Texas Senate Bill SB2566

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/13/25

Caption

Relating to request for public information for legislative purposes; providing an administrative penalty.

Impact

The proposed amendments will directly affect how governmental bodies handle public information requests from legislative members. Notably, it establishes new requirements for governmental bodies to respond to requests effectively and within specified timelines. Moreover, the bill permits the Attorney General to impose administrative penalties on governmental bodies that fail to comply with these provisions, with penalties not exceeding $5,000 per violation per day. This aspect of the bill is intended to strengthen compliance and enforce accountability among public entities.

Summary

SB2566 seeks to enhance legislative access to public information by amending the Government Code, specifically Chapter 552. The bill grants individual members of the legislature special rights to access public information, including confidential data, for legislative purposes. This amendment is designed to ensure that legislators can obtain necessary information without hindrances, thereby fostering transparency and improving governmental accountability. The bill also outlines procedures that governmental bodies must follow when responding to requests from legislators.

Contention

While proponents of SB2566 argue that it is a necessary measure to improve access to vital legislative information and enhance oversight of government operations, potential points of contention arise regarding the balance between legislative access and information confidentiality. Critics may express concerns that expanding access to confidential public information could undermine privacy or security interests. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about how these changes could affect the operational dynamics between governmental bodies and legislative members, particularly regarding sensitive information.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 552. Public Information
  • Section: New Section