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
In reversal, city of Pharr releases city manager’s salary
By Dave Hendricks Progress TimesOriginally published Jan. 9, 2019 After attempting to keep City Manager Alex Meade’s salary a secret, Pharr announced Wednesday that “in the interest of continuing its commitment to transparency” the city would release the information. ... The Texas Public Information [...]
Texas Sunshine Coalition seeks greater transparency
By Ken MartinThe Austin BulldogOriginally published Jan. 7, 2019 During the 2019 legislative session, open government advocates have high hopes that this time they will be able to convince lawmakers to demolish the legal barriers created by court decisions that are preventing access to [...]
Austin police won’t release video, citing Public Information Act loophole used increasingly when suspect dies
By Josh Hinkle and Sarah RafiqueKXAN-TVOriginally published Jan. 3, 2019 The parents of a teenager who shot himself in a police patrol car have filed a federal lawsuit claiming Austin police have a pattern of performing incompetent and incomplete searches of detainees. Meanwhile, the [...]