Journalists use the Texas Public Information Act to access state and local government information to write news stories. But anyone can request open records from entities supported by public funds.

The public must submit a written request asking for existing records. The act doesn’t require entities to create records or compel them to speak on a topic. Some requests may result in a fee. There are also some exceptions to what information is public.

Many entities have online portals for submitting such requests. Several organizations have educational resources or can assist with your request, including Investigative Reporters and Editors, the Sunlight Foundation and the Office of the Attorney General of Texas.

Sunshine Week, March 12-18, was established to shine light on this public responsibility. During Sunshine Week, Community Impact Newspaper plans to post online stories that shine light on public information requests and proposed laws that may strengthen or threaten the freedom of information.