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HB 4214

Relating to public access to the mailing address and electronic mail address designated by a governmental body to receive a request for public information under the public information law.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Pat Curry and 1 co-sponsor

Requires Texas agencies to publicly disclose designated mailing and email addresses for public information requests, improving citizen access to government records.

Effective immediately
#attorneygeneral(v2811) #citygovernment--general(i0060) #countygovernment--general(i0096) #email&electroniccommunications(s0321) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #openrecords(i0548) #politicalsubdivisions(i0588) #stateagencies #boards&commissions(i0749)
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Bill Summary · HB 4214

Legislative bill overview

HB 4214 requires Texas governmental bodies to publicly disclose the mailing address and email address designated to receive public information requests under the Texas Public Information Act. This mandates transparency in how citizens can submit formal requests for government records and ensures these contact points are easily accessible.

Why is this important

Public access to information is a cornerstone of government accountability, but it only works if citizens know how to submit requests. By requiring agencies to publicly post their submission addresses, the bill removes barriers to filing requests and prevents agencies from making the process deliberately difficult or obscure. This strengthens the practical enforceability of existing public records laws.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative burden: Agencies must identify, designate, and maintain accurate contact information, with potential compliance costs for smaller governmental bodies
  • Security concerns: Publicly listing mailing and email addresses could expose agency staff to unsolicited mail, spam, or harassment if not properly managed
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill doesn't specify where/how this information must be posted (website requirements, format standards, update frequency), potentially leading to inconsistent implementation

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

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