From Medill | Local News Initiative: Chicago Becomes a Hotbed for News Collaboration Rather Than Competition

Chicago has long been known as a media battleground. While many cities are down to one daily newspaper — if that — Chicago has two, plus a wealth of niche news outlets. But as investigative resources dwindle in local journalism, Chicago has become a hotbed for collaboration rather than competition, reflecting a national trend.

Read More
NFOIC reveals pilot project results looking at 2019 state transparency bills nationwide

The National Freedom of Information Coalition is pleased to announce the publication of its latest research, “Legislating Open Government: The Prevalence of Transparency-Related Language in 2019 State Legislative Bills.” The report is a culmination of a months-long pilot project analyzing all bills introduced in 2019 sessions across the U.S. in conjunction with Quorum, a Washington D.C.-based software company.

Read More
Examples of accountability journalism needed

The AP is looking for examples of accountability journalism from the past year to highlight in Sunshine Week 2020 package about local news. We’re especially interested in watchdog reporting that relied on public records requests or led to reforms. Projects produced by a collaboration of news outlets also are welcome. Please email a brief summary of the story, a link to it and contact information for follow-up questions to AP State Government Team Editor Tom Verdin at taverdin@ap.org. Deadline: Jan. 31.

Read More