Essential IT Updates from the 89th Texas Legislature — A Message from Chris Lee, TML Affiliate Director

A Message from Chris Lee, TML Affiliate Director

Hello TAGITM,

The 89th Texas Legislature has ushered in transformative changes, significantly impacting municipal IT across our state. These landmark decisions underscore Texas's ambitious vision to lead the nation in cybersecurity preparedness and responsible artificial intelligence (AI) adoption. As IT professionals and technology leaders, understanding these developments isn't just critical—it's our roadmap for future readiness, compliance, and innovation. Texas is proactively shaping our digital landscape, and we must stay informed and ahead of these pivotal changes.

Texas Cyber Command: Elevating Our Cybersecurity Resilience
Governor Abbott has prioritized cybersecurity by declaring the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command an emergency item. This new centralized department is set to revolutionize cybersecurity practices across state and local governments. Tasked with identifying vulnerabilities, coordinating threat responses, and providing expert training, the Cyber Command is taking over key cybersecurity roles previously managed by DIR, allowing DIR to refocus on its essential procurement functions. With $135 million allocated for its initial launch and strategic partnerships with institutions like UTSA, we now have additional access to advanced threat intelligence, specialized cybersecurity training, and rapid-response capabilities. This marks a substantial step forward in securing our networks and protecting our communities.

HB 149: Charting the Path for Responsible AI Use
The Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act (HB 149) is new legislation establishing clear guidelines for ethical and transparent AI practices statewide. Taking effect on January 1, 2026, this act prioritizes transparency, consumer protections, and ethical handling of biometric data. Crucially, it forbids practices such as AI-driven manipulation, social scoring by governmental entities, unauthorized biometric identification, and discrimination against protected classes. The law also mandates explicit disclosures when users engage with AI technologies. Additionally, HB 149 introduces the Texas Artificial Intelligence Council and enforces statewide uniformity by preempting local AI regulations. Municipal IT leaders must proactively align existing and future AI projects with this comprehensive framework, ensuring compliance and fostering trust.

HB 3512: Empowering Our Workforce Through AI Training
Starting September 1, 2025, HB 3512 mandates annual AI-specific training for local government employees whose roles involve significant computer usage (25% or more). Building upon existing cybersecurity education, this directive recognizes the unique security considerations AI technologies introduce. The Department of Information Resources (DIR) will certify at least five training programs annually, emphasizing practical skills and best practices. Municipal IT departments will be critical in identifying eligible employees, selecting suitable DIR-certified training, monitoring completion, and reporting compliance to DIR. This presents an exciting opportunity to enhance AI literacy and foster a more informed, secure workforce prepared for future challenges.

HB 3112: Securing Sensitive Cyber Information
Effective immediately as of June 20, 2025, HB 3112 significantly enhances protections for cybersecurity-related information and meetings. This legislation permits governmental bodies to convene closed sessions when discussing cybersecurity measures for critical infrastructure, safeguarding sensitive details from public exposure. It also explicitly protects sensitive materials such as network diagrams, incident response strategies, and cyber insurance policies from public disclosure, striking a critical balance between transparency and operational security. Municipal IT and legal teams now have stronger support for securely managing and addressing cyber threats without the risk of exposing vulnerabilities inadvertently.

Moving Forward Together
Your leadership and commitment as IT professionals are essential to successfully implementing these legislative advancements. As we embrace these new opportunities, I encourage you to leverage these changes to enhance cybersecurity resilience, foster responsible AI adoption, and drive digital innovation in your communities.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions, ideas, or support you might need. Together, we're building a stronger, smarter, and safer technological future for Texas.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership.

Best regards,
Chris Lee
TML Affiliate Director