James Quintero, Policy Director at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, has expressed concerns about the public information system in Texas, stating it is not functioning effectively or providing sufficient government transparency. Quintero and his panelists discussed these issues and proposed solutions on the Right Idea podcast.

"The current system is not working as intended. Citizens are often met with resistance when trying to obtain information that should be readily available," said Quintero.

The Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas says that the Texas Public Information Act, initially known as the Texas Open Records Act, was enacted in 1973 to ensure public access to government records and information. The Act stipulates that "the people, in delegating authority, do not give their public servants the right to decide what is good for the people to know and what is not good for them to know."

According to the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas, this law applies to all governmental bodies, including city and county governments, state agencies and elected officials, the Governor, and Texas school boards. It mandates public access to "information collected, assembled, produced or maintained in the course of transacting public businesses," which can be in various formats such as paper or electronic communications.

Derek Cohen, another panelist on the podcast, stated that "the current system is not working as intended. Citizens are often met with resistance when trying to obtain information that should be readily available."

The group discussed several potential proactive measures that could be taken by governments including to publish public information and data sets that have already been requested and shared. They also recommended utilizing online platforms and technology for submitting and tracking public information requests.

Brian Phillips, Chief Communications Officer for TPPF, suggested that "the path to true government transparency requires a combination of legislative action, technological innovation, and a shift in bureaucratic culture." He emphasized that "it's a complex issue but one that's crucial to maintaining a healthy democracy."

Quintero serves as the policy director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Taxpayer Protection Project. His work primarily focuses on local government spending and debt. He holds a B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin and an M.P.A. from Texas State University.