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Bill

SB 2067

Relating to an exemption from required disclosure of information related to the next of kin of deceased persons.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt

Texas bill exempts certain entities from disclosing next-of-kin information for deceased persons, potentially restricting public records access to protect family privacy.

Referred to Business & Commerce
#protectionofpersonalinformation(i0003) #subpoenas(s8341)
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Bill Summary · SB 2067

Legislative bill overview

SB 2067 would create an exemption allowing certain entities to withhold disclosure of next-of-kin information for deceased persons. The bill, sponsored by Senator Paul Bettencourt, is currently in the Business & Commerce Committee after being filed in early March 2025. The specific entities covered and circumstances for the exemption are not detailed in the available action history.

Why is this important

Privacy protections for deceased persons' families have real consequences—they affect how institutions handle sensitive contact information and can protect grieving relatives from unwanted solicitation, harassment, or identity theft. This exemption could significantly alter current Texas public records disclosure requirements, which typically require agencies and certain private entities to release such information unless otherwise restricted.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. Transparency: Balancing families' privacy interests against public records access and government accountability
  • Scope of exemption: Unclear which entities (government agencies, funeral homes, hospitals, financial institutions) would qualify and under what circumstances
  • Practical enforcement: Determining how broadly this exemption can be applied and preventing misuse to obstruct legitimate inquiries

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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