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28 Document(s) [ Subject: Electronic security ]

Committee:	Senate Business and Commerce
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	911 emergency telephone service | Blockchain technology | Broadband infrastructure | Digital currencies | Economy | Electric power plants | Electric Reliability Council of Texas | Electricity supplies | Electronic security | State employees | Telecommuters | Traffic | Universal Service Fund |
Library Call Number:	L1836.87 B963
Session:	87th R.S. (2021)
Online version:	View report [42 pages  File size: 639 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Broadband and Telecommunications: Study broadband and other telecommunications related issues impacting Texans, including: Monitoring the implementation of HB 5, 87th R.S., and HB 1505, 87th R.S.; discuss anticipated federal infrastructure funding dedicated to broadband initiatives; Reviewing the Texas Universal Service Fund and reporting what, if any, changes should be made through a review of both the fund's contributions and disbursements, as well as the impact of technology on the long-term stability of the Texas Universal Service Fund; and Monitoring the implementation of HB 2911, 87th R.S., relating to next generation 9-1-1 service and the establishment of a next generation 9-1-1 service fund.
2.	Supply Chains: Examine the causes and impacts of recent supply chain disruptions on the Texas economy and individual industries. Study the factors that weaken links in the supply chain and the extent the pandemic has exposed those vulnerabilities. Recommend actions to strengthen the supply chain in Texas and mitigate disruptions in the future.
3.	Blockchain and Virtual Currencies: Study current state and federal regulations surrounding blockchain and virtual currencies. Examine how these technologies impact industries such as banking, business, and electricity. Make recommendations to protect consumers while encouraging innovation. Monitor the implementation of HB 1576, 87th R.S., and HB 4474, 87th R.S.
4.	Electricity: Assess the electricity market in Texas. Study issues impacting the Texas electric grid, including weather preparedness, transmission planning, maintenance scheduling, and the natural gas supply chain. Study the consequences of increased electric vehicle usage and charging on the generation, transmission and distribution, and retail sectors of Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and evaluate their potential impact on increased electric demand and reliability of the grid. Evaluate potential benefits of real-time transparency of the intrastate gas market with respect to the functions of ERCOT and the Texas Energy Reliability Council. Examine the growth of renewable energy generation in the state and evaluate its impact on grid reliability. Make recommendations to strengthen the reliability of the grid, and meet the future generation needs of ERCOT through new and existing dispatchable generation. Assess plans to expeditiously add new dispatchable generation. Monitor the implementation of SB 2, 87th R.S., and SB 3, 87th R.S.
5.	Cybersecurity: Review current state and federal laws regarding cybersecurity protections and requirements for local governments, state agencies, and critical industries of our state. Make recommendations for legislation to improve resilience and protection against cybersecurity attacks and ensure the privacy protection of the citizens of Texas.
6.	State Workforce: Study where state employees are located and the benefits and drawbacks of remote working. Evaluate the impact of the potential growth of remote work and proximity of employees to their place of employment on traffic studies over the next 10 years. Study and make recommendations for establishing uniform statewide standards for remote work. Study possible implications and standards for statewide recruitment and employment of remote state employees from all parts of the state.
Committee:	House Business and Industry
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Child care | Coronavirus | Correctional officers | Electronic security | Emergency medical services | Firefighters | Homeowners' associations | Peace officers | Privacy | Retail industry | Theft | Unemployment | Unemployment benefits | Workers' compensation | Workforce Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number:	L1836.87 B964
Session:	87th R.S. (2021)
Online version:	View report [88 pages  File size: 4,132 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Conduct active oversight of all associated rulemaking and other governmental actions taken to ensure the intended legislative outcome of all legislation, including the following: HB 3746, 87th R.S., relating to certain notifications required following a breach of security or computerized data; SB 22, 87th R.S., relating to certain claims for benefits, compensation, or assistance by certain public safety employees and survivors of certain public safety employees; and SB 1588, 87th R.S., and SB 581, 87th R.S., relating to the powers and duties of certain property owners’ associations.
2.	Study workers’ compensation claims involving public safety employees described by SB 22, 87th R.S. This study should include an analysis of medical costs, return-to-work outcomes, utilization of care, satisfaction with care, and health-related functional outcomes.
