Starting from January 1, 2026, Texas will become the third state in the United States to have Comprehensive legislation to regulate artificial intelligence (Artificial Intelligence) in the workplace and business environment. The new rule, called the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act (TRAIGA), was Signed by Governor Greg Abbott on June 22, 2025 and seeks to establish a legal framework for this Encouraging innovation without neglecting rights protection and transparency In using this technology.
Texas Responsible AI Governance Act It will lay the foundations for organizing development and Implementing artificial intelligence systems In companies and public institutions operating within the country. Unlike other legal frameworks, the Texas standard is designed to Promoting technological innovationwith a more flexible approach to compliance and a high level of proof to prove algorithmic discrimination.
Once it enters into force, The law will impose obligations on both developers and users of artificial intelligence systemswould prohibit the use of tools that generate bias or discrimination, and would create an environment for regulated experimentation in the United States.
According to the company DLA PiperTexas “Seeks to achieve a balance between enhancing technological competitiveness and preventing misuse”With procedures that will reach both the private sector and government agencies.
The new legal framework will affect everyone People and companies doing business in Texas Or that provide products or services Based on artificial intelligence For residents of the state. Covers the definition of “artificial intelligence system”. Any technology capable of generating results that affect physical or virtual environmentswhich includes everything from generative models to biometric systems.
Among the most important obligations established by the law are the following:
The unique feature of this law is that Discrimination or violation of rights will only be considered a punishable offense when there is an “intent” to commit it.. That is, it will not be sufficient for the algorithm to produce an unequal impact, but it must be proven that the developer or user acted with a discriminatory purpose.
One of TRAIGA’s most notable features, according to DLA Piper, is Establishing the first regulatory “sandbox” for artificial intelligence in the United Statesa controlled space where Companies will be able to test innovative applications Without having to immediately comply with all state licenses or permits.
The program will be managed by the Department of Information Resources (DIR) in collaboration with the new Texas Artificial Intelligence Council. Approved projects may run for 36 months A. will be subject to Continuous evaluation.
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