Texas House Bill HB2396

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of personal driver's license information disclosed by a state agency or political subdivision.

Impact

The bill imposes restrictions on how personal information regarding driver's licenses and permits is utilized. For example, entities receiving this information cannot employ it for bulk distribution for surveys, marketing, or solicitations. These provisions are crucial in preventing misuse of sensitive data and protecting citizens from potential privacy violations. Furthermore, the tightening of regulations on the distribution of driver's license information may also affect how businesses and insurance companies operate when verifying individuals’ credentials.

Summary

House Bill 2396 focuses on the disclosure of personal driver's license information by state agencies or political subdivisions in Texas. The bill aims to amend certain sections of the Transportation Code to limit the use of personal information obtained from motor vehicle records. It specifies that personal data can only be disclosed for particular purposes, such as use by government agencies, law enforcement, or in connection with civil or criminal proceedings. This is intended to safeguard the privacy of individuals while still allowing essential governmental operations to occur unhindered.

Contention

Although HB2396 is largely seen as a necessary measure for enhancing privacy protections, some critics may express concerns regarding the potential for increased burden on agencies that depend on access to such information for various operational needs. While proponents argue that these restrictions are essential for public safety and individual privacy, there may be debates around the balance between maintaining privacy and allowing efficient governmental and business operations. The implementation of this bill could thus result in further discussions about the effectiveness of these privacy measures and their impact on service delivery.