austin is airing a series about a Texas law that gives police discretion to withhold information if a suspect dies in custody. Legislative efforts to close that loophole failed in 2017, but it has not stopped the families who have been denied video and other records detailing their loved ones' final moments from speaking out. Check out this KXAN report based [...]