Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB34

Filed
11/10/14  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to a report concerning information security for this state's information resources.

Impact

The implementation of SB34 is expected to enhance the overall security posture of the state's information systems by promoting transparency and accountability in information security practices. By requiring state agencies to evaluate their security measures and report on vulnerabilities, the bill aims to ensure that adequate protections are in place to safeguard sensitive state data. This initiative aligns with broader trends in cybersecurity that emphasize proactive risk management and the importance of regular security assessments.

Summary

SB34, introduced by Senator Zaffirini, establishes a statutory requirement for an information security report concerning the state's information resources. The bill mandates that a report evaluating the security of these resources be submitted biennially to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and the legislature. This requirement reflects a growing recognition of the importance of robust information security measures in government, particularly considering the increasing threats to data privacy and integrity in the digital age.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB34 has been positive, with widespread support for measures that enhance cybersecurity within the state government. Legislators and stakeholders have recognized the bill as a necessary step to fortify the state's defenses against potential cyber threats. There appears to be a collective acknowledgment of the need for a structured approach to information security, reflecting a commitment to protecting the privacy and integrity of citizens' data against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

Contention

While there has been general support for the bill, some concerns were raised regarding the balance between transparency and the potential exposure of vulnerabilities through public reporting. The bill stipulates that specific vulnerabilities should be omitted from the report to prevent compromising the security of state information resources. This raises important questions about how much information should be disclosed to ensure accountability without inadvertently creating additional risks.

Last_action

SB34 was last actioned on June 9, 2015, and took effect on September 1, 2015.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.