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
Join Texas open government webinar Wednesday, Oct. 7
The Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas and other open government advocates are joining Sen. Judith Zaffirini for a free online webinar she is hosting tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 1:30 p.m. Panelists include Sen. Zaffirini; Justin Gordon, chief of the attorney general's office [...]
Government transparency is another casualty of COVID-19
By John TedescoHouston ChronicleOriginally published Sept. 30, 2020 Open government advocates say transparency in Texas has taken a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic as officials across the state say their offices are closed and workloads are too heavy to respond to requests for public [...]
KSAT Q&A with attorney Paul Watler about releasing police body camera footage
Originally aired by KSAT-TV on Sept. 21, 2020 SAN ANTONIO – There is a renewed push for law enforcement transparency both nationally and locally. In Bexar County, two deadly shootings and a wrongful arrest have sparked controversy over when law enforcement releases body camera footage [...]