Texas is ramping up its cybersecurity defenses with a proposed Texas Cyber Command, a specialized unit within the University of Texas System designed to tackle digital threats across the state.
The Big Picture
Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the need for stronger cybersecurity measures during his State of the State address in February, marking the creation of the Texas Cyber Command as a legislative priority.
The initiative, outlined in House Bill 150, was introduced by Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R-Southlake) and is currently under review by a Texas House committee. A companion bill was also filed in the Senate.
“The threat is evolving by the hour,” Capriglione warned during a March 19 hearing. “If we don’t build a robust cybersecurity infrastructure, everything we aim to achieve—whether securing water, strengthening our power grid, or growing our economy—could be at risk.”
How It Works
The new Cyber Command would take over and expand the cybersecurity efforts currently handled by the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR). Its key responsibilities would include:
- Developing cybersecurity tools and standards
- Providing workforce training
- Strengthening public-private partnerships
Why It Matters
Capriglione pointed to several high-profile cyberattacks affecting Texas communities, warning that millions of residents had their personal data exposed last year.
“Critical infrastructure is under attack daily,” he said. “From wastewater treatment plants to government services and even our energy grid—these threats are real and costly, both financially and in terms of public safety.”
The Cyber Command would take a more “operational” approach, housing a threat intelligence center, an incident response team, and a digital forensics lab. It would also oversee mandatory cybersecurity training for government employees to help reduce human errors—one of the biggest vulnerabilities in digital security.
“There are billions of cyberattacks happening, but the biggest risk remains human error,” Capriglione noted.
The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) was chosen as the home for the Cyber Command, much like how the Texas Division of Emergency Management operates under Texas A&M University. The governor would appoint a director to lead the initiative, supported by a cybersecurity council made up of government, academic, and private sector representatives.
What’s the Cost?
Setting up and running the Cyber Command is expected to cost around $413.85 million through 2030. This includes funding for facilities at UTSA, hiring cybersecurity professionals, and launching various initiatives.
However, UTSA and the UT System are prepared to contribute $60 million in existing funds, which would help reduce the financial burden on the state.
What’s Next?
After the March 19 hearing, HB 150 remains under review. If approved, the bill will move to the full Texas House for a vote.
If passed, the Texas Cyber Command would officially launch by September 1, with all DIR cybersecurity operations transferring to the command by 2026.
Meanwhile, lawmakers are also considering House Bill 876, introduced by Rep. Suleman Lalani (D-Sugar Land), which proposes an information-sharing system for public and private entities to collaborate on cybersecurity threats.
With cyber threats growing more sophisticated, Texas is positioning itself as a national leader in digital defense—and the Texas Cyber Command could be a game-changer.
