Texas Senate Bill SB567

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the production of the index of the parties to all suits by the clerk of a district court; authorizing a fee.

Impact

The proposed legislation will impact both the operational procedures of district court clerks and the general public's interaction with the legal system. By authorizing clerks to charge fees for electronic copies of the index, SB567 creates a new revenue stream for the clerks' offices. This aspect of the bill may provide necessary funding for the maintenance and accessibility of public records but also raises questions regarding equitable access for individuals who may find the fees burdensome.

Summary

Senate Bill 567 aims to enhance the accessibility of court records by mandating district court clerks to produce an index of the parties to all suits for public inspection or copying upon request. This bill signifies a step toward improving transparency in legal proceedings, as it allows citizens to have easier access to essential legal documents. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if the index is available in electronic form, the clerk must provide an electronic copy for a fee, which is expected to align with rules set forth by the attorney general governing the provision of electronic public information.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits of increased access to legal information, SB567 could face opposition concerning the fee structure associated with electronic copies of the index. Critics may argue that setting a fee could hinder access to vital information for low-income individuals or those unfamiliar with the legal system. Additionally, there may be concerns about what constitutes 'confidential' information, as the bill allows exceptions for certain records, which could lead to ambiguity about what is accessible under this new regulation.