The Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) has launched a new website modernization webpage to serve as a centralized resource for state agencies and institutions of higher education working to improve their public-facing websites and digital services.
According to DIR, the webpage is intended to support agencies as they plan, implement and sustain modern websites that are easier to use, faster and accessible to all users. The page brings together guidance, tools and implementation resources agencies can use throughout the website modernization process, from initial assessment to ongoing management.
The webpage also outlines requirements tied to House Bill 5195, legislation passed by the 89th Texas Legislature that directs state agencies, including institutions of higher education, to assess and improve their websites and digital service portals. The bill focuses on accessibility, navigation, usability and efficiency, with an emphasis on creating a more consistent digital experience across state government.
DIR’s website modernization materials highlight required website best practices under the law, including the use of responsive design, improvements to search functionality and page load speed, and adoption of standardized website templates. The webpage includes guidance and a request process for agencies seeking DIR’s website templates and design system.
In addition to state requirements, the webpage references updated federal accessibility rules under the Americans with Disabilities Act. DIR notes that state and local government websites are required to meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 at the AA level by April 2026 and links agencies to statewide accessibility tools and resources to support compliance.
The website modernization effort is also connected to HB 5195’s legislative reporting requirements through the 2026 Information Resources Deployment Review. Under the bill, DIR is required to submit a report to the Legislature detailing the status of state agencies’ digital modernization efforts. DIR has indicated it will use information collected through agencies’ responses to the Deployment Review to assist with development of that report. Agency responses are due March 31.
DIR Launches Website Modernization Hub for State Agencies
What to Know:
- DIR has launched a new website modernization webpage that centralizes resources for state agencies and institutions of higher education.
- Information collected from agencies through a statewide technology review will be used by DIR to help report on digital modernization efforts required by House Bill 5195.
- That bill requires DIR to report to the Legislature on the status of state agencies’ digital modernization efforts.
