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Bill

SB 816

Relating to authorizing the disclosure of certain electronic customer data by a provider of an electronic communications service or a remote computing service in certain immediate life-threatening situations.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Sam Harless and 1 co-sponsor

Allows telecom and cloud service providers to share customer data with authorities without warrants during immediate life-threatening emergencies.

Placed on General State Calendar
#computers&software(s2425) #crimes--againstpersons--general(i0170) #email&electroniccommunications(s0321) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #occupationalregulation--othertrades&professions(i0541) #protectionofpersonalinformation(i0003) #utilities--telecommunications(i0828)
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Bill Summary · SB 816

Legislative bill overview

SB 816 authorizes electronic communications and remote computing service providers (like email, cloud storage, and telecom companies) to voluntarily disclose customer data to law enforcement or other parties without a warrant when there is an immediate threat to someone's life. The bill creates a legal safe harbor protecting these companies from liability when they share such information in good faith during genuine emergencies.

Why is this important

This addresses a real-world gap where service providers may hesitate to share potentially lifesaving information (location data, communications, etc.) during emergencies due to privacy law concerns. The bill aims to enable faster emergency response while maintaining privacy protections by limiting disclosure to genuine immediate threats rather than routine investigations.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy advocates' concerns: The definition of "immediate life-threatening situation" may be interpreted broadly, potentially allowing data disclosure beyond genuine emergencies
  • Due process questions: Voluntary disclosure without warrant requirements could bypass traditional judicial oversight that normally protects against government overreach
  • Inconsistent standards: Different companies might interpret "immediate threat" differently, creating unpredictable privacy outcomes for users across platforms
  • Scope of data: The bill doesn't clearly limit what types of customer data can be disclosed, potentially allowing access to historical communications or location patterns beyond what the emergency requires

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

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