Texas Senate Bill SB2020

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation of coin-operated machines.

Impact

The proposed legislation introduces significant amendments to the existing laws governing coin-operated machines, particularly regarding how information is shared with law enforcement bodies. By facilitating access to confidential information for investigatory purposes, the bill seeks to uphold the integrity of the licensing process and discourage unlawful practices associated with coin-operated machines. This could bolster efforts to combat fraud and ensure compliance with state regulations, potentially leading to a more orderly market for these types of machines.

Summary

Senate Bill 2020 focuses on the regulation of coin-operated machines, aiming to enhance the oversight of their operation within the state. This bill outlines new subsections to the Occupations Code that emphasize the responsibilities of the comptroller regarding the licensing and registration of these machines. An important aspect of the bill is its directive to allow law enforcement agencies to access confidential information pertaining to the licenses and registration certificates of coin-operated machine operators during investigations, thereby increasing transparency and accountability in this sector.

Contention

While the bill may streamline regulatory processes and enhance law enforcement's ability to monitor coin-operated machines, it also raises questions about the balance between operational oversight and privacy concerns. Some stakeholders may argue that the expanded access to confidential information could infringe on individual rights and privacy. Additionally, there might be debates regarding the implications of such regulations on existing business practices, especially for small business owners operating such machines, who might feel that the new requirements could impose additional burdens on them.