OUR MISSION
Advocating for Access to Public Information
We speak out for protecting and strengthening the Texas Public Information Act, the Texas Open Meetings Act and other freedom of information and free speech laws. We also educate the public about these laws.
Honoring Those Who Fight for Open Government
The FOI Foundation of Texas presents the annual James Madison Award to journalists, elected officials, attorneys and vigilant citizens for distinction in pursuing open government and First Amendment rights. The honor is bestowed at the annual FOI Foundation state conference. Nominations are accepted from the general public.
PROTECTING THE PUBLIC’S RIGHT TO KNOW
Since its formation in 1978, the FOI Foundation has helped citizens access government meetings and records while protecting free speech and a free press. Information is essential to participating in our democracy.
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Latest FOIFT News
Protecting The Rights Of Free Speech And Free Press
New lawsuit filed in Mike Leach’s feud with Texas Tech, this time over records access
By Brent Schrotenboer USA Today Originally published Jan. 7, 2017 Mike Leach’s war against Texas Tech is headed back to court, this time to gain access to records related to his firing from the university in 2009. Leach, now the head football coach at Washington [...]
Support open government and First Amendment rights by donating to FOI Foundation
It's been a challenging year for open government and First Amendment liberties in Texas and throughout the nation. The non-profit Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas has worked in 2017 to protect these rights, and we will renew and intensify our efforts in 2018. [...]
Media law experts say arrest violated citizen journalist’s First Amendment rights
By Julia Wallace Laredo Morning Times Originally published Dec. 17, 2017 The recent arrest of Priscilla Villarreal, better known as the Facebook star/citizen journalist Lagordiloca, on misuse of information charges is novel, and potentially a violation of her First Amendment rights, according to several [...]