What is the Minnesota Coalition on Government Information?
The Minnesota Coalition is a network of individuals and organizations committed to open access to public information in print, electronic and digital forms. Its members include librarians, media representatives, lawyers, community activists, computer professionals, educators and others who care about openness in government, information access and the public's right to know. Interested in current information topics or trends? Check out the MNCOGI blog.
COGI-tations: Discussion on Initiatives to Change the Public's Access to Government Information
On Monday, January 23, 2012, Don Gemberling of the Minnesota Coalition on Government Information (MnCOGI) hosted a discussion on initiatives in the next legislative session that could change the public's access to government information. Issues included no longer requiring elected officials to comply with personnel section of the data practices act, requiring a six month delay between requests for the same data, and increasing the cost for copies of data. Concerns that government officials are too quick to turn to security classifications to deny access to public data were addressed. To find more information on what was covered at the meeting check out the following links:
On demand video from The Update - http://www.theuptake.org/2012/01/23/your-access-to-data-may-be-limited/
Pioneer Press/The Uptake - http://www.twincities.com/ci_19801847
Star Tribune - http://www.startribune.com/politics/blogs/137924468.html
What is the Finnegan FOI Award?
2011
Freedom of Information Day & Award Ceremony InformationEach year, the Minnesota Coalition of Government Information (MNCOGI) presents the John R. Finnegan FOI Award to honor a Minnesotan or Minnesota institution whose work demonstrates leadership and commitment to the power of information to effect change. (Learn more about the past Finnegan FOI Award winners).
John R. Finnegan
Can you help me access information?
We have compiled resources and advice to help you gain access to the information that you are entitled to see. While our main concern has been access to government we have also included supporting for accessing other types of information. (Check out tools for accessing information in Minnesota or general Freedom of Information links.)
How can I get involved?
If you're interested in learning more or joining the Minnesota Coalition, we invite you to send us an email.