Bill > HJR76

This resolution commends the Virginia Coalition for Open Government for its 30 years of advocating for transparency in Virginia's government. This nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, established in 1996, is a coalition of various individuals and groups dedicated to improving accountability in the democratic process. The Coalition actively works with lawmakers and officials to strengthen laws that ensure public access to government meetings and records, and it was instrumental in the creation of the Virginia Freedom of Information Advisory Council (FOIA Council). The organization provides valuable resources such as an online archive of FOIA interpretations, free hotlines to answer public inquiries about FOIA (the Freedom of Information Act, a law guaranteeing public access to government records), and informative newsletters and social media content. Furthermore, the Coalition supports future leaders through legal fellowships and internships, hosts an annual conference with awards recognizing contributions to open government, and offers educational programs for legal professionals and FOIA officers. They have also authored reports leading to legislative reforms and provided guidance for local governments on public meetings, even assisting other states in establishing similar open-government initiatives and now administering the National Freedom of Information Coalition.

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HJ76