Bill > HB4310

This bill creates a new subchapter in the Texas Government Code that establishes a special right of access to public information for members of governing boards. The bill defines a "member of a governing board" broadly to include individuals appointed, designated, or elected to direct or serve on boards for governmental bodies or certain nongovernmental entities. Under this law, such board members can inspect and duplicate public information when acting in their official capacity, and this information must be provided promptly and at no charge. If the requested information contains confidential elements, those can be redacted without cost. The bill includes provisions for handling confidential information, allowing governmental bodies to request confidentiality agreements that specify how sensitive information must be handled. Members can challenge potential confidentiality restrictions by seeking an attorney general's decision, and if a governmental body fails to comply with these requirements, the board member can file a writ of mandamus to compel compliance. The law does not apply to the legislature or legislative agencies, and it preserves existing procedures for obtaining information under other laws. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to provide governing board members with enhanced access to information while maintaining appropriate protections for sensitive data.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4310