Texas House Bill HB342

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to cybersecurity for voting systems.

Impact

If enacted, HB342 would significantly alter the landscape of election security in Texas by explicit requirements for reporting incidents of cyber attacks. County clerks are obligated to notify the Secretary of State of any such attacks within 48 hours of discovery. This provision aims to promote accountability and enhance the flow of information regarding election security threats, fostering a collaborative environment between state, local officials, and cybersecurity experts. As a result, this bill is expected to bolster the security framework for voting systems across the state, safeguarding against the increasing risk of cyber threats.

Summary

House Bill 342 is designed to enhance the cybersecurity measures surrounding voting systems in Texas. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to conduct a comprehensive study of vulnerabilities and risks associated with cyber attacks on election infrastructure. This includes an investigation into various aspects of the voting process, such as voting machines, the list of registered voters, and the mechanisms for administering voting by mail. The findings from this study will be summarized in public and confidential reports that outline specific risks and recommendations for mitigating threats to the integrity of elections.

Contention

There may be points of contention related to the implementation and funding of the cybersecurity measures proposed in the bill. While the intent is to enhance election security, questions about the feasibility of mandated studies and the efficacy of the recommendations could arise. Additionally, local officials might raise concerns over resource allocation, as they may need additional funding and support to comply with the reporting requirements. Thus, the effectiveness of HB342 hinges not only on political support but also on the practical considerations of executing the outlined cybersecurity strategies.