Texas Senate Bill SB458

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to certain motor vehicle records excepted from disclosure under the Public Information Act.

Impact

If enacted, SB 458 will enhance the ability of government entities to safeguard sensitive information from public disclosure. It clarifies which specific details related to motor vehicle records can be exempted from public view, establishing clearer guidelines for governmental agencies on how to handle such requests. The impact on state laws includes a refined understanding of what constitutes public information, particularly in the context of personal details linked to vehicle ownership.

Summary

Senate Bill 458, introduced by Senator Rodriguez, aims to amend regulations regarding the disclosure of certain motor vehicle records under the Texas Public Information Act. Specifically, it revises the existing framework to allow governmental bodies to redact certain sensitive information from documents they are required to disclose. This change is seen as a measure to protect personal information related to individuals' motor vehicles, balancing the need for transparency with privacy concerns associated with government records.

Contention

The bill's proponents argue that it strengthens data privacy protections for citizens while still upholding necessary transparency in government operations. However, its critics express concerns that excessive redaction could hinder accountability and public access to information that should remain open to scrutiny. As the legislation shifts the balance toward privacy, ongoing debates may emerge about the implications for transparency in public affairs and the necessity of ensuring that citizens can obtain pertinent information about governmental actions.