Texas Senate Bill SB1971

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the collection, maintenance, and transfer and other dissemination of criminal history record information and juvenile justice information.

Impact

If enacted, SB1971 would significantly alter existing state laws concerning criminal history data management. It establishes clearer guidelines for who can access this information and under what circumstances. Law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and certain governmental bodies will have defined roles in the collection and dissemination processes. This legislation may streamline operations across state departments while tightening the control over sensitive data, potentially reducing instances of misuse or unauthorized access.

Summary

SB1971 is a piece of legislation aimed at reforming the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of criminal history record information and juvenile justice information in Texas. The bill proposes amendments to existing laws that govern how this information is handled by various state agencies, emphasizing stricter confidentiality requirements and protocols for accessing criminal data. The intent of the legislation is to enhance security measures and ensure that sensitive information is not disclosed arbitrarily, thus protecting the rights and privacy of individuals involved.

Contention

The proposed bill has faced some contention regarding the balance between public safety and individual privacy rights. Proponents argue that the changes are necessary to protect sensitive information from being abused or mishandled, particularly in cases involving juveniles. Critics, however, raise concerns that overly stringent regulations might hinder legitimate inquiries by employers or educational institutions, and that the provisions could delay or complicate the process of background checks. The debate centers around how to ensure safety without infringing on personal liberties.