Monitoring the Session
Days

January 29, 2025

130 filed

HB 2246 · 89RNo flags

Bill changes Gulf of Mexico references in Texas law

Died in committeeReviewed
Rep. Briscoe Cain (R-128)
Details · HB 2246

Statutes and government materials would use Gulf of America.

DOORSTOP: 33,778 WORDS The bill as filed runs 33,778 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House State Affairs committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2242 · 89RNo flags

Dutton Bill Makes Constables Final Policy Makers In 1983 Suits

Did not passInitial review
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2242

People suing over a constable’s decisions skip the fight over who sets county policy.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 1920 (Died in committee) and this bill (Did not pass). Checked against 88R only.GOT HALFWAY Passed the House on May 14, 2025. Died in the Senate: received, never referred to a committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2241 · 89RSmells

Dutton Firearms Bill Bans Transfers, Except In A Locked Container

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2241

Private suits for at least $10,000 per weapon. If Chapter 171’s private suits fall, so does the ban.

The holeDelayed start
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 925 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2240 · 89RNo flags

bill changes when a second marriage becomes valid

Became lawInitial review
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2240

Today it turns valid once the first marriage ends and they keep living together.

INSTANT LAW Took effect immediately, on Jun 20, 2025. 833 of the 1,185 graded 89R laws took effect Sep 1, 2025 (derived from the bill histories, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).DO-OVER Reworked text of a bill filed before that died: 88R HB 3431 (Did not pass). Filed in 2 sessions, counting this one. Checked against 88R only.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2238 · 89RNo flags

Bill renames Confederate Heroes Day

Died in committeeReviewed
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2238

The holiday becomes Confederate Freedom Day. The date stays the same.

NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Delivery of Government Efficiency committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2237 · 89RSmells

Dutton Death Penalty Bill Leaves Final Death Sentences In Place

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2237

Life without parole becomes the top sentence. Pending and appealed cases are covered, final convictions aren’t.

The hole
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 918 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Criminal Jurisprudence committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2236 · 89RNo flags

chronically absent students count as at risk

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2236

Missing more than 10 percent of instructional time qualifies.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 4468 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Public Education committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2235 · 89RNo flags

unlawful restraint or seclusion by school workers counts as abuse

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2235

The definition becomes a numbered list with one new item.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 2029 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Criminal Jurisprudence subcommittee on Juvenile Justice. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2234 · 89RSmells

Dutton Bill Sends 17-Year-Olds To Juvenile Court Starting In 2027

Did not passNeeds review
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D-142)
Details · HB 2234

Every matching age cutoff moves up a year. Only for conduct on or after September 1, 2027.

Delayed start
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 828 (Died in committee) and this bill (Did not pass). Checked against 88R only.GOT HALFWAY Passed the House on May 16, 2025. Died in the Senate: received, never referred to a committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2231 · 89RNo flags

new decision rules for concrete batch plant permits

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Venton Jones (D-100)
Details · HB 2231

Applies after a public hearing on the standard air permit.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 94 by Rep. Jarvis Johnson (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Environmental Regulation committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2229 · 89RNo flags

statutory county courts can handle expunctions

Did not passInitial review
Rep. Ana Hernandez (D-143)
Details · HB 2229

For offenses those courts already hear.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 3260 by Rep. Herrero (Died in committee) and this bill (Did not pass). Checked against 88R only.GOT HALFWAY Passed the House on May 8, 2025. Died in the Senate: received, never referred to a committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2223 · 89RNo flags

Collier Bill Seals Eviction Records When The Tenant Wins

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Nicole Collier (D-95)
Details · HB 2223

Dismissed cases and appeals too. Screening companies that report a sealed case can be sued.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 1450 (Did not pass) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2222 · 89RNo flags

energy efficient schools program for buses, solar and batteries

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Ana Hernandez (D-143)
Details · HB 2222

Charter schools get into the oil overcharge loan program.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 1681 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Public Education committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2220 · 89RSmells

Kerwin Bill Changes Almost Nothing Until January 1, 2030

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Helen Kerwin (R-58)
Details · HB 2220

Until then, a comptroller report and planning help for school districts. Property tax repeal needs an amendment.

