Texas House Bill HB3787

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the determination of an applicant's eligibility for any program administered by the Health and Human Services Commission.

Impact

If enacted, HB3787 will modify existing state laws regarding the handling of social security information provided by applicants. The amendment enables greater inter-agency communication, particularly between the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Health and Human Services Commission, which is critical for the assessment of an individual’s eligibility for various health and human services programs. Stakeholders anticipate that this bill will streamline operations and reduce the potential for fraudulent claims by ensuring all relevant data is considered during eligibility assessments.

Summary

House Bill 3787 addresses the process for determining applicants' eligibility for various programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission in Texas. Specifically, it allows for the disclosure of a driver's license applicant's social security number to the Health and Human Services Commission, enhancing the commission's ability to verify eligibility for assistance programs. This legislative change is aimed at improving the efficiency and accuracy of the state's welfare services by ensuring that accurate information is available to assess an applicant's qualifications.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB3787 may raise concerns around privacy and the security of sensitive personal information. While proponents argue that better sharing of information can enhance the effectiveness of state programs, critics might worry about potential misuse or unauthorized access to social security numbers. Furthermore, the implications for applicants' rights to privacy in the context of governmental data sharing could spark debates on the balance between operational efficiency and individual privacy rights.