Relating to certain information available to the public on a central database containing information about sex offenders.
Impact
The implication of HB3346 on state laws is significant as it involves amending Article 62.005(b) of the Code of Criminal Procedure. This amendment provides clarity on what data is considered public and what is not, aiming to strike a balance between community safety and individual privacy rights. By limiting the exposure of sensitive information such as social security numbers, telephone numbers, and any identifying details of victims, the bill reinforces protections for individuals while still ensuring that law enforcement and the public can access necessary risk-related data.
Summary
House Bill 3346 addresses the issue of transparency and public access to information related to sex offenders within Texas. The bill specifically modifies provisions concerning the data made available through a central database that contains information about registered sex offenders. The changes here are aimed to ensure that certain sensitive information remains confidential while still making key public safety information accessible to the community.
Enactment
If enacted, HB3346 would take effect on September 1, 2011, which marks an important date for stakeholders in the criminal justice system, including law enforcement and advocacy groups working on behalf of victims of sexual offenses.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding this bill may arise from differing views on privacy versus public safety. Proponents of the bill might argue that the amendments are essential for maintaining community safety through informed awareness of sex offenders' risk levels without compromising personal privacy and the dignity of victims. On the other hand, critics may raise concerns about the sufficiency of the protective measures in place for victims and the potential implications of public accessibility to sensitive data in fostering stigmatization or harassment.
Relating to the creation and maintenance by an appraisal district of a publicly available Internet database of information regarding protest hearings conducted by the appraisal review board established for the district.