Texas House Bill HB377

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to the release of certain voter registration information.

Impact

The enactment of HB 377 would have a significant impact on how voter registration information is managed and disclosed within Texas. By establishing stricter guidelines on what constitutes public information, the bill aims to bolster data protection measures. Specifically, the state registrar's conditions for the disclosure of voter registration information to the public are tighter, focusing on ensuring that only information subject to required disclosure or subpoena is shared. This aligns with broader trends toward enhancing privacy in electoral processes.

Summary

House Bill 377 seeks to amend the Election Code concerning the release of certain voter registration information. The bill stipulates that specific personal information, such as a voter's social security number and the residence addresses of federal and state judges or their spouses, shall not be included when such information is furnished. This change is intended to enhance the privacy protections for certain individuals within the voter registration system, in recognition of their positions and the confidentiality of their addresses.

Contention

While the bill is seen by its proponents as a necessary step to protect the privacy rights of certain voters, there may be concerns regarding the transparency of electoral processes. Critics could argue that limiting access to voter registration data could impede efforts to ensure electoral integrity and prevent fraud. Thus, the challenges that arise from balancing privacy rights with the need for open and transparent electoral systems may become a focal point in discussions surrounding HB 377.