WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1625

Relating to the reporting of certain security incidents by public water systems to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Department of Information Resources.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Trent Ashby and 2 co-sponsors

Texas SB 1625 mandates public water systems report security incidents to state environmental and IT agencies, improving threat detection and coordination.

Committee report sent to Calendars
#computers&software(s2425) #consumerprotection(i0080) #environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #electronicinformationsystems(i0311) #informationresources #departmentof(v9827) #utilities--water&sewer(i0002) #water--general(i0885)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1625

Legislative bill overview

SB 1625 requires public water systems in Texas to report certain security incidents to both the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Department of Information Resources (DIR). The bill establishes a formal reporting mechanism for incidents that could affect water system integrity or cybersecurity, creating accountability measures for infrastructure protection.

Why is this important

Water systems are critical infrastructure vulnerable to both physical and cyber threats. Mandatory reporting requirements improve state-level visibility into security vulnerabilities, enable faster response coordination, and help identify patterns across systems. This transparency supports public health protection by ensuring authorities can detect and address threats before they compromise water safety or service delivery.

Potential points of contention

  • Reporting burden and compliance costs: Water systems, particularly smaller municipalities with limited budgets, may face administrative and technical expenses to establish reporting protocols and monitor for reportable incidents
  • Definition clarity: The bill's reference to "certain security incidents" may lack specificity regarding what constitutes a reportable event, potentially creating inconsistent reporting across systems or disputes over thresholds
  • Data sensitivity and cybersecurity disclosure: Requiring detailed incident reporting to state agencies raises concerns about whether sensitive vulnerability information could be mishandled or exploited if not properly secured

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

Sign in to ask a question.