Texas House Bill HB1853

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/15/25

Caption

Relating to the availability of certain information regarding persons who provide materials used in the execution of a convict.

Impact

The primary impact of HB1853 will be on the transparency of the execution process in Texas. By amending the law to safeguard the identities of execution participants, the bill may limit public scrutiny and potentially affect accountability when it comes to the state's use of capital punishment. The changes align with ongoing debates about the ethical implications of executing individuals and could result in even fewer public disclosures regarding the methods and personnel involved in executions in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 1853 pertains to the rules governing the disclosure of information regarding individuals and entities involved in the execution of convicts. The bill amends existing legislation to create exceptions to the public disclosure requirements for those who directly participate in execution procedures, thereby enhancing the confidentiality surrounding their identities. Notably, this legislation includes changes to the Government Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically addressing the treatment of identifying information related to execution participants.

Contention

Several notable points of contention arise from HB1853. Advocates for transparency argue that the bill could further obfuscate the execution process, leaving the public in the dark about who is responsible for administering capital punishment. Critics of the bill may view it as a measure designed to protect the identities of those involved in what they consider a controversial and morally complex activity. This concern highlights a broader discourse around the ethics of capital punishment and the right of the public to be informed about government actions that have substantial moral implications.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 552. Public Information
  • Section: 1081

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 43. Execution Of Judgment
  • Section: 14