Relating to the availability of certain personal information of a member of the governing board of an institution of higher education, the chief executive officer of the institution, or the chief executive officer of a university system.
Impact
If enacted, SB1569 will significantly affect the landscape of information sharing within Texas higher education institutions. It will provide a new layer of privacy protection for those in significant administrative roles, thereby aligning with broader trends towards safeguarding personal information in an increasingly digital age. Institutions of higher education will need to adjust their data management practices to comply with the new privacy requirements, ensuring proper handling and safeguarding of the protected data.
Summary
Senate Bill 1569 seeks to amend the Texas Government Code to enhance the privacy of personal information for members of the governing board of institutions of higher education and the chief executive officers of universities and university systems. The bill specifically protects data such as home addresses, phone numbers, emergency contact information, and social security numbers from being disclosed, ensuring that this sensitive information is kept confidential from public access, thereby enhancing the security of these public figures.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SB1569 appears largely positive, with support from various stakeholders interested in protecting the privacy of university officials. Proponents believe that safeguarding the personal information of individuals in higher education leadership roles is essential, given the potential risks of harassment or targeted criminal activity. However, some critics might argue that such protections could limit transparency and accountability in institutions of higher education.
Contention
Notable points of contention, while not extensively documented in the discussions, could revolve around the balance between privacy and public transparency. While there may be strong support for protecting individual privacy, concerns may arise about the implications of such protections on public access to information about the governance and operations of public universities. The discussions may touch upon whether the increased privacy for certain officials could undermine public trust and insight into university management.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 552. Public Information
Section: 117
Section: 1175
Section: 117
Section: 1175
Section: 117
Section: 1175
Section: 117
Section: 1175
Section: 117
Section: 1175
Section: 117
Section: 1175
Section: 117
Section: 1175
Tax Code
Chapter 25. Local Appraisal
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Section: 025
Occupations Code
Chapter 1701. Law Enforcement Officers
Section: 001
Section: 001
Section: 001
Section: 001
Chapter 1702. Private Security
Section: 002
Section: 002
Section: 002
Family Code
Chapter 261. Investigation Of Report Of Child Abuse Or Neglect
Identical
Relating to the availability of certain personal information of a member of the governing board of an institution of higher education, the chief executive officer of the institution, or the chief executive officer of a university system.
Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for employees of a county courthouse or the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System and the employees' family members.
Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for a current or former administrative law judge for the State Office of Administrative Hearings.
Relating to certain Title IV-D cases and other cases with respect to child support or Title IV-D agency services and to practices and procedures for the operation of the Title IV-D agency.
Relating to certain Title IV-D cases and other cases with respect to child support or Title IV-D agency services and to practices and procedures for the operation of the Title IV-D agency.
Relating to the availability of certain personal information of a member of the governing board of an institution of higher education, the chief executive officer of the institution, or the chief executive officer of a university system.
Relating to the confidentiality of personal information of certain employees and contractors of the Department of Family and Protective Services and of certain elected officials.
Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for a current or former administrative law judge for the State Office of Administrative Hearings.