Stay updated with breaking news from Sb 927. Get real-time updates on events, politics, business, and more. Visit us for reliable news and exclusive interviews.
Commentary: Disasters beg for more government transparency Kelley Shannon, For the Express-News March 16, 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail Virtual meetings allowed under the Texas Open Meetings Act have worked well for many offices during the pandemic. Bills before the Legislature would address government meetings that don’t accommodate people without home internet.Steve Helber /Associated Press With state lawmakers immersed in the COVID-19 pandemic response and Texas’ electricity failures, the public’s access to information must be at the forefront of the Legislature’s actions. Information allows the public to watch over their government, speak out and ask questions. There’s no better time than Sunshine Week, which started Sunday, to emphasize the importance of the people’s right to know. ....
Sen. Zaffirini files suite of open government reforms proposals Courtesy of the Office of Sen. Zaffirini March 3, 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail Zaffirini/ Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, filed a series of bills Tuesday, March 2 to reform the state’s open government laws, specifically the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) and Texas Public Information Act (TPIA). Seven proposals were filed as Senate Bills (SB) 924-930 and also were combined into an omnibus bill, SB 923, captioned “relating to open government.” “Transparency is essential to preserving democratic governance,” Senator Zaffirini said. “Texans need to know what happens in the halls of power to hold their leaders accountable. I’m delighted to champion not only these proposals, but also the cause of open government generally.” ....