State-mandated artificial intelligence and cybersecurity training due August 31, 2026

Texas Government Code Section 2054.5191 mandates artificial intelligence and cybersecurity training for local government employees, elected officials, and appointed officials who have access to a local government computer system or database. The Pool provides training through a video or podcast that is certified by the Texas Department of Information Resources. The training must be completed by August 31, 2026. Click on the link below to learn more.

H.B. 4144 critical illness coverage

Any city or other political subdivision that has at least 50 firefighters or peace officers, respectively, is subject to House Bill 4144 (2025).

The bill applies to a firefighter or peace officer who retires from a fire department or law enforcement agency with at least 50 firefighters or peace officers, respectively, and requires the affected city or other political subdivision to provide a firefighter or peace officer with a “critical illness supplemental income benefit or comparable health benefit plan coverage” of up to $100,000 if they are diagnosed with one of 11 cancers, a heart attack, or a stroke within three years of retirement.

As a service to Members, the Pool has competitively procured an insurance product that satisfies the bill’s requirements. For Members’ convenience, the Pool serves as a master policy holder for the coverage, which is provided by MetLife and administered by AmWins Group Benefits. Click the link below to learn more.