Texas House Bill HB1322

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the sealing of applications and orders for the installation and use of mobile tracking devices in certain law enforcement investigations.

Impact

The modifications prescribed by HB1322 will affect how law enforcement agencies perform surveillance through mobile tracking devices. By ensuring that applications and related court orders are sealed, the bill aims to protect the rights of individuals involved in investigations, potentially limiting public access to sensitive information that could otherwise be exposed. The bill's implementation will create a more regulated environment for law enforcement operations concerning mobile tracking, possibly leading to greater scrutiny and accountability in how these tools are employed.

Summary

House Bill 1322 introduces provisions regarding the sealing of applications and orders related to the installation and use of mobile tracking devices in law enforcement investigations. The bill mandates that district judges are required to seal any documents and orders associated with these mobile tracking device applications until the expiration of the authorized period. This represents a change aimed at enhancing privacy protections for individuals who may be subjected to these types of surveillance measures.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a progressive step toward safeguarding individual privacy rights, there may be concerns from some law enforcement factions regarding the effectiveness and speed of investigations. Opponents may argue that the sealing of such documents could hinder lawful investigations and the ability to gather necessary evidence in a timely manner, thus raising issues about the balance between privacy rights and the needs of law enforcement. Discussions around HB1322 may delve into these complexities, highlighting the need for a framework that both respects civil liberties and allows law enforcement to operate effectively.