Texas AI Conference Highlights Legislative Challenges

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Participants engaging in discussions on the regulatory landscape of AI at the Dallas conference.

News Summary

The Convergence AI Dallas conference gathered over 750 professionals to discuss the regulatory landscape surrounding artificial intelligence in Texas. Key topics included Texas’s proposed Artificial Intelligence Governance Act and House Bill 149, aimed at establishing clearer regulations and protections for AI technology. Experts emphasized the importance of navigating the complex and fragmented regulatory environment, while comparisons were made with AI legislation in California and Colorado. The event showcased the growing significance of AI innovation in Texas, suggesting the state’s potential leadership in shaping future AI regulations.

Irving, Texas – The Convergence AI Dallas conference convened over 750 professionals, featuring in-depth discussions on the regulatory landscape surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). The conference placed significant focus on Texas’s proposed legislative measures, notably the Texas Artificial Intelligence Governance Act, which aims to address the complexities of AI compliance for businesses.

The session titled “The AI Policy Landscape: What You Need to Know” was led by Brad Weber from Troutman Pepper Locke and Rebekah Chenelle, Vice President of Public Policy at the Dallas Regional Chamber. Chenelle emphasized that organizations implementing AI are currently navigating a “patchwork of emerging rules.” This fragmented regulatory environment complicates compliance processes and puts companies at a competitive disadvantage.

During the event, Texas State Representative Giovanni Capriglione introduced H.B. 149, a bill designed to establish a regulatory sandbox and create the Texas Artificial Intelligence Council. The legislation mandates clear consumer disclosures for interactions involving AI and introduces protections for biometric data without requiring consent. Currently, H.B. 149 has secured passage in the Texas House and is now awaiting deliberation in the Senate.

Weber provided a comparative analysis of AI legislation in other states, particularly focusing on California and Colorado. In 2024, California’s Assembly passed a comprehensive AI bill; however, it was vetoed by Governor Gavin Newsom in response to industry backlash. Following this veto, California has shifted its focus to narrower legislative measures targeting specific issues, such as deepfake technology and healthcare disclosures.

Conversely, Colorado has achieved distinction as the first state to pass a complete AI law, set to take effect in January 2026. Nevertheless, discussions are already underway in Colorado to potentially relax certain restrictions amidst concerns regarding stifled innovation.

Weber suggested that the Texas bill has the potential to serve as a model for other states and to inform forthcoming federal legislation, particularly under the guidance of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, who remains attentive to developments in Texas.

The conference’s notable attendance and the participation of 75 expert speakers illustrate the growing significance of AI innovation in Texas. Several companies are now advised to closely monitor ongoing state AI legislative activities that may influence their data privacy and cybersecurity practices.

A recent major development includes a House bill that addresses the misuse of generative AI in creating deepfakes and illicit materials. This bill has passed with overwhelming support and is anticipated to receive President Trump’s signature shortly.

The proposed Texas Responsible AI Governance Act (TRAIGA) seeks to enhance oversight of high-risk AI systems. Should it be enacted, TRAIGA will enforce a risk-based framework establishing specific obligations for AI developers, deployers, and distributors. The act is aimed at regulating systems that make significant joint decisions and banning the deployment of certain AI applications deemed excessively risky.

TRAIGA incorporates exemptions for research initiatives and small businesses while also proposing an AI workforce grant program to support affected sectors. The enforcement of TRAIGA would fall under the jurisdiction of the Texas Attorney General, who would be granted the authority to issue penalties for any non-compliance.

The future of TRAIGA remains uncertain, with the potential for significant amendments as legislative conversations progress. The ongoing efforts to regulate AI in Texas reflect a broader national trend as states grapple with the challenging requirements of overseeing and complying with AI technologies.