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.
Impact
The passage of HB 150 will result in significant changes to the state's approach to cybersecurity by increasing coordination among state agencies and ensuring that they work together to combat cyber threats effectively. The command will be responsible for training programs for state and local government employees regarding cybersecurity practices, further embedding cybersecurity awareness within governmental operations. The bill establishes essential frameworks for information sharing to predict, prevent, and respond to cybersecurity incidents and risks.
Summary
House Bill 150 aims to establish the Texas Cyber Command, which will assume certain powers and duties from the Department of Information Resources. The bill intends to enhance the state's capabilities in managing cybersecurity by creating a centralized command that oversees the protection of critical infrastructure and coordinates responses to cybersecurity incidents. By consolidating resources and responsibilities under the Texas Cyber Command, the legislation is designed to streamline operations and enhance the state's cybersecurity infrastructure.
Sentiment
General sentiment around HB 150 appears to be supportive among proponents who argue that the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command is a necessary step in fortifying the state's cybersecurity strategy. They view it as a proactive measure to protect sensitive information and essential state infrastructure. However, there are concerns from some stakeholders regarding the effectiveness of the new command and whether the transition from the Department of Information Resources to the Cyber Command could result in operational inefficiencies during the initial stages.
Contention
Notable points of contention include concerns about the adequacy of oversight and funding for the newly formed Texas Cyber Command. Critics argue that without sufficient resources, the command may struggle to fulfill its responsibilities effectively. Opponents also point out the importance of transparency and accountability in the command’s operations, especially given the centralized nature of cybersecurity efforts that may limit local input into specific cybersecurity needs.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Government Code
Chapter 2054. Information Resources
Section: 0592
Section: 519
Section: 5191
Section: 516
Section: New Section
Section: 518
Section: 133
Section: 0701
Section: 0594
Section: 077
Section: 0592
Section: 519
Section: 5191
Section: New Section
Section: 516
Section: 133
Section: 5192
Section: 0701
Section: New Section
Section: 0592
Section: 519
Section: 136
Section: 518
Section: 133
Section: 0701
Section: 5181
Section: 380
Section: 5191
Chapter 772. Governmental Planning
Section: 012
Section: 012
Section: 012
Section: 012
Chapter 2059. Texas Computer Network Security System
Identical
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 the eligibility of certain entities for services and commodity items provided by the Department of Information Resources and statewide technology centers.
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 the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
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 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 powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
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 renaming the Texas Natural Resources Information System as the Texas Geographic Information Office and the duties of certain officers of that entity.
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.
Relating to matters concerning governmental entities, including cybersecurity, governmental efficiencies, information resources, and emergency planning.