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.