3.	Study the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on unemployment trends, hurdles to workforce reentry, and industry-specific disruptions.
4.	Study the impact of organized retail crime on Texas businesses. Make recommendations for addressing the redistribution of stolen merchandise into the supply chain, including through online marketplaces, to protect Texas businesses and consumers. Make recommendations relating to transparency for online marketplaces and information that should be provided by sellers.
5.	Review operational changes and strategies employed by the Texas Workforce Commission to improve outcomes related to Unemployment Benefit Services, including application and payment processes, customer services, and fraud deterrence.
6.	Evaluate the overall state of data privacy and online consumer protections in Texas and study the related laws and legislative efforts of other states. Make recommendations to ensure consumer data protections and online privacy.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Appropriations
Title:	Subcommittee on Disaster Impact and Recovery, subcommittee meeting handouts and testimony, April 18, 2018 (Economic Stabilization Fund)
Library Call Number:
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View document [209 pages  File size: 12,113 kb]
Committee:	Senate Cybersecurity, Select
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Electronic security | Information Resources, Texas Department of | State agencies |
Library Call Number:	L1836.85 C992
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View report [13 pages]
Charge:	This report should address the charge below.
1.	Study cybersecurity in this state, information security plans of each state agency, and risks and vulnerabilities of state agency cybersecurity.
Committee:	House Investments and Financial Services
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Banks and banking | Consumer credit and debt | Credit reports | Credit scoring | Electronic security | Emergency management | Home equity loans | Hurricane Harvey | Mortgage brokers | Mortgages | Natural disasters |
Library Call Number:	L1836.85 In9
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View report [42 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Review the impact of Hurricane Harvey on financial institutions in Texas and evaluate the response of the state's oversight agencies. Study how Harvey impacted consumers and lenders in the mortgage and home equity markets. Identify opportunities to improve the operational stability of financial institutions and to improve the state's responsiveness following a natural disaster.
2.	Study the impact and risks that a large-scale security breach of a credit bureau has on Texans. Identify opportunities to protect Texas consumers and to mitigate the impact of such a breach.
3.	Examine mortgage licensure requirements in Texas and identify opportunities to update statute to fit modern mortgage options.
4.	Study policy challenges in the area of financial technology. Evaluate the concept of a "sandbox" as a regulatory approach for enabling innovation and the feasibility of implementing such in Texas. If appropriate, make recommendations for possible legislative action to foster innovation in the finance industry.
5.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the Committee’s jurisdiction and oversee the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 85th Legislature.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Investments and Financial Services
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, April 24, 2018 (cryptocurrency and blockchain, credit bureau security breach, sandbox regulation)
Library Call Number:
Session:	85th R.S. (2017)
Online version:	View document [99 pages  File size: 4,693 kb]
Committee:	Senate Business and Commerce
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Delinquent taxes | Elder abuse | Electronic security | Employment eligibility verification | Hailstorms | Health insurance | Liens | Medical bill balance billing | Occupational licenses | Prompt payment of insurance claims | Property insurance | Public information | State employees | Texas Windstorm Insurance Association | Undocumented immigrants |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 B963
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [72 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Occupational Licensing: Review all occupations licensed under Texas law to determine the extent to which continued state regulation and licensure is required to protect public health and safety. Examine methods to ensure greater legislative oversight of new regulations, scope, and necessity of certain licenses and make recommendations for state licenses that should be repealed or transitioned to private-sector enforcement.
2.	Hail Storm: Monitor the number of lawsuits related to property claims filed as a result of multiple hail storms and weather related events across Texas. Examine negative consumer trends that may result in market disruption such as higher premiums and deductibles, less coverage, non-renewals, and inability to secure coverage due to insurance carrier withdrawal from the state and make recommendations on legislative action needed.
3.	Texas Prompt Pay Law: Study the impact of the penalty calculations under the current prompt payment of health care claim laws and regulations, including comparing penalties in other states and late payment penalties in Texas for other lines of insurance. Evaluate whether unregulated billed charges is the appropriate basis for determining penalty amounts and make recommendations for statutory changes, if needed.