Delayed start
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 268 by Rep. Toth (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Ways & Means committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2216 · 89RNo flags

ending parental rights takes proof beyond a reasonable doubt

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Lacey Hull (R-138)
Details · HB 2216

Up from clear and convincing. Reasonable efforts become active efforts.

ACROSS THE AISLE Joint authors: 3 Republicans, 2 Democrats. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.GOT HALFWAY Passed the House on Apr 24, 2025. Died in the Senate: left pending in the Health & Human Services committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2215 · 89RNo flags

retired government lawyers get handgun carry exemptions

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Marc LaHood (R-121)
Details · HB 2215

Exempt from carry limits and the banned-places list.

ACROSS THE AISLE Joint authors: 4 Republicans, 1 Democrat. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.GOT HALFWAY Passed the House on May 13, 2025. Died in the Senate: never got out of the State Affairs committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2213 · 89RNo flags

new home-location rule for three windstorm board seats

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Rep. Ann Johnson (D-134)
Details · HB 2213

From 100 miles off the coast to outside the first tier coastal counties.

CROSS-PARTY HANDOFF Lead author Ann Johnson (D) in the House. Lead sponsor Mayes Middleton (R) in the Senate. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.QUICK READ: 91 WORDS The bill as filed runs 91 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2212 · 89RSmells

Film Bill Rebates Production Companies 25% Of Extra State Taxes

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Benjamin Bumgarner (R-63)
Details · HB 2212

The bill’s purpose section promises “successful competition with other states.” Tax money flows without a separate appropriation.

Pitch: Corporate welfareNew fee, fund, board or appointees
DOORSTOP: 6,521 WORDS The bill as filed runs 6,521 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Culture, Recreation & Tourism committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2211 · 89RNo flags

high school athletes can earn off their name and likeness

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Benjamin Bumgarner (R-63)
Details · HB 2211

Agents and lawyers allowed. Official league activities excluded.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 1802 by Rep. Capriglione (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Public Education committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2209 · 89RNo flags

jail hold of up to 7 days after bond

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Benjamin Bumgarner (R-63)
Details · HB 2209

Child death or serious injury cases. Up to 30 days after a confession.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 1906 by Rep. Stucky (Did not pass) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Criminal Jurisprudence committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2208 · 89RNo flags

toll invoices by certified mail

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Benjamin Bumgarner (R-63)
Details · HB 2208

First-class mail is out.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 4864 by Rep. Klick (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.PENDING FOREVER Heard by the House Transportation subcommittee on Transportation Funding on Apr 14, 2025 and left pending. Never voted out. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2207 · 89RNo flags

voters said no? Wait two years to ask again

Did not passInitial review
Rep. Benjamin Bumgarner (R-63)
Details · HB 2207

Applies to identical or substantially similar bond propositions.

STALLED AFTER COMMITTEE Voted out of the House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services committee 5-4 on Apr 9, 2025. Never placed on a calendar. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2205 · 89RNo flags

no phones during class time

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Benjamin Bumgarner (R-63)
Details · HB 2205

Smartphones, tablets, smart watches. School-issued devices are exempt.

NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Public Education committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2202 · 89RNo flags

Guillen Bill Sets 12-Month Food Stamp Eligibility, Monthly Random Checks

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Ryan Guillen (R-31)
Details · HB 2202

Denied households get checked too. A check-in report is due between months four and six.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 2836 by Rep. Walle (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Human Services committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2200 · 89RNo flags

natural organic reduction counts as cremation

Did not passInitial review
Rep. Ana Hernandez (D-143)
Details · HB 2200

A body becomes soil. Rules due December 1, 2025.

STALLED AFTER COMMITTEE Voted out of the House Public Health committee 7-5 on Apr 28, 2025. Taken up on the floor on May 12, 2025 and failed. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2199 · 89RNo flags

special ed funding by enrollment, not attendance

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Stan Lambert (R-71)
Details · HB 2199

Average enrollment replaces average daily attendance. The commissioner defines it.

NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Public Education committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2196 · 89RNo flags

Bell Bill Lets Districts And Charters Run Full-Time Virtual Campuses

Companion SB 569 became lawInitial review
Rep. Keith Bell (R-4)
Details · HB 2196

The State Virtual School Network is repealed. Virtual campuses get funding tied to enrollment.

DO-OVER Reworked text of a bill filed before that died: 88R HB 3141 by Rep. Ken King (Did not pass). Filed in 2 sessions, counting this one. Checked against 88R only.FEE INCLUDED The caption of the graded version (House committee report) reads: “relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.”

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2194 · 89RSmells

Lowe Bill’s 6.72% Value Added Tax Waits Until 2030

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. David Lowe (R-91)
Details · HB 2194

Sales tax repeal, school property tax ban: all in 2030. The ban also needs a constitutional amendment.

Delayed start
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 268 by Rep. Toth (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Ways & Means committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2193 · 89RSmells

Guillen Veterans Bill Orders A Study, Then Expires In 2027

Became lawReviewed
Rep. Ryan Guillen (R-31)
Details · HB 2193

Report due June 1, 2026. Hiring and new locations wait for future legislation.

Study, task force, commission, report
NO AUTOGRAPH Became law without the governor's signature on Jun 20, 2025.CROSS-PARTY HANDOFF Lead author Ryan Guillen (R) in the House. Lead sponsor José Menéndez (D) in the Senate. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2192 · 89RNo flags

fireworks sales in seven windows a year, statewide

Did not passInitial review
Rep. Janie Lopez (R-37)
Details · HB 2192

Counties lose their say over the extra periods.

ACROSS THE AISLE Joint authors: 3 Republicans, 2 Democrats. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.STALLED AFTER COMMITTEE Voted out of the House Intergovernmental Affairs committee 7-3 on Apr 28, 2025. Placed on the General State Calendar on May 15, 2025. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2191 · 89RNo flags

basic allotment rises with inflation every year

Died in committeeInitial review
Rep. Brooks Landgraf (R-81)
Details · HB 2191

Consumer Price Index, starting in the 2025-2026 school year.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 3700 by Rep. Bryant (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Public Education committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2190 · 89RNo flags

health care immunity leaves omissions protected

Died in committeeReviewed
Rep. Donna Howard (D-48)
Details · HB 2190

The exception names culpable acts. Omissions stay protected on the literal text.

Corrected Oct 31, 2026 We checked this summary against the bill text and fixed it.

NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the House Public Health committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2189 · 89RNo flags

free teaching materials for high school health-career courses

Did not passInitial review
Rep. Donna Howard (D-48)
Details · HB 2189

Starts 2026-2027. Plus a study on sharing lab space with colleges.

ACROSS THE AISLE Joint authors: 1 Republican, 4 Democrats. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.GOT HALFWAY Passed the House on May 8, 2025. Died in the Senate: received, never referred to a committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2188 · 89RSmells

Nurse Aide ‘Transition’ Bill Orders A Plan, Then Expires

Did not passInitial review
Rep. Donna Howard (D-48)
Details · HB 2188

Caption: transition. Bill: a plan and reports by December 1, 2026. The whole Act expires weeks later!

Study, task force, commission, reportCaption mismatchDelayed start
STALLED AFTER COMMITTEE Voted out of the House Public Health committee 13-0 on Apr 28, 2025. Placed on the General State Calendar on May 13, 2025. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

HB 2187 · 89RNo flags

nurse staffing reports go mandatory, retaliation banned

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Rep. Donna Howard (D-48)
Details · HB 2187

Health and Human Services Commission takes complaints. The attorney general can sue.

CROSS-PARTY HANDOFF Lead author Donna Howard (D) in the House. Lead sponsor Charles Perry (R) in the Senate. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 1010 · 89RNo flags

freestanding emergency rooms report stays over 48 hours

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Mayes Middleton (R-11)
Details · SB 1010

Every one goes to the Health and Human Services Commission.

