Relating to a prohibition on the collection by a state agency of biometric information from an applicant for an occupational license.

SB 1223 prohibits Texas state agencies from collecting biometric information (such as fingerprints) from applicants seeking occupational licenses, unless another law specifically authorizes such collection. This bill directly affects individuals applying for professional licenses (e.g., cosmetology, contracting, healthcare) by preventing agencies from requiring biometric data as part of the application process. The law adds a new section to the Occupations Code, explicitly banning this collection practice while allowing exceptions where other statutes permit it. The bill takes effect on September 1, 2025.