Texas Senate Bill SB230

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to limitations on the information contained on a consumer report furnished by a consumer reporting agency.

Impact

The bill's enactment is set to alter provisions within the Business & Commerce Code of Texas, thereby impacting how consumer reporting agencies manage eviction records. As it stands, eviction rulings can severely affect an individual's ability to secure housing or loans for many years. By implementing a seven-year limit on reporting such information, SB230 seeks to enhance consumer protections and potentially improve access to credit for those who may have had previous rental issues but have since rehabilitated their situations.

Summary

Senate Bill 230, introduced by Senator West, addresses the limitations on the information contained in consumer reports provided by consumer reporting agencies. Specifically, the bill proposes to prohibit the inclusion of eviction suit information in a consumer report if the final disposition date of the suit predates the report by more than seven years. This change aims to provide a fairer assessment of individuals' creditworthiness and rental history by limiting the impact of long-ago eviction cases on their consumer reports.

Contention

While the bill appears to champion tenant rights and aims to mitigate the long-term repercussions of an eviction on an individual’s credit report, there may be points of contention. Advocates for stricter credit reporting may argue that access to comprehensive historical data, including eviction records, is crucial for landlords and lenders to assess risk. This perspective emphasizes the need for balance between tenant protections and the right of businesses to ensure they are making informed decisions based on potential risks associated with previous evictions.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Property Code

• Chapter 24. Forcible Entry And Detainer
  • Section: New Section