4.	Cyber-security/Storage: Examine cyber-security efforts undertaken by state entities and study the legal, policy, and privacy implications of the trend toward storage of personal, private, and business confidential information in network attached storage, cloud storage, and other developing data storage options rather than on local devices. Make recommendations on how to best protect Texans’ financial and personal information.
5.	Elder Financial Abuse: Study elder financial abuse and determine what steps the State of Texas should take to help protect older Texans from financial exploitation.
6.	Property Tax Liens: Examine and make recommendations for necessary changes regarding the collection process of delinquent ad valorem property taxes, including an inquiry into the role that tax lien transfers play in forestalling foreclosure.
7.	Monitoring Charge: Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce during the 84th R.S. and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor the following: 1) State agency participation in the federal electronic verification of employment authorization program; 2) Implementation of legislation intended to further protect consumers from the balance billing process; 3) Changes made to the operation of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association; 4) The regulation of public insurance adjusters; and 5) The current consent policy for state disclosure of personal data.
Committee:	House Business and Industry
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Corporate governance | Death benefits | Electronic security | Homeowners' associations | Independent contractors | International trade | Pharmaceutical industry | Pharmacies | Physicians | Prescription drug costs | Risk Management, State Office of | Small businesses | State agencies | Transportation network companies | Welfare-to-work | Workers' compensation |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 B964
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [67 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study Texas businesses' utilization of the Federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit, and the associated state tax refund under Subchapter H, Labor Code, in employing those who are receiving government benefits and/or have consistently faced significant barriers to employment. Conduct a cost/benefit analysis of the tax credit vis-a-vis savings in federal and state public assistance programs. Make recommendations to remove any unnecessary administrative obstructions and expand Texas business owners' use of the program.
2.	Identify and address potential gaps in Texas businesses’ cybersecurity policies and ensure that Texans’ personal information held by these businesses is secure.
3.	Evaluate how Texas can support shared economy growth in the state. Determine how the state can ensure customer security and satisfaction as well as consumer protections without enacting burdensome regulations. Additionally, study the effects of a growing portion of the state's workforce seeking full-time vs. supplemental part-time employment with related technology-based businesses. Analyze recent debate and legal precedent regarding the classification of these employees.
4.	Examine the regulatory powers of property owners associations, and the procedures available to home owners when an association restricts individual or property rights. Review current best practices to help clarify the balance of property rights, transparency in governance, and the best interests of property owners in the state.
5.	Study the impact of recent Texas cases related to the rights and remedies of shareholders of Texas corporate forms, including the impact of those decisions on the legal rights of both Texas corporations and shareholders and any impact on the Texas business climate.
6.	Study the requirement for state agencies and entities to purchase insurance through the State Office of Risk Management (SORM), and the agencies and entities that are exempt from this requirement. Examine the costs and benefits of each approach, and the waiver process by which SORM can allow agencies to purchase insurance on their own.
7.	Study the following aspects of the designated doctor process in the Texas workers' compensation system: a. the Division of Workers' Compensation's (DWC's) processes for educating, monitoring, and evaluating designated doctors; b. whether the DWC requires additional authority to regulate designated doctors or entities providing services for designated doctors; and c. any unique issues with "traveling" designated doctors.
8.	Examine the adequacy of benefits for injured employees in the Texas workers' compensation system who qualify for Lifetime Income Benefits, and for the beneficiaries of employees who receive Death Benefits. In particular, examine the application of benefit caps for those benefit types and the termination of Death Benefits to surviving spouses on remarriage.
9.	Analyze recent data attributing the decline in domestic manufacturing to a consistent trade deficit caused by steady increases in net imports. Study how expanding trade and investing in manufacturing communities’ partnerships can grow the state's skilled workforce and production as well as increase net exports and develop a trade balance. (Joint charge with the House Committee on International Trade & Intergovernmental Affairs)
10.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Business and Industry
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, June 9, 2016 (Texas businesses' cybersecurity policies, shareholders of Texas)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [104 pages  File size: 10,930 kb]
Committee:	House County Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Bail | Child abuse | Child Protective Services | County jails | County roads | Court costs and fees | Criminal justice | Criminal records | Electronic security | Emergency management | Fees | Indigent health care | Jail Standards, Texas Commission on | Managed care | Medicaid | Mentally ill inmates | Mentally ill persons | Natural disasters | Police officers | Suicide |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 C832
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [112 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Review jail standards and procedures with regards to potentially mentally ill persons in county jails, as well as issues stemming from interactions between the general public and peace officers. *
2.	Study the effectiveness and efficiency of current programs in Texas as well as best practices to determine how to decrease the risk and mitigate the impact of wildfires, floods, and other natural hazards in the wildland-urban interface. Examine the duties, performance, and jurisdictions of water districts, municipalities, Emergency Services Districts, other similar districts, and state offices like the Fire Marshal and Extension Services. Evaluate current regulations and identify best practices. Recommend approaches for hazard mitigation and response to natural disasters. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Urban Affairs)
3.	Identify and address potential gaps in counties’ cybersecurity policies and ensure that personal information held by counties and other local governmental entities is secure.
