Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB845

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to the use of e-mail and website technology by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

Impact

The legislation will amend Section 51.207 of the Occupations Code, explicitly requiring TDLR to develop technological applications that enhance public interaction. This includes creating a system for online tracking of legislation relevant to the department's programs, which promotes transparency and allows citizens to engage more actively with the governance processes. As a result, the bill will likely streamline interactions between the public and the department while fostering an environment of openness regarding legislative matters affecting TDLR.

Summary

Senate Bill 845 focuses on enhancing the use of e-mail and website technologies by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The bill mandates that the TDLR develop and implement policies that facilitate easier public access to information through digital channels. It emphasizes the need for technological solutions that not only improve the department's functionality but also ensure that the public can access services conveniently online. This is expected to modernize the department's operations and better serve the constituents.

Contention

While the bill seems to have broad support, it raises questions about the implementation of such technologies, particularly regarding privacy and security of the data collected. The provision allowing notifications to be sent via e-mail, while understood to be efficient, brings up concerns regarding the safeguarding of sensitive information and how effectively the department will manage the e-mail communication in compliance with confidentiality rules. The balance between enhancing government service delivery and protecting citizen data is a noteworthy point of discussion among stakeholders.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3743

Relating to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; expanding authority to adopt fees.

TX HB3890

Relating to the regulation and voluntary licensing of reroofing contractors by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; providing administrative and civil penalties; authorizing fees.

TX SB1414

Relating to the temporary regulation of the practice of veterinary medicine by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

TX HB1560

Relating to the regulation of the practice of veterinary medicine by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

TX HB4416

Relating to the regulation of auctioneering by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; authorizing an administrative penalty.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB943

Relating to publication of notices by a governmental entity on the Internet websites of a newspaper and the Texas Press Association.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB3579

Relating to the regulation of massage therapists and massage establishments by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and political subdivisions.

TX HB3772

Relating to combating human trafficking by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.