MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Coalition on Government Information is presenting this year’s John R. Finnegan Freedom of Information Award to the head of an office that plays a key role in writing Minnesota’s laws.

It’s honoring Revisor of Statutes Michele Timmons as a champion of open and easy access to government information.

Despite tough budget times, the coalition says, Timmons helped persuade lawmakers to spend the money needed to replace an antiquated computer system with a new platform to provide public better access to the legislative process.

The award is named for retired St. Paul Pioneer Press senior vice president John R. Finnegan, who was a champion of open meetings, open records and the First Amendment. It’s being presented Thursday during Sunshine Week, which promotes open government and freedom of information.

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