4.	Evaluate the Texas Commission on Jail Standards to determine if the Commission has the resources and structure to provide sufficient oversight, regulation, and enforcement over Texas county jails.
5.	Review pretrial service and bonding practices throughout the state. Examine factors considered in bail and pre-trial confinement decisions, including the use of risk assessments; assess the effectiveness and efficiency of different systems in terms of cost to local governments and taxpayers, community safety, pretrial absconding rates and rights of the accused. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence)
6.	Study the implications and effects on law enforcement agencies and individuals that stem from the publication, republication, or other dissemination for public internet access of mug shots and other criminal history information regarding involvement of an individual in the criminal justice system.
7.	Study statutorily mandated services provided by sheriffs and constables, and determine whether fee schedules allow cost recovery without placing undue burdens on recipients of those services.
8.	Study the effect of Proposition 5 (SJR 17 (84R)) on the quality of private roadways in counties with a population of less than 7,500. Make recommendations to ensure the amendment does not result in undue competition between counties and private industry, and whether additional counties could benefit from a similar authorization.
9.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House County Affairs
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, June 10, 2016 (County cybersecurity, Child Protective Services)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [22 pages  File size: 822 kb]
Committee:	House County Affairs
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, July 7, 2016 (Child Protective Services, 1115 transformation waiver, County cybersecurity)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [55 pages  File size: 3,050 kb]
Committee:	House County Affairs
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, August 29, 2016 (1115 transformation waiver, Child Protective Services, County cybersecurity, Bexar County justice-involved veterans unit)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [88 pages  File size: 10,919 kb]
Committee:	House Government Transparency and Operation
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Computer networks | Computers and government | Criminal records | Data centers | Electronic security | Law enforcement | Public information | Public Information Act, Texas | State agencies | State purchasing | Video cameras and recordings |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 G747T
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [76 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Identify and address potential gaps in the state's cybersecurity policies and ensure that personal information held by state agencies is secure. Address whether industry-accepted cybersecurity standards have been met by state agencies and state data centers and determine ways to promote a culture of cybersecurity awareness among users of state information resources.
2.	Examine purchasing practices by state agencies to ensure such practices are efficient and transparent.
3.	Study issues related to access to public information held outside of the custody or control of the governmental body by current or former officers or employees. Assess whether the Public Information Act's procedures for response to repetitious or redundant public information requests adequately protect small governmental bodies from the financial burdens imposed by such requests.
4.	Study the use of commercial cloud computing by state agencies and institutions of higher education, including efficiencies surrounding a utility-based model, security impacts of transitioning to cloud computing, and cost-savings achieved by the utilization of commercial cloud computing services.
5.	Review the process of dissemination by public entities of criminal records containing incomplete or inaccurate information, assess options for the subjects of such records to correct the misinformation specifically as it interferes with their ability to obtain employment, and determine the need for greater regulations over this process. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Homeland Security & Public Safety)
6.	Study the impact of emerging technologies used by law enforcement and issues related to appropriate dissemination of the data provided by those technologies, including the impact of technologies on the operation of law enforcement agencies, the operation of the Public Information Act, and any appropriate safeguards for citizens and law enforcement officers who interact with those technologies or whose data is recorded. (Joint charge with the House Select Committee on Emerging Issues in Texas Law Enforcement)
7.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Government Transparency and Operation
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, April 5, 2016 (Cyber security, purchasing efficiency and transparency, cloud computing)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [157 pages  File size: 7,747 kb]
Committee:	House Investments and Financial Services
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Banks and banking | Business climate | Consumer Credit Commissioner, Office of | Credit service organizations | Elder abuse | Electronic security | Financial investments | Fraud | Loans | Senior citizens | Subprime lending |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 IN9
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [68 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the current state of cybersecurity of financial institutions in Texas. Review state and federal laws, and evaluate what additional steps need to be taken to make financial institutions in Texas more secure.
