Texas Senate Bill SB1590

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/24/25

Caption

Relating to duties of the vital statistics unit of the Department of State Health Services in relation to certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship, including in regard to the electronic transmission of certain information.

Impact

The implementation of SB1590 is set to amend the Family Code, specifically impacting sections that govern the responsibilities of the vital statistics unit. By introducing provisions for electronic requests for information, the bill seeks to improve the efficiency of obtaining records and certificates related to parent-child legal interactions. This change is expected to reduce the manual workload currently placed on both court officials and the vital statistics unit, making the process quicker and more accessible to those who need it.

Summary

SB1590, a bill concerning the duties of the vital statistics unit of the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), aims to modernize and enhance the processes regarding certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship. A key feature of the bill is the establishment of electronic methods for filing and retrieving information, which is expected to streamline interactions between the DSHS, courts, and individuals involved in such legal matters. This move towards digitalization reflects a growing trend in legislative frameworks to adapt to technological advancements in information sharing.

Contention

Despite the bill's intentions to modernize state processes, potential points of contention may arise regarding data privacy and the security of electronic information. With the transition to digital processes, concerns about the safeguarding of sensitive data are paramount. Stakeholders, including legal professionals and child protective services, may seek further clarity on the measures in place to protect personal information as it is transmitted and stored electronically. Additionally, the timing of the bill’s provisions, which only apply starting January 1, 2026, may lead to discussions on whether this timeline adequately prepares the involved departments for such a significant shift.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Family Code

• Chapter 155. Continuing, Exclusive Jurisdiction; Transfer
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 160. Uniform Parentage Act
  • Section: 422