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Bill

Bill

HB 2223

Relating to the confidentiality of eviction case information.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Nicole Collier

HB 2223 would make eviction case records confidential in Texas, restricting public access to protect tenant privacy and rental prospects while potentially limiting landlord screening ability.

Referred to Trade, Workforce & Economic Development
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2223

Legislative bill overview

HB 2223 proposes to restrict public access to eviction case information in Texas courts, making certain eviction records confidential or sealed. The bill would limit which parties can view details about eviction proceedings, potentially protecting tenants' privacy by preventing widespread access to their eviction histories.

Why is this important

Eviction records currently available to the public can create lasting barriers for renters seeking housing, employment, or credit, as landlords and others routinely screen applicants using this information. Confidentiality protections could help people rebuild after eviction, though it also reduces transparency in rental disputes and may limit landlords' ability to assess tenant history through public records.

Potential points of contention

  • Tenant privacy vs. landlord information access: Landlords argue they need eviction records to make informed rental decisions, while tenant advocates say privacy protections are essential for economic mobility
  • Scope of confidentiality: Questions remain about which eviction records would be sealed, at what stage, and whether sealing would be automatic or require a separate petition
  • Public transparency concerns: Restricting eviction information may reduce accountability and make it harder to identify patterns of problematic landlord or tenant behavior in rental markets

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

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