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
UT System board rebukes regent Wallace Hall over recent public comments
By Matthew Watkins The Texas Tribune Originally published Oct. 30, 2015 Frustrated with his recent public comments, the University of Texas System Board of Regents has again rebuked outspoken member Wallace Hall. In a special meeting Friday, the board voted to "express disagreement and [...]
AG says DA’s office violated Public Information Act on Twin Peaks request
By Tommy Witherspoon Waco Tribune-Herald Originally published Oct. 24, 2015 The Texas Attorney General’s Office notified McLennan County District Attorney Abel Reyna this month that his office violated the Texas Public Information Act when it failed to provide text messages related to the DA’s [...]
Denton council fails to agree on speech ordinance
By Peggy Heinkel-Wolfe Denton Record-Chronicle Originally published Oct. 20, 2015 The Denton City Council kicked a questionable 10-year-old ordinance to its ethics committee Tuesday, after failing to agree to repeal it or even on how to modify it. The ordinance criminalizes speech for council [...]