Texas House Bill HB3711

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/4/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/15/25
• Voted on by House: 4/29/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/25/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/26/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to assistance in the investigation of certain open meetings offenses by the open records division of the attorney general's office.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3711 would considerably affect state laws related to open meetings and governmental transparency. Under this bill, law enforcement agencies are required to notify the attorney general's office of any investigation involving open meetings offenses, ensuring that the attorney general has access to pertinent information. This structural adjustment proposes to improve the enforcement of open meeting laws and may lead to increased scrutiny on public officials and agencies that disregard these important regulations, thereby fostering a culture of compliance and transparency in government dealings.

Summary

House Bill 3711 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the investigation of open meetings offenses within the state of Texas. The bill facilitates the cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the open records division of the attorney general's office by mandating that law enforcement submit reports regarding probable cause for offenses under Chapter 551, Government Code. This collaboration is intended to ensure that investigations into violations of open meeting laws are thorough, effective, and publicly accountable. By enhancing the role of the attorney general's office in such investigations, the bill seeks to establish a more structured approach to dealing with open meeting offenses.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3711 appears to be largely supportive among those advocating for governmental transparency and accountability. Supporters view this bill as a positive step toward ensuring that open meetings laws are taken seriously and that public officials are held accountable for their actions. However, there are concerns voiced by opponents about the potential administrative burden this bill may create for law enforcement agencies. Some critics argue that the additional requirements may complicate processes and argue that existing laws are adequate.

Contention

One notable point of contention pertains to how this bill balances transparency with the operational efficiency of law enforcement agencies. Critics fear that mandating law enforcement to submit reports to the attorney general could slow down the investigative process. They are concerned that such requirements might lead to complexities that could unintentionally undermine the effectiveness of investigations. Conversely, proponents argue that the transparency brought about by this bill outweighs those challenges, emphasizing the importance of holding public officials accountable in order to maintain public trust in government operations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 411. Department Of Public Safety Of The State Of Texas
  • Section: 0252
  • Section: 0252
  • Section: 0253
  • Section: 0254
  • Section: 0252
  • Section: 0253
  • Section: 0254
  • Section: 0252
  • Section: 0253
  • Section: 0254

• Chapter 402. Attorney General
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 551. Open Meetings
  • Section: New Section

Code Of Criminal Procedure

• Chapter 2. General Duties Of Officers
  • Section: New Section