Rep. Will Metcalf

Maddy summaryHB 762 limits severance pay for employees and independent contractors working with local governments (like cities, counties, and school districts) in Texas. It requires that severance pay from tax funds cannot exceed 20 weeks of the person's regular pay (excluding vacation or PTO) and prohibits payments if termination results from misconduct (including criminal conduct). Local governments must also post all severance agreements on their websites. The law applies to contracts entered into or lawsuits filed on or after September 1, 2025, and excludes public teaching hospitals.

Maddy summaryHB 2842 allows certain land managers, such as political subdivisions, property associations, or institutions, to control white-tailed deer populations using lethal methods in specific situations. It requires these entities to submit written notice to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department demonstrating either (1) that deer are damaging habitats of endangered species or (2) that deer overpopulation exists on their property and recreational hunting isn’t feasible. The department must inspect the property before approving a permit for lethal control. The bill updates permit rules to include electronic issuance and reporting requirements, but does not authorize hunting for recreational purposes.

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 3372 prohibits school district administrators (excluding classroom teachers) from receiving financial benefits for personal services provided to specific entities, including businesses that work with their school district, curriculum service providers, or other school districts. The law directly affects administrators with significant operational duties, such as those managing campuses or programs, by banning conflicts of interest tied to district business relationships. Violations carry a $10,000 civil penalty per incident, and the bill took effect immediately upon the governor's signature on June 22, 2025. This legislation aims to prevent administrators from profiting from their official positions within the education system.

Maddy summarySB 1362 prohibits Texas state and local entities - including courts, law enforcement, and prosecutors - from recognizing, serving, or enforcing "extreme risk protective orders" (commonly called "red flag" orders). These orders typically restrict firearm access when a court deems someone a risk to themselves or others. The bill creates a criminal offense for violating this prohibition and blocks Texas entities from accepting federal grants meant to implement such orders. It directly affects all Texas government bodies and law enforcement agencies, preventing them from participating in programs that require enforcing these firearm restrictions. The law takes effect September 1, 2025.

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 summarySB 1816 defines "miniature vehicle" as a small, self-propelled vehicle with four or more tires that complies with federal law and isn't classified as a golf cart, neighborhood electric vehicle, or street rod. The bill requires these vehicles to be titled and registered as motor vehicles under Texas Transportation Code, similar to standard cars. Owners may operate them on public highways only if registered/titled and capable of complying with traffic laws. The law took effect immediately after Governor's signature on June 20, 2025, applying to all miniature vehicles meeting the defined criteria.

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 summarySB 38 amends Texas Property Code to clarify procedures for eviction lawsuits involving tenants who lack legal right to occupy property. It specifies that justice courts must handle eviction cases in the precinct where the property is located, with limited circumstances allowing case transfers to adjacent precincts (e.g., if service delays occur or trials cannot be scheduled within 21 days). The bill prohibits courts from charging additional filing or service fees when transferring cases and explicitly states that eviction courts cannot rule on property title disputes or allow separate claims against third parties. This affects landlords and tenants involved in eviction proceedings by streamlining court processes and limiting judicial overreach.