SRC-DPW S.B. 801 76(R)BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research CenterS.B. 801
By: Ellis
State Affairs
6/28/1999
Enrolled


DIGEST 

In 1997, the legislature instructed the Department of Information Resources
to develop a biennial state strategic plan for overseeing technological
developments, including the use of technology to improve access to public
information.  Taxpayers continue to be frustrated with Texas' fragmented
approach in providing such services.  This bill will require state agencies
to develop on-line access to public information. 

PURPOSE

As enrolled, S.B. 801 requires state agencies to make certain information
electronically accessible through the Internet. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 2001A, Government Code, by adding Section
2001.006, as follows: 

Sec. 2001.006. CERTAIN EXPLANATORY INFORMATION MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH
INTERNET.  Requires a state agency to make the text of its rules and any
material explaining those rules or material the agency has issued for
general distribution to persons affected by one or more of its rules,
available through a generally accessible Internet site. Requires the state
agency to design the Internet site as to allow citizens to submit questions
and receive responses.  Requires the agency to design the Internet site as
to meet acceptable standards for Internet accessibility for people with
disabilities.  Authorizes a state agency to comply with this section
through the actions of another agency. 

SECTION 2. Amends Section 2054.096, Government Code, to provide that a
state agency that receives information by form or money from members of the
public or from regulated person, to develop a plan for receiving such forms
or money through the Internet or through other electronic means.  Requires
the Department of Information Resources (department) to assist state
agencies in developing the plan which must include security measures that
follow guidelines established by the department, performance measures and a
timetable for implementation. 

SECTION 3. Amends Chapter 2054F, Government Code, by adding Section
2054.121, as follows: 

Sec. 2054.121. LINKING AND INDEXING INTERNET SITES. Requires state agencies
to cooperate in linking generally accessible Internet sites among agencies
to link concurrently needed information.  Requires state agencies
maintaining Internet sites to establish the site in a location easily
located by electronic means.  Requires the department to assist agencies in
compliance with this section. 

SECTION 4. Requires state agencies to phase in the changes in the law made
by this Act regarding information available on the Internet. 

SECTION 5.Emergency clause.
  Effective date: upon passage.