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 most recent recipient is Patrick Canty, publisher of the Odessa American, for his leadership in a long-running legal battle over prompt access to public records.
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
City of Uvalde releases big batch of shooting records; families say other agencies should follow suit
By The Texas Tribune and ProPublica Originally published Aug. 10, 2024 Police video, audio, texts and emails released Saturday by Uvalde city officials offer new details about the Robb Elementary school shooting while also largely reaffirming reporting about law enforcement’s failure to engage a [...]
Texas Tribune’s conversation on Texans’ access to government
The Texas Tribune hosted a live-streamed program June 26 "Public Access to Government - a Closer Look at Texas and Transparency," featuring FOI Foundation executive director Kelley Shannon; attorney Laura Prather of Haynes and Boone and the FOIFT board; Rachel Clow of KRIS-TV in [...]
Registration open for FOI Foundation of Texas conference Sept. 13
The Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas annual state conference is set for Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Austin. Make plans to register and attend! The conference brings together journalists, government leaders, attorneys and interested citizens to delve into the current issues of government [...]