Maddy summarySB 1080 requires Texas licensing authorities to issue either a full occupational license or a provisional license (valid for six months) to otherwise qualified applicants who have been convicted of certain offenses, instead of automatically denying their applications. The provisional license begins on the date an applicant is released from prison if they were incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. This bill directly affects individuals with criminal convictions seeking occupational licenses (such as for nursing, contracting, or other licensed professions) who meet all other qualification requirements. It aims to reduce barriers to employment by providing a temporary licensing pathway for these applicants.
Rep. A.J. Louderback
Sponsored bills
Maddy summarySB 2929 changes rules for removing disruptive spectators at school sports events by allowing referees, judges, or officials to eject them without first giving a verbal warning. This directly affects school officials (like referees) and spectators at extracurricular athletic activities sponsored by school districts or the University Interscholastic League. The law applies immediately for the 2025-2026 school year and removes the requirement for officials to issue a verbal warning before ejecting someone for inappropriate behavior.
Maddy summarySB 2361 transfers governance, control, management, and property of the University of Houston-Victoria (UHV) from the University of Houston System to the Texas A&M University System. This change makes UHV a component institution of the Texas A&M System, placing it under the oversight of the Texas A&M Board of Regents, which will assume all governing powers and duties. Existing rules and contracts for UHV remain in effect until the Texas A&M Board adopts new policies. The bill directly affects UHV's operations, staff, students, and the administrative structures of both university systems.
Maddy summaryHCR 40 is a Texas legislative resolution urging Congress to reimburse the state for border security costs incurred under Operation Lone Star. It states Texas has spent billions since 2021 on this initiative - including surveillance, law enforcement support, and managing migration - resulting in over 516,000 apprehensions and 45,300 arrests. The resolution formally requests Congress assume responsibility for border security costs, directing Texas officials to send copies to the U.S. President and congressional leaders. As a concurrent resolution, it does not create law but serves as a formal request to federal lawmakers.
Maddy summarySB 3073 requires magistrates in Texas to provide written findings within 24 hours when determining no probable cause exists for a criminal arrest. This affects individuals arrested for crimes and the magistrates reviewing their cases. The bill mandates that magistrates document their reasons for finding no probable cause in the official record. It applies only to offenses committed on or after September 1, 2025, with prior cases governed by existing law. The change aims to increase transparency in early criminal proceedings.
Maddy summaryThis bill modifies Texas law to allow peace officers to execute search warrants for blood specimens in intoxication offense cases (like DUI) across adjacent counties, rather than being restricted to the issuing county. It also permits any law enforcement officer authorized to make arrests in the executing county to carry out these warrants. The change applies only to warrants issued on or after September 1, 2025, with existing warrants governed by prior law. It directly affects law enforcement officers and individuals suspected of offenses under Penal Code sections 49.04-49.08.
Maddy summarySB 455 requires that surplus lines insurance contracts (for risks wholly located in Texas) include arbitration agreements conducted in Texas under Texas law, unless both insurer and policyholder agree to change the venue after the insurer provides written notice and a premium credit for added costs. This applies to new or renewed contracts on or after January 1, 2026, affecting insurers and policyholders purchasing specialized insurance for high-risk properties in Texas. The bill ensures arbitration venues and legal interpretations remain tied to Texas, preventing out-of-state arbitration without financial compensation to policyholders. It becomes effective September 1, 2025, but the new rules apply to contracts delivered after 2025.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires individuals to submit proof of United States citizenship when registering to vote. Applicants must provide a copy of specific documents, such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate, with their voter registration application. If initial proof is not provided, voter registrars must attempt to verify citizenship using various databases. If citizenship cannot be verified or proof is not ultimately provided, the applicant will only be eligible to vote a limited federal ballot. The bill also creates a state jail felony offense for registrars who knowingly fail to reject applications that do not meet these new requirements.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a substantive bill) honoring George Hugh Johnson of Inez, Texas, who passed away on February 18, 2025. It memorializes his life, noting his career as a Victoria County Sheriff's Office sergeant and owner of Johnson Maintenance Service, his 30+ year marriage, and his family. The resolution formally pays tribute to him and extends condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family. As a memorial resolution, it has no policy impact or legislative effect - it serves only as a ceremonial tribute adopted by the Texas House of Representatives on May 23, 2025.
Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (HR 911) honoring Frankie Faye Stallard Cooper of Palacios, Texas. It expresses the Texas House of Representatives' tribute to her life and legacy, recognizing her as a devoted family member, community volunteer, church leader, and beloved neighbor. The resolution extends sympathy to her family, including her sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and sisters. As a memorial resolution, it does not create new laws or policies - it solely serves to formally acknowledge and celebrate her contributions.