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.
GET TO KNOW FOIFT
Latest FOIFT News
Protecting The Rights Of Free Speech And Free Press
Police withheld records of their son’s death; now they know why
By Eric Dexheimer Austin American-Statesman Originally published April 20, 2017 Kathy and Robert Dyer received the phone call out of every parent’s nightmares at 3 a.m. on Aug. 14, 2013. A Mesquite police officer was telling them their 18-year-old son, Graham, was in the [...]
Texas House considers bills to erode press protection, expose journalists, bloggers to more lawsuits
By J. David McSwane The Dallas Morning News Originally published April 12, 2017 AUSTIN — Plans to force journalists to reveal their sources and further expose media outlets to lawsuits made strange bedfellows Wednesday as leaders of journalism advocacy groups attacked two bills alongside members [...]
Call for entries: 2017 Spirit of FOI Awards
The FOI Foundation of Texas is pleased to announce 2017 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 [...]