Texas House Bill HB5080

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/13/25

Caption

Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for employees of a county, a court, or the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the employees' family members.

Impact

The implementation of HB 5080 is expected to amend various sections of the Election Code, Government Code, and Transportation Code to ensure the privacy of judicial employees. By preventing the disclosure of personal information like home addresses, the legislation seeks to support the safety and security of individuals working in the judicial system from potential threats, thereby fostering a more secure environment for those in the legal profession. This enhancement of confidentiality aligns with broader privacy protection efforts seen in different areas of public service.

Summary

House Bill 5080 aims to enhance the confidentiality of certain information pertaining to employees of counties, courts, and the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System, as well as their family members. The bill stipulates that the residential addresses of these individuals should be omitted from public records, with specific provisions for judges, court officials, and their families. This measure is designed to protect sensitive information of employees whose roles may expose them to potential risks due to their positions and responsibilities within the judicial system.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intention to protect judicial employees, some concerns have been raised regarding the implications of increased confidentiality on public transparency. Critics may argue that such measures could lead to reduced accountability and limit public access to information that is traditionally available in public records. Furthermore, debates may arise surrounding the balance between safety and transparency, especially regarding how it impacts the public's right to know about those who serve in taxpayer-funded positions.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 72. Office Of Court Administration
  • Section: 016

• Chapter 552. Public Information
  • Section: 117
  • Section: 1175

Election Code

• Chapter 13. Application For Registration; Initial Registration
  • Section: 0021

Tax Code

• Chapter 25. Local Appraisal
  • Section: 025

Transportation Code

• Chapter 521. Driver's Licenses And Certificates
  • Section: 121

Occupations Code

• Chapter 1701. Law Enforcement Officers
  • Section: 001

• Chapter 1702. Private Security
  • Section: 002

Family Code

• Chapter 71. Definitions
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 231. Title Iv-d Services
  • Section: New Section