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Bill

HB 1172

Relating to requiring the Department of Information Resources to conduct a study concerning the cybersecurity of small businesses.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ray Lopez and 1 co-sponsor

Texas DIR must study small business cybersecurity challenges and recommend improvements to boost statewide business data protection and resilience.

Referred to Delivery of Government Efficiency
#business&commerce--smallbusiness&minoritybusiness(i0051) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #informationresources #departmentof(v9827) #interimstudies(i0448) #workforcecommission #texas(v0470)
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Bill Summary · HB 1172

Legislative bill overview

HB 1172 mandates the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) to conduct a comprehensive study on the cybersecurity landscape and challenges facing small businesses in Texas. The study would assess vulnerabilities, barriers to implementing security measures, and develop recommendations for improving cybersecurity practices and awareness among small business operators.

Why is this important

Small businesses represent a significant portion of Texas's economy but often lack dedicated IT security resources, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals. Understanding these vulnerabilities and creating targeted support recommendations could help protect critical business data, customer information, and economic stability across the state's small business sector.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and resource allocation: The study requires DIR to dedicate staff and funding without specified budget parameters, raising questions about fiscal impact and competing priorities
  • Scope and actionability: The bill doesn't specify how findings would be implemented or whether DIR would receive authority to create actual support programs beyond recommendations
  • Timeline and urgency: Filed in late 2024 with no specified deadline for study completion, potentially limiting timely assistance to businesses facing current threats

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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