The bill, introduced by Senator Menndez as S.B. No. 1686, mandates the cybersecurity council to conduct a comprehensive study on the cybersecurity measures of school districts in Texas. The study aims to identify ways for school districts to enhance their protection against cybersecurity threats and manage the increasing costs associated with cybersecurity. The council is authorized to collaborate with nonprofit organizations or institutions of higher education to facilitate this study. Key areas of focus include current best practices, challenges in acquiring cybersecurity resources, the impact of past cybersecurity incidents, and emerging risks from new technologies.

The council is required to submit a report by September 1, 2026, detailing the findings of the study, including the financial burden of cybersecurity insurance on school districts, and providing recommendations for best practices to improve cybersecurity measures and manage costs. The bill is set to expire on September 1, 2027, and will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote in both houses; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.