Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1749

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

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

If enacted, SB1749 would substantially alter the handling of personal information related to a specific set of public officials and employees within Texas judicial structures. By officially classifying their residential details as confidential, it reinforces the importance of privacy and security for those who serve in potentially vulnerable positions. The legislature aims to create a safer environment for judicial employees and their families, reducing the risk of harassment or intimidation that may arise from publicly accessible information.

Summary

SB1749 seeks to enhance the confidentiality of certain information for employees of the county, courts, and the Office of Court Administration of the Texas Judicial System, including their family members. This legislative measure amends the Election Code, the Government Code, and the Transportation Code to provide specific protections regarding personal information that could be exposed in public records. The bill outlines various categories of officials and their families who qualify for these confidentiality measures, ensuring that sensitive information, such as home addresses and contact details, are omitted from public listings and filings.

Contention

Despite its protective intentions, SB1749 could generate discussions around transparency and accountability within public systems. Critics might argue that increased confidentiality can create barriers to public oversight, potentially shielding misconduct or lack of accountability in judicial operations. Furthermore, the feasibility of implementation, such as how thoroughly and efficiently local authorities can enforce these confidentiality provisions, might prompt debate among lawmakers and stakeholders concerned about public trust and access to information.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

  • Chapter 72. Office Of Court Administration
    • Section: 016
  • Chapter 552. Public Information
    • Section: 117

Election Code

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

Transportation Code

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

Tax Code

  • Chapter 25. Local Appraisal
    • Section: 025

Companion Bills

TX HB5080

Identical 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.

Similar Bills

TX SB1431

Relating to the confidentiality of certain information for a current or former administrative law judge for the State Office of Administrative Hearings.

TX HB5080

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.

TX SB1367

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.

TX HB759

Relating to the availability of personal information of a child protective services caseworker, adult protective services caseworker, or investigator.

TX SB1494

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.