Texas Lawmakers Face 30-Day Agenda: Key Issues for 2025

State lawmakers have just 30 days to address 18 agenda items in hopes of aligning with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's priorities. Abbott has sent down a significant list of issues, including redistricting, the ban on THC/hemp products, the removal of STAAR testing, and the addition of flood relief and planning for the Texas Hill Country.

Controversial Matters Under Discussion

While the issues mentioned above are receiving a lot of media attention, there are even more controversial matters being discussed. One proposal aims to prevent cities and counties from hiring lobbyists to advocate for them at the Capitol. Other topics include requiring individuals to use bathrooms that correspond with the sex assigned to them at birth and increasing restrictions on the manufacture and distribution of abortion pills. This may be one of the most important special legislative sessions in recent history.

Flood Response and Preparedness

Flooding is a significant concern in Texas. Here are some proposed measures:

1. Improve flood warning systems in high-risk areas.

2. Strengthen emergency communications during natural disasters.

3. Provide state-level relief funds to match local and federal flood recovery efforts.

4. Streamline disaster preparedness and recovery regulations for local governments.

   
   

Education Reform

Education is another critical area of focus. Proposed reforms include:

1. Eliminate the STAAR test and replace it with multiple, more frequent assessments to better track student progress and performance.

   
   

Tax and Finance

Taxation and financial regulations are also on the agenda:

1. Reduce property tax rates and place caps on local taxing authorities.

2. Prohibit cities and counties from using public funds to hire lobbyists or lobbying firms.

   
   

Hemp-Derived THC Regulation

The regulation of hemp-derived THC products is a hot topic:

1. Make it a criminal offense to sell hemp-derived THC products to individuals under the age of 21.

2. Establish regulations for THC products, including potency limits and restrictions on synthetic compounds.

   
   

Redistricting and Elections

Redistricting and election integrity are vital issues:

10. Redraw congressional districts across Texas, including mid-decade adjustments.

11. Expand the Texas Attorney General's authority to independently prosecute election-related crimes.

Abortion and Health Policy

Abortion remains a contentious issue:

12. Strengthen restrictions on abortion-inducing medications and clarify distribution rules.

Public Safety and Property Protection

Public safety measures are also being considered:

13. Shield law enforcement personnel records from public disclosure if allegations are unsubstantiated.

14. Increase legal protections against property title and deed fraud.

15. Allow local governments to reduce fees charged to builders and developers.

Schools and Community Values

Education and community values are intertwined:

16. Consider expansion of school voucher programs and increased teacher compensation.

17. Require the posting of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms.

Social Policy and Bathroom Legislation

Finally, social policies are under scrutiny:

18. Require individuals to use public restrooms and changing facilities in state and local government buildings based on the sex listed on their original birth certificate.

Advocacy and Engagement

It is important to note that these are the only agenda items that can be discussed during the special session. Texans can effectively advocate for their concerns and share personal stories with their elected representatives. According to Kathy Green, director of state and federal strategy for AARP Texas, this approach is particularly impactful.

"If you have stories about the issues that affect your daily life, speak to your legislator about them," she advised. "They need to hear these stories; they need to understand the challenges faced by people in their districts."

Being well-informed about the legislation is crucial. Understand its potential impacts and costs, as well as the specific lawmaker you are contacting. State Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, emphasized this point, noting, "For instance, don't lobby a legislator to support a bill they authored."

The Texas Legislature Online provides access to information about filed bills and allows you to track their progress. You can easily create a personal list of bills to follow and set up email alerts for updates on legislation. Additionally, you will receive notifications when notices of upcoming committee hearings are posted. The website also offers links to broadcasts of floor debates and committee meetings in both the House and Senate, as well as other helpful resources, including a glossary of legislative terms.

By staying engaged and informed, Texans can play an active role in shaping the future of their state.