Kolkhorst Named Champion of Transparency

Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, has been named a “Champion of Transparency” by the Texas Press Association. Kolkhorst was recognized for her work in passing legislation assuring that Texans can obtain statistics on transmission rates of communicable disease in health care facilities.

“At the height of the pandemic, many Texans were denied access to information on how many cases of COVID-19 were reported in the facilities providing care for their loved ones,” said Mike Hodges, executive director of the Texas Press Association. “That was a terrible blow to families needing that information to make informed decisions about their relatives’ care. It was also a blow to newspaper journalists who worked hard to provide thorough coverage of the pandemic in Texas hometowns.”

Kolkhorst, a veteran lawmaker who has supported a number of open-government bills in previous legislative sessions, said transparency is essential to accountability. “I am grateful to the Texas Press Association for this honor because local newspapers are an essential form of communication for Texans, especially in Senate District 18,” said Kolkhorst. “Government exists for the people and by the people and that’s why I will continue to author and pass legislation to support a more transparent government.”

The Texas Press Association, which represents some 400 newspapers across Texas, lobbies for freedom of speech, open records, open meetings and public notices. The association presents Champion of Transparency awards to state officials who distinguish themselves as advocates for open government.