Texas House Bill HB3671

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the requirement that state agencies notify the Department of Information Resources in the event of a breach of system security or unauthorized exposure of certain information.

Impact

The impact of HB 3671 is expected to strengthen the protocols relating to data security among state agencies. By instituting a clear timeframe for notification, the bill promotes better accountability among government entities that handle sensitive information. This will likely lead to improved risk management and incident response practices, thereby safeguarding the integrity and confidentiality of personal data maintained by these agencies. Moreover, such measures align Texas with evolving best practices in cybersecurity management.

Summary

House Bill 3671 mandates that state agencies in Texas are required to promptly notify the Department of Information Resources (DIR) in the event of a breach of system security or unauthorized exposure of sensitive information. The legislation establishes a formal notification framework, requiring agencies to inform DIR, including relevant cybersecurity personnel, within 48 hours of discovering such incidents. This bill aims to enhance the state's overall cybersecurity posture and ensure swift responses to potential breaches that might compromise sensitive personal data.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster cybersecurity within state agencies, it may face critique regarding the adequacy of the existing infrastructure to handle such rapid notifications. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the implications of potentially overburdened systems, especially if multiple agencies face breaches concurrently. Additionally, there might be discussions around the necessity for further resources and training to ensure that agencies can comply with the notification requirements effectively without disrupting their operations or compromising public trust.