Relating to state agency procedures and policies to protect and properly destroy certain information that identifies an individual.
Impact
The implementation of HB 3248 is anticipated to significantly strengthen the data protection framework within Texas state agencies. With a clear directive for secure destruction practices—including shredding and erasing sensitive information—the legislation ensures that unnecessary risks related to identity theft and other forms of data misuse are minimized. As such, the law aims to enhance public trust in state operations by demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding personal information.
Summary
House Bill 3248 focuses on enhancing the security and proper destruction of individual-identifying information maintained by state agencies. The bill mandates that each state agency develop comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure that such information is adequately secured. This includes both electronic data and traditional records, requiring agencies to implement electronic security strategies as specified by the Department of Information Resources. By establishing these protocols, the bill aims to safeguard sensitive information against unauthorized disclosures and potential breaches.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 3248 has been overwhelmingly positive. Legislators have recognized the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of individual-identifying information, and the bill has garnered support from various stakeholders concerned about personal privacy. There appears to be a consensus on the necessity of implementing stringent security measures to protect sensitive data, reflecting a shared recognition of the current digital landscape's vulnerabilities.
Contention
While the bill has been well-received, discussions have highlighted a few points of contention regarding the resources required for state agencies to comply with the new mandates. Some lawmakers have raised concerns about the potential financial burden on agencies, especially smaller ones that may lack sufficient funding to implement robust data security protocols. Nevertheless, these concerns have not significantly detracted from the overall support for the legislation, as most agree on the critical need for improved data protection measures.
Relating to the protection of personally identifiable student information and the use of covered information by an operator or educational entity; authorizing a civil and administrative penalty.
Relating to the capture and use of an individual's biometric identifiers, specimen, or genetic information by a governmental body or peace officer or by a person for commercial purposes; authorizing civil penalties.
Relating to a prohibition on following an individual and tracking or monitoring the individual's personal property or motor vehicle and to the criminal prosecution of that conduct.
Relating to an individual's genetic data, including the use of that data by certain genetic testing companies for commercial purposes and the individual's property right in DNA; authorizing a civil penalty.
Relating to policies and procedures regarding certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship, investigations by the Department of Family and Protective Services, and parental child safety placements.
Relating to the authority of individuals over the personal identifying information collected, processed, or maintained about the individuals and certain others by certain businesses.
Relating to information provided to an individual identified as a potential relative or designated caregiver of a child in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.