2.	Examine the short-term lending industry in Texas. Study the adequacy of consumer access to credit and the effectiveness of consumer protections, specifically reviewing the consistency and coordination of state law with federal law and local ordinances. Review data-reporting requirements for credit-access businesses and make appropriate recommendations.
3.	Evaluate what policies are currently in place to prevent the financial exploitation and financial abuse of aging Texans, and determine what changes need to be made to strengthen protections for this vulnerable population.
4.	Study the impact on local communities when community banks are consolidated and how this changes the landscape of banking in Texas. Evaluate how the state can help expand charter opportunities in Texas.
5.	Examine the current investment climate and resources available to businesses in Texas. Analyze the effectiveness of existing programs and whether current investment tools are bringing new businesses and new jobs to Texas, and determine whether the current programs are helping established businesses in Texas create jobs. Identify barriers to investment opportunities faced by businesses and investors. This analysis should include but not be limited to: angel investing, crowdfunding, micro-lending, private equity, venture capital, and mezzanine investing. Make appropriate recommendations to ensure investment tools in Texas continue to evolve to help bring jobs to Texas and meet the needs of new and existing businesses in Texas.
6.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction and the implementing of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In addition to general oversight, the Committee should specifically: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Investments and Financial Services
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, April 12, 2016 (Cyber security, investment climate, community banking)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [312 pages  File size: 12,444 kb]
Committee:	House State Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Banks and banking | Economy | Electric meters | Electric utility rates and charges | Electronic security | Emergency management | Fetal rights | Medical ethics | Natural disasters | Organ and tissue donations | Organized labor | Public Utility Commission of Texas | State employees | State government contracts | State purchasing | Telephone service | Undocumented immigrants | Universal Service Fund | Utility service | Water and sewer utilities |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 St29h
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [78 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study if the state's infrastructure is adequately prepared for disasters, whether man-made or natural. Include preparedness assessments of the maintenance and recovery of vital infrastructure such as transportation and utility systems.
2.	Examine procedures regarding contract monitoring, compliance, performance evaluation and notification requirements for state contracting procedures. Include recommendations to determine a "best value" for the state and prevent conflicts of interests. Evaluate guidelines regarding the state's participation in contracts funded by grants and suggest methods to ensure the best use of taxpayer funds.
3.	Determine if the state has sufficient authority and the tools to ensure continued operation of the state's government and economy under existing budgetary and statutory authority. Make contingency recommendations to prevent collapse in the event of an economic disaster.
4.	Study the policies used by research and medical entities to adhere to the highest ethical standards for acquiring human fetal tissue for medical and scientific purposes. Specifically, review compliance to ensure informed consent and that all state and federal laws sufficiently respect the dignity of the human body. Study criteria for which persons have standing when giving consent for the use of fetal remains and to investigate potential violations of state laws regulating organ/tissue donation. Determine whether additional disclosure and reporting requirements are necessary to ensure moral and ethical research practices. Review practices and statutes in other states regarding fetal tissue harvesting.
5.	Study support mechanisms for the Small and Rural Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier - Universal Service Fund. Consider alternative funding mechanisms as well as necessary statutory changes to ensure reasonable cost of basic local phone service in high cost, rural areas without expanding the size of the Texas Universal Service Fund.
6.	Evaluate the administrative process used to determine utility rates. Consider if sufficient opportunities exist to ensure customer representation. Also determine if additional legislative guidance is needed to ensure public notification and participation.
7.	Examine how the Public Utility Commission of Texas, when applicable, and utility providers, whether vertically integrated, privately owned, or municipally owned, can ensure consumer protection regarding metering devices for water, gas, and electricity service. Review recent examples of inaccurate or confusing billings and offer recommendations on appropriate consumer recourse and appeal. In addition, assess utility procedures regarding meter installation.
