The Texas 89th Legislature passed five bills addressing IT and Cybersecurity. The bills primarily relate to state entities but may also affect county and local governments if they choose to use state resources to help provide cybersecurity and network infrastructure and security.
HB 150 creates the Texas Cyber Command (TXCC). This agency coordinates and provides centralized resources to protect all levels of government in Texas against cyber threats.
HB 1500 strengthens IT governance, provides a resource for IT procurement, and requires cybersecurity training for key individuals.
HB 2828 creates an artificial intelligence (AI) division. It is responsible for determining where AI makes sense within government by evaluating costs, project scope, and viability. It is available for state agencies and Department of Information Resources (DIR) customers.
HB 3512 requires and provides for AI training for key government employees and contractors. The training includes data security, risk management for emerging technologies, and ethical use of technology.
HB 500 allocates funding for bills that were mentioned above as well as new infrastructure for several agencies including childcare, high schools, and more.
Together, the legislation will position governmental entities to better protect against cybercrime and stay current on emerging technologies, while helping ensure those technologies are used efficiently and responsibly. This benefits all Texans.