Texas House Bill HB3271

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the right of certain public officers to access public information, documents, records, and property.

Impact

The implications of HB3271 extend to the local levels of government by applying similar access rights to county and municipal officers. This creates a standardized approach to the access of public information across the board. Local governmental bodies are required to comply with requests for access to public records and documents, potentially streamlining operations and reducing bureaucratic barriers for local officials seeking information to support their duties.

Summary

House Bill 3271 addresses the rights of certain public officers to access public information, documents, records, and property. This bill introduces a framework that enhances transparency and accountability within governmental bodies. Under the provisions of HB3271, board members of state governmental bodies are granted the right to access public information, including confidential documents that would typically be restricted from public view. This is intended to enable public officers to effectively fulfill their roles and responsibilities by ensuring they have the necessary information at their disposal.

Provision

Overall, the bill is designed to reinforce the right of access by explicitly defining the processes through which public officers can request information. It mandates timely responses from governmental bodies, which is a significant advancement for government transparency. The provisions outlined in HB3271 will ultimately strengthen the accountability of public officials and enhance the overall trust in government operations.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns regarding the potential for misuse of the expansion of access to confidential information. Critics argue that allowing broader access to certain types of sensitive documents could compromise the integrity and privacy of individuals involved. Additionally, the bill includes stipulations around confidentiality agreements, which may raise questions about the extent to which information can be safeguarded from public disclosure. The contention revolves primarily around balancing the right to information with the need for confidentiality and privacy protections.