Bill > HB981

This bill modifies Texas public information law by clarifying when certain litigation and law enforcement records can be withheld from public disclosure. Specifically, the bill defines when litigation can be considered "reasonably anticipated" for purposes of records exemption, stating that this occurs only when a potential claimant or their attorney has either threatened legal action in writing or made a written demand for compensation. The bill also expands access to certain internal records and notations related to law enforcement, allowing them to be released under specific circumstances, such as when the subject of the record, their attorney, spouse, child, parent, or estate administrator requests them. The changes apply only to information requests received on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, meaning previous requests will be governed by the law in effect at the time they were made. These modifications aim to provide more clarity and transparency in how governmental bodies handle public information requests related to litigation and law enforcement records.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB981