Judicial Ruling on Public Information Could Set a Precedent

http://www.foift.org/?p=1349

A Travis County State District Judge has determined that the Greater Houston Partnership is a governmental body – not a contract vendor.  The distinction in terms of transparency and open government is significant.  As a result, for example, the Partnership is subject to disclosure requirements under the Texas Public Information Act.  They must provide details about their check register which were requested two years ago.  However, that's not likely to happen anytime soon since the Partnership's attorney says the ruling will be appealed to Texas' Third Court of Appeals.