The House Committee on Government Transparency & Operation

85th Legislature

March 27, 2018

10:00 a.m.

E2.010

Pursuant to a notice posted on January 23, 2018, the House Committee on Government Transparency & Operation met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Elkins, at 10:03 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Elkins; Capriglione; Gonzales, Larry; Shaheen; and Uresti, Tomas.

A quorum was present.

Interim Charge #3 - Review Texas’ open meeting laws and related government decision-making policies. Determine if the formal processes prevented the efficient delivery of assistance during Hurricane Harvey. Make recommendations on maintaining the current standards of accountability without limiting government-provided aid during disaster events.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Lucio III now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Interim Charge #4 - Evaluate whether, in light of recent Texas Supreme Court rulings, the provisions of the Public Information Act are adequate to support transparency and accountability in government, particularly as it relates to government contracting and procurement.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Interim Charge #1 - Examine the role of technology in disaster preparedness and the response to Hurricane Harvey and future natural disasters. Review and make recommendations to drive innovation and efficiency and evaluate whether there are any regulatory impediments to collaboration between the public and private sectors.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Interim Charge #2 - Evaluate whether qualifying state agencies are appropriately utilizing available state disaster recovery services, including the statewide technology centers. Consider the costs and benefits of allowing other states to participate in Texas' statewide technology centers under Subchapter L, Chapter 2054, Texas Government Code for disaster recovery purposes.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Interim Charge #5 - Study how state agencies can share knowledge and practices, reduce duplicative data gathering, and conduct business in a more efficient manner through interagency data sharing. Review best practices to provide the public with more transparency and access to government information.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

Interim Charge #6 - Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 85th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee will also specifically monitor the implementation of H.B. 8 (85R).

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 2:43 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Elkins, Chair

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Teri Avery, Clerk