Texas House Bill HB3499

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to sending notice of proposed contracts for highway projects by e-mail.

Impact

The enactment of HB3499 will amend Section 223.003 of the Transportation Code, specifically addressing the process by which notices of proposed contracts are distributed. The bill empowers individuals to apply to be placed on a mailing list to receive these notices, which may now be sent electronically, marking a significant transition towards modernizing state communication practices. This change is expected to improve the accessibility of information regarding highway contracts, making it easier for stakeholders to stay informed.

Summary

House Bill 3499 aims to modernize the way contracts for highway projects are communicated to interested parties. By allowing notices to be sent electronically via email rather than only through traditional postal mail, the bill seeks to streamline the notification process and enhance transparency in government contracting. This shift reflects an increasing recognition of the importance and efficiency of digital communication in governmental operations.

Contention

While HB3499 has generally been viewed positively as a step towards efficiency, there may be some concerns regarding the digital divide and the potential exclusion of individuals who may not have reliable internet access. Opponents may argue that reliance on electronic communication could disenfranchise certain segments of the population, especially in rural areas where internet service is limited. Further debate may focus on the adequacy of existing systems to ensure that those who wish to receive notices via email can do so without issue.