8.	Examine state and local laws applicable to undocumented immigrants throughout the State of Texas and analyze the effects of those laws in conjunction with federal immigration laws and the policies and practices followed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
9.	Examine payroll deductions from state or political subdivision employees for the purpose of labor organization membership dues or fees as well as charitable organization and nonprofit contributions. Determine if this process is an appropriate use of public funds.
10.	Monitor the impact of major State Affairs legislation passed by the 84th Legislature, including updates regarding recent contracting reforms. Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction and the implementing of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee:	House Urban Affairs
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Affordable housing | Electronic security | Emergency management | Fair housing | Housing | Housing and Community Affairs, Texas Department of | Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of | Low Income Housing Tax Credit program | Municipalities | Municipally-owned utilities | Natural disasters | Personal care homes |
Library Call Number:	L1836.84 UR1
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View report [121 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the effectiveness and efficiency of current programs in Texas as well as best practices to determine how to decrease the risk and mitigate the impact of wildfires, floods, and other natural hazards in the wildland-urban interface. Examine the duties, performance, and jurisdictions of water districts, municipalities, Emergency Services Districts, other similar districts, and state offices like the Fire Marshal and Extension Services. Evaluate current regulations and identify best practices. Recommend approaches for hazard mitigation and response to natural disasters. (Joint charge with the House Committee on County Affairs)
2.	Identify and address potential gaps in cities’ cybersecurity policy and ensure that personal information held by cities and other municipal entities is secure.
3.	Examine whether changes are needed to the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs’s (TDHCA) low-income tax credit program to ensure compliance with the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs et al. v. Inclusive Communities Project, Inc., et al. on fair housing in Texas.
4.	Review existing housing programs and policies in Texas to determine how to best comply with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's new Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Rules.
5.	Monitor and evaluate the availability of low-income housing in the State of Texas. Identify best practices to ensure that the agencies and local providers receiving state or federal funds for low-income housing are maximizing the number of units of housing available to Texans who need this program.
6.	Investigate the operation and regulation, including a review of standards, monitoring, and enforcement, of boarding homes in municipalities and unincorporated areas of counties. Identify communities that have adopted local standards, and review procedures for investigating and closing unlicensed facilities that are providing services which require state licensure. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Human Services)
7.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies, including the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, and programs under the committee's jurisdiction and the implementing of relevant legislation passed by the 84th Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Urban Affairs
Title:	Committee handouts and testimony, January 20, 2016 (Cybersecurity)
Library Call Number:
Session:	84th R.S. (2015)
Online version:	View document [17 pages  File size: 700 kb]
Committee:	House Business and Industry
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Automobile repairs | Consumer credit and debt | Consumer Credit Commissioner, Office of | Electronic security | Employees | Identity theft | Independent contractors | Liens | Theft | Wages | Workers' compensation | Workforce | Workforce Commission, Texas |
Library Call Number:	L1836.83 B964
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View report [66 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the voluntary nature of workers' compensation in Texas and how it meets the needs of employers and employees.
2.	Review existing lien laws in Texas. Specifically: a. Examine laws concerning the enforcement of contract liens affecting real property. Identify improvements, if any, that will enhance the certainty of title following sale, enhance ability to ensure that sales are conducted by qualified trustees, prevent unnecessary litigation, facilitate loss mitigation between borrowers and sellers, and protect the interests of homeowners, lenders and trustees. b. Study the imposition of mechanics' liens on automobiles and its impact on mechanics, car owners and purchasers, and lenders. c. Review ad valorem tax lien lending after the implementation of SB 247, 83rd R.S. and the impact on homeowners, taxing authorities, mortgage lenders, and tax lien lenders. Review the procedures and powers of the Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner to ensure compliance with SB 247.
3.	Study the impact of SB 1024,82 R.S. on wage theft and law enforcement's and regulatory agencies' responses to wage theft claims. Recommend changes if necessary.
4.	Examine the issue of misclassifying employees as independent contractors on workers, employers, income tax withholding, and the unemployment insurance system. Review current statutory deterrents, including those equired by HB 2015, 83rd R.S., and make recommendations for changes if necessary.
5.	Study the impact of credit card data theft and other credit or privacy information theft on Texas consumers and businesses.
