TPWD's policy is built around the goal of leveraging AI to improve productivity and efficiency while maintaining compliance with state IT security and privacy laws. It defines artificial intelligence broadly and places a particular focus on generative AI tools such as chatbots, text summarizers and image generators. Employees are permitted to use approved AI tools for tasks such as drafting internal documents, summarizing content and assisting with code development, provided they follow established approval and usage protocols.
The department’s IT Division (ITD) is responsible for managing the policy and approving AI tools and use cases. Employees must request approval for any AI use, and ITD maintains an approved tools list. High-risk use cases, such as those involving confidential data, public communications or policy decisions, require elevated scrutiny. Use of AI for legal interpretations, human resources decisions or the generation of potentially misleading content is explicitly prohibited.
In addition to governance and risk classification, TPWD’s policy places emphasis on training and user accountability. All staff using AI must be trained and are responsible for verifying the accuracy of AI-generated outputs. Employees are also required to ensure that no sensitive or personally identifiable information is entered into AI tools without express authorization.
TPWD’s AI policy went into effect in early November. The department's internal approach arrives as the Texas Department of Information Resources moves forward with a proposed statewide AI Code of Ethics. That proposal outlines seven guiding principles for AI use in government, including fairness, transparency and accountability.
This story first appeared in Industry Insider — Texas, part of e.Republic, Government Technology’s parent company.
