Defending Democracy's Fundamentals
Free speech, a free press, and the public’s right to know are essential to engaged and informed communities.
News
Latest News-
CASES
FAC and Investigate L.A. Prevail in Public Records Case Against City of El Monte
October 14, 2026
A judge has ruled the city must disclose permits authorizing police officer to work outside jobs.
-
CASES
FAC and FIRE sues City of Los Angeles over policy banning certain words during public comment
October 6, 2026
The groups are challenging a law that bans the use of the c-word and n-word at city council meetings.
-
ADVOCACY
Detention Facility Transparency Act Signed into Law
September 29, 2026
Local agencies must now disclose 911 calls from privately operated immigration detention facilities.
-
ADVOCACY
FAC Renews Demand for Release of Konoa Wilson Shooting Records
September 8, 2026
After announcing no charges will be brought against the officer who shot Konoa Wilson, FAC renewed its call for the records to be released.
Legal Hotline
Have a question about access to public records, participating in government meetings or First Amendment concerns? We have a dedicated group of lawyers ready to help.
What We Do
Our Work
Cases
Cases
Holding governments accountable at the local, state, and federal levels; supporting journalists and citizens in how to enforce their First Amendment rights.
Advocacy
Advocacy
Championing open government, press protections, and free expression in California.
Press Freedom Initiative
Press Freedom Initiative
Ensuring access to qualified legal counsel when journalists face a subpoena seeking confidential sources or other protected materials.
Free Speech & Open Government Award
Free Speech & Open Government Award
Honoring the year’s best contributions towards the advancement of open government.
Get email updates
Subscribe to receive news, resources, and event and training invitations from the First Amendment Coalition.
Resources
-
Asked & Answered
A searchable database of responses to questions posed by Legal Hotline users about open-government laws and the First Amendment.
-
Handbooks
Detailed guides on open meetings and open records, with sample letters for you to customize.
-
Training
FAC holds live and virtual events to tackle some of the most pressing free speech, free press and government transparency issues of the day.
-
Explainers
Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions to our Legal Hotline.