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
FOI Foundation of Texas joins more than 50 organizations in NFOIC-Brechner Center statement on police records transparency
The National Freedom of Information Coalition and the Brechner Center for Freedom of Information issued a statement on law enforcement transparency and accountability in response to the death of George Floyd at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer, and the following unrest and violence that erupted around the nation. [...]
Transparency amid pandemic: Is government using COVID-19 to withhold public information?
By John C. MoritzAustin Bureau, USA Today NetworkOriginally published June 4, 2020 AUSTIN — Two influential state lawmakers say some state and local governments are using the coronavirus pandemic to undermine Texas' open meetings and open records laws and they are already gearing up to [...]
Guest Column: Pandemic ignites need for open government at all levels
By State Rep. Todd HunterR-Corpus ChristiState District 32 Texans have been witnessing things that would have been unthinkable until now. Surge teams, testing of nursing homes for COVID-19 and National Guard helping to disinfect nursing home facilities around the state. This is the time [...]