Using FOIA logs to develop news stories
Through the power of FOIA logs, FOIA-minded reporters can find interesting story ideas by asking for and digging through the history of what other people are looking to obtain.
Redact yourself the easy way with #FOIAFacelift
Ever wonder what your FBI file would look like? Want to share your wild (socially distanced) weekend pics without leaving too much incriminating evidence for potential future employers? We’ve got you covered with #FOIAFacelift, our new tool that FOIA-ifies your personal photos in seconds instead of months.
The Foilies 2021: Recognizing the Year’s Worst in Government Transparency
Since 2015, The Foilies have served as an annual opportunity to name-and-shame the uncoolest government agencies and officials who have stood in the way of public access. We collect the most outrageous and ridiculous stories from around the country from journalists, activists, academics, and everyday folk who have filed public records and experienced retaliation, over-redactions, exorbitant fees, and other transparency malpractice.
How a team of Reuters journalists filed 1,500 records requests to expose America’s dangerous local jails
Reuters reporters Peter Eisler and Grant Smith recently joined MuckRock to share what they learned building a nationwide database of local jail deaths. Here’s how you follow up with your own investigations.
This week’s FOIA roundup: FOIA arrives late and over budget, but still lots of stories to tell
Bullet trains and FOIA don’t often mix (snack cars aside) but this week’s FOIA roundup has inside details on California’s transportation dreams and much more, including police misconduct, legal misrepresentation, and more.
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Transparency changes in response to COVID-19
★ FeaturedGovernment agencies at all levels are adjusting their operations. How is this affecting FOI policy? We're keeping track here. -
Policing Accountability - Assignments for the Public
★ FeaturedMuckRock offers a number of ways to help the public learn more about local law enforcement. Add your city to the Assignments below, and we'll submit public records requests to learn more. -
Police Union Contracts: Requirements for Records and Accountability
★ FeaturedWhat does the local police union contract provide for benefits, transparency, and accountability? We’d like to help you better understand labor protections afforded local law enforcement.