Relating to the dissemination of criminal history record information by the Department of Public Safety.
Impact
The enactment of SB1785 will likely have significant implications for state law related to criminal history access. The bill mandates that any agency obtaining criminal history record information must ensure that such data is used solely for specific purposes, primarily related to employment and licensing. This means enhanced protection for individuals' records and defined protocols for handling sensitive data, which could increase the trust of the public in how their information is managed. The requirement for destruction of records post-use further solidifies this commitment to privacy.
Summary
SB1785 addresses the dissemination of criminal history record information by the Department of Public Safety in Texas. The bill establishes guidelines for how this information can be accessed, used, and shared, particularly with various state agencies involved in licensing and regulatory processes. It aims to streamline the processes of background checks for multiple state-related roles, including those in education, healthcare, and public safety, ensuring that proper measures are in place to protect sensitive information.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB1785 appears to be generally supportive among legislators who emphasize the importance of regulating how criminal history information is disseminated. Proponents argue that the bill strengthens privacy protections for individuals while also improving the efficiency of state operations involving background checks. However, some concerns have been raised about the balance between maintaining public safety and ensuring individual privacy rights, leading to discussions about possible safeguards against misuse of information.
Contention
Noteworthy points of contention revolve around the ability of state agencies to access and use criminal history record information. While proponents of SB1785 advocate for clear frameworks to prevent mishandling or excessive sharing of sensitive data, opponents express concern that overly restrictive measures could hinder legitimate background checks needed for roles critical to public welfare, such as in education and healthcare. The dialogue suggests a need for ongoing evaluation of how these changes affect both individual rights and public safety requirements.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
Section: New Section
Section: 0891
Section: 1106
Section: 1161
Estates Code
Chapter 1104. Selection Of And Eligibility To Serve As Guardian
Section: 405
Occupations Code
Chapter 1101. Real Estate Brokers And Sales Agents
Relating to the authority of the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas to obtain and use criminal history record information for certain departmental authorizations.
Relating to the authority of the Department of Public Safety to obtain and use criminal history record information for the purpose of performing certain departmental functions.
Relating to the dissemination of criminal history record information by the Department of Public Safety concerning certain intoxication criminal offenses.
Relating to the access to and use of certain criminal history record information, to the procedure for obtaining that information, and to the correct terminology for certain licenses the issuance of which requires a criminal history background check.
Relating to the access to and use of certain criminal history record information, to the procedure for obtaining that information, and to the correct terminology for certain licenses the issuance of which requires a criminal history background check.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.