QUICK READ: 141 WORDS The bill as filed runs 141 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Health & Human Services committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 1009 · 89RNo flags

Uniform Easement Relocation Act comes to Texas

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Mayes Middleton (R-11)
Details · SB 1009

Landowners can ask a court to move an easement. Utility easements excluded.

NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Business & Commerce committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 1001 · 89RSmells

Blanco Severance Tax Bill Starts Texas STRONG Fund In 2027

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. César Blanco (D-29)
Details · SB 1001

Some oil and gas tax money skips the rainy day and highway funds. Voters have to approve first.

Delayed start
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 2207 by Rep. Landgraf (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Finance committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 1000 · 89RNo flags

medical debt stays off credit reports

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. César Blanco (D-29)
Details · SB 1000

No matter when the debt was incurred.

NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Business & Commerce committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 999 · 89RNo flags

Medicaid plans help members with benefits paperwork

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. César Blanco (D-29)
Details · SB 999

Apply, renew and manage Medicaid, CHIP and other benefits.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 1695 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Health & Human Services committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 998 · 89RSmells

Zaffirini Bill’s Alzheimer’s Institute Can Grant Up To $300M A Year

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Judith Zaffirini (D-21)
Details · SB 998

A dedicated fund it can spend without further appropriation. Only if voters approve the amendment.

New fee, fund, board or appointees
DOORSTOP: 9,532 WORDS The bill as filed runs 9,532 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Finance committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 996 · 89RNo flags

one extra fireworks day: July 5, 2026

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Sen. Robert Nichols (R-3)
Details · SB 996

Retail permit holders sell for one more day.

QUICK READ: 107 WORDS The bill as filed runs 107 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 995 · 89RNo flags

TxDOT takes over oversize vehicle bond approvals

Became lawInitial review
Sen. Robert Nichols (R-3)
Details · SB 995

The comptroller and attorney general are out of it.

INSTANT LAW Took effect immediately, on Jun 20, 2025. 833 of the 1,185 graded 89R laws took effect Sep 1, 2025 (derived from the bill histories, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 994 · 89RNo flags

property tax break for feed store inventory

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Robert Nichols (R-3)
Details · SB 994

Animal feed for retail sale skips the tax. No amendment, no break.

BACK FROM THE DEAD Same text as a bill filed before that died: 88R HB 623 by Rep. Cody Harris (Died in committee). Filed in 2 sessions, counting this one. Checked against 88R only.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 993 · 89RNo flags

Nichols Bill Lets Comptroller Officers Seek Tracking Device Orders

Did not passInitial review
Sen. Robert Nichols (R-3)
Details · SB 993

Straight to a district judge, no other police agency needed. The judge still approves each order.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 1993 by Rep. Cody Harris (Died in committee) and this bill (Did not pass). Checked against 88R only.GOT HALFWAY Passed the Senate on Apr 10, 2025. Died in the House: voted out of the Criminal Jurisprudence committee 7-2, no floor vote.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 991 · 89RNo flags

chronically absent and truant students count as at risk

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-7)
Details · SB 991

Schools report chronic absence by campus.

BACK FROM THE DEAD Same text as a bill filed before that died: 88R SB 1888 (Died in committee). Filed in 2 sessions, counting this one. Checked against 88R only.CROSS-PARTY HANDOFF Lead author Paul Bettencourt (R) in the Senate. Lead sponsor Mary E. González (D) in the House. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 990 · 89RNo flags

capital murder of any child under 15

Did not passInitial review
Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-7)
Details · SB 990

Two age categories, under 10 and 10 to 14, become one.

GOT HALFWAY Passed the Senate on Mar 26, 2025. Died in the House: voted out of the Criminal Jurisprudence committee 6-5, no floor vote.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 989 · 89RNo flags

FBI background checks for court officials who set bail

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-7)
Details · SB 989

Fingerprints for masters, magistrates, referees and associate judges.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 1973 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.GOT HALFWAY Passed the Senate on Apr 10, 2025. Died in the House: never got out of the Criminal Jurisprudence committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 988 · 89RNo flags

gas pump tampering becomes a third-degree felony

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-7)
Details · SB 988

No matter how small the dollar loss.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 467 (Vetoed) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.GOT HALFWAY Passed the Senate on Mar 31, 2025. Died in the House: failed to receive a favorable vote in the Criminal Jurisprudence committee on May 22, 2025.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 987 · 89RNo flags

criminal courts need no civil process first

Did not passInitial review
Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-7)
Details · SB 987

One subsection added to Section 571.171 of the Government Code.

