Texas is stepping up its privacy enforcement in 2026. The Texas Attorney General’s Office is leading these efforts. They focus on key areas. Children’s data protection is a top priority. Artificial intelligence governance is also crucial. This proactive stance signals a major shift. It highlights a strong focus on consumer data. Emerging technologies are also under scrutiny.
Texas AG’s Privacy Push
The Texas Attorney General’s Office has formed a significant team. This team is dedicated to privacy enforcement. It is one of the largest state-level units in the nation. Attorney General Ken Paxton has pledged strong action. He promises to “double down to protect privacy rights.” Texas aims for a leading national role. Enforcement efforts began in June 2024. The AG’s office has been active since then. It has issued letters and filed lawsuits. Settlements have also been secured. Texas is not waiting. It actively enforces new privacy laws. This shows a commitment to consumer protection.
Key Legislation Driving Enforcement
Several new laws are shaping Texas’s privacy landscape. The Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA) became effective in July 2024. It establishes a comprehensive framework. This framework is similar to laws in other states. The TDPSA requires explicit consent for certain data. This includes location data. It is a major enforcement priority. The state also enacted the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act. This law took effect on January 1, 2026. It sets rules for AI development and use. The law applies to businesses operating in Texas. It also covers those with products used by Texans. AI systems must not incite harm. They cannot discriminate. They also cannot infringe on constitutional rights. Furthermore, AI cannot be used for illegal deepfakes. It cannot simulate child pornography. New laws also address app stores. The Texas App Store Accountability Act (TASAA) also took effect January 1, 2026. It places obligations on app developers and stores. These include age ratings for apps and purchases. Age verification is a key component. Parental consent is also required for minors. This law faced legal challenges. A federal judge temporarily blocked parts of it. Critics argued it was unconstitutionally vague. They also cited free speech concerns. However, proponents remain confident. They believe the law will ultimately prevail.
Focus on Children’s Data Protection
Protecting children’s data is a critical focus. The Texas AG’s office is concentrating on this area. Several laws aim to enhance child privacy. The App Store Accountability Act is one. It requires parental consent. It also mandates age verification. However, legal battles surround some child-focused laws. For example, the App Store Accountability Act faces constitutional challenges. Another law, the Securing Children Online Through Parental Empowerment Act, is also struggling. It faces significant legal hurdles. Despite these challenges, Texas still has laws for children’s privacy. HB 1181 regulates children’s exposure to pornography. This law has survived litigation. The federal Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) also applies.
AI Governance Takes Center Stage
The Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act (TRAIGA) is a landmark law. It became effective January 1, 2026. This legislation creates a robust AI regulatory framework. It applies to businesses developing or deploying AI systems. TRAIGA prohibits certain AI uses. These include inciting harm or discrimination. It also bans AI for creating child pornography or deepfakes. The law requires clear disclosures. Businesses interacting with consumers must disclose AI use. Deceptive “dark patterns” are prohibited. TRAIGA also establishes a regulatory sandbox program. This allows companies to test AI innovations safely. The Texas Attorney General enforces TRAIGA. Significant civil penalties are possible.
Implications for Businesses and Consumers
These privacy and AI laws have significant implications. Businesses must adapt quickly. They need to understand new compliance obligations. This includes data handling practices. It also covers AI development and deployment. Companies should engage with enforcement officials. Dialogue can ensure compliance. Texas offers a “right to cure” provision. This allows companies to fix violations. It can prevent charges from being filed. Consumers benefit from stronger protections. Their data is more secure. They have greater transparency regarding AI. The state’s proactive stance aims to balance innovation with protection. These efforts position Texas as a key player in national privacy discussions. The trends show a move towards issue-based concerns. Children’s privacy and AI use are prominent examples. Companies must stay informed. They need to adjust strategies accordingly. The landscape is evolving rapidly. Staying compliant is essential for success. This top news highlights Texas’s commitment. Trending privacy issues are addressed head-on. Texas is setting a precedent.
