A survey of investigative journalists found that limited access to government records and sources remains the greatest challenge to holding public officials accountable. 

The survey, conducted for the Collier Prize for State Government Accountability at the University of Florida, gathered responses from 51 investigative reporters and editors across the U.S. Nearly 70% of respondents said restricted access to information was the biggest barrier in their work. 

More than half of those surveyed reported frequent delays, denials, or excessive copy fees when requesting public records. Three-quarters said financial pressures—such as shrinking newsroom budgets—limit their ability to pursue long-term accountability stories. Additionally, 25% reported that political pressure creates hesitation in reporting on certain issues. 

You can read the full report here.  

Posted: June 19, 2025
Category: Brechner News
Tagged as: Brechner FOI Project, Brechner Freedom of Information Project, Government Transparency, investigative reporting, public records