Sen. Kirk Watson, delivering the keynote address at the FOI Foundation of Texas conference, warned of efforts by some lawmakers to block access to redistricting information and urged Texans to demand more transparency.
Watson, D-Austin, said that while many strides were made in the 2019 legislative session, there are still hurdles to overcome.

In recognition of their behind-the-scenes work in helping pass legislation restoring open government in Texas, two Texas Capitol aides were honored with James Madison Awards by the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas.

News about and for Texas newspapers.

Entry period opens Sept. 9 for the 2018-19 Texas Better Newspaper Contest, the largest in TPA history.
Participants may upload entries on the contest platform through Oct. 4

BRENHAM – Derek Hall is the new editor and publisher of The Banner­-Press. 
The announcement was made by Fred Hartman, president of Washington County Publishing, Inc., parent company of the Banner-Press.
Hall, who has been with the newspaper since 2000, replaced Jay T. Strasner, who joined the Community Impact newspaper group as a general manager in the Dallas-­Fort Worth area.

HOUSTON – Michael LaBonia, chief revenue officer at the Houston Chronicle, has taken on the additional role of senior vice president for advertising for the Hearst Newspaper Group.
Jeff Johnson, president of Hearst Newspapers, made the announcement.