Rep. Terry Wilson

Maddy summaryHB 5534 requires Texas counties to post notices and agendas for commissioners court meetings both physically (on a courthouse bulletin board) and electronically. County clerks may now use electronic displays on public county websites instead of physical postings, provided they meet specific location, timing, and accessibility standards. The law applies only to notices required after its effective date (September 1, 2025), leaving pre-existing posting requirements unchanged. This bill directly affects county clerks and commissioners courts by expanding their posting options while maintaining public access requirements. It updates existing local government code provisions to formalize electronic posting as a valid method.

Maddy summaryHB 34 prohibits Texas state investments in countries designated as "countries of concern" (including China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and any country the governor designates) and in private companies operating in those countries that meet specific criteria. It defines "scrutinized companies" as those engaged in certain business activities (like those linked to the Darfur genocide) or meeting other conditions outlined in the bill. The law applies to all state investment entities, requiring them to divest from or avoid purchasing securities in these entities. An exception allows investments in companies excluded by U.S. federal sanctions regimes.

Maddy summaryHB 20 establishes Texas' Applied Sciences Pathway program, allowing high school students to earn both diplomas and industry certificates through school-college partnerships. It requires courses in 20 specific high-wage, high-growth fields like plumbing, welding, IT, and oil/gas exploration, with a focus on successful job placement rates. Partnerships must offer non-duplicative, progressive coursework leading to both diplomas and certificates in these sectors. The program begins for the 2027-2028 school year, with industries reviewed every five years to match labor market needs.

Maddy summarySB 17 restricts certain foreign governments and entities from purchasing or acquiring title to specific types of real property in Texas if such ownership poses a risk to public health, safety, or welfare. It prohibits purchases of agricultural land, commercial, industrial, residential property, mines, minerals, or timber by organizations or governments from "designated countries" (identified by U.S. intelligence as national security risks). Exceptions include U.S. citizens/permanent residents, entities owned by them, homestead properties, and leaseholds under 100 years. The law creates a new Property Code Subchapter H (Sections 5.251-5.254) to implement these restrictions.

Maddy summaryHB 4995 allows tactical medical professionals (such as physicians or EMTs employed by law enforcement agencies) to carry handguns while on duty supporting tactical units during high-risk incidents. The bill grants legal immunity from civil lawsuits if these professionals discharge a handgun while licensed under Texas law, provided the action is outside their official duties. It requires a specific training course covering handgun use, including classroom instruction, field practice, and proficiency demonstrations, to maintain certification. This law takes effect September 1, 2025, and directly affects tactical medical personnel who provide medical support to law enforcement during critical operations.

Maddy summaryHB 14 creates the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office within the Governor's office to support the state's nuclear energy industry. The bill defines "advanced nuclear projects" to include facilities using next-generation reactors (like small modular reactors), fuel cycle operations, and associated technologies. The office will provide strategic leadership, develop public outreach programs, and promote job creation in advanced manufacturing while advancing nuclear energy for reliable power generation. This law directly affects Texas nuclear developers, utilities, and communities involved in nuclear facility projects. The office is authorized until September 1, 2040.

Maddy summaryHB 100 prohibits Texas public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools from using state funds to purchase or adopt instructional materials that contain obscene or harmful content or appear on the State Board of Education's rejected materials list. The bill requires the State Board to issue a 45-day notice before adding materials to the rejected list, allowing time for revisions. It also bans the use of any instructional materials - whether traditional or open education resources - listed as rejected, while permitting local funds for non-rejected materials. This law applies starting the 2025-2026 school year and became effective immediately after the governor signed it on June 20, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 102 requires Texas public universities to offer early registration for courses and programs to students in military-related programs who are in good standing. Specifically, it mandates this for students enrolled in ROTC programs, cadet corps (including at senior military colleges), or maritime academies. The law, effective for the 2026 spring semester, obligates institutions to provide this early registration opportunity on the same basis as other designated student groups. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will develop rules to implement this requirement.

Maddy summaryHB 5154 creates the Joint Admission Medical Program Council to administer a program supporting economically disadvantaged students pursuing medical degrees in Texas. The council, formed by participating medical schools, provides mentoring, academic support, and scholarships while guaranteeing admission to at least one participating medical school for eligible students. Key provisions require the council to establish public meeting protocols, develop communication policies, and align with statewide workforce goals to address medical professional shortages. This bill directly affects disadvantaged students seeking medical careers and the participating medical schools that form the council.

Maddy summarySB 33 prohibits Texas governmental entities from using taxpayer funds to pay for or facilitate abortion-related services. It bans transactions with "abortion assistance entities" (organizations providing financial help, travel, childcare, or abortion drugs) or abortion providers for abortion procurement. The law specifically prevents government spending on logistical support like travel, lodging, childcare, or food to help individuals access abortion services. This applies to all state and local government entities and takes effect September 1, 2025.