Rep. Josey Garcia

Maddy summaryHB 687 establishes a bullying prevention pilot program for Texas public schools, targeting school districts with substantial need as determined by the Texas Education Agency. The bill authorizes the agency to develop evidence-based prevention strategies using research best practices and collaborate with child psychology and education experts. School districts receiving grants must implement the program at no more than three campuses, with funding covering program development and technical assistance through regional education centers. The program requires specific legislative appropriations to launch and operates under new Section 37.0833 of the Education Code, effective September 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 720 creates a state grant program to help ketamine clinics provide mental health treatment to active duty military personnel, first responders, and veterans. The program reimburses clinics for uncompensated care provided to these groups, covering treatment costs and related resources. Grants are administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, which will set eligibility criteria and monitor recipients. The bill specifically focuses on expanding access to ketamine-based mental health services for these priority populations, with no mention of cost-sharing or patient eligibility requirements.

Maddy summaryHB 528's bill text is not available in the provided context, preventing a detailed summary. The title indicates it would require public schools to provide certain parents with notice about incidents and risks related to their child, including suicide prevention materials. Without the full bill text, specific mechanisms, scope of "certain parents," or exact notice requirements cannot be confirmed. For a complete understanding, consult the official bill document or PDF.

Maddy summaryHB 515 requires Texas public school districts to adopt written policies banning student use of personal electronic devices (like smartphones) during school hours. Students must store devices in lockable containers provided by the district, with exceptions for medical needs requiring written documentation from a healthcare provider. Districts must also report on policy effectiveness to the Texas Education Agency, including impacts on student behavior, mental health, and feedback from students and staff. The law takes effect for the 2025-2026 school year.

Maddy summaryHB 440 requires certain public alert messages to be provided in both English and Spanish. This applies to government agencies and public safety organizations that issue alerts, such as emergency notifications or critical safety information. The key provision mandates that each alert must include both languages, ensuring accessibility for Spanish-speaking residents. The bill covers specific alerts designated under its provisions, without specifying exact types or additional implementation details.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates January 30, 2025, as "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Day" at the Texas State Capitol. It honors the nonprofit Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (TXGRG) for its work supporting relatives raising grandchildren, including providing resource connections and advocacy. The resolution acknowledges that over 250,000 Texas children are raised by grandparents or other relatives, who often face limited financial aid and decision-making authority. It does not create new laws or funding but serves as a formal recognition of caregivers' contributions and TXGRG's advocacy efforts.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (HR 161) is a formal expression of congratulations from the Texas House of Representatives to Beyoncé for winning three Grammy Awards at the 2025 ceremony: Album of the Year, Country Album of the Year for *Cowboy Carter*, and Best Country Duo/Group Performance (with Miley Cyrus). It recognizes her historic achievements as the first Black woman to win Album of the Year since 1999 and the first Black artist to win Country Album of the Year. The resolution does not create any new laws or affect any policies; it solely honors her accomplishments.