Journalists are not the only ones who can request public information. The Texas Public Information Act and Freedom of Information Act allow anyone to request open records from governmental bodies or any other entity that is supported by public money.

Sunshine Week, held March 12-18 this year, was established to shine light on this public ability and responsibility.

Community Impact Newspaper posted online stories that shine light on common public information requests as well as proposed legislation that may strengthen or threaten open records laws.

But average Joes and Janes can make the same requests for things like public employees' salary information, site development plans and crime data. In fact, many entities have online portals for submitting such requests.

To find out more about how to submit a Freedom of Information Act request, check out our full article at http://impactne.ws/cin/227478.