The bill, S.B. No. 1291, amends the Government Code to enhance the authority of individuals, including members of the news media, to bring actions for declaratory judgment regarding compliance with the open meetings law and public information law. Specifically, it introduces Section 551.1425, allowing interested persons to determine if a governmental body has complied with the law or to interpret provisions related to the body’s legal or factual positions. Additionally, it establishes Section 552.3214, which permits requestors or the attorney general to seek declaratory judgments concerning compliance with information requests and the accuracy of governmental positions, including cost estimates for providing requested information.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing sections to clarify that courts may award costs and reasonable attorney's fees in actions under the new sections. The heading of Section 552.3215 is updated to reflect that it pertains to declaratory judgment or injunctive relief following a complaint. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Subchapter H, Chapter , Government Code 37.009, Government Code 552.3215, Government Code 552.323 (Government Code 552, Subchapter H, Chapter , Government Code 37)