Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3512

Filed

2/28/25

Out of House Committee

4/17/25

Voted on by House

5/6/25

Out of Senate Committee

5/22/25

Voted on by Senate

5/25/25

Governor Action

6/20/25

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to artificial intelligence training programs for certain employees and officials of state agencies and local governments.

Impact

The bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws by formalizing the requirements for training related to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity across all state agencies and local governments. By mandating these training programs, the legislation aims to ensure that employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively engage with AI technologies. This move is anticipated to facilitate the more efficient use of technology in public service and aims to enhance operational standards at both the state and local levels.

Summary

House Bill 3512 focuses on establishing comprehensive artificial intelligence training programs for employees and officials of state agencies and local governments. The legislation amends existing laws to require that certain personnel who utilize computers for a significant portion of their work receive annual training specifically aimed at understanding and deploying artificial intelligence technologies. This initiative is part of a broader move towards enhancing the capabilities and readiness of state personnel to deal with advancements in technology, particularly AI, within their respective duties.

Sentiment

Broadly, the sentiment surrounding HB 3512 appears to be supportive, especially among proponents of enhanced cybersecurity and technological innovation in government operations. Supporters argue that the training will not only bolster awareness and skills related to AI among public employees but will also help to mitigate potential risks associated with cybersecurity breaches. However, there may be concerns regarding the implications for funding and resources needed to implement these training programs effectively, particularly in smaller local governments.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the potential resource allocation and logistics of implementing mandatory AI training for a wide array of state and local employees. Some legislators and stakeholders may question the feasibility of compliance, especially for smaller entities that may lack the resources to conduct such training adequately. Moreover, there is a need for clarity regarding the balancing act between mandated training requirements and local governments' ability to tailor these programs to meet specific needs, which might invoke discussions about flexibility versus standardization in training approaches.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

Chapter 1. General Provisions
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section

Chapter 11. School Districts
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section

Government Code

Chapter 772. Governmental Planning
- Section: 012
- Section: 012
- Section: 012
- Section: 012
- Section: 012

Chapter 2054. Information Resources
- Section: 5191
- Section: New Section
- Section: 5191
- Section: 5191
- Section: New Section
- Section: 5191
- Section: 5191
- Section: New Section

Chapter 2056. Strategic Plans Of Operation
- Section: 002
- Section: 002
- Section: 002

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1205

Relating to the modernization of information technology of state agencies and certain local governments.

TX HB2060

Relating to the creation of the artificial intelligence advisory council.

TX SB1484

Relating to a border operations training program for peace officers employed by local law enforcement agencies.

TX HB4695

Relating to the provision of artificial intelligence mental health services.

TX HB1675

Relating to a border operations training program for peace officers employed by local law enforcement agencies.

TX HB1659

Relating to cybersecurity training for certain public employees.

TX SB2377

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.

TX HB2660

Relating to duties and procedures and to training programs for law enforcement agencies regarding missing children and missing persons.

TX HB5096

Relating to mental health first aid training for certain school district employees and volunteers.

TX SB1204

Relating to state and local government information technology and information security.