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
2021 State Conference Videos
Video recordings from the FOI Foundation's Sept. 24, 2021, state conference in Austin: Panel: Law enforcement transparency - Where do we stand?https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlmmT9QWtmY Panel: Texas Legislature - Looking Aheadhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8wolQGfpTk Panel: Pro tips - Managing information roadblockshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJ4MIPpyV2s Spirit of FOI Awards Presentationhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EtVXDkxE28James Madison Award presentation honoring [...]
Odessa American, KXAN win Spirit of FOI Awards
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESept. 24, 2021 AUSTIN – Two Texas news organizations that shined a spotlight on lack of public access to police records have won this year’s Spirit of FOI Awards presented by the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas. The Odessa American and [...]
New transparency laws effective Sept. 1
Two new Texas transparency laws passed in the spring legislative session took effect Sept. 1, addressing public records problems that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. Senate Bill 930 by Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, and Rep. Mayes Middleton, R-Wallisville, ensures that governmental entities must release [...]