The Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in the state, focusing on consumer rights, privacy, and ethical practices. The bill introduces new definitions and provisions regarding biometric identifiers, requiring individuals to be informed and provide consent for the capture or storage of their biometric data for commercial purposes. It also outlines the responsibilities of processors in assisting controllers with consumer rights requests and compliance with data security requirements. Additionally, the legislation emphasizes transparency and accountability in AI development, prohibiting manipulative practices and the use of AI for social scoring or biometric identification without consent.

Furthermore, the bill creates a regulatory sandbox program that allows for the testing of innovative AI systems under specific conditions, promoting safe use while balancing innovation with consumer protection. It establishes the Texas Artificial Intelligence Council to oversee ethical AI development and implementation, ensuring public safety and identifying regulatory barriers. The bill also amends sections of the Government Code to enhance the evaluation criteria for state agencies, incorporating assessments of cybersecurity practices and the use of AI systems. By September 1, 2026, the attorney general is required to provide relevant information online, with the new regulations taking effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Commerce Code 503.001, Government Code 325.011, Government Code 2054.068, Government Code 2054.0965 (Government Code 325, Government Code 2054, Commerce Code 503)
House Committee Report: Commerce Code 503.001, Commerce Code 541.104, Government Code 325.011, Government Code 2054.068, Government Code 2054.0965 (Government Code 325, Commerce Code 541, Government Code 2054, Commerce Code 503)
Engrossed: Commerce Code 503.001, Commerce Code 541.104, Government Code 325.011, Government Code 2054.068, Government Code 2054.0965 (Government Code 325, Commerce Code 541, Government Code 2054, Commerce Code 503)
Senate Committee Report: Commerce Code 503.001, Commerce Code 541.104, Government Code 325.011, Government Code 2054.068, Government Code 2054.0965 (Government Code 325, Commerce Code 541, Government Code 2054, Commerce Code 503)