Texas Senate Bill SB1563

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the definition of and access to public information.

Impact

The proposed adjustments would enhance access to public information, potentially improving transparency and accountability in state governance. By clearly defining the media that fall under 'public information', the bill aims to ensure that more types of communication can be requested and reviewed by the public. This could lead to increased scrutiny of governmental operations and decisions, as the public would have access to a wider array of documents related to governmental actions.

Summary

SB1563 aims to revise the definition of 'public information' within the Texas Government Code, specifically focusing on how governmental bodies handle information pertaining to their official business. The bill clarifies what constitutes public information by including a broader array of media types that may contain such information, encompassing traditional formats like paper and film, as well as modern electronic communications such as emails and instant messages. This change signifies a move towards greater inclusivity in the types of documents that can be requested by citizens.

Contention

However, there's a potential for contention surrounding the implications of this bill. Opponents may argue that broadening the definition can lead to an overwhelming number of requests which could burden public officials and impede their functions. There may also be concerns regarding privacy issues, as the inclusion of personal electronic communications could inadvertently expose sensitive information. How this definition is implemented in practice will be critical in addressing these concerns.