Governor Greg Abbott has announced the creation of a Texas Cyber Command, a top priority for the 89th Legislative Session.

The announcement comes as cybersecurity threats continue to rise across America.

“A problem that’s on the rise dramatically, in the state of Texas and, candidly, across the country, is the number of cyberattacks. These cyberattacks in just the past week or so have hit a city, it hit a hospital, it hit a prominent business, and this happens week after week, and it is increasing,” Abbott said.

According to a news release from Abbott’s office, The Texas Cyber Command will be headquartered in San Antonio, with help from the UTSA’s cybersecurity programs and partnerships with state and federal agencies, to build a stronger digital defense network.

However, Abbott’s vision for the Texas Cyber Command extends far beyond responding to cyber threats.

The command center will also establish a comprehensive strategy to protect Texas’ digital infrastructure. One key part of the strategy will be the development of technology to detect and prevent cyberattacks before they hit the Lone Star State.  By staying ahead of these risks, the Texas Cyber Command hopes to secure various parts of the state’s infrastructure against potential disruptions.

In addition to tech defense, the Texas Cyber Command will focus on educating the workforce and raising cybersecurity awareness throughout the state. The effort will rely on expanding educational programs in partnership with universities and tech companies to ensure that a skilled cybersecurity workforce grows to support the command center.

According to Abbott’s office, when cyberattacks do occur, the Texas Cyber Command will coordinate a response, focusing on recovery, forensic analysis, and damage mitigation from any potential attacks.

By leveraging resources and tech expertise from every corner of the state, the command center hopes to ensure that all sectors, whether in energy, healthcare, or defense, are protected against the growing threat of cyberattacks in America.

“We cannot let any more time go without strongly, robustly addressing this problem. And that is why I am calling for an emergency item to create the Texas Cyber Command to better secure our state from cyberattacks,” Abbott added.