Relating to the definition of a governmental body for the purposes of the public information law.
Impact
The passage of HB 793 would significantly broaden the definition of governmental bodies, ensuring that more entities are subjected to public information laws. This change is aimed at improving public access to information related to government operations, ultimately fostering a higher degree of trust between citizens and their government. The bill’s effective date is September 1, 2017, indicating that any requests for public information received after this date will be governed by the new definitions established by this legislation.
Summary
House Bill 793 seeks to amend the definition of a governmental body specifically concerning the public information law in Texas. This legislation expands the scope of what constitutes a governmental body, thereby increasing the number of entities required to comply with public information requests. By clarifying the criteria under which an organization can be deemed a governmental body, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.
Conclusion
Overall, HB 793 represents a proactive approach by the Texas legislature to keep pace with evolving expectations surrounding government accountability and public access to information. By redefining governmental bodies, this bill stands as a significant move towards strengthening the democratic process in Texas, ensuring greater oversight of how public funds are utilized and enhancing the public's right to know about government actions.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 793 may include debates around the potential administrative burden this expansion could place on smaller governmental entities or nonprofits that are newly classified as governmental bodies. Critics may argue that this increased regulatory oversight could complicate operations and resource allocation for these organizations, while proponents advocate for the necessity of transparency in even the smallest units of government to ensure public trust.
Relating to the applicability of the open meetings law and the public information law to the Texas Energy Reliability Council and to independent organizations established to manage power regions.
Relating to the capture and use of an individual's biometric identifiers, specimen, or genetic information by a governmental body or peace officer or by a person for commercial purposes; authorizing civil penalties.
Relating to authorized investments of public money by certain governmental entities and the confidentiality of certain information related to those investments.
Relating to allowing a governmental body to combine multiple requests submitted by separate individuals on behalf of an organization for purposes of computing charges under the public information law.