Texas Senate Bill SB1134

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the duties of the Department of Information Resources regarding cybersecurity.

Impact

This bill amends Section 2054.059 of the Government Code, expanding the department's duties to include the development of cybersecurity strategies and frameworks specifically tailored for state agencies. It underscores the importance of securing cyberinfrastructure, which is particularly critical for protecting state resources and sensitive information. Moreover, the bill obligates the department to provide training for state agencies, thereby boosting their preparedness against cyber threats.

Summary

Senate Bill 1134 establishes crucial responsibilities for the Texas Department of Information Resources concerning cybersecurity. The bill mandates the department to create and maintain a clearinghouse for information related to protecting the cybersecurity of state agency data. It aims to streamline the state’s approach to cybersecurity, ensuring that resources and information are effectively disseminated among various state agencies to enhance their overall security posture.

Contention

While there were no recorded votes against the bill during its passage, discussions surrounding the implementation of these cybersecurity measures may have included concerns about funding and resource allocation for training and risk mitigation strategies. Given the growing prevalence of cyber threats, the bill reflects a proactive approach; however, the effectiveness of its provisions will rely heavily on the state’s ability to adequately support the initiatives outlined in the bill and address the challenges of cybersecurity in a timely manner.