Keep reading for today’s look at #OpenGov news, events, and analysis, including hesitancy at the IRS, open data in Connecticut, and Tom Steyer spending in California.   

National News

• Before the Congressional recess CIA Director John Brennan was feeling pressure to resign over revelations that the agency spied on Senate staffers. The momentum has slowed over the break, but key members of Congress have reiterated their calls for him to step down. (The Hill)
• In honor of the return of the NFL this week, a profile of the Sports Fans Coalition. The group focuses its lobbying on proposals that would limit the power of major sports interests and improve the lot of fans. (Ars Technica)
• Remember the news that the DEA paid an Amtrak secretary over $850,000 for information that it could have obtained for free? The Department of Justice does and has launched a probe into the situation. (Washington Post)
• In the face of seemingly unending pressure from Congress and a growing workload, it appears that the IRS may be overwhelmed and a bit gun-shy when it comes to regulating tax-exempt “nonprofits” that are often used for political purposes.  (Government Executive)

International News

• Australia’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection is committed to using free and open source technology. A spokesperson explained some of the reasons why in this post. (Future Gov)
• TheyWorkForYou, mySociety’s parliamentary monitoring service allows users to set up topic alerts, making it easier to track specific issues as they are discussed in parliament. (mySociety)

State and Local News

• Hartford, Connecticut launched a data portal to provide easier public access to crime, finance, housing, and public health data from across the city government. It is the first of its kind in Connecticut, according to city officials. (Hartford Courant)
• Tom Steyer, the billionaire that has spent big to make the environment an issue in races around the country is reportedly turning his attention to the California State Senate, where he is preparing to target Democrats who might not agree with him.  (Washington Post)

Events This Week Do you want to track transparency news? You can follow the progress of relevant bills, court cases, and regulations using Scout. You can also get Today in #OpenGov sent directly to your preferred news reader. If you would like suggest an event, please email mrumsey@sunlightfoundation.com by 7 am on the Monday prior to the event.