6.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 83rd Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Supporting documents
Committee:	House Business and Industry
Title:	Committee meeting handouts and testimony, March 27, 2014 (Texas economy, oil and gas industry, credit card data theft)
Library Call Number:
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View document [84 pages  File size: 18,486 kb]
Committee:	Senate Government Organization
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Comptroller of Public Accounts, Texas | Council on Competitive Government | Electronic security | Employees Retirement System of Texas | Facilities Commission, Texas | Information Resources, Texas Department of | Library & Archives Commission, Texas State | Lottery Commission, Texas | State agencies | State agency mandated reports | State government contracts | State purchasing | United Healthcare |
Library Call Number:	L1836.83 G747o
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View report [200 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Examine state agencies’ mandated reporting practices, the necessity and utility of these reports, and reporting processes to the legislature and to the public. Make recommendations on eliminating unnecessary and duplicative reports, reducing state costs through the use of technology, and improving transparency to the legislature and citizens.
2.	Review and recommend improvements to state agency training, policies, and procedures for monitoring and reporting performance of state contracts, including a review of exemptions to state contracting oversight.
3.	Monitor the implementation of SB 1597, relating to the development of state agency information security plans to improve the security of agency information systems and to proactively protect the state against cybercrime and similar security threats.
Committee:	House Technology
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Business climate | Cellular telephones | e-government | Electronic security | High tech industry | Identity theft | Information Resources, Texas Department of | Internet | Patents | State government contracts | Traffic safety | Transportation, Texas Department of | Video games |
Library Call Number:	L1836.83 T227
Session:	83rd R.S. (2013)
Online version:	View report [113 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the current laws, rules, and processes in place for the Department of Information Resources's Cooperative Contracts and recommend improvements to the 84th Legislature. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Government Efficiency and Reform)
2.	Examine the public's accessibility to government services and agencies through the use of mobile applications and online services. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Government Efficiency and Reform)
3.	Study the feasibility of an integrated identity management program (IIMP) for state agencies. Examine best practices in the deployment of technology to safeguard state data and programs, limit fraudulent or unauthorized access to state hardware and software, and develop a secure state digital infrastructure. Determine potential savings to the state and make further recommendations on the implementation of IIMP that encompass both logical and physical security.
4.	Study whether abuses in the patent system interfere with the goal of expanded opportunity and innovation for Texas businesses and whether actions by the state can address any such abuses.
5.	Evaluate Texas's competitiveness with other states in recruiting and cultivating the software industry, including entertainment software; fostering economic development; and creating potential new jobs. Examine current incentives and regulations and whether these assist or hinder the expansion of the entertainment software industry in Texas.
6.	Review state regulatory and tax policy to ensure that investment in technology infrastructure, goods, and services is unfettered and that Texas is able to capitalize on innovation to fuel additional job growth, business expansion, and investment. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Ways and Means)
7.	Monitor and review the efforts of the Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) Texas Technology Task Force (TTTF). The TTTF shall study emerging transportation, communication, and computing technologies and determine physical infrastructure and system components that TxDOT or other state departments would need to provide to enable selected technologies. The task is to be completed by TTTF as directed by SB 1, 83rd R.S., item 44, Article VII-31. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Transportation)
8.	Conduct legislative oversight and monitoring of the agencies and programs under the committee’s jurisdiction and the implementation of relevant legislation passed by the 83rd Legislature. In conducting this oversight, the committee should: a. consider any reforms to state agencies to make them more responsive to Texas taxpayers and citizens; b. identify issues regarding the agency or its governance that may be appropriate to investigate, improve, remedy, or eliminate; c. determine whether an agency is operating in a transparent and efficient manner; and d. identify opportunities to streamline programs and services while maintaining the mission of the agency and its programs.
Committee:	Senate Administration
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	e-government | Electronic security | Records management | Senate Committee on Administration | Senate, Texas State | Social media | State Preservation Board | Texas Legislature Online |
Library Call Number:	L1836.82 Ad85
Session:	82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version:	View report [12 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Continue to develop and implement cost efficiencies in the structure and operation of Senate offices and committees. Make recommendations for improving office functions and procedures and for enhancing services to Senators, the Lieutenant Governor, and members of the public.
