Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council

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The Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council (WISFOIC) is an organization in Wisconsin that seeks to "safeguard access to information that citizens must have to act responsibly in a free and democratic society". ^[1] The group celebrated its 30th anniversary in October of 2008. Formed in 1978, the group's first focus was on ensuring that the First Amendment rights of the press were defended. In later years, WISFOIC began broadening it's focus to include citizen activists, watchdog groups and others interested in state transparency. ^[2]

The Lucy Burns Institute is a member of WISFOIC.

[edit] Action Items

• As part of Sunshine Week 2009, in March WISFOIC released their third annual "Opee Awards" which recognize "people and institutions that have had an impact on open government in Wisconsin during the last year." ^[3]
• In November 2008, WISFOIC released the results of a statewide public records audit they performed with the University of Madison Journalism Department. The study found that 3 in 10 public records requests were not responded to correctly. ^[4]

• In late October 2008, Sauk County raised the fee it would charge for copying/providing public records. WISFOIC took action by e-mailing the members of the County Board informing them that the increase is in violation of the Wisconsin Open Records Law. ^[5]

[edit] External links

• WISFOIC website

[edit] References

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