Maddy summaryHB 32, the Texas Women's Privacy Act, requires that certain facilities - such as restrooms, locker rooms, and family violence shelters - be designated and used based on biological sex, defined as the physical condition of being male or female at birth as determined by sex organs, chromosomes, and original birth records. The law applies to correctional facilities, family violence shelters, institutions of higher education, local governments (political subdivisions), and state agencies. It authorizes civil penalties for violations and creates a private right of action, allowing individuals to file lawsuits if they believe the law has been breached. The bill does not apply to state agencies as political subdivisions but covers them separately under the law's definition of "state agency."
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 84 authorizes Texas pharmacists to dispense ivermectin for human use without a doctor's prescription, directly affecting pharmacists and patients seeking this medication. The bill requires the state health commissioner to issue a statewide order with standardized protocols for pharmacists, including patient instructions and annual reporting on dispensing volumes. It also provides legal protection for pharmacists who follow the order, shielding them from liability or disciplinary action. The commissioner must issue this order within 91 days after the legislative session ends, implementing the policy changes outlined in the new Health and Safety Code section.
Maddy summarySB 648 updates Texas Property Code requirements for recording real property transfers and heirship affidavits. It requires property transfer documents filed by individuals (not professionals like title companies) to be signed by the owner, acknowledged before two witnesses, and certified by an authorized officer. For heirship affidavits filed by individuals, the bill adds that all named heirs (not under legal disability) and witnesses must personally appear before an officer for certification. These changes apply to all property records filed after September 1, 2025, if not vetoed (though the bill was ultimately vetoed by the Governor). The law aims to reduce fraud by strengthening verification steps for property ownership documents.
Maddy summaryHB 149, the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act, regulates how businesses use artificial intelligence systems that capture or store biometric data (like fingerprints or facial scans). It requires companies to obtain explicit consent before using biometric data for commercial AI purposes, unless the data was publicly shared by the individual themselves. The law exempts financial institutions retaining voiceprints, AI training data, and systems used for security, fraud prevention, or investigating illegal activity. Violations result in civil penalties, and the law takes effect January 1, 2026.
Maddy summaryHB 413 would have limited pretrial detention for defendants charged with Class B misdemeanors or more serious offenses, preventing jail stays longer than the maximum sentence they could receive if convicted. It required courts to calculate whether a defendant’s cumulative time in jail before trial exceeded the potential sentence for their offense, mandating release if it did. Exceptions included defendants undergoing competency evaluations or subject to Chapter 46B commitment orders. The bill was vetoed by the governor on June 22, 2025, and never took effect.
Maddy summaryHB 1056 recognizes physical gold and silver coins meeting specific weight and purity standards as legal tender in Texas for debt payments, while prohibiting government markings except for identifying refiners. It authorizes the state comptroller to establish electronic payment systems backed by bullion held in depositories, allowing transactions using gold/silver-based currency. The bill explicitly states it does not replace U.S. dollars, restrict federal currency, or require businesses to accept gold/silver tender. It also permits the comptroller to set reasonable administrative fees for the system. This law applies to Texas residents and businesses using the state-administered electronic currency system, operating alongside existing federal currency.
Maddy summaryHB 3120 requires owners or operators of facilities housing unaccompanied immigrant children under federal contracts (like those with ICE or HHS) to conduct criminal background checks on staff applicants and employees. It permits these checks for employment screening only, prohibits using the results for any other purpose, and bans disclosure without consent or a court order. Facilities must destroy all such background information within 180 days of receiving it or after an employee's probationary period. The bill also mandates facilities to create agreements with local governments for reporting illnesses and health issues. This law directly affects private facilities contracted by federal agencies to house immigrant youth.
Maddy summaryHCR 127 is a symbolic concurrent resolution expressing the Texas Legislature's support for strengthening Texas-Taiwan relations. It highlights Texas-Taiwan trade reaching $25.5 billion in 2024, commends Governor Abbott for establishing the Texas Taiwan Office, and celebrates the 46th anniversary of the U.S. Taiwan Relations Act and Texas-Taiwan sister-state relationship. The resolution has no legal effect but formally acknowledges this partnership through diplomatic channels like the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Houston. It is a non-binding expression of support, not a policy change.
Maddy summaryThis concurrent resolution (HCR 90) expresses Texas' support for strengthening economic ties with Israel and proposes establishing a Texas Trade and Investment Office in Jerusalem. It does not create new laws or offices but formally endorses expanding trade, technology, and cultural collaboration between Texas and Israel, noting Texas as a top U.S. state for exports to Israel. The resolution specifically supports the U.S.-Israel bilateral trade agreement and a proposed Texas office to coordinate with countries in the Abraham Accords or peace treaties with Israel. It directs Texas officials to share the resolution with the U.S. President, Israeli Ambassador, and Texas Consul General. As a symbolic gesture, it has no binding effect but reflects legislative sentiment.
Maddy summaryHB 4134 allows car dealerships or lenders to charge a convenience fee for electronic payments (like credit/debit cards) on motor vehicle purchases or financing. The fee must not exceed $10 or 5% of the payment amount and must be reasonably tied to processing costs. Dealers must inform buyers about the fee, offer free non-electronic payment options (like cash or check), and cannot require electronic payments as the default. This law directly affects car buyers making electronic payments and applies to all motor vehicle transactions starting September 1, 2025.