Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB3014

Filed

3/14/25

Out of Senate Committee

4/16/25

Voted on by Senate

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the regulation of technical and clerical errors contained in registrations and reports filed with the Texas Ethics Commission and the commission's authority regarding the imposition of certain penalties.

Impact

If enacted, SB3014 would significantly influence how technical and clerical errors are addressed under Texas law, potentially leading to a decrease in the number of penalties imposed on those who inadvertently submit reports with minor mistakes. The bill would limit the commission's ability to levy fines for such errors unless they are knowingly committed, which may encourage more comprehensive compliance and reporting among individuals who fear penalties for unintentional mistakes.

Summary

Senate Bill 3014 seeks to amend existing statutes related to the regulation of technical and clerical errors found in registrations and reports submitted to the Texas Ethics Commission. The bill proposes to provide clearer guidelines for identifying what constitutes a technical or clerical error and establishes procedures for correcting such errors without facing penalties. By doing so, SB3014 aims to streamline the reporting process and reduce the burden on individuals and organizations required to file with the commission.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB3014 appears to be generally positive, as it is seen as a bill that seeks to promote fairness and transparency in the regulatory process. By focusing on technical corrections rather than punitive measures, supporters believe it can foster a more cooperative relationship between filers and the Texas Ethics Commission. However, concerns may arise regarding the commission's authority to enforce compliance in other areas if penalties for clerical errors are limited.

Contention

Notable points of contention primarily revolve around the nuances of what constitutes a technical error and whether the amendments will adequately protect against intentional misconduct. Some stakeholders may argue that allowing for leniency on clerical errors could potentially open the door for serious violations to go unpunished, thus undermining the regulatory framework intended to ensure ethical conduct among state officers and candidates. The exact implications of these changes on state governance and accountability remain points of debate.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

Chapter 571. Texas Ethics Commission
- Section: 0631
- Section: 173
- Section: 1731
- Section: 0631
- Section: 173
- Section: 1731

Chapter 572. Personal Financial Disclosure, Standards Of Conduct, And Conflict Of Interest
- Section: 033
- Section: 034
- Section: 033
- Section: 034

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB320

Relating to complaints filed with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX SB1371

Relating to the regulation of consumer credit transactions and the regulatory authority of the consumer credit commissioner; changing a fee.

TX SB895

Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX HB1441

Relating to the inclusion of the mailing address of certain campaign treasurers in appointments and reports filed with the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX HB854

Relating to address information contained on reports of political contributions and expenditures made available on the Internet by the Texas Ethics Commission.

TX HB3275

Relating to the regulation of consumer credit transactions and the regulatory authority of the consumer credit commissioner; changing a fee.

TX SB216

Relating to the availability on the Internet of certain registrations and reports filed by lobbyists.

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB2437

Relating to the regulation, monitoring, and enforcement of matters under the jurisdiction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; authorizing the assessment or increase of civil and administrative penalties.

TX HB4115

Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.