Bill > HB3711

This bill enhances transparency and cooperation in investigating potential Open Meetings Act violations by establishing new requirements for law enforcement agencies and local prosecutors. Specifically, when a law enforcement agency submits a report with probable cause of an Open Meetings Act offense (Chapter 551 of the Government Code), they must simultaneously send a copy to the Open Records Division of the Attorney General's office. Local prosecutors (district attorneys, criminal district attorneys, or county attorneys) are now required to provide all non-public information about such investigations to the Attorney General's office upon request. Additionally, if a prosecutor decides not to prosecute or terminate an investigation into an Open Meetings Act violation, they must publish a notice on their office's website for at least one year, including the specific reason for not moving forward with the case. The Open Records Division of the Attorney General's office is also empowered to assist in these investigations and can request additional information from law enforcement agencies or prosecutors to support their efforts. This bill aims to increase accountability and transparency in how potential Open Meetings Act violations are handled by providing more oversight and mandatory information sharing. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3711