The 89th Texas Legislative Session concluded on June 2, 2025, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape. Over five months, lawmakers passed approximately 1,200 bills, advancing a robust conservative agenda that touched on education, public safety, healthcare, and cultural issues.
Education Overhaul
School Vouchers and Funding
A landmark $8.5 billion school finance bill was approved, allocating funds to increase teacher salaries and expand pre-kindergarten programs. Notably, the legislation introduced a $1 billion school voucher program, providing up to $30,000 for students with disabilities and $2,000 for home-schooled students.
Religious Displays in Schools
Senate Bill 10 mandates the display of the Ten Commandments in all public school classrooms, a move that has sparked debate over the separation of church and state.
Curriculum Oversight
New legislation grants university governing boards increased control over curriculum and degree programs, allowing them to review and potentially override general education requirements.
Cultural and Social Legislation
Gender Definitions and Abortion Laws
House Bill 229 legally defines "man" and "woman" based on biological sex, a measure criticized for targeting the transgender community. Additionally, Senate Bill 31, known as the Life of the Mother Act, clarifies exceptions in the state's strict abortion ban, allowing doctors to act in life-threatening cases without fear of legal consequences.
THC Product Ban
Senate Bill 3 proposes banning the sale of THC products, permitting only non-psychoactive cannabinoids. The Texas Hemp Business Council has opposed the bill, citing economic and public health concerns.
Fiscal Measures
State Budget and Tax Relief
Lawmakers approved a $338 billion two-year state budget, directing funds toward teacher pay raises, property tax relief, and water infrastructure improvements.
Property Tax Reforms
Senate Bills 4 and 23 aim to provide homeowners with significant property tax relief by raising homestead exemptions.
Public Safety and Health
Border Security Funding
The legislature allocated $3.35 billion for border security, reinforcing the state's commitment to immigration enforcement.
Medical Cannabis Expansion
Texas is set to expand its limited medical cannabis program to include individuals suffering from chronic pain, traumatic brain injuries, Crohn's disease, and terminal illnesses. The legislation also increases the number of licensed dispensaries from three to fifteen and allows doctors to prescribe higher doses.
Legislative Departures and Honors
Retirements
Representative Tony Tinderholt announced his retirement after six terms, expressing a desire to focus on his family.
Honoring Service
Representative Senfronia Thompson, the longest-serving woman in the Texas Legislature, was honored with a new portrait by artist Kermit Oliver, celebrating her 52 years of service.
As the session concludes, Governor Greg Abbott has until June 22 to sign, veto, or allow the newly passed bills to become law without his signature.
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