Relating to the disclosure of vehicle speed information to a law enforcement agency by an entity that operates a toll project.
Impact
The bill impacts state law by altering the Transportation Code to safeguard information related to vehicle speeds from being disclosed to law enforcement for minor traffic offenses. While exceptions exist for cases resulting in serious bodily harm or death, the overall intent is to restrict how collected data can be used in policing, which may lead to a reduction in the usage of speed data in traffic enforcement from toll road operators. This change marks a notable shift in legislative focus towards privacy concerns in the context of law enforcement and data collection.
Summary
House Bill 827 addresses the regulation of vehicle speed information collected by entities operating toll projects in Texas. The bill introduces a prohibition on the disclosure of vehicle speed data to law enforcement agencies, specifically for the purpose of enforcing traffic offenses. This legislation is significant in clarifying the limits on how speed data can be utilized, emphasizing a balance between enforcement and protection of driver privacy.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 827 appears to be largely supportive, particularly from privacy advocates who praise the bill for restricting unnecessary government access to data. Proponents argue that this approach protects citizens from potential privacy infringements that could arise from the misuse of vehicle speed information. Nonetheless, there may be concerns from law enforcement and traffic safety advocates who could view this bill as a limitation on their ability to enforce safe driving practices.
Contention
Notable points of contention arise from the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. While supporters see this as a positive step towards safeguarding personal data, opponents may argue that it creates hindrances in traffic law enforcement. This debate encapsulates larger discussions on how emerging technologies and data collection methods intersect with civil liberties and state authority.
Relating to an exception to required disclosure under the public information law for certain electronic information held by a prosecutor, law enforcement agency, or corrections agency.
Relating to the disclosure under the public information law of a motor vehicle license plate number captured in a video recording maintained by a law enforcement agency.
Relating to the protection of personally identifiable student information and the use of covered information by an operator or educational entity; authorizing a civil and administrative penalty.