Texas House Bill HB2713

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to eliminating the fee for electronic access to certain information maintained by the secretary of state.

Impact

Should HB2713 be enacted, it could significantly impact state laws concerning public access to government-maintained information. The elimination of these fees may lead to an increase in requests for information from the public and non-profit organizations, thereby boosting transparency within government operations. Additionally, it aligns with broader efforts to make government more open and accessible to citizens, particularly in an increasingly digital age where information can be disseminated quickly and efficiently.

Summary

House Bill 2713 proposes the elimination of fees associated with electronic access to specific information maintained by the Texas Secretary of State. This initiative is aimed at reducing barriers to information access for the public, promoting transparency, and ensuring that citizens can obtain necessary information without financial impediments. By removing these fees, the bill seeks to enhance public engagement and facilitate better accessibility to governmental resources.

Contention

While the bill's proponents argue that removing fees facilitates greater public access to important information, there may be discussions around the potential financial implications for the Secretary of State's office, particularly related to maintenance and operational costs for providing electronic access. Ensuring that the lack of fees does not compromise the quality and reliability of information provided will be essential, making this a focal point of contention during legislative discussions.