Relating to the right of members of the legislature, the lieutenant governor, committees of the legislature, and legislative agencies to access certain governmental information for legislative purposes; creating a criminal offense.
Impact
If enacted, SB456 would significantly amend the transparency laws governing the relationship between the government and the legislature in Texas. By explicitly allowing access to previously confidential information, the bill empowers legislators to obtain critical data that could inform policy formation and legislative debate. Supporters argue that this increased access is essential for effective governance and aligns with the constitutional mandate of legislative inquiries.
Summary
SB456, titled the Legislative Disclosure Act, establishes the right of Texas legislators, their committees, and legislative agencies to access governmental information for legislative purposes. The bill amends existing laws to clarify the scope of what constitutes 'governmental information' and to ensure that such information is made available promptly upon request. This legislation is intended to enhance legislative oversight and facilitate informed decision-making by granting wider access to data maintained by governmental bodies.
Contention
The bill does invite potential contention, particularly concerning the balance between governmental transparency and the confidentiality of sensitive information. Some critics may express concern that unrestricted access could lead to misuse or politicization of sensitive data. Moreover, the bill includes provisions that create criminal penalties for the improper handling of confidential information, raising concerns about the implications for legislative employees and their discretion in accessing and managing such information.
Identical
Relating to the right of members of the legislature, the lieutenant governor, committees of the legislature, and legislative agencies to access certain governmental information for legislative purposes; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to state and local government responses to a pandemic disaster, including the establishment of the Pandemic Disaster Legislative Oversight Committee.
Relating to the right of members of the legislature, the lieutenant governor, committees of the legislature, and legislative agencies to access certain governmental information for legislative purposes; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to confidential information under the public information law and to procedures and deadlines under the public information law in relation to the redaction of certain confidential information by a governmental body.