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
San Antonio City Council closed meeting spurs debate on transparency, Texas law
By Jan Ross Piedad Texas Public Radio Originally published May 24, 2018 Texas Public Radio's program "The Source" recently focused on the dispute sparked when the San Antonio City Council met behind closed doors to discuss whether the city should submit a bid to [...]
Victoria Advocate files suit against Calhoun port in Farenthold hiring
By Jon Wilcox Victoria Advocate Originally published May 21, 2018 The Victoria Advocate filed a lawsuit Monday asserting the Calhoun Port Authority broke the Texas open meetings law in hiring former Congressman Blake Farenthold as a lobbyist. “Few rights of the public are as [...]
Calhoun Port Authority’s hiring of Farenthold could be illegal
By Jessica Priest Victoria Advocate Originally published May 18, 2018 The Calhoun Port Authority apparently violated the Texas Open Meetings Act when it hired former Congressman Blake Farenthold as its lobbyist. The Victoria Advocate is investigating its legal options in challenging the May 9 [...]