Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SR686

Caption

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on S.B. 1893.

Impact

The resolution primarily affects the procedural handling of Senate Bill 1893, which aims to prohibit the use of specific social media applications on devices owned or leased by government entities. By streamlining the capacity of the conference committee to amend the bill, SR686 enhances the ability to address any contentious issues that may arise during the bill's debate. This means that the governance and application of technology in public sectors would be more clearly delineated, potentially leading to greater compliance by governmental agencies with clarified guidelines.

Summary

Senate Resolution 686 (SR686) aims to suspend certain limitations regarding the jurisdiction of conference committees related to Senate Bill 1893. This resolution enables the conference committee to consider and take action on modifications that are not in disagreement with the proposed text. One significant amendment involves the method by which the governor may specify certain social media applications as covered, changing the terminology from 'executive order' to 'proclamation'. This procedural adjustment is necessary for clarity in enforcement and application of the bill's terms as they pertain to governmental entities.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SR686 appears to be largely supportive as it aims to facilitate an effective legislative process for a bill that addresses current technological concerns within governmental operations. Senators demonstrated unity with a unanimous voting outcome of 31 yeas and 0 nays during its adoption, reflecting a collaborative effort among the legislature to manage governance in line with contemporary needs.

Contention

While SR686 passed without dissent, there may be underlying contention regarding the implications for transparency and governance as it relates to the regulation of social media applications used by public entities. Critics may argue that modifying the method of designation from 'executive order' to 'proclamation' might obscure accountability, as proclamations can be less formal and may lack the same level of public scrutiny. Discussions around the necessity for such changes could highlight concerns regarding governmental oversight and the balance of power in regulating technology in public agencies.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 620. Use Of Certain Social Media Applications And Services On Governmental Entity Devices Prohibited
    • Section: 001
    • Section: 005

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SR704

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on S.B. 12.

TX SR709

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on H.J.R. 125.

TX SR700

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction, H.B. No. 4635.

TX SR707

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on H.B. 9.

TX SR706

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on HB 357.

TX SR711

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on SB 28.

TX SR705

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on H.B. 17.

TX SR691

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction on S.B. 10.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.