H.B. No. 1435 aims to enhance the efficiency of governmental bodies in Texas when responding to public information requests by establishing an expedited response procedure. The bill amends the Government Code, specifically Section 552.2615, to clarify that deadlines for expedited responses do not conflict with existing deadlines under Subchapters G or K. It also specifies that a public information request is deemed received upon the submission of a deposit or bond. Additionally, the bill outlines the requirements for governmental bodies to respond to requests, including providing a list of exceptions for withheld information and a notice form for requestors.

The legislation introduces new provisions under Subchapter K, which detail the expedited response process, including mandatory training for public information officers. It allows governmental bodies to withhold information without seeking an attorney general's decision if they believe it is exempt from disclosure and establishes an appeal process for requestors. The bill also includes amendments regarding the revocation of training certificates, requiring that notices of revocation specify the duration, which cannot exceed six months, and mandates that individuals must repeat training to obtain a new certificate. Furthermore, the attorney general is tasked with publishing lists of individuals with active training certificates and collecting data on the implementation of these changes, which will be available on their website by December 31, 2027, with the section expiring on January 1, 2028. The new provisions will apply to requests received on or after September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 552.2615, Government Code 552.263, Government Code 552.302, Government Code 552.321, Government Code 552.352, Government Code 6.03, Chapter , Government Code 552.324 (Government Code 6, Government Code 552, Chapter , Government Code 552)