Texas House Bill HB3426

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/26/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/21/25
• Voted on by House: 5/6/25

Caption

Relating to the issuance of digital driver's licenses, commercial driver's licenses, and personal identification certificates; authorizing a fee.

Impact

Implementing HB 3426 would modernize how identification is issued and verified in Texas, reflecting broader trends towards digitalization in governance and personal identification. The established framework includes provisions for data privacy, thereby empowering the Department of Public Safety to regulate access and security surrounding digital identification. Additionally, the bill specifies that digital IDs cannot be used for voting purposes, maintaining compliance with existing electoral laws.

Summary

House Bill 3426 focuses on the issuance of digital driver's licenses, commercial driver's licenses, and personal identification certificates in Texas. This legislation aims to transition traditional physical forms of ID into digital formats that can be easily accessed via wireless communication devices. The bill mandates the Department of Public Safety to establish rules for the issuance, authentication, and security of these digital IDs, ensuring they retain legal status equivalent to their physical counterparts under Texas law.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment towards HB 3426 appears to be cautiously optimistic, particularly from technology advocates who view this move as a modernization of the state's ID system. Supporters highlight the convenience and efficiency that digital IDs may offer. However, there are also concerns regarding data privacy and security—issues that will need to be addressed through the rules the Department of Public Safety will develop to implement the bill's provisions.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 3426 include the balance between convenience and privacy. Critics underscore potential risks related to data breaches and unauthorized access to personal information via digital devices. There is also debate regarding whether the state should charge a fee for issuing these digital licenses, as this could present barriers for certain populations. Ensuring that the transition to digital IDs does not disenfranchise individuals who may lack access to technology is an important consideration in discussions about the bill.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Transportation Code

• Chapter 7. Connecting Carriers
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 361. State Highway Turnpike Projects
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 730. Motor Vehicle Records Disclosure Act
  • Section: New Section