Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1833

Caption

Relating to restrictions on the sale by a state agency of information that identifies an individual.

Impact

The implications of HB 1833 are significant for how state agencies manage sensitive information. By mandating stricter controls over the sale of individual-identifying data, the bill ensures that state agencies cannot commercially exploit personal information. This legislative change could lead to a reduction in misuse of personal data, aiming to protect citizens from potential abuses that can arise from widespread sharing of PII. Furthermore, the bill explicitly provides for the Attorney General's authority to seek injunctive relief against violators, which reinforces enforcement mechanisms against unauthorized data sales.

Summary

House Bill 1833 establishes restrictions on the sale of information that identifies individuals by state agencies. This bill aims to enhance data privacy by prohibiting state agencies from selling personal identifiable information (PII) unless the buyer certifies they will not resell it. Such measures are particularly focused on data derived from driver's licenses, personal identification certificates, and vehicle registrations to limit unauthorized distribution and enhance individual privacy protection. The bill serves as an important step in regulating the handling of PII by government entities.

Contention

While the intent behind HB 1833 is to safeguard personal information, there could be discussions regarding its impact on transparency and public access to data. Some may argue that the restrictions could limit the capacity for research and data analysis that benefits public policy, as certain data might be integral for studies in public health, transportation, and safety. Additionally, critics might raise concerns about the definitions of 'sale' and how they apply to various data-sharing arrangements. Balancing data privacy with the utility of information will likely be a focal point of ongoing discussions surrounding this legislation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1014

Relating to restrictions on the use and disclosure of certain genetic material and genetic information; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB182

Relating to the required report of criminal offenses committed against individuals receiving certain state agency services; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4705

Relating to collection and use of biometric identifiers and biometric information.

TX SB704

Relating to the capture and use of an individual's biometric identifiers, specimen, or genetic information by a governmental body or peace officer or by a person for commercial purposes; authorizing civil penalties.

TX SB958

Relating to the prohibited release by a public agency of personal affiliation information regarding the members, supporters, or volunteers of or donors to certain nonprofit organizations; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1754

Relating to certain restrictions on the use of personally identifiable information pertaining to a public school student by an operator or educational entity.

TX HB4854

Relating to the authority of individuals over the personal identifying information collected, processed, or maintained about the individuals and certain others by certain businesses.

TX HB4585

Relating to the prohibited release by a public agency of personal affiliation information regarding the members, supporters, or volunteers of or donors to certain nonprofit organizations; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1422

Relating to enforcement of criminal offenses by state agencies, law enforcement agencies, political subdivisions, or local entities.

TX HB5228

Relating to the issuance of a driver's license or personal identification certificate to certain individuals and the use of the identification fee exemption account to fund the fee waivers for those individuals.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.