The open government blog is a compendium of original concepts and analysis as well as ideas, edited excerpts and materials from archivist Brian Harrod.
When the information comes from another source, we will attribute it and provide a link.
An up-to-date news source for FOI, FOIA and open government news.
NYFOI InSight
NYFOI InSight is a publication from the New York Freedom of Information Citizens Committee featuring and aggregating news and analysis about FOI and open government issues, and delivering items of interest to and about our New York State agencies, elected officials organizations, partners and stakeholders.
NYFOI Events Calendar Newsletter
This events calendar for New York FOI, FOIA, open government and transparency goings-on.
Send us what we’ve missed to Brian.Harrod+NYFOI@gmail.com and we’ll add it. (Date, time, place, description, link — all are helpful).
You might want to confirm before making travel arrangements.
NYFOI’s FOI Summit
The NYFOI Summit shines a light on the New York State Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and offers an opportunity for NYFOI.org members and others to get a clear view of disclosure and access laws.
The conference brings together access advocates from all over the New York to highlight recent successes and share ideas for combating secrecy in the future.
A Sample New York FOI Request Letter
Most New York agencies FOI regulations require that public records requests be made in writing.
Brian Harrod has created a sample letter template that you can use for preparing and submitting your open records request under your state’s public disclosure laws.
New York Open Gov Videos
#NYOpenGovVideos is a forum for experts and advocates to share and comment on taxpayer funded videos via the New York Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), in our fight for a state and local governments that are accountable and transparent.
Join in the discussion about access to public video records, video taping of governmental meetings, advocacy of live streaming legislation, and other issues about the public’s access to government videos and meetings.
New York State Open Government Hall of Fame
Brian Harrod, will seek out advocates and elected officials to be selected for induction into the Heroes of New York: The State Open Government Hall of Fame.