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HB 5051

Relating to prohibiting a state agency from adopting or using a form that collects information regarding an individual's race or ethnicity.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Brian Harrison

Texas bill prohibits state agencies from collecting racial/ethnic information on forms, potentially limiting demographic data use in policy and federal compliance reporting.

Referred to State Affairs
#stateagencies #boards&commissions(i0749)
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Bill Summary · HB 5051

Legislative bill overview

HB 5051 would prohibit Texas state agencies from adopting or using forms that collect racial or ethnic information about individuals. The bill appears designed to limit demographic data collection across state government operations, affecting forms used by various agencies in their interactions with the public.

Why is this important

Demographic data collection is foundational to multiple state functions—from education equity monitoring to healthcare disparities tracking to civil rights compliance. This bill would restrict agencies' ability to gather this information, which could impact evidence-based policymaking, federal compliance reporting requirements, and the identification of systemic inequities in service delivery.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal compliance conflicts: Many federal programs (Medicaid, education funding, civil rights enforcement) require states to collect and report racial/ethnic demographic data. The bill may create legal conflicts with federal requirements.
  • Public health and equity implications: Removing racial data collection could hinder identification of health disparities, educational achievement gaps, and discriminatory practices that agencies need to address.
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether this applies to all forms (including optional self-identification) or specific contexts, creating implementation questions about what data collection is actually prohibited.

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

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