DPS oversees the Texas Data Exchange, the Texas Crime Information Center and the combined DNA index system, among other systems.
Here is more information about the agency, including who leads it, how many staff the department employs and what the department does as a whole:
FAST FACTS
Budget: The recently passed budget bill for Fiscal Years 2026-2027 grants DPS a total biennial budget of $3.8 billion, $134 million of which have been allocated for IT capital items.
Leadership: Jessica Ballew is the department’s chief information officer; she assumed the role in September 2024.
The agency is overseen by the Public Safety Commission, which is comprised of five members appointed by the governor.
Staff: DPS has nearly 11,000 employees.
Below are several tech-related goals listed in the department’s FY 2025-2029 agency strategic plan:
- Provide integrated statewide public safety intelligence
- Eliminate redundant and non-core functions
- Proactively implement short-term capabilities with little to no additional resources or funding needed
- Incorporate new and innovative technologies into regulatory services
- Upgrade mission-critical systems
- Maintain and enhance the Driver License System
- Eliminate the need for mainframe computers by FY 2025
- Mature the Enterprise Data Management office to improve data governance
- Continue developing a diverse and professional cybersecurity program
DPS CIO Ballew will headline an Industry Insider — Texas member briefing at 9:30 a.m. July 23 in Austin. For information on attending, contact Lauren Schoenberger.
