Bill > HB3425

This bill amends the Texas Penal Code to expand protections against the unauthorized disclosure of personal information for public servants and their families. The legislation makes it a criminal offense to post or electronically communicate a public servant's residence address or telephone number with the intent to cause harm or threaten harm in retaliation for their public service. The bill introduces the concept of "prima facie evidence" of harmful intent, which includes situations where a person receives a written demand to remove such information but fails to do so within 48 hours or reposts the information within four years. The law also defines key terms like "electronic communication" and establishes penalties ranging from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor if the disclosure results in bodily injury. The bill specifically clarifies that the offense does not apply to public servants disclosing information as part of their official duties. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to offenses committed on or after that date. By expanding the definition of disclosure beyond just websites to include electronic communications, the bill aims to provide broader protection for public servants and their families from potential harassment or threats.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3425