Texas House Bill HB3286

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the sale or release of personal identifying information by a state governmental body.

Impact

If enacted, HB3286 would significantly impact the operations of state governmental bodies in relation to how they manage and disclose personal identifying information. State entities would be obligated to adhere to stricter guidelines that ensure the confidentiality of individual data. This change not only aims to foster public confidence in government entities' ability to protect personal information but also aligns Texas law with increasing national emphasis on data privacy.

Summary

House Bill 3286 aims to safeguard personal identifying information held by state governmental bodies by prohibiting the sale or release of this information without the individual's consent. This legislation seeks to enhance privacy protections for citizens by limiting access to sensitive data which could otherwise be misused. The bill aligns with growing concerns about data privacy and the potential for identity theft and fraud fueled by unauthorized disclosures of personal information.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around HB3286 appears to be positive, particularly among privacy advocates and citizens who are concerned about data security. Proponents believe this legislation is a vital step in protecting individual rights regarding personal information. However, there are some concerns about the potential administrative burden imposed on state agencies, which may need additional resources to comply with these new requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding this bill revolve around the balance of state authority and individual privacy rights. Some critics may argue that while the intent to protect personal information is laudable, the restrictions imposed on the release of information could hinder governmental transparency and accountability. Others may express concern about how exceptions, such as those related to service provision or legal investigations, are defined and enforced, potentially creating loopholes that could undermine the bill's objectives.