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


Senate Research Center   S.B. 801
76R3463 JRD-DBy: Ellis
State Affairs
3/24/1999
As Filed


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 would require state
agencies to develop on-line access to public information. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, 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 each agency to make its rules and interpretations of
its rules available through a generally accessible Internet site.
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.  Requires the Department of Information
Resources (department) to assist state agencies in developing the plan
which must include security measures, 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.