The Texas House of Representatives has formed a new committee to investigate the advancements in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies (AI/ET). The committee, named the House Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technologies, is will be conducting an extensive review of these technologies and their potential impacts on Texas.
According to a proclamation from the House, the committee was officially established on April 2 and will consist of five members - Representatives Giovanni Capriglione, who will serve as chair, Jeff Leach, Oscar Longoria, Angelia Orr, and Armando Walle.
The proclamation says that the committee will assess the current state of these technologies and their potential uses in both the public and private sectors. It will also focus on implications for employment, healthcare, homeland and national security, and transportation. This review aims to assist lawmakers in identifying future policies to ensure safe and ethical deployment of these technologies moving forward.
As per the proclamation's details, the committee is expected to submit its initial report on or before May 16, 2024.
In an April 2 post on X platform, House Representative Leach expressed gratitude towards Speaker Dade Phelan for his appointment as a member of the committee. "As the productive uses of AI continue to grow, so do the consequences. Concerns over data privacy and cybersecurity have become major implications in the advancement of so many emerging technologies and it’s time we truly weigh the benefits and drawbacks. I look forward to joining my fellow committee members in examining how Texas can be a leader in AI technology while also ensuring its responsible use," said Leach.
Last week, the President and CEO of Texas Association of Business Glenn Hamer praised the establishment of this committee stating: "The Texas business community continues to embrace advancements in the technology sector as it allows us to maximize opportunities for economic growth and job creation. We commend Speaker Phelan for taking this important step to ensure that future policy decisions regarding AI and emerging technologies will continue to cultivate an economic environment that encourages economic growth and job creation for Texas."
