The bill, S.B. No. 2113, introduces a new subchapter to Chapter 552 of the Government Code, establishing a special right of access for members of governing boards to public information maintained by governmental bodies and nongovernmental entities. It defines a "member of a governing board" and outlines that such members may inspect and duplicate public information in their official capacity, with the information to be provided promptly and without charge. Additionally, if the requested information is confidential, it must be redacted without charge, and members may be asked to sign a confidentiality agreement to protect the information.
The bill also includes provisions for the Attorney General to determine the confidentiality of information covered by such agreements and allows for appeals to a Travis County district court. If a governmental body or nongovernmental entity fails to comply with the requirements, a member may seek a writ of mandamus in court. The bill clarifies that it does not affect existing procedures for obtaining information under other laws. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()