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Bill

SB 765

Relating to the confidentiality of fraud detection and deterrence information under the public information law.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Lois Kolkhorst and 1 co-sponsor

Texas law now allows government agencies to withhold fraud detection and deterrence information from public records, potentially reducing transparency while protecting security methods.

Effective on 9/1/25
#fraud(s0166) #openrecords(i0548)
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Bill Summary · SB 765

Legislative bill overview

SB 765 modifies Texas's public information law to exempt fraud detection and deterrence information from public disclosure requirements. The bill allows government agencies and entities to withhold details about their fraud prevention methods, systems, and strategies from public records requests without revealing the specific information that would compromise their effectiveness.

Why is this important

This law directly affects government transparency and public access to information. Citizens and watchdog organizations use public records requests to oversee how agencies spend taxpayer money and operate. By creating a broad exemption for "fraud detection and deterrence information," the law could reduce accountability while potentially protecting legitimate security measures—depending on how agencies interpret and apply the exemption.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's definition of "fraud detection and deterrence information" may be broad enough for agencies to classify routine operational details as confidential, limiting legitimate public oversight
  • Accountability concerns: Fewer disclosures about fraud prevention methods could make it harder for the public, media, and oversight bodies to identify agency weaknesses or misuse of resources
  • Inconsistent application: Different agencies might interpret the exemption differently, creating unpredictable access to information across Texas government

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

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