Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3305

Caption

Relating to personal information that may be omitted from certain records, licenses, and reports and to other court security measures.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3305 would result in specific amendments to the Election Code and the Government Code, particularly regarding the handling of judges' personal information. By designating the home addresses of judges and their spouses as confidential, the bill seeks to restrict public access to sensitive information and improve the overall safety of judicial figures. This change aligns with broader efforts to protect public officials and enhance their security infrastructures, especially in light of increasing concerns over threats faced by members of the judiciary.

Summary

House Bill 3305 addresses the omission of personal information from public records related to federal and state judges and their spouses. The primary focus of the bill is to enhance the security and privacy of judges by allowing them to redact their home addresses from documents available on the internet. This measure aims to protect judges from potential threats, ensuring their safety and the confidentiality of their personal information while they fulfill their public duties. The bill also mandates the submission of annual reports regarding court security measures and the adequacy of resources dedicated to maintaining these security standards.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3305 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among those advocating for judicial safety and privacy. Legislators and stakeholders have expressed the importance of safeguarding judges from potential harm, recognizing that their roles necessitate certain protections. However, some may raise concerns about the implications for public transparency and access to governmental records, emphasizing the need to balance safety with the public's right to information. This discourse indicates a nuanced conversation about the intersection of privacy rights and public accountability.

Contention

Despite the supportive sentiment, there may be points of contention regarding how this bill balances privacy with public interest. Critics may argue that redacting judges' addresses could lead to reduced transparency in government processes. Additionally, stakeholders might question whether such measures could set a precedent for similar requests from other public officials, complicating issues of public record accessibility. The debate would likely focus on refining the provisions that ensure both security and accountability, ensuring that the legislative intent aligns with broader democratic principles.

Companion Bills

TX SB489

Same As Relating to personal information that may be omitted from certain records, licenses, and reports and to other court security measures.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4979

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to certain student records and conduct.

TX SB1367

Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for employees of a county courthouse or the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the employees' family members.

TX SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB4123

Relating to access to and use of certain criminal history record information.

TX SB617

Relating to the confidentiality of certain home address information in ad valorem tax appraisal records.

TX HB4595

Relating to nonsubstantive additions to, revisions of, and corrections in enacted codes and to the nonsubstantive codification or disposition of various laws omitted from enacted codes.

TX HB1911

Relating to the confidentiality of certain home address information in ad valorem tax appraisal records.

TX SB1525

Relating to the confidentiality of certain home address information in property tax appraisal records.

TX HB30

Relating to access to certain law enforcement, corrections, and prosecutorial records under the public information law.

TX HB1765

Relating to the redaction of certain information from a document posted on the Internet by a county clerk or district clerk on request of a person to whom the information relates or the judicial security division of the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.