Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB269

Filed
11/12/08  
Out of Senate Committee
3/26/09  
Voted on by Senate
4/2/09  
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to use of electronically readable information on a driver's license or personal identification certificate in connection with the over-the-counter sale of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or norpseudoephedrine; providing a criminal penalty.

Impact

This legislation modifies existing statutes within the Texas Health and Safety Code and Transportation Code, specifically adding a new section that delineates the authorized uses of electronically readable information from personal identification documents. By formalizing these restrictions and uses, SB269 aims to prevent the unauthorized dissemination of personal data, thereby protecting consumer privacy and strengthening law enforcement's ability to oversee transactions involving controlled substances. The implications extend to retailers and law enforcement agencies, who must comply with the new regulations when processing sales or accessing identification data.

Summary

Senate Bill 269 addresses the use of electronically readable information on driver's licenses and personal identification certificates in relation to the over-the-counter sale of specific substances such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. The bill establishes a framework for how this information can be accessed, emphasizing that it must be used solely for regulatory compliance purposes, reinforcing the effort to control the sale of these substances, which are often used to manufacture illicit drugs. As a criminal penalty, violations of this regulation are classified as Class A misdemeanors, potentially deterring misuse of personal identification information.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding how this bill impacts individual privacy rights versus public safety concerns. Advocates for the bill argue that controlling access to identification information is crucial for preventing drug abuse and ensuring safety during the sales of potentially dangerous substances. Critics, however, may voice concerns about the potential for misuse or overreach by authorities in accessing personal data, stressing the need for safeguards that prevent abuse of the new powers granted under this legislation.

Companion Bills

TX HB3107

Identical Relating to use of electronically readable information on a driver's license or personal identification certificate in connection with the over-the-counter sale of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or norpseudoephedrine; providing a criminal penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1684

Relating to the form of a driver's license or personal identification certificate issued to persons convicted of certain human trafficking offenses.

TX SB656

Relating to an optional health condition or disability designation on a driver's license or personal identification certificate.

TX HB5228

Relating to the issuance of a driver's license or personal identification certificate to certain individuals and the use of the identification fee exemption account to fund the fee waivers for those individuals.

TX HB3132

Relating to an optional designation on a driver's license or personal identification certificate indicating that a person is deaf or hard of hearing.

TX HB1677

Relating to the issuance of a certified birth record, driver's license, or personal identification certificate to a homeless individual.

TX HB3798

Relating to making certain voluntary contributions when applying for a driver's license, commercial driver's license, or personal identification certificate.

TX HB3641

Relating to residency requirements for driver's licenses and personal identification certificates.

TX HB2866

Relating to the requirements for the renewal of a driver's license, personal identification certificate, commercial driver's license, or commercial learner's permit for a sex offender.

TX HB1275

Relating to procedures for the issuance of personal identification certificates to certain persons 65 years of age or older whose driver's licenses are surrendered.

TX HB1328

Relating to an optional blood type designation on a driver's license, personal identification certificate, or commercial driver's license or learner's permit.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.