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
Join fundraising spree supporting the FOI Foundation’s mission
This week marks the kickoff of a major fundraising effort by the FOI Foundation of Texas to generate donations supporting our mission of preserving open government and protecting the First Amendment rights of free speech and free press. Most likely, you are interested in [...]
Judge voids Austin’s approval of development, citing Open Meetings Act violation
By Elizabeth Findell Austin American-Statesman Originally published Nov. 21, 2019 Austin city leaders did not give the public a proper heads-up about their intentions before voting to waive environmental regulations for a controversial housing development, a judge ruled Tuesday. The ruling marks the second [...]
FOI Column: Boeing ruling stretched, twisted to keep government records secret
By Kelley Shannon Executive Director FOI Foundation of Texas Every week, government officials across Texas and private companies receiving taxpayer dollars get increasingly creative in hiding public records. Their new tool is the Boeing ruling, a decision from the Texas Supreme Court that lowered [...]