Houston attorney advocates for Texas HB 149 to regulate artificial intelligence

On May 1, 2025, the Texas Senate Committee on Business and Commerce convened to discuss House Bill 149 (HB 149), a proposed legislation aimed at regulating artificial intelligence (AI) in the state. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for updated regulations to address the evolving landscape of AI technology and its implications for Texas.

One of the key testimonies came from a Houston attorney who strongly supported HB 149, emphasizing two main points: the necessity for Texan leadership in AI and the need to modernize the existing regulatory framework. The attorney argued that the bill promotes a human-centric approach to AI deployment, aligning with Texas values such as liberty, personal responsibility, and free enterprise. He expressed concern that without proper regulation, Texas could become a haven for "bad AI actors" who exploit the current lack of oversight.

The attorney described the current state of AI development in Texas as akin to the "wild west," where accountability is often absent. He asserted that HB 149 would establish a regulatory framework that holds AI systems accountable, ensuring that they operate within a set of ethical guidelines that reflect the state's core values.

In addition to this testimony, Ann Bedorin from Texas Appleseed also spoke in favor of the bill, indicating that her organization has been involved in early stakeholder discussions regarding AI regulation. While her testimony did not express opposition, it underscored the importance of the committee's ongoing examination of AI issues.

The discussions during the meeting reflect a growing recognition among Texas lawmakers of the need to address the complexities introduced by AI technologies. As the state continues to navigate the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, the passage of HB 149 could signify a pivotal step towards establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework that balances innovation with accountability.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of these discussions will likely resonate throughout Texas, shaping the future of AI regulation and its impact on businesses and consumers alike. The next steps will involve further deliberations and potential amendments to the bill, as stakeholders continue to engage in the legislative process.