Keep reading for today’s look at #OpenGov news, events and analysis including soft money, shell companies, and startups.

National News

• RNC Chairman Reince Priebus called for the reintroduction of “soft money” to help political parties pay for their conventions, after federal assistance was recently cut off. (Washington Post)
• The White House is launching climate.data.gov, aimed at making environmental data easier to understand with a focus on showing people the potential effects of global warming. (New York Times)
• C-SPAN launched 35 years ago yesterday. The network’s founding CEO stepped down from the top spot in 2012, but, like the network, is still going strong. (National Journal)

International News

• NDI is out with a new report on transparency and parliamentary cooperation with civil society. (NDI)
• One step towards eliminating corruption around the world is crushing the networks of shell companies, often set up to hide illegal or unsavory activity. (Transparency International)
• Updates to TheyWorkForYou.com make it easier for folks in Britain to see how their MP’s voted on various issues. (mySociety)

State and Local News

• Philadelphia has selected ten startups to participate in its FastFWD program. The groups will be given $10,000 along with access to city officials and data in order to work on city related projects. (Government Technology)

Events Today 3/20

• It’s Sunshine Week! Check out the calendar for a comprehensive roundup of all this week’s related events.
• National Security Whistleblower Panel. AU School of Public Affairs. Thurs. 3/20. 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm. 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC.
• The Unknown Known. Private Pre-release Screening. Sunlight Foundation and Project on Government Oversight. Thurs. 3/20. 6:30 – 9:00 pm. E Street Cinema, 555 11th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004.  

Do you want to track transparency news? You can follow the progress of relevant bills on our Scout page. You can also get Today in #OpenGov sent directly to your preferred news reader!