Texas House Bill HB981

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the production of the index of the parties to all suits by the clerk of a district court.

Impact

This bill is intended to have a significant effect on state laws concerning public access to court records. By mandating that clerks must produce the index of parties to suits when requested and charging a fee for electronic copies, it seeks to improve the efficiency of accessing public information. The amendment specifically targets the clerical processes in district courts, thereby facilitating better management of court records and increasing the accountability of court clerks in their record-keeping duties.

Summary

House Bill 981 aims to streamline access to the index of parties involved in all suits filed in district courts by allowing individuals to request and obtain this information promptly. The bill amends existing provisions in the Government Code to require district court clerks to produce these indices for inspection or copying upon request, thereby enhancing transparency and public accessibility to court-related documents. The proposed legislation specifies that if the index is maintained in an electronic format, the clerk must provide an electronic copy at a fee determined by the attorney general's rules for public records.

Sentiment

In general, the sentiment around HB 981 appears to be positive. Supporters likely view it as a necessary update that aligns with modern practices of recordkeeping and public information accessibility. By enabling easier access to essential court records, the bill is expected to benefit individuals seeking legal recourse or information. However, there may also be concerns raised by individuals or groups who believe that new fees for electronic copies could impose an additional burden on citizens accessing public information.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding HB 981 could involve the imposition of fees for electronic copies of the indices. While proponents argue that these fees are necessary to cover the costs of producing records, opponents may see this as a potential barrier to access, particularly for lower-income individuals seeking information on legal matters. Furthermore, the bill's overall implications for transparency and efficiency versus accessibility and costs may stir debate among different stakeholders, including legal professionals, advocacy groups, and the public.