SB 1585 – Ban foreign tech in contracts

SB 1585 helps shield Texas taxpayers from security risks by preventing state and local governments from contracting with technology firms connected to hostile foreign nations like China. By barring these “scrutinized companies,” the bill ensures taxpayer money isn’t funding entities that could jeopardize infrastructure, compromise personal data, or undermine national or economic security. The bill includes strict verification processes and strong enforcement, including civil penalties and criminal charges for bad actors. It limits the state’s exposure to economic and security risks while encouraging the use of domestic or allied vendors. This is a common-sense safeguard that defends taxpayer resources and public safety without creating new government programs.