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Bill

HB 5129

Relating to the security of certain personal identifying information submitted to or retained by a state agency.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 4 co-sponsors

Texas law now requires state agencies to implement security protocols for personal data and notify residents of breaches involving their identifying information.

Effective immediately
#openrecords(i0548) #protectionofpersonalinformation(i0003) #recordsmanagement(s0205) #righttoprivacyact(pq0ao) #stateagencies #boards&commissions(i0749)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5129

Legislative bill overview

HB 5129 establishes security requirements for personal identifying information (PII) that state agencies collect, maintain, or process. The bill mandates specific safeguards, breach notification procedures, and compliance standards to protect sensitive data like Social Security numbers, driver's license information, and financial details held by government entities.

Why is this important

Data breaches involving government agencies can expose millions of citizens to identity theft and fraud. This legislation creates uniform security standards across Texas agencies and ensures residents are notified promptly if their personal information is compromised, reducing financial and reputational harm to affected individuals.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance costs: State agencies may face significant expenses implementing new security infrastructure, encryption systems, and staff training to meet the bill's requirements
  • Definition clarity: The bill's scope of what constitutes "personal identifying information" and which agencies are covered could create confusion or inconsistent enforcement
  • Breach notification burden: Agencies handling large datasets may face operational challenges and public relations difficulties when required to notify potentially millions of affected individuals

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

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