Texas Senate Bill SB1807

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/17/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/15/09
• Voted on by House: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/27/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the method of delivery of notices relating to sworn complaints filed with the Texas Ethics Commission.

Impact

By permitting the Texas Ethics Commission to use regular mail for notifications after the initial complaint, SB1807 aims to reduce the administrative burden and costs associated with sending all communications via registered or certified mail. This shift could lead to quicker response times for recipients and may facilitate a more responsive regulatory environment. However, it raises questions about the adequacy of regular mail in providing secure and verifiable communication, which is critical in matters concerning ethics and governance. Stakeholders may have concerns about the potential for lost or undelivered notices impacting the parties involved in complaints.

Summary

SB1807 proposes changes to Section 571.032 of the Government Code, specifically concerning the method of delivering notices related to sworn complaints that are filed with the Texas Ethics Commission. The bill seeks to streamline the communication process between the commission and the individuals involved in sworn complaints by allowing certain notices to be sent via regular mail after an initial certified notice has been delivered. This adjustment reflects a move towards more efficient administrative processes within the state's governance structure.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB1807 could revolve around the potential trade-off between efficiency and the assurance of reliable communication. Critics might argue that while the bill aims to streamline processes, shifting to regular mail could undermine the accountability and transparency expected of the Texas Ethics Commission, especially when dealing with sensitive complaints. Ensuring that notifications are received in a timely and verifiable manner is crucial in maintaining public trust in the commission's processes. As such, discussions may emerge regarding whether the benefits of reduced costs outweigh the risks associated with less secure mail options.