Bill Caption

Relating to a requirement that state agencies make agency guidance documents accessible to the public. 

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

HB 3073 would require each state agency to include on the agency's website a prominently displayed link to the guidance documents issued by the agency.

Guidance documents would refer to a statement of general applicability issued by a state agency that describes the agency's policy on a statutory, regulatory, or technical issue relating to the agency's powers and duties or that interprets a statutory or regulatory issue.

The agency would not be able to charge a person to access a guidance document, and may not be construed to require a disclosure of information that is excepted from disclosure or is confidential. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

HB 3073 represents an increase in state transparency for state agency duties and powers. This is a benefit for the principles of limited government and individual liberty. Texas Action supports HB 3073.