Relating to the confidentiality of certain home address information in property tax appraisal records.
Impact
The implications of HB3327 are significant as it modifies how property tax records are handled concerning specific vulnerable groups. As a result, local appraisal districts will be required to implement stricter confidentiality protocols to protect the addresses of individuals covered under the bill. This shift could lead to an increased administrative burden on local authorities to ensure compliance while aiming to keep sensitive information secure. Furthermore, the change could encourage more individuals in vulnerable positions to apply for such protections, knowing their information will be safeguarded.
Summary
House Bill 3327 aims to enhance the confidentiality of certain home address information in property tax appraisal records. This bill primarily focuses on providing protection for specific individuals, including current or former law enforcement officers, their families, and victims of family violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking. By amending existing provisions in the Texas Tax Code, the bill seeks to ensure that sensitive information related to these individuals is kept confidential to enhance their safety and privacy.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB3327 appears mostly positive, particularly among advocates for victims' rights and law enforcement organizations. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary measure to enhance safety for individuals at risk of violence or harassment due to their profession or personal history. However, there may be concerns regarding implementation and the potential effects on public access to information typically available in property tax records. Overall, the support for the bill seems to outweigh opposition, reflecting a broad agreement on the need to improve confidentiality measures.
Contention
While HB3327 is viewed favorably, discussions in legislative committees highlighted a few points of contention. Some stakeholders raised concerns about the balance between public record transparency and the need for individual privacy. Ensuring that the bill does not inadvertently restrict access to necessary information for legitimate purposes is a critical point of debate. Furthermore, there could be challenges related to the identification of individuals eligible for this confidentiality, which may raise issues of enforcement and education on the bill's provisions among local government agencies.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Tax Code
Chapter 25. Local Appraisal
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Code Of Criminal Procedure
Chapter 2. General Duties Of Officers
Section: 12
Section: 12
Chapter 58. Confidentiality Of Identifying Information And Medical Records Of Certain Crime Victims
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Occupations Code
Chapter 1701. Law Enforcement Officers
Section: 001
Section: 001
Chapter 1702. Private Security
Section: 002
Section: 002
Family Code
Chapter 71. Definitions
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 773. Emergency Medical Services
Section: 003
Human Resources Code
Chapter 12. Penal Provisions
Section: New Section
Government Code
Chapter 76. Community Supervision And Corrections Departments