Texas passed a wave of AI legislation during its 2025 legislative session, with multiple bills clearing both chambers and taking effect September 1, 2025. From comprehensive AI system regulation to healthcare automation rules and deepfake prohibitions, the Lone Star State is rapidly building a regulatory framework that touches every industry. Texas is currently tracking 40 AI-related bills; this guide covers the laws most likely to affect business operations.
Current Data
Currently tracking 40 bills in Texas. 0 enacted, 5 in committee. Data updates automatically.
Comprehensive AI Regulation: HB 149 (Effective January 1, 2026)
House Bill 149 is Texas's broadest AI law, regulating the use of artificial intelligence systems statewide and establishing civil penalties for violations. The bill passed both chambers during the 89th Regular Session and takes effect January 1, 2026. It spans multiple industries including technology, healthcare, consumer protection, finance, and housing, making it one of the most far-reaching state AI laws enacted in 2025.
Who Is Covered
Any organization deploying AI systems in Texas across the regulated sectors. The bill's scope covers both developers and deployers of AI systems used in consequential decisions affecting Texans.
Government AI Regulation: SB 1964 (Effective September 1, 2025)
Senate Bill 1964 regulates the use of AI systems and data management by Texas governmental entities. The bill passed both chambers and establishes a framework for how state and local government agencies may adopt, procure, and oversee AI tools. Organizations contracting with Texas government agencies for AI-related services should monitor compliance requirements closely. See our Texas AI laws page for the latest status.
AI Division at DIR: HB 2818 (Effective September 1, 2025)
House Bill 2818 establishes a dedicated artificial intelligence division within the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR). This new division will provide centralized AI oversight, guidance, and coordination for state agencies. For businesses that supply technology to Texas government, HB 2818 signals a shift toward more structured AI procurement and oversight standards.
Government AI Training: HB 3512 (Effective September 1, 2025)
House Bill 3512 mandates AI training programs for employees and officials of state agencies and local governments. Public-sector workers who interact with AI tools will be required to complete training on responsible AI use, risk identification, and ethical considerations. Vendors providing AI training services to Texas government agencies may see increased demand.
Healthcare AI: SB 815 (Effective September 1, 2025)
Senate Bill 815 regulates the use of automated systems in the health benefit claims process and addresses adverse determinations made using AI. Health insurers and benefit plans operating in Texas must ensure that automated decision-making in claims processing complies with new transparency and oversight requirements. The bill includes specific compliance deadlines and penalties for non-compliance. See our AI in healthcare guide.
Automated Vehicles: SB 2807 (Effective September 1, 2025)
Senate Bill 2807 creates a comprehensive regulatory framework for automated motor vehicles in Texas, including the creation of a criminal offense for certain violations. The bill passed both chambers and covers definitions for automated vehicles, operational regulations, and safety standards. Companies developing or deploying autonomous vehicles in Texas should review these requirements carefully.
Deepfake and Synthetic Media Laws
| Bill | Scope | Status | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| HB 3133 | Deepfake reporting on social media | Passed (Eff. 9/1/25) | Social media platforms must address user reports of explicit deep fake material |
| HB 449 | Deepfake sexually explicit media | Vetoed | Would have prohibited producing/distributing deep fake sexually explicit media without consent |
| SB 1960 | Digital replication rights | In Committee | Private causes of action for unauthorized use of voice and visual likeness |
See our deepfake laws by state tracker for current status across all states.
What's Regulated: Key Themes
- Comprehensive AI systems: HB 149 establishes broad regulation of AI deployments with civil penalties
- Government AI use: SB 1964, HB 2818, and HB 3512 create a three-part framework for government AI adoption, oversight, and training
- Healthcare automation: SB 815 restricts AI in health claims decisions; SB 1822 targets AI algorithms in utilization review
- Autonomous vehicles: SB 2807 and SB 2425 regulate automated driving and create criminal offenses
- Deepfakes and digital likeness: HB 3133, HB 449, and SB 1960 address synthetic media and digital replication rights
- Insurance AI: HB 4635 requires disclosure when AI is used to deny insurance claims
- Employment AI: HB 5118 studies automated employment decision tools used by employers and state agencies
Compliance Checklist for Texas
| Company Type | Highest Priority Laws |
|---|---|
| AI system developers/deployers | HB 149 (comprehensive AI regulation) |
| Government contractors / vendors | SB 1964, HB 2818, HB 3512 (government AI framework) |
| Health insurers / benefit plans | SB 815 (automated claims decisions) |
| Autonomous vehicle companies | SB 2807 (automated vehicle regulation) |
| Social media platforms | HB 3133 (deepfake reporting) |
| Insurance companies | HB 4635 (AI claim denial disclosure) |
| Employers using AI hiring tools | HB 5118 (automated employment decisions study) |
For a complete index of Texas AI legislation, visit our Texas AI laws page.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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