Now I'm in the Sunshine Laws for Bloggers panel where I hope to learn more about getting information from the government. Here's a picture of the panel.
(There's Vince on the left).
Boy I sure learned some amazing stuff about Freedom of Information. This panel has dealt more with state and local requests than Federal issues, which Deborah DeHay has told us is rather difficult and arcane. The State of Texas has a Sunshine Law which they say is actually quite good. Mainly what they've said is "request anything". There are restrictions and exceptions, but Robert Guest of NORMAL says worry about the law later, just start asking for info. You have to send a written request but emails count so you can email, fax, or send a letter. There's no paperwork required other than that. He suggested going to the appropriate Public Information Office of the government and simply ask them for the information you want. The more specific the better. There are some caveats of course, one of which is that they can exclude information based on certain criteria and of course they will charge you, but you can get the information.
Here are some good links on that topic.
GovernmentDocs.org
WikiFOIA
FOIA Advocates
2 comments:
Bad language is ok? We're set!
I'm glad you liked the speech. I want to encourage all bloggers to start filing open records request.
There is NO risk to filing an open records request in Texas. At worst, you don't get the information.
Bloggers can outwork, out write, and have more passion than the MSM.
I have a few open records guides on my blog www.dallascriminaldefenselawyerblog.com
click on "open records"
Finally, not to be picky, but I am in NORML, not NORMAL.
Sincerely,
RG
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