The bill amends Section 422.003 of the Government Code to enhance the confidentiality of administrative subpoenas related to offenses involving the Internet-based sexual exploitation of minors. It introduces a new Subsection (b-1), which allows a prosecuting attorney or officer of an Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) task force to restrict disclosures by the electronic communication or remote computing service receiving the subpoena if such disclosures could significantly impede or jeopardize the investigation. Specifically, the subpoena may prohibit the service from disclosing that it has been issued, identifying or describing any requested records, or revealing whether any records have been provided in response.

Additionally, the bill modifies Subsection (c) to require that subpoenas must describe the items to be produced, set a reasonable return date, and, if applicable, include the determination made by the prosecuting attorney or ICAC officer regarding the confidentiality of the subpoena. The changes will apply only to subpoenas issued on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025, while subpoenas issued prior will continue to be governed by the existing law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 422.003 (Government Code 422)