Rep. Jessica González

Maddy summaryHB 2693 designates January 6 as "Defenders of the United States Capitol Recognition Day" in Texas, honoring individuals who defended the Capitol during the January 6, 2021 insurrection that resulted in five law enforcement deaths and over 100 injuries. The bill requires Texas to observe this day through appropriate ceremonies and activities. It takes effect September 1, 2025, and is a commemorative resolution without new policy requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 1601 prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in public accommodations like restaurants, hotels, and stores across Texas. It bans businesses from denying services or segregating customers for these reasons, while exempting religious organizations unless they operate for profit under specific federal tax rules. The bill defines key terms like "public accommodation" (businesses serving the public) and "discriminatory practice" to clarify prohibited actions. It directly affects businesses open to the public and individuals facing discrimination in these settings, creating legal recourse for those harmed.

Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution designates May 8 as "Vaccination Day" in Texas for a 10-year period ending in 2035. It recognizes May 8 as the anniversary of the 1980 declaration that the world was free of smallpox, highlighting the importance of immunization. The resolution serves as a ceremonial observance to honor vaccine history and public health achievements, with no direct policy or funding changes. It does not affect specific individuals or groups but encourages public awareness of vaccination's role in health.

Maddy summaryHB 1208 would establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for cannabis in Texas, directly affecting businesses involved in cannabis cultivation, processing, sale, and transportation. The bill requires all cannabis businesses to obtain state occupational licenses, imposes a tax on cannabis products, and creates penalties for violations. It defines key terms like "cannabis" (excluding hemp products under existing law), "cannabis establishment," and "cannabis concentrate," while setting standards for safety testing and secure transportation. Local governments would also have authority to regulate cannabis business locations. The bill does not address hemp products or medical cannabis use, focusing solely on adult-use cannabis regulation.

Maddy summaryHB 1206 requires landlords to disclose fixed, recurring non-rent fees (such as late fees or service charges) to tenants before a lease is signed. This disclosure can be included directly in the lease agreement or an amendment. Tenants are not required to pay any fee that wasn’t properly disclosed under this rule. The law applies only to leases signed or renewed on or after September 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 1204 amends Texas law to expand eligibility for historically underutilized business (HUB) status in state contracting. It adds people with disabilities (as defined by federal law) and individuals identifying with specific sexual orientations or gender identities (including transgender, gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer, intersex, or asexual) to the criteria for being considered "economically disadvantaged." Businesses owned by at least 51% by qualifying individuals must now submit a physician's affidavit verifying disability claims for HUB certification. The bill requires the comptroller to establish new contracting goals for these businesses, which will be in addition to existing goals and cannot reduce current ones.

Maddy summaryHB 5 creates the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas to accelerate research on dementia and related disorders. The institute will award grants to Texas universities, medical facilities, and other eligible organizations for research into dementia causes, prevention strategies, treatments, and symptom mitigation. It establishes oversight committees to manage grants, ensure compliance, and requires annual public reports detailing funded projects and recipients. The institute is set to expire on September 1, 2035, unless extended under Texas Sunset Act procedures.

Maddy summaryHJR 3 proposes a constitutional amendment to create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas and establish a dedicated fund. The bill would transfer $3 billion from the state's general revenue fund to this new special fund starting January 1, 2026, for research, prevention, and treatment of dementia and related disorders. The institute would award grants to Texas research institutions, medical facilities, and collaboratives to develop treatments, prevention programs, and address access to care. This initiative directly affects Texans living with dementia and their families, as well as researchers and healthcare providers in the state.

Maddy summaryHB 1207 requires group health benefit plans to cover in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures under specific conditions. It mandates coverage only if the patient has a documented infertility history of at least three years (or specific conditions like endometriosis), the procedure uses the patient’s spouse’s sperm, the patient has tried less costly infertility treatments first, and the facility meets American Society for Reproductive Medicine standards. This bill directly affects group health insurance plans and individuals seeking IVF coverage in Texas. The requirements apply only to plans delivered or renewed on or after January 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryHB 1164 creates a new Texas law prohibiting discrimination in public accommodations - such as restaurants, hotels, and retail stores - based on race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or military veteran status. It bans businesses from refusing service, displaying discriminatory notices, or denying equal access to customers because of these protected characteristics. The law authorizes civil penalties, allowing individuals who experience discrimination to pursue legal remedies through civil court. This bill directly affects businesses serving the public and protects individuals from unfair treatment in commercial settings.