Texas Senate Bill SB1952

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to emergency management for cyber attacks against this state.

Impact

This bill aims to strengthen Texas's resilience against cyber threats by formally integrating cyber attack responses into its emergency management framework. By designating cyber attacks as a legitimate form of disaster requiring swift government action, the bill potentially elevates the importance of cybersecurity protocols within state governance. The implications for state law include amended definitions and added responsibilities for various state agencies involved in disaster response efforts, thereby reinforcing coordinated actions against emerging threats.

Summary

SB1952 is a legislative bill designed to enhance emergency management protocols in Texas specifically addressing the growing threat of cyber attacks. The bill amends existing statutes under the Government Code, outlining the purposes of improved preparedness and response strategies to mitigate potential damages from such attacks. It introduces clearer definitions surrounding the term 'cyber attack' and expands the scope of disasters to include threats emanating from malicious cyber activities, thereby aligning Texas regulations with modern challenges in emergency management.

Contention

One notable point of contention in discussions surrounding SB1952 is the interpretation of 'disaster' and the implications this reinterpretation may have on state resources and responses to legitimate cyber incidents. Some critics argue that including cyber attacks in the emergency management context could divert resources from traditional disaster response efforts, potentially leading to conflicts in prioritization between physical and cyber threats. Supporters, however, contend that acknowledging cyber attacks as disasters is crucial for comprehensive emergency preparedness and response.