In 1997, the Brechner Center for Freedom of Information established the Florida Freedom of Information Hall of Fame to honor individuals who helped develop and defend Florida's government-in-the-sunshine laws.

In its inaugural class, the Brechner Center honored 11 inductees: Joseph L. Brechner, J. Emory "Red" Cross, Gov. Lawton Chiles, Paul Hogan, Ralph Lowenstein, Barry S. Richard, Robert L. Shevin, Jo Anne Smith, Parker D. Thomson, Harold B. Wahl and Pete Weitzel.

To commemorate its 30th anniversary, the Brechner Center will induct the second class to the Hall of Fame in 2007. The Brechner Center is currently seeking nominations for the 2007 inductees.