Rep. Yvonne Davis

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) commending Lucious Williams of DeSoto for his service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. It honors his 1952 military service, including his role in the Battle of Kumsong with the 58th Field Artillery Battalion, his rank of corporal, and his decorations. The resolution, adopted by the Texas House of Representatives, includes a formal copy for Williams as a gesture of appreciation for his service and post-military contributions, such as founding Dikita Enterprises. It has no legal effect or policy impact.

Maddy summaryHB 3339 mandates a study by Texas' Maternal Mortality Review Committee and the Department of State Health Services to examine maternal mortality and morbidity rates specifically among Black women in Texas. The study requires comparing these rates to other racial/ethnic groups, analyzing socioeconomic factors, evaluating healthcare coverage types (Medicaid, private insurance, uninsured), and assessing impacts of specific health conditions (like preeclampsia and obesity) and implicit biases in healthcare. It also requires evaluating social determinants of health and pregnancy-related complications. The committee must submit a report with recommendations to address disparities by September 1, 2026, including provider training on cultural competency and successful programs from other states. This bill directly affects Black women in Texas by focusing on data collection to inform future policy.

Maddy summaryHB 1738 repeals the criminal penalty for homosexual conduct (previously codified in Section 21.06 of the Penal Code). It simultaneously amends health education requirements in Texas schools to mandate that materials for minors include the statement that "homosexual conduct is not an acceptable lifestyle," while incorrectly referencing the repealed law. The bill affects public school health curricula for students under 18, requiring this specific language to be included in sexual education programs. The legislation passed the Texas legislature on May 16, 2025, and would take effect immediately if approved by a two-thirds vote or September 1, 2025, otherwise.

Maddy summaryHB 4921 restricts Texas state funds from being used to benefit private companies that moved U.S. jobs overseas. Specifically, it prohibits state investments in domestic private entities that outsourced U.S. jobs to foreign countries within the past two years (Section 2278.052), and blocks such entities from receiving state tax credits or exemptions for the same period (Section 2278.103). The law applies to state retirement systems, universities, and other state-managed funds, but excludes institutions of higher education from the tax benefit restrictions. It directly affects private businesses seeking state contracts, investments, or tax advantages by requiring them to maintain U.S. job creation.

Maddy summaryHJR 218 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the Texas Energy Fund to finance energy efficiency projects directly benefiting retail electric customers. The amendment would permit the Public Utility Commission to use these funds for grants or loans to support such projects, with allocations prioritizing backup power sources and distributing funds proportionally across grid regions based on electricity demand. This measure requires voter approval in the November 2025 election and does not change current fund usage for grid reliability projects.

Maddy summaryHB 5623 authorizes the Texas Energy Commission to use existing Texas Energy Fund money to provide loans or grants for specific energy efficiency projects benefiting retail electric customers. It covers residential weatherization, demand reduction, and energy loss prevention initiatives. Eligible recipients include residential customers and nonprofit organizations, with the Commission required to establish eligibility rules. The bill does not apply existing debt covenant requirements (from Section 35.005(d)) to these grants.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas and establish a dedicated fund. It directs the transfer of $3 billion from the state's general revenue fund to this new special fund starting January 1, 2026. The fund will provide grants for research, prevention programs, and treatment development related to dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and related disorders. The institute will oversee funding for research institutions, medical facilities, and collaborative efforts across Texas, directly benefiting residents affected by these conditions through expanded research and prevention initiatives.

Maddy summaryHB 4442 would require Texas public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to offer an elective mindfulness course for all students in middle school, junior high school, and high school. The course must teach specific techniques to enhance focus, manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and build self-awareness and compassion. High school students would be able to count this course toward their elective credit requirements for graduation. The bill would take effect for the 2026-2027 school year, unless it receives a two-thirds vote in both legislative chambers, in which case it would take effect immediately.

Maddy summaryHB 4279 requires telecom companies (referred to as "local exchange companies" in the bill) to redirect unclaimed money they hold - instead of sending it to the state comptroller - to scholarship funds for needy urban students attending college or technical school. The bill mandates that companies deliver this money to funds established by multiple telecom companies, with verification filed with the comptroller. Companies failing to comply face penalties: 5% of the property value for the first 31 days, an additional 5% after that, and 10% per day for ongoing non-compliance with this specific provision. This bill directly affects telecom companies handling unclaimed property in Texas, changing where funds go to support urban education access.

Maddy summaryHB 3948 amends the definition of "peace officer" in Texas law to include specific municipal and district positions. The bill adds roles such as municipal park and recreational patrol officers, security officers commissioned by the comptroller, and investigators for hospital districts (like those in Dallas, Bexar, and El Paso counties). It updates Article 2A.001 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to formally recognize these positions as peace officers under existing licensing requirements. The bill does not create new offices or change enforcement duties - it only clarifies which municipal and district employees qualify for peace officer status under state law.