QUICK READ: 131 WORDS The bill as filed runs 131 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).GOT HALFWAY Passed the Senate on Mar 26, 2025. Died in the House: never got out of the State Affairs committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 986 · 89RNo flags

fast-track records withholding for trained records officers

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-7)
Details · SB 986

No attorney general ruling first, with a 16-hour certificate.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 1579 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.GOT HALFWAY Passed the Senate on May 7, 2025. Died in the House: never got out of the Delivery of Government Efficiency committee.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 982 · 89RNo flags

appraisal appeals to justice court for small tax disputes

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Bryan Hughes (R-1)
Details · SB 982

Disputed tax of $20,000 or less. Appraisal districts need no lawyer.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 2353 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Local Government committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 981 · 89RSmells

Eckhardt Bus Bill Reserves 75 Percent Of Grants For Electric Buses

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Sarah Eckhardt (D-14)
Details · SB 981

Caption: public schools. Bill: private bus companies can get grants, and contracts stretch to 15 years.

Carve-outCaption mismatch
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 1942 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Business & Commerce committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 978 · 89RNo flags

bill repealing an exception on employers blocking votes

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Sarah Eckhardt (D-14)
Details · SB 978

Section 276.004(b) of the Election Code goes away.

QUICK READ: 145 WORDS The bill as filed runs 145 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate State Affairs committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 977 · 89RNo flags

online voter registration through the state website

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Sarah Eckhardt (D-14)
Details · SB 977

Secretary of State works with DPS and the Department of Information Resources.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 675 by Rep. Bucy (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate State Affairs committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 976 · 89RSmells

Eckhardt Water Bill Creates 12-Member Board, Final Report Due 2034

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Sarah Eckhardt (D-14)
Details · SB 976

Status reports every December 1 until 2034. Water rules stay put the whole time.

Study, task force, commission, reportNew fee, fund, board or appointees
ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 2362 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Water, Agriculture and Rural Affairs committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 974 · 89RNo flags

teachers can serve on appraisal review boards

VetoedInitial review
Sen. Sarah Eckhardt (D-14)
Details · SB 974

A carve-out from the taxing unit employee ban.

BUZZER BEATER Final vote May 30, 2025: the Senate concurred in the House amendments. 3 days before the session ended Jun 2, 2025.ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 361 (Vetoed) and this bill (Vetoed). Checked against 88R only.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 973 · 89RSmells

Eckhardt Bill Lets Appraisal Districts Post Street Photos Of Your Home

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Sen. Sarah Eckhardt (D-14)
Details · SB 973

Sketches with pools, walls and dimensions can go online too. Aerials no longer need five buildings.

The hole
BUZZER BEATER Final vote May 30, 2025: the Senate concurred in the House amendments. 3 days before the session ended Jun 2, 2025.NO AUTOGRAPH Became law without the governor's signature on Jun 22, 2025.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 972 · 89RNo flags

Texas Rising Star providers can get the top rate

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Judith Zaffirini (D-21)
Details · SB 972

Even when their own published price is lower.

DO-OVER Reworked text of a bill filed before that died: 88R SB 353 (Died in committee). Filed in 2 sessions, counting this one. Checked against 88R only.QUICK READ: 140 WORDS The bill as filed runs 140 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 971 · 89RNo flags

bill repealing the rural definition in the water program

Became lawInitial review
Sen. Kevin Sparks (R-31)
Details · SB 971

Section 15.001(14), added in 2023, goes away.

INSTANT LAW Took effect immediately, on Jun 20, 2025. 833 of the 1,185 graded 89R laws took effect Sep 1, 2025 (derived from the bill histories, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).QUICK READ: 115 WORDS The bill as filed runs 115 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 970 · 89RNo flags

Sparks Bill Gives 750-Megawatt Plants Energy Fund Priority

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Kevin Sparks (R-31)
Details · SB 970

Big plants go to the front of the line for grants and loans. Smaller ones rank behind.

