Bill > HB41

This bill establishes restrictions on governmental entities in Texas regarding the acquisition and use of unmanned aircraft (drones) and related equipment from companies associated with designated countries that pose national security risks. Specifically, the bill prohibits governmental entities from purchasing or using unmanned aircraft, equipment, or services from companies owned or headquartered in these designated countries, regardless of whether the company's stocks are publicly traded. The bill defines a "designated country" as one identified by the U.S. director of national intelligence as a national security risk in recent threat assessments. To help law enforcement agencies transition, the bill creates a grant program through the governor's office to provide funding for replacing prohibited equipment, allowing agencies that already have such equipment before January 1, 2026, to continue using it until January 1, 2031. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Information Resources to develop a model security plan listing companies that produce telecommunications or video surveillance equipment potentially presenting security risks, which will be made available to governmental entities. The legislation aims to protect state security by limiting the use of potentially compromised foreign technology, with the new rules taking effect on September 1, 2025.

Military Affairs and Security

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB41