Relating to the security of certain personal identifying information submitted to or retained by a state agency.
Impact
If enacted, HB 5129 will significantly alter how state agencies handle personal identifying information, particularly in relation to occupational licenses. The bill delineates specific types of personal information that are considered sensitive, including home addresses, telephone numbers, and emergency contact details. By mandating consent for sharing such information, the law will enhance the privacy rights of individuals when interacting with governmental processes, thereby aligning Texas law with contemporary standards of data protection.
Summary
House Bill 5129, known as the Right to Privacy Act, seeks to enhance the protection of personal identifying information that is submitted to or retained by state agencies in Texas. The bill introduces stricter controls surrounding the dissemination of this data, requiring written consent from individuals before their personal identifying information can be shared. This important legislation aims to ensure that citizens have greater control over their own data, addressing growing concerns about privacy in an increasingly digital world.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB 5129 is notably positive among privacy advocates and citizens who are increasingly concerned about the security of their personal information. Legislators supporting the bill emphasize its relevance in protecting individuals’ privacy rights and enhancing trust in state institutions. However, there may be some reservations from those concerned about the operational feasibility for state agencies, particularly regarding compliance and the administrative burden that consent management may create.
Contention
Notable points of contention about HB 5129 may arise around the implementation of the consent requirements, as some critics argue that the bill could introduce delays in processing occupational licenses due to the additional step of obtaining consent. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the balance between privacy protection and the operational needs of state agencies, highlighting potential conflicts between ensuring privacy and maintaining efficiency in state services. The conversation surrounding these issues underscores a broader national dialogue about privacy rights in an age of increasing governmental and corporate data collection.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 2062. Restrictions On State Agency Use Of Certain Individual-identifying Information
Relating to the authority of individuals over the personal identifying information collected, processed, or maintained about the individuals and certain others by certain businesses.
Relating to certain restrictions on the use of personally identifiable information pertaining to a public school student by an operator or educational entity.
Relating to certain laws that regulate aspects of illegal immigration in this state, including laws pertaining to the DNA records of certain persons subject to an immigration detainer request, the recognition of certain out-of-state driver's licenses, inviting certain federal agencies to participate on the homeland security council, the reporting of certain uncompensated hospital care costs, and certain requirements for participation in the E-verify program; increasing a criminal penalty.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.