Texas House Bill HB442

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/22/16

Caption

Relating to the licensing and regulation of certain professions, including the online publication of home addresses of certain occupational license holders.

Impact

By preventing the automatic public publication of home addresses, HB442 is poised to significantly alter the landscape under which licensed professionals interact with state databases. The legislation establishes a clear protocol that necessitates a request from the license holder to have their address included in public rosters. This amendment could impact a wide range of professionals, including those in healthcare, education, and personal services, fostering a sense of security among those vulnerable to potential risks associated with having their personal information easily accessible.

Summary

House Bill 442 seeks to amend the Occupations Code regarding the online publication of home addresses for certain occupational license holders in Texas. The primary aim of the bill is to enhance the privacy of individuals who hold specific licenses by ensuring their home addresses are not disclosed in publicly accessible databases unless explicitly requested by the individual. This change aligns with growing concerns over personal safety and privacy, particularly for professions that may be at risk of harassment or threats from the public.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB442 appears to be largely supportive, with significant backing from those advocating for the privacy rights of professionals. Stakeholders in vocational and occupational fields express appreciation for the proposed protections, recognizing the necessity of safeguarding personal information. Nonetheless, there could be opposing viewpoints from transparency advocates who argue that public access to information is vital for accountability and oversight within professions that require licensing.

Contention

While the bill is centered on enhancing privacy, notable points of contention may arise regarding the balance between individual privacy and public access to information. Critics may voice concerns that limiting the availability of certain data could hinder transparency efforts or create challenges for regulatory bodies tasked with monitoring licensed professionals. As such, discussions around the implications of this privacy-focused legislation will be essential to address any potential unintended consequences.