Sunshine Week highlights government transparency and its role in upholding democracy

The New Mexico Foundation for Open Government (FOG) is marking Sunshine Week with reverence and appreciation for the essential role freedom of information and freedom of the press serve in guaranteeing our American democracy.  Sunshine Week is a national initiative spearheaded by the News Leaders Association to educate the public about the importance of open Read More …

Three IPRA complaints resolved in favor of openness

In a victory for transparency, three New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) Determinations by the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office today concluded that the records in question were wrongly withheld and should be made public. In the first complaint, FOG alongside Searchlight NM contended that the Children, Youth and Families Department was obligated Read More …

FOG urges the public hear the PED “listening” tour

Public Education Secretary Kurt Steinhaus has embarked on a seven-stop “listening” tour in which he is meeting with school superintendents and charter leaders from around the state. Unfortunately, members of the news media and the public won’t have the opportunity to hear what Sec. Steinhaus and those key education leaders have to say because PED has decided Read More …

Albuquerque Public Schools settlement requires more staff, better training and keeping IPRA logs

Following APS once again wrongfully denying requests under the Inspection of Public Records Act, a settlement order has been issued, which required APS to pay $40,000 in damages, $14,000 in attorney’s fees, release the records in question within five days, and implement a series of new policies and procedures for handling requests. Under the settlement, Read More …

FOG urges Sen. Luján’s office release more information on the Senator’s health following stroke

The New Mexico Foundation for Open Government (FOG) joins U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján’s friends and constituents in wishing him a full recovery from his recent cerebellar stroke and subsequent surgery. And, of course, our thoughts and well wishes extend to his family.  News of the stroke he suffered days ago shocked all of New Read More …