Texas House Bill HB2576

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to restrictions on the assessment of the fee charged for issuance of certain birth records.

Impact

The implications of HB2576 are significant for individuals seeking to obtain birth records, particularly voters who may lack such documentation required for election ID purposes. By eliminating the fee, the bill seeks to reduce financial barriers that could prevent eligible voters from participating in elections, thereby helping to uphold democratic participation. The law would apply to any applications for certified copies of birth records filed on or after the bill's effective date, ensuring that the benefits of this legislation are implemented promptly for those in need.

Summary

House Bill 2576 pertains to the issuance of certified copies of birth records, specifically proposing to eliminate the fee charged for obtaining these records when requested for the purpose of acquiring an election identification certificate. The bill modifies Section 191.0046 of the Health and Safety Code to allow individuals who apply in person for these records, and explicitly state their need for them in relation to election identification, to receive the records at no cost. This change is designed to promote greater access to necessary documentation required for voting purposes, aiming to facilitate participation in the electoral process.

Contention

While the bill has a clear intention of increasing voter accessibility, it might face scrutiny regarding the potential for misuse or abuse of the no-fee provision. Critics may raise concerns about the verification process and whether local registrars or county clerks have adequate measures in place to ensure that the requests are legitimate and solely for the purpose specified in the legislation, i.e., obtaining an election identification certificate. Additionally, the amendment's swift implementation could prompt discussions about balancing public access with the integrity of the process for issuing sensitive personal records.