Texas Senate Bill SB1808

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
• Report Pass: 5/14/09

Caption

Relating to notification sent by the Texas Ethics Commission to certain persons regarding deadlines to file reports.

Impact

The bill is intended to enhance communication efficiency between the Texas Ethics Commission and individuals required to file reports. By allowing notifications to be sent via electronic mail, the bill adapts to current technological standards, potentially increasing compliance rates among filers due to quicker and more reliable notification methods. This shift is particularly significant as it acknowledges the importance of timely communication in the regulatory environment and emphasizes the necessity of keeping contact information current to ensure proper notifications.

Summary

SB1808 aims to amend the Election Code related to the notification processes enforced by the Texas Ethics Commission concerning filing deadlines for specific reports. The bill mandates that the Commission provide notifications to individuals responsible for filing reports under specified subchapters of Chapter 254. However, this requirement would not extend to political committees involved in elections outside of primary or general elections for state and county officers. The bill proposes allowing electronic mail as a valid method for sending notifications, which reflects a modernization of communication practices within governmental processes.

Contention

While the bill's provisions may seem straightforward, notable points of contention could arise concerning the limits imposed on notifications. Specifically, the stipulation that the Commission is not required to make further attempts to notify a person after two unsuccessful tries could lead to gaps in communication, especially for individuals who may have challenges updating their contact information. Additionally, the exclusion of certain political committees from notification requirements raises questions about transparency and accessibility, potentially creating disparities in how different groups are informed about regulatory deadlines.