Texas Senate Bill SB672

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to restrictions on the sale by a state agency of information that identifies an individual.

Impact

The introduction of SB672 is likely to lead to significant changes in how state agencies handle and share personal information. By mandating consent from individuals prior to any data sale, the bill aims to foster greater transparency in state operations and bolster trust among citizens regarding their personal data. The bill could also lead to operational adjustments within state agencies, including updated protocols for data management and documentation to ensure compliance with the new requirements. This may necessitate additional training for staff and new systems for tracking consent.

Summary

SB672 proposes new restrictions on the sale of information that identifies individuals by state agencies in Texas. The bill requires state agencies to obtain written consent from individuals before selling any identifying information, either alone or in conjunction with other information. This measure aims to enhance privacy rights for citizens by ensuring no personal data is sold without explicit permission from the individuals concerned. It aligns with contemporary standards of data protection and privacy rights, which have become increasingly relevant in the digital age.

Contention

While SB672 received support from various privacy advocacy groups, concerns may arise regarding its implementation and potential impacts on state operations. Some legislators and state officials may argue that the bill could hinder certain functions of government agencies that rely on data sales for funding or operational efficacy. There may also be debates about the balance between protecting individual privacy and maintaining efficient state operations. The bill's provisions could provoke discussions around the concept of public information vs. private ownership rights, especially in relation to transparency in government operations.