The Texas House has approved legislation that paves the way for the establishment of a new state cybersecurity agency to enhance protection against potential cyber attacks on critical public systems and private data. The bill, authored by Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, aims to bolster the state’s resilience in the face of growing cyber threats from criminal networks and adversarial nation-states.
With cyber attacks on the rise each year, the security of essential infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, cities, and counties is increasingly at risk. The new Texas Cyber Command, which would be created under House Bill 150, is set to receive $135 million over the next two years. Administered through the University of Texas System and based at the University of Texas-San Antonio, the command will focus on cybersecurity threat response, management, forensics, and training.
Governor Greg Abbott has designated the establishment of the cyber command as an emergency item for the Legislature, citing the need to defend the state’s infrastructure against cyber threats from hostile foreign nations like China, Iran, and Russia. The command’s role will complement the existing cybersecurity infrastructure in the region, including the FBI’s cyber crime division office.
The legislation represents a shift in cybersecurity management, moving responsibility away from the Department of Information and towards a more centralized approach led by the new cyber command. By consolidating efforts and resources, the command aims to provide better guidance and support to state agencies facing evolving cyber threats.
Critics of the bill have expressed concerns about the creation of a new state agency and the associated costs. Some lawmakers, such as Rep. Andy Hopper, have suggested alternatives like centralizing cybersecurity duties under the Texas State Guard. However, proponents argue that the dedicated cyber command is necessary to prevent financial losses and ensure the safety of citizens in the face of increasing cyber threats.
Recent incidents, such as the ransomware attacks that have affected numerous Texas cities and the organized crime breach of the state’s driver license system, highlight the urgency of implementing stronger cybersecurity measures. The creation of the Texas Cyber Command is seen as a proactive step towards safeguarding public entities and private companies from potential data breaches and identity theft.
Moving forward, state agencies will continue to maintain their cybersecurity systems, with the support and guidance of the newly established cyber command. The goal is to strengthen the overall cybersecurity posture of Texas and enhance the protection of critical systems and sensitive information. As threats in the cyber landscape evolve, the state is taking proactive measures to ensure the security and resilience of its digital infrastructure.
In conclusion, the approval of the legislation in the Texas House marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to combat cyber threats and protect vital assets from malicious actors. With the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command, Texas is positioning itself to respond effectively to cyber incidents and mitigate potential risks to public and private sectors.