Texas Senate Bill SB1775

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

Impact

The bill introduces a strategic planning requirement for the State Archives, mandating the development of a comprehensive plan that assesses current backlogs, sets prioritized goals, and allocates necessary resources. This is aimed at ensuring that the archives are efficiently managed and that the public can access historical resources effectively. It also encourages performance measures and regular updates on progress, which are intended to expedite the processing of state records and enhance public engagement.

Summary

SB1775 aims to enhance the operational framework of the Texas State Library and Archives Commission by amending certain provisions of the Government Code. The bill focuses on improving library services across various types of libraries, such as public and academic institutions. It emphasizes collaboration with federal entities to provide inclusive library services for persons with disabilities, thereby promoting accessibility in education and information dissemination.

Contention

One significant aspect of SB1775 is the provision that allows members of the legislature to manage their records differently from the state archives, by applying to place their legislative records in preapproved depositories. This could lead to concerns regarding the centralized control of records and the implications it has on public transparency and accountability. Some stakeholders may view this as a potential avenue for diminishing public access to legislative documents, which could spark debate on the balance between privacy and transparency in governmental operations.