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HB 1193

Relating to the confidentiality of certain information on a declaration of informal marriage.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Marc LaHood and 3 co-sponsors

Texas law now restricts public access to specific information on informal marriage declarations, effective September 1, 2025, balancing privacy interests against record transparency.

Effective on 9/1/25
#countygovernment--general(i0096) #family--familyviolence(i0353) #family--marriagerelationship(i0350) #marriagelicenses(s0031) #protectionofpersonalinformation(i0003) #vitalstatistics&records(s2714)
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Bill Summary · HB 1193

Legislative bill overview

HB 1193 modifies Texas law to make certain information on declarations of informal marriage confidential. The bill restricts public access to specific details contained in informal marriage declarations, keeping such information from being disclosed as public records. This applies to informal marriages (also called common-law marriages), which are legal in Texas when couples meet statutory requirements without formal ceremonies.

Why is this important

Informal marriages in Texas have the same legal status as ceremonial marriages, but declarations of informal marriage are used for administrative, legal, and financial purposes. By restricting access to this information, the bill addresses privacy concerns for individuals establishing informal marital status while potentially affecting transparency in public records and the ability of third parties (creditors, researchers, journalists) to verify marital status claims.

Potential points of contention

  • Privacy vs. Transparency: Restricting public record access raises questions about whether confidentiality protections are necessary or if they create opportunities for concealing marital status from legitimate inquiries
  • Scope of Confidentiality: The bill's specific language about "certain information" may create ambiguity about which details are protected and which remain public
  • Third-Party Impact: Businesses, creditors, and family law practitioners may face difficulties verifying informal marriage status, potentially complicating legal and financial transactions

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

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