Texas House Bill HB5081

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/13/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/6/25
• Voted on by House: 5/14/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/25/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/26/25
• Governor Action: 6/20/25

Caption

Relating to the protection of personal identifying information of certain individuals in the judicial system; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The impact of HB 5081 on state laws primarily involves the introduction of new provisions that prohibit unauthorized posting and dissemination of covered information. Under this legislation, individuals and data brokers must adhere to strict guidelines when handling sensitive information. If an individual submits a written request, the concerned party is obligated to remove that information from publicly accessible websites within a specified timeframe. Failure to comply may result in criminal charges and civil penalties, thus elevating the seriousness of data privacy violations in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 5081 seeks to enhance the protection of personal identifying information for certain individuals working within the judicial system, including judges and court clerks. The bill specifically addresses the management of what the legislation defines as 'covered information,' which includes sensitive data such as home addresses, social security numbers, and employment information of these at-risk individuals. By creating a framework to limit the dissemination of such information, the bill aims to enhance the safety and security of those in the judicial system who may be vulnerable to harassment or harm due to their position.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 5081 appears to be largely positive, especially among those who advocate for data privacy and the safety of public servants within the judicial community. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step in protecting individuals who may face threats due to their professional roles. However, there are concerns raised by some stakeholders about the implications for data transparency and accessibility, particularly regarding the balance between public interest and personal privacy. Overall, the discourse indicates a strong support for safeguarding sensitive information, along with a cautionary note regarding potential overreach.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 5081 revolves around the balance it seeks to strike between personal privacy and the public's right to information. While proponents emphasize the need for stringent controls to protect at-risk individuals, critics warn that such measures could impede access to information that is fundamental to public discourse. Additionally, questions remain regarding the practical implementation of the bill, particularly concerning data brokers and the enforcement of penalties for noncompliance. As the bill advances, ongoing discussions will likely focus on how best to protect sensitive information while ensuring accountability and transparency.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 2. Firearm Suppressor Regulation
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