Defending Free Speech, a Free Press, and the Public's Right to Know
FAC believes engaged and informed communities are essential to the health of our democracy.
News
Latest News-
CASES
FAC Intervenes in Subpoena to Meta to Reveal Identity of Facebook Page Publishers
The San Benito County Board of Supervisors seeks the identity of the publisher of satirical cartoon that criticized a board decision.
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EDUCATION
Sunshine in the Valley
On November 13, FAC and Coachella Valley Journalism Foundation teamed up for an all-day training focused on how to turn California transparency laws and press access rights into impactful, in-depth reporting.
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ADVOCACY
Redding police releases bodycam footage after FAC Intervenes
Daniel Maher wanted to see the bodycam footage of his own arrest. Redding Police refused, until FAC objected.
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Advocacy
Press advocates condemn Oakland Police Department’s press policy
OPD’s press pass requirement interferes with the ability of journalists to keep the public informed and threatens press independence.
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
We engage in advocacy around crucial issues affecting government transparency, press rights, and the people’s right to know.
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.
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.
Resources
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Asked & Answered
A searchable database of responses to questions posed by Legal Hotline users about open-government laws and the First Amendment.
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Handbooks
Detailed guides on open meetings and open records, with sample letters for you to customize.
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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.
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Explainers
Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions to our Legal Hotline.
Get email updates
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