Texas House Bill HB3631

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the confidentiality of the e-mail address of an applicant for or holder of a license issued by certain state agencies.

Impact

The bill's enactment is anticipated to significantly affect the way certain state agencies handle public information requests. Under the new regulations, the email addresses of individuals applying for or holding licenses from specified departments will not be made available to the public, thus safeguarding personal data from potential misuse. This change is particularly relevant for anyone involved in licensing with the Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, as it directly impacts their privacy rights during the licensing process.

Summary

House Bill 3631 aims to enhance the confidentiality of the email addresses of applicants and holders of licenses issued by specific state agencies in Texas. The bill amends Section 552.137 of the Government Code, which outlines the conditions under which email addresses can be disclosed. By providing greater protection for these email addresses, the bill seeks to address concerns related to privacy and personal information security for individuals engaged with state licensing processes.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 3631 appears to be supportive, as it addresses crucial issues of privacy and information security for individuals required to submit their email addresses to governmental bodies. Supporters of the bill argue that protecting personal information is a vital step towards ensuring that individuals feel safe when interacting with government agencies. The push for greater confidentiality reflects a broader societal trend emphasizing the importance of data privacy in light of increasing concerns over data breaches and identity theft.

Contention

While the bill enjoyed wide support, some contention may exist regarding the balance between transparency and privacy. Critics may argue that by restricting access to email addresses, the bill could hinder public engagement and accountability in state agencies. The debate encapsulates a broader discussion about the implications of privacy laws for public information access and whether measures intended to protect individuals may inadvertently limit transparency and oversight of governmental operations.