Maddy summaryHB 1331 changes high school graduation requirements in Texas public schools for students entering 9th grade in the 2025-2026 school year or later. It mandates specific course credits: 4 in English (including English III and an advanced course), 3 in math (Algebra I, Geometry, and advanced), 3 in science (Biology plus two advanced options), 3 in social studies (US history, government/economics, and world geography/history), 2 in a foreign language, plus 5 electives, 1 fine arts credit, and 1 physical education credit. The bill applies only to new ninth graders starting in 2025-2026, while current students follow existing rules. It does not change funding or teacher requirements, focusing solely on standardized course completion for graduation.
Rep. Lauren Simmons
Sponsored bills
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 summaryUnfortunately, the full text of HB 1077 is not available in the provided context (only the title and recent actions are listed). The bill's title indicates it relates to public employees' right to collectively bargain with government entities, but specific provisions, affected parties, or mechanisms cannot be described without the bill text. Recent actions show it was filed in November 2024 and referred to the State Affairs committee. To provide a factual summary, the bill's detailed content would be required.
Maddy summaryHR 374 is a non-binding resolution congratulating 70 students from Jack Yates High School's JY Cinema program for advancing two films to the finals of the 2025 University Interscholastic League (UIL) Young Filmmakers Festival. It specifically recognizes their achievement as the first time the school had two films reach the state finals in two categories, earning the school two plaques and each student a UIL state medal. The resolution formally expresses the Texas House of Representatives' recognition of their work on films addressing student voices, including "Switchin' Classes" and "The Circle of the Storm." As a ceremonial resolution, it has no policy impact and does not create new laws or allocate funding.
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 summaryThe bill text for HB 410 is not currently available in the provided context. The document states: "This version is not currently available, but is coming soon. In the meantime, please see the PDF for the content of this bill." No specific provisions, key mechanisms, or policy changes are described in the summary or text provided. Therefore, a factual summary of the bill's content cannot be generated from the available information.
Maddy summaryHB 480's title indicates it would require building and construction contractors and subcontractors to provide workers' compensation insurance coverage for their employees. However, the bill text is unavailable in the provided context, so specific provisions, mechanisms, or affected parties cannot be detailed. Without the full text, a complete summary of policy changes or implementation details cannot be generated. Please refer to the bill's PDF for the complete content and official details.
Maddy summaryHB 343 would provide a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for certain benefits paid by the Employees Retirement System of Texas (ERS). This bill directly affects Texas state employees and retirees covered by the ERS who receive retirement benefits. The key provision would automatically adjust those benefits annually to account for inflation, helping maintain purchasing power. The bill was recently filed and referred to the Pensions committee, but specific adjustment percentages or effective dates are not detailed in the available context.
Maddy summaryHB 301 requires Texas state employers to provide up to 20 hours of unpaid leave per fiscal year for employees to attend prenatal care appointments. It directly affects all state employees in the executive, judicial, and legislative branches who need to schedule medical appointments related to pregnancy. The bill defines "prenatal care" to include physical exams, medical procedures, monitoring/testing, and provider discussions about pregnancy. This leave is in addition to existing leave benefits under state law and takes effect September 1, 2025.
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.