Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2776

Filed
3/14/25  
Out of Senate Committee
4/23/25  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the disclosure of certain information by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

Impact

The implementation of SB2776 would impact the rights of individuals previously committed to juvenile justice institutions, granting them greater control over who can access their personal information. This aligns with evolving views on the rehabilitation of young offenders, responding to calls for more transparency while balancing the need for confidentiality in sensitive cases. The legislation is designed to help individuals reclaim their narratives and engage more fully in societal systems post-commitment.

Summary

SB2776 is a legislative proposal aimed at amending the Human Resources Code specifically concerning the disclosure of information by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. The bill seeks to allow the department to disclose certain personally identifiable information of individuals who were committed to the department if they are at least 18 years of age and have provided their consent for such disclosure. This change is significant as it modifies the existing confidentiality provisions that previously restricted access to information concerning juveniles in the system.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding SB2776 appears to be generally favorable among advocates of juvenile reform who see this as a progressive step toward empowering former juvenile offenders. They argue that transparency and the ability to control their own information can aid in reintegration into society. However, there are concerns raised regarding the potential misuse of information and the implications for privacy rights, reflecting a nuanced debate within the legislative discussions.

Contention

Notably, the discussions around SB2776 may evoke tension between advocates for juvenile reform who favor increased transparency and those concerned with privacy and the potential for stigmatization. While proponents argue that the bill provides essential tools for young adults to control their information, critics caution against the risks of disclosing sensitive data. Balancing the need for rehabilitation with the protection of individual privacy remains a key point of contention.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Human Resources Code

  • Chapter 244. Care And Treatment Of Children
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Code Of Criminal Procedure

  • Chapter 67. Compilation Of Information Pertaining To Combinations And Criminal Street Gangs
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Family Code

  • Chapter 58. Records; Juvenile Justice Information System
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB1988

Identical Relating to the disclosure of certain information by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1988

Relating to the disclosure of certain information by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1849

Relating to an interagency reportable conduct search engine, standards for a person's removal from the employee misconduct registry and eligibility for certification as certain Texas Juvenile Justice Department officers and employees, and the use of certain information by certain state agencies to conduct background checks.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.