Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB 2177

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to authorizing the disclosure of certain electronic customer data by a provider of an electronic communications service or a remote computing service in certain immediate life-threatening situations.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2177 would modify existing legal restrictions on the disclosure of customer data held by electronic service providers. It amends Articles 18B.502(a) and (b) to create an exception wherein providers could disclose electronic communication data if there is a belief in good faith that a life-threatening situation exists. The bill's impact extends to enhancing cooperation between technology providers and law enforcement in situations where immediacy can be pivotal.

Summary

House Bill 2177 aims to amend the Code of Criminal Procedure to authorize the disclosure of certain electronic customer data by providers of electronic communications services or remote computing services in immediate life-threatening situations. This bill recognizes the potential necessity for rapid response when time is critical, allowing law enforcement agencies to access vital information that could prevent serious harm or facilitate rescue efforts.

Contention

While supporters of HB 2177 argue that the bill strengthens public safety measures by enabling quicker access to data in emergencies, critics may raise concerns regarding potential overreach and the safeguarding of personal data privacy. The balance between necessary disclosure in life-threatening situations and the protection of individuals' rights is a point of contention. Stakeholders from civil liberties organizations may question how this bill could affect the privacy of users and what standards will be in place to determine the validity of life-threatening claims.

Companion Bills

TX SB 816

Identical Relating to authorizing the disclosure of certain electronic customer data by a provider of an electronic communications service or a remote computing service in certain immediate life-threatening situations.

Previously Filed As

TX SB816

Relating to authorizing the disclosure of certain electronic customer data by a provider of an electronic communications service or a remote computing service in certain immediate life-threatening situations.

TX HB2546

Electronic communication service or remote computing service; obtaining records without a warrant.

TX H3460

Electronic records

TX A3008

Requires foreign corporations providing electronic communication services or remote computing services to comply with New Jersey subpoenas, court orders and search warrants.

TX S3154

Requires MVC to provide certain services electronically to certain individuals and entities.

TX SB1515

Financial services; prohibiting financial institutions from refusing certain services; authorizing customers to request certain information; Effective date.

TX SB922

Relating to the disclosure of certain medical information by electronic means.

TX HB1699

Relating to the disclosure of certain medical information by electronic means.

TX SB5423

Supporting the servicing and right to repair of certain products with digital electronics in a secure and reliable manner.

TX SB99

Provides for electronic communication and notification at the Department of Environmental Quality in certain situations. (8/1/26) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SG EX)

Similar Bills

PA HB1970

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

CA AB1800

Portable electronics and optical products insurance.

TX SB1531

Relating to the electronic payment of ad valorem taxes; authorizing a fee.

PA SB861

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in licensing of drivers, further providing for issuance and content of driver's license and for carrying and exhibiting driver's license on demand.

NJ S1336

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

NJ A3229

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

MD SB842

Electronic Smoking Devices - Seizure and Wholesaler Record-Keeping Requirements

NV AB18

Revises provisions relating to the electronic filing of certain documents. (BDR 5-469)