Relating to emergency management for cybersecurity events threatening this state.
Impact
The bill establishes a clear directive for the state government to prepare and respond to cybersecurity incidents in much the same way it would for natural disasters or other emergencies. This sets a precedent for how Texas will handle cyber threats, ensuring that readiness measures are not only in place but that there are designated roles for various entities including the governor and state agencies. It outlines the importance of inter-agency cooperation and the need for state resources to be allocated towards cybersecurity preparedness.
Summary
House Bill 2066 aims to enhance the state's emergency management framework specifically regarding cybersecurity events that could threaten Texas. Through an amendment to Section 418.002 of the Government Code, the bill incorporates cybersecurity threats as a recognized category of incident for which preparedness and response measures must be established. This inclusion acknowledges the growing concern regarding cyber threats to critical infrastructure and aims to bolster the state's resilience against such events.
Contention
One notable aspect of HB2066 is the provision that allows the governor to order the disconnection of computer networks from the Internet if a significant cybersecurity event occurs. While this measure is aimed at protecting state resources from immediate threats, it may also raise concerns regarding the implications for businesses and entities that rely on uninterrupted internet access. Critics might argue that such a draconian measure could disrupt essential services and economic activities that depend on digital connectivity.