Relating to matters concerning governmental entities, including cybersecurity, governmental efficiencies, information resources, and emergency planning.
Impact
The enactment of HB 4214 significantly alters existing state laws concerning information security and the responsibilities of state agencies in managing their technological resources. It introduces more stringent requirements for regular cybersecurity assessments and necessitates a more collaborative approach among agencies when dealing with cyber threats. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need for training and development within these agencies, fostering a culture of continual improvement in security practices.
Summary
House Bill 4214 addresses several critical aspects regarding governmental operations, notably in the realms of cybersecurity, efficiency, information resources management, and emergency planning. It mandates that state agencies conduct regular cybersecurity audits and enhances the responsibilities of various departments to ensure that these standards are upheld. The bill also creates provisions for a chief innovation officer, aimed at enhancing state government performance through improved technology usage and internal processes.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 4214 has been positive among legislators who see it as a proactive measure to fortify state government against cyber threats and enhance operational efficiencies. Supporters argue that it will better protect citizens' data and improve the usability of services provided by the government. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential burdens on smaller agencies that may struggle with the compliance requirements, indicating a mixed sentiment among those directly impacted by the bill.
Contention
Notably, there are concerns regarding the financial implications for state agencies required to implement these new standards, especially when it comes to resource allocation for cybersecurity and technology upgrades. Critics fear that the pressure to comply with such regulations could lead to resource strain, particularly for smaller agencies with limited budgets. This highlights an ongoing debate about the balance between strengthening cybersecurity and ensuring that governmental entities maintain operational efficiency without undue financial burden.
Relating to homeland security, including the creation of the Texas Homeland Security Division in the Department of Public Safety, the operations of the Homeland Security Council, the creation of a homeland security fusion center, and the duties of state agencies and local governments in preparing for, reporting, and responding to cybersecurity breaches; providing administrative penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the eligibility of certain entities for services and commodity items provided by the Department of Information Resources and statewide technology centers.
Relating to public school cybersecurity controls and requirements and technical assistance and cybersecurity risk assessments for public schools provided by the Department of Information Resources.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing a Texas Border Force and making funds available to certain governmental entities.
Relating to the eligibility of certain entities for services and commodity items provided by the Department of Information Resources and statewide technology centers.
Relating to public school cybersecurity controls, student data privacy protection, and requirements and technical assistance and cybersecurity risk assessments for public schools provided by the Department of Information Resources.
Relating to authorized investments of public money by certain governmental entities and the confidentiality of certain information related to those investments.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command and the transfer to it of certain powers and duties of the Department of Information Resources.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command as a component institution of The University of Texas System and the transfer to it of certain powers and duties of the Department of Information Resources.
Relating to matters concerning governmental entities, including cybersecurity, governmental efficiencies, information resources, and emergency planning.
Relating to state agency and local government information management and security, including establishment of the state risk and authorization management program and the Texas volunteer incident response team; authorizing fees.