Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1765

Filed
1/27/23  
Out of House Committee
4/24/23  
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the redaction of certain information from a document posted on the Internet by a county clerk or district clerk on request of a person to whom the information relates or the judicial security division of the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1765 will amend Sections 552.117 and 552.1175 of the Government Code, specifying that county and district clerks must redact certain personally identifiable details from documents posted on the internet upon request. The information retained in official records will not be impacted, allowing essential public access while ensuring that sensitive data is shielded from public view on online platforms.

Summary

House Bill 1765 aims to enhance the confidentiality of personal information for law enforcement officers and others, allowing them to request the redaction of specific data published online by county or district clerks. The push for this bill emerged from concerns raised by a retired police officer, who identified that while much of their information is kept confidential, some sensitive details still appeared publicly. This bill addresses that gap by ensuring the safety of officers while balancing the public's right to access information.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1765 has generally been positive, particularly among law enforcement circles, who appreciate the additional layer of protection for their personal information. Supporters argue that confidentiality is crucial for the safety of officers and their families, while critics, although fewer in number, might worry about the implications for transparency in public records.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 1765 is the potential impact on public transparency. While the bill aims to protect officers, opponents may argue that increased redaction could limit public insight into governmental processes and outcomes. Debates may revolve around finding a balance between necessary privacy protections and maintaining robust access to public records, which is fundamental in a democratic society.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5080

Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for employees of a county, a court, or the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the employees' family members.

TX HB2799

Relating to the exclusion of certain cases from judicial statistics reporting, court performance measures, or other judicial or court efficiency reporting by the Texas Judicial Council and the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System.

TX H5892

Protects the personal information of judicial officers and their immediate family members who serve or have served the RI unified judicial system, as well as judicial officers who reside in RI and who serve or have served in the federal courts.

TX S0581

Protect the personal information of judicial officers and their immediate family members who serve or have served the RI unified judicial system, as well as judicial officers who reside in RI and who serve or have served in the federal courts.

TX HB3765

Relating to the cost of requesting electronic copies of documents from a district clerk.

TX HB5081

Relating to the protection of personal identifying information of certain individuals in the judicial system; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1538

Relating to a study on digital court reporting conducted by the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System.

TX HF2427

A bill for an act relating to the request for redaction of personally identifiable information from electronic documents displayed for public access by county assessors and county recorders.

TX HB1621

To Amend The Freedom Of Information Act Of 1967; And To Exempt Personal Information Of Elected Constitutional Officers, Judicial Officials, Elected County Officials, Elected Municipal Officials, And Their Immediate Family.

TX HF2255

A bill for an act relating to the request for redaction of personally identifiable information from electronic documents displayed for public access by county assessors and county recorders.(Formerly HF 2061.)

Similar Bills

TX HB4081

Relating to the sealing of certain documents alleged to contain trade secrets.

CA SB877

Residential property insurance: loss estimate transparency.

MS HB960

Instruments of record; require to be in the English language.

TX SB647

Relating to the filing or recording of documents or instruments conveying or purporting to convey an interest in real or personal property.

TX HB3874

Relating to voidable provisions contained in certain construction contracts.

HI SB385

Relating To Condominiums.

CA SB911

Transfer of real property: fire hazard severity zones: compliance documentation.

MN HF4271

Electronic motor vehicle registration and title transfer procedures modified, and electronic signatures for motor registration and vehicle title transfers authorized.