2.	Review the online legislative resources available to the Legislature and the public, and make recommendations to enhance availability and transparency of governmental information. Ensure that any recommendations include safeguards to make certain that only reliable and appropriate resource information and official public documents are made available, that official documents are not readily manipulated by external entities, and that any information is maintained in a manner consistent with records retention requirements.
3.	Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Administration, 82nd Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation.
Committee:	Senate Government Organization
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Competitive bidding | Electronic security | Energy conservation | Information Resources, Texas Department of | Rules and regulations | State purchasing |
Library Call Number:	L1836.82 G747o
Session:	82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version:	View report [36 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Investigate the costs and benefits of cost-­effectiveness analysis in state agency rule making and consider the development of cost-­effectiveness standards for all state agencies.
2.	Examine ways to ensure the protection of state information and electronic data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
3.	Study the state bidding process, auto-­renew clauses in contracts, and contract management protocols to ensure truly competitive bidding and the highest-­quality service for taxpayers at the best price.
4.	Evaluate state policy regarding energy savings performance contracts and determine whether policy changes are needed to ensure that state agencies and institutions of higher education obtain their contractually guaranteed savings so that all contract costs are recovered.
5.	Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Government Organization, 82nd Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation.
Committee:	Senate Open Government, Select
Title:	Interim Report
Subjects:	Attorney General opinions | Electronic security | Email | Historical records | Open records requests and decisions | Public Information Act, Texas | Records management |
Library Call Number:	L1836.82 Op2
Session:	82nd R.S. (2011)
Online version:	View report [22 pages]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Evaluate the need for revisions to the Public Information Act to address changes in the performance of public functions and make recommendations for changes. Specifically, consider the following: the use of new technologies and future technological advances as relates to the creation of public information; the extent to which the Public Information Act impacts third-party contractors with state and local government; the need to codify or clarify existing Attorney General opinions.
2.	Examine the effectiveness of security measures used to protect electronic information held by state agencies and make recommendations for enhancing security, if needed.
3.	Review record retention policies for state and local governments and make recommendations for improvements to record retention schedules and policies, including e-­mail retention and archiving requirements. Consider the benefits and disadvantages of creating a uniform record retention policy.
4.	Study ways to define and address frivolous and/or overly-burdensome open records requests. Include an analysis of appropriate cost recovery by governmental entities for expenses and time related to responding to requests, while ensuring the public has adequate access to public information.
Committee:	House Business and Industry
Title:	Interim Report
Library Catalog Title:	House Committee on Business & Industry, Texas House of Representatives interim report, 2008 : a report to the House of Representatives, 81st Texas Legislature
Subjects:	Copyright | Electronic security | Film industry | Identity theft | Illegal video recordings | Music | Public information | Publishers and publishing | Workers' compensation |
Library Call Number:	L1836.80 B964
Session:	80th R.S. (2007)
Online version:	View report [69 pages  File size: 7,294 kb]
Charges:	This report should address the charges below.
1.	Study the problem of identity theft and the impact of legislation enacted in recent legislative sessions. Examine the problem of electronic data breaches, as well as the feasibility of requiring periodic destruction of records for businesses and state entities to limit exposure to identity theft. Examine the issue of personal information contained in publicly available government records. Recommend any legislative changes needed to combat the problem.
2.	Study Articles 2 and 2A of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and consider amending Chapters 2 and 2A of the Business and Commerce Code to conform with recent amendments to the UCC.
3.	Study the original purposes, development, and the current need for the Subsequent Injury Fund and determine whether this fund should be continued or altered.
4.	Study the problem of digital piracy and make recommendations for legislative changes to address the problem facing move producers and distributors, retailers, book publishers, the music industry, universities, and other copyright holders of creative content. This review should include an examination of the impact on state and local government sales tax revenues.
5.	Monitor the Texas workers' compensation system, and the continued implementation of the reforms of HB 7, 79th R.S., by the Texas Department of Insurance and other state agencies. Specifically evaluate the recent decision by the Texas Supreme Court in Entergy v. Summers in terms of its impact on the system. (Joint Interim Charge with the House Committee on Insurance.)
6.	Monitor the agencies and programs under the committee's jurisdiction.

* This represents an abstract of the report contents. Charge text is incomplete or unavailable.

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