Rep. A.J. Louderback

Maddy summaryHB 1977 amends Texas evidence law to allow prosecutors to introduce evidence of a defendant’s prior sexual offenses against the *same victim* in cases involving sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault of children or vulnerable individuals. Specifically, it permits such evidence in prosecutions for offenses like sexual assault of a child (Section 22.011(a)(2)), continuous sexual abuse (Section 21.02), or trafficking involving minors (Section 20A.02), where the victim was under 17 or 18 years old at the time. The bill removes barriers under Rules 404/405 of Texas Evidence Rules, making it admissible to show the defendant’s state of mind or prior relationship with the victim. It does not apply to general prior bad acts but is limited to offenses committed against the specific victim in the current case. The bill remains pending in the Criminal Jurisprudence committee.

Maddy summaryHB 1891 removes the statute of limitations for the offense of non-consensually filming minors (invasive visual recording), meaning prosecutors can file charges at any time. It requires sex offender registration for this specific offense and increases criminal penalties for certain sexual offenses. The bill also harmonizes statute of limitations rules across related sexual offense statutes. This directly affects minors who are victims, offenders convicted of this crime, and the justice system's ability to prosecute such cases. The changes aim to strengthen legal responses to child exploitation through permanent accountability measures.

Maddy summaryHB 1391's title indicates it increases criminal penalties for certain trafficking and sexual offenses and changes parole eligibility. However, the full bill text is not available in the provided context, so specific provisions, affected parties, or implementation details cannot be confirmed. Without access to the detailed legislative language, a factual summary of its mechanisms or direct impacts cannot be generated. The bill is currently in committee review (referred to Criminal Jurisprudence Subcommittee) but remains unavailable for detailed analysis.

Maddy summaryHB 3519 prohibits the commercial cultivation of castor beans (Ricinus communis) in Texas, defining "cultivate" to include planting, growing, and harvesting. It directly affects commercial growers who would otherwise produce castor beans, which contain the toxin ricin. The bill creates a Class C misdemeanor offense for violating this prohibition, punishable by fine but not jail time. The law takes effect September 1, 2025, and amends the Agriculture Code to add Chapter 129 specifically addressing castor beans.

Maddy summaryHB 3210 requires state contractors, local governments (political subdivisions), and private employers in Texas to use the federal E-Verify program to confirm employee work authorization. The bill mandates that state agencies cannot award contracts to entities not registered with E-Verify, and contracts must include a certification statement confirming compliance. Contractors must maintain E-Verify participation throughout the contract term, and violations would be referred to the comptroller for action. This policy directly affects businesses and government entities entering into state contracts by making federal employment verification a contractual condition. The bill focuses on implementing existing federal verification requirements through state contract rules.

Maddy summaryHB 2823 creates a state grant program to help people who adopt retired police dogs cover serious medical costs. The program, managed by the comptroller, provides financial assistance for life-threatening injuries or illnesses that affect a dog's mobility or long-term health, as verified by a veterinarian. To qualify, applicants must submit vet documentation confirming the medical issue meets the program's criteria and that the dog has a reasonable chance of recovery.

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 summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a law. It formally recognizes March 18, 2025, as "Matagorda County Day" at the Texas State Capitol. The resolution extends a welcome to Matagorda County residents who will gather in Austin on that date for the event. It has no policy impact or funding provisions - it solely serves as a symbolic gesture of recognition.

Maddy summaryHB 2657 would abolish the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and eliminate the position of commissioner of education. It transfers all TEA powers and duties - including oversight of public schools, assessments, and accountability systems - to the State Board of Education and the comptroller of public accounts. The bill removes statewide school accountability and assessment requirements, reserving non-delegated educational functions exclusively to local school districts and charter schools. This structural change directly affects all Texas public schools by shifting oversight from the state agency to the State Board and local entities.

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.