Relating to the social security numbers of school district employees.
Impact
The introduction of HB2961 presents significant implications for state laws concerning the privacy of personal information held by governmental entities, particularly in the educational sector. By making the SSNs of school district employees confidential, the bill aims to mitigate the risks of identity theft and unauthorized access to personal data. This change aligns with broader legislative efforts to strengthen data privacy protections across various sectors, particularly in light of increasing concerns about cybersecurity and personal information protection.
Summary
HB2961 addresses the handling of social security numbers (SSNs) for school district employees in Texas. The bill amends the Government Code and the Education Code to enhance the privacy and protection of these sensitive identifiers. Notably, it prohibits school districts from requiring employees or former employees to disclose their SSNs publicly, thereby increasing confidentiality surrounding such information. Additionally, the bill mandates that the boards of trustees of independent school districts adopt policies to restrict the use of SSNs as employee identifiers, except for tax-related purposes.
Contention
While the bill achieved unanimous support in the House, with a vote tally of 144 in favor and none against, there may still be underlying discussions regarding the potential operational challenges for school districts in implementing these new policies. Some stakeholders might voice concerns over how restricting the use of SSNs could affect administrative processes or ease of access to employee information for legitimate administrative needs. However, the consensus indicates a strong commitment to enhancing the safeguarding of employee privacy as a priority.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for employees of a county courthouse or the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the employees' family members.
Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.
Relating to the employment of honorably retired peace officers as school district security personnel and the applicability to those officers of certain law governing private security.
Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the development and implementation of purchases relating to and funding for public school safety and security requirements and the provision of safety-related resources.
Relating to requiring a school district to employ a social worker to assist district security personnel and oversee the district's threat assessment and safe and supportive school teams.