Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2476

Caption

Relating to the operations, communications, and notice procedures of state agencies.

Future

Overall, HB 2476 represents a shift towards modernization in the operations of Texas state agencies, in line with increasing trends toward digital communication and data management. As agencies begin to implement these changes, the effectiveness of electronic communications and its reception among the public will become pivotal in determining the long-term success of this legislative initiative.

Impact

The impact of HB 2476 extends to multiple facets of state governance. By mandating electronic submission of reports, the bill is expected to reduce the resources and time spent on traditional mailing practices, ensuring quicker access to vital information for stakeholders. Additionally, periodic assessments of agency report efficiencies are required, which may help identify areas of potential cost savings and improved performance over time.

Summary

House Bill 2476 aims to enhance the operations and communications of state agencies in Texas by establishing updated procedures for notice delivery and report submission. The bill introduces the concept of electronic communication for official notices and reports, promoting greater efficiency within state operations. A central component of the bill is the requirement for state agencies to submit certain reports electronically through a specified portal, potentially streamlining bureaucratic processes and enhancing transparency in state operations.

Contention

Although the bill generally received broad support, discussions during legislative sessions highlighted some concerns. Critics worried that the shift to electronic communication could unintentionally disadvantage individuals who are less tech-savvy or do not have access to reliable internet services. Furthermore, the implementation of this bill assumes a level of readiness and support among all state agencies to adapt to these new protocols, which may not uniformly exist across the diverse array of agencies within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2358

Relating to security procedures for digital applications that pose a network security risk to state agencies.

TX HB139

Relating to the provision of notice of certain proposed rules by state agencies.

TX HB4023

Relating to security procedures for digital applications that pose a network security risk to state agencies.

TX SB655

Relating to the provision of notice of certain proposed rules by state agencies.

TX SB1373

Relating to decedents' estates and the delivery of certain notices or other communications in connection with those estates or multiple-party accounts.

TX HB2821

Relating to decedents' estates and the delivery of certain notices or other communications in connection with those estates or multiple-party accounts.

TX SB1205

Relating to the modernization of information technology of state agencies and certain local governments.

TX SB1487

Relating to the electronic delivery of certain communications required or permitted under the Property Tax Code.

TX HB1609

Relating to the electronic delivery of certain communications required or permitted under the Property Tax Code.

TX HB785

Relating to the delivery of certain notices or other communications in connection with guardianship proceedings.

Similar Bills

TX HB1504

Relating to statutory references to the common electronic infrastructure project formerly known as TexasOnline.

TX SB631

Relating to statutory references to the common electronic infrastructure project formerly known as TexasOnline.

CA SB1419

Health information.

CA AB2159

Common interest developments: association governance: elections.

CA AB459

Initiatives: qualification: electronic signatures.

CA AB802

Reports to the Legislature: Statewide Open Data Portal.

CA AB1316

Internet: social media or search engine service: censorship.

CA AB1039

Advanced energy storage: applications.