TX
Texas Senate Bill SB2776

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2776

Filed
3/14/25  
Out of Senate Committee
4/23/25  
Voted on by Senate
5/1/25  
Out of House Committee
5/8/25  
Voted on by House
5/9/25  
Governor Action
5/24/25  

Caption

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

Impact

The legislative discussions surrounding SB2776 indicate that the bill will have a notable impact on state laws governing confidentiality and the management of juvenile records. By enabling the Texas Juvenile Justice Department to release personally identifiable information under specific conditions, the legislation balances the need for privacy with the potential benefits of transparency and information sharing. However, the bill does stipulate that no information can be disclosed without the person's consent, thereby aiming to protect individual privacy rights while allowing for some flexibility in information sharing.

Summary

SB2776 aims to amend the Human Resources Code regarding the disclosure of certain information by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. The bill specifically allows for the disclosure of information concerning individuals who have been committed to the department, provided they are at least 18 years of age and consent to the disclosure. This includes personally identifiable information, marking a significant shift in how such information has traditionally been managed within the state’s juvenile justice system.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB2776 appears to be largely supportive, as it received unanimous votes in both the Senate and the House. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary update to existing laws, recognizing the importance of balancing confidentiality with the rights of individuals who are no longer minors. There is a general belief among proponents that giving individuals more control over their information can facilitate engagement with the juvenile justice system and aid in reintegration into society.

Contention

Despite the broad support for SB2776, there are points of contention regarding the implications of disclosing personally identifiable information. Critics argue that even with consent requirements, there is a risk that this could lead to misuse or mishandling of sensitive information. Concerns were raised about the potential for stigma or negative consequences for individuals once their information is disclosed, leading to debates about the adequacy of safeguards and the framework within which such disclosures occur. This illustrates the ongoing tension between public safety, transparency, and individual rights within juvenile justice reform.

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
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 051
    • 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
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Family Code

  • Chapter 58. Records; Juvenile Justice Information System
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • 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 SB811

Relating to disclosure of certain information by the Parks and Wildlife Department or the Texas Animal Health Commission.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1467

Relating to the disclosure of certain medical information by electronic means.

TX SB622

Relating to the disclosure of certain prescription drug information by a health benefit plan.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for 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.

TX HB1504

Relating to juveniles committed to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB435

Relating to the disclosure under the public information law of certain evidence of a crime that resulted in the death of a person.

TX SB1868

Relating to the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1146

Relating to the medical transportation and care for certain inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.