Rep. Cody Vasut

Maddy summaryHB 2840 defines "milk" as liquid secreted by mammal mammary glands and "milk product" as any product containing milk. It prohibits businesses from labeling or advertising non-milk products as "milk" or "milk products." This bill directly affects food manufacturers and retailers selling plant-based or alternative dairy products that currently use terms like "milk" in their branding. The law takes effect September 1, 2025, requiring clear labeling that aligns with the defined terms.

Maddy summaryHB 2759 restricts firearm possession for individuals convicted of specific violent or property crimes, such as burglary, robbery, assault, or offenses involving force. It prohibits possession for five years after release from prison or supervision, and even after five years, only allows possession at one's home. The law applies to convictions under defined sections of Texas Penal Code covering violent crimes (e.g., Title 5) or certain property crimes (e.g., burglary, robbery, assault). This bill takes effect September 1, 2025, and only applies to offenses committed on or after that date.

Maddy summaryHB 2752 would add Subchapter H to Texas Property Code, creating new restrictions on foreign individuals or entities from "designated countries" purchasing or acquiring title to Texas real property. A "designated country" is defined as one identified by U.S. intelligence as a national security risk, designated as a state sponsor of terrorism, or subject to U.S. sanctions related to arms transfers. The bill requires that transactions involving such foreign buyers comply with these new provisions, though it does not ban all foreign purchases. This policy change directly affects foreign buyers from the specified countries and modifies existing property rights language in the Texas Property Code. The bill is currently pending in committee and has not yet become law.

Maddy summaryHB 2816 protects healthcare providers and facilities from being required to participate in or provide certain health care services that conflict with their sincerely held religious or philosophical beliefs. It defines key terms like "conscience," "health care provider" (including students and non-licensed staff), and "health care service" (covering family planning, abortion-related counseling, and treatment). The bill creates a civil remedy for violations and authorizes disciplinary action against entities that force non-participation in services due to conscience objections. It directly affects hospitals, clinics, pharmacists, and all healthcare workers who may decline services like abortion care or contraception-related counseling. The law aims to prevent adverse actions against providers who refuse such services based on personal beliefs.

Maddy summaryHB 2704 defines "female," "male," and "sex" based on biological characteristics observed at birth, including reproductive anatomy. It requires facilities like restrooms, changing rooms, and sleeping quarters to be designated for "women" or "men" according to these biological definitions. The bill creates a civil right of action, allowing individuals to sue if they believe a facility designated for women is used by someone not biologically female. Its stated purpose is to protect women and girls from sexual assault in gender-segregated spaces.

Maddy summaryHB 2743 requires Texas to dedicate state surplus revenue to property tax relief. It mandates that each biennium, the comptroller transfer either $1.5 billion or 10% of the state's estimated ending budget balance (minus transfers) to a dedicated fund. These funds can only be used to reduce property taxes for homeowners and businesses. The law takes effect for the 2027-2028 budget cycle, beginning September 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryHB 76 prohibits local governments (like cities, counties, and school districts) from using public funds to pay nonprofit organizations that accept public donations to post bail bonds for defendants. It directly affects political subdivisions that might fund such bail programs through public money. The bill bans this spending and allows taxpayers or residents to sue to stop it, with successful plaintiffs able to recover legal fees. The law would take effect September 1, 2025, if passed.

Maddy summaryHJR 15 proposes a constitutional amendment allowing judges to deny bail to individuals accused of specific serious crimes - including first-degree sexual offenses, violent offenses, or continuous human trafficking - pending trial. Judges may deny bail only after a hearing where they find, by clear and convincing evidence, that bail would not ensure the defendant’s court appearance or community safety. The amendment requires judges to issue a written order detailing their findings and reasoning. It does not restrict defendants’ rights to challenge bail denials under existing law and specifies that judges must consider standard bail factors when making decisions. The amendment must be approved by Texas voters in the 2025 election.

Maddy summaryHJR 16 proposes a constitutional amendment requiring Texas courts to deny bail to non-citizens (defined as "illegal aliens" under the bill) charged with felony offenses if a judge finds probable cause they committed the crime. The amendment specifies that bail denial applies only after a hearing where probable cause is established, not automatically. This change would require voter approval in November 2025 before taking effect, as it seeks to amend the Texas Constitution. The bill directly affects non-citizens facing felony charges in Texas courts who meet the defined "illegal alien" criteria.

Maddy summaryHB 2744 requires state contractors, local governments, and private employers in Texas to use the federal E-Verify system to confirm the employment authorization of new hires. The bill mandates that contractors register with E-Verify before receiving state contracts and maintain participation throughout the contract term. Contracts must include a certification statement from the contractor confirming compliance, and failure to comply may result in civil penalties. The law creates a process where state agencies must refer non-compliant contractors to the comptroller for enforcement action. This bill directly affects businesses and government entities receiving state contracts or public funds.