S.B. No. 1299 aims to protect the personal affiliation information of members, supporters, volunteers, and donors of certain nonprofit organizations from being released by public agencies in Texas. The bill introduces Chapter 3001 to the Government Code, which defines key terms such as "nonprofit organization," "personal affiliation information," and "public agency." It prohibits public agencies from requiring individuals or nonprofit organizations to disclose personal affiliation information, releasing or publicizing such information, or compelling contractors or grantees to provide lists of nonprofit organizations they support. Additionally, the bill specifies that personal affiliation information is exempt from release under Chapter 552 of the Government Code.

The legislation also outlines exceptions to these prohibitions, including instances where information is voluntarily released, required by election laws, or obtained through legal processes such as warrants or subpoenas. Individuals who believe their personal affiliation information has been improperly disclosed can bring civil actions for injunctive relief and damages, with the potential for significant penalties for violations. Furthermore, the bill establishes that violations of the new provisions can result in criminal penalties classified as Class B misdemeanors. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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