QUICK READ: 149 WORDS The bill as filed runs 149 words, counting the existing law it amends and the text it strikes. The median 89R bill as filed runs 441 words (derived, 8,702 graded bills, snapshot Oct 19, 2026).NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Business & Commerce committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 969 · 89RNo flags

state workers can get repaid for road-trip groceries

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Bryan Hughes (R-1)
Details · SB 969

Bought at home the day before or day of the trip.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 762 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Business & Commerce committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 968 · 89RNo flags

podiatry temporary license renamed residency license

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Sen. Judith Zaffirini (D-21)
Details · SB 968

The provisional license section is repealed.

CROSS-PARTY HANDOFF Lead author Judith Zaffirini (D) in the Senate. Lead sponsor Charles Cunningham (R) in the House. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 967 · 89RNo flags

no marriage under 18, emancipated or not

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Judith Zaffirini (D-21)
Details · SB 967

Applies even to minors a court has emancipated.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R HB 924 by Rep. Rosenthal (Did not pass) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate State Affairs committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 965 · 89RNo flags

Parker Bill Protects School Staff Who Pray While On Duty

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Sen. Tan Parker (R-12)
Details · SB 965

To stop a praying coach, a school needs a compelling state interest and the least restrictive means.

BACK FROM THE DEAD Same text as a bill filed before that died: 88R SB 1556 (Died in committee). Filed in 2 sessions, counting this one. Checked against 88R only.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 964 · 89RNo flags

noncitizen ID cards and licenses must look different

Did not passInitial review
Sen. Bryan Hughes (R-1)
Details · SB 964

Plus a voting eligibility notice on the front.

GOT HALFWAY Passed the Senate on Apr 16, 2025. Died in the House: voted out of the Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs committee 8-3, no floor vote.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 963 · 89RNo flags

Medicaid plans may mention federal exchange plans

Became law, effective Sep 1, 2025Initial review
Sen. Bryan Hughes (R-1)
Details · SB 963

Marketing rules can no longer ban telling enrollees about them.

NO AUTOGRAPH Became law without the governor's signature on Jun 20, 2025.CROSS-PARTY HANDOFF Lead author Bryan Hughes (R) in the Senate. Lead sponsor Christian Manuel (D) in the House. Party as the Legislative Reference Library lists it for the 89th Legislature.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SB 962 · 89RNo flags

behavior analysis services by telehealth

Died in committeeInitial review
Sen. Judith Zaffirini (D-21)
Details · SB 962

Medicaid, children’s health plan and waiver programs must allow it.

ZOMBIE BILL Died 2 times: 88R SB 2190 (Died in committee) and this bill (Died in committee). Checked against 88R only.NEVER GOT A HEARING Filed Jan 29, 2025 and referred to the Senate Health & Human Services committee. No public hearing. The bill died.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SJR 48 · 89RNot graded

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas severance tax revenue and oil and natural gas (Texas STRONG) defense fund, dedicating the money in that fund to benefit areas of the state significantly affected by oil and gas production, and providing for the transfer of certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and certain other funds and accounts.

Died in committee
Sen. César Blanco (D-29)
Details · SJR 48

Not graded. The reader grades bills, not resolutions.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

SJR 47 · 89RNot graded

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, establishing the Alzheimer's Prevention and Research Fund to provide money for research on and prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders in this state, and transferring state general revenue to that fund.

Died in committee
Sen. Judith Zaffirini (D-21)
Details · SJR 47

Not graded. The reader grades bills, not resolutions.

Filed Jan 29, 2025

Sources

Derived stock: 130 measures filed January 29, 2025 in 89R. 115 bills and joint resolutions, 15 other resolutions. Snapshot Nov 2, 2026 at 7:27 AM CST.

Counts come from the stored Texas Legislative Council bill records. Grades, headlines and charges follow the published record.

Headline, summary and grade are analysis of the bill text, not a finding about any person.

SourcesData