Relating to the confidentiality of certain home address information in ad valorem tax appraisal records.
Impact
The implementation of HB1911 is expected to enhance the safety and privacy of vulnerable government employees working in challenging environments. By allowing these individuals to keep their home addresses confidential, the bill safeguards their personal information from public disclosure, thereby reducing the risks associated with their line of work. This legislative action not only reflects the state's commitment to protecting its employees but also aims to create an environment where professionals can perform their duties without fear of reprisal from those they may interact with in their official capacity.
Summary
House Bill 1911 is a legislative measure aimed at expanding the confidentiality protections for certain government employees, specifically focusing on contract employees associated with university health systems. The bill seeks to amend the existing statutes that allow specific groups of employees, such as corrections staff and child protective services workers, to keep their home addresses confidential due to safety concerns. By including university health system contract employees and attorneys from the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), the bill acknowledges the risks these individuals face in their professional roles and provides additional layers of protection against potential threats or retaliation.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB1911 seems to be positive, particularly among supporters who advocate for the protection of public employees' safety. During discussions, several individuals expressed strong support for the legislation, emphasizing the need for such measures in a climate where threats to public employee safety are prevalent. The bill faced no opposing testimony during the committee reviews, which suggests a consensus or at least a perception of urgency regarding the need for employee protection in vulnerable positions.
Contention
While there were no significant points of contention publicly voiced against HB1911, the broader implications of enhancing confidentiality rights for additional employee categories may invite scrutiny. The inclusion of university health care contract employees marks a notable expansion of protections, which could prompt discussions about the extent to which confidentiality should be extended to other groups in the public sector. There may be arguments raised in the future around balancing transparency and accountability with the necessity of confidentiality in certain public roles, particularly in relation to taxpayer-funded positions.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Tax Code
Chapter 25. Local Appraisal
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Code Of Criminal Procedure
Chapter 2. General Duties Of Officers
Section: 12
Chapter 17. Bail
Section: 292
Chapter 58. Confidentiality Of Identifying Information And Medical Records Of Certain Crime Victims
Section: New Section
Occupations Code
Chapter 1701. Law Enforcement Officers
Section: 001
Section: 001
Section: 001
Section: 001
Chapter 1702. Private Security
Section: 002
Family Code
Chapter 71. Definitions
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 261. Investigation Of Report Of Child Abuse Or Neglect
Section: 405
Section: 405
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 773. Emergency Medical Services
Section: 003
Section: 003
Section: 003
Government Code
Chapter 76. Community Supervision And Corrections Departments