Rep. Eddie Morales

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a policy bill) honoring the United Warrior Band of the Seminole Nation/John Horse Band. It recognizes their historical contributions to Texas, specifically acknowledging Black Seminoles' role in defending the Texas frontier through the Seminole Negro Indian Scouts (1870s) and their leader John Horse. The resolution formally expresses the Texas House of Representatives' appreciation for the group's preservation of this legacy. It has no legal effect or policy changes, serving solely as a commemorative gesture.

Maddy summaryHB 515 requires Texas public school districts to adopt written policies banning student use of personal electronic devices (like smartphones) during school hours. Students must store devices in lockable containers provided by the district, with exceptions for medical needs requiring written documentation from a healthcare provider. Districts must also report on policy effectiveness to the Texas Education Agency, including impacts on student behavior, mental health, and feedback from students and staff. The law takes effect for the 2025-2026 school year.

Maddy summaryHB 440 requires certain public alert messages to be provided in both English and Spanish. This applies to government agencies and public safety organizations that issue alerts, such as emergency notifications or critical safety information. The key provision mandates that each alert must include both languages, ensuring accessibility for Spanish-speaking residents. The bill covers specific alerts designated under its provisions, without specifying exact types or additional implementation details.

Maddy summaryHB 278 creates a financial incentive for Texas school districts to pay upfront for attendance credit under the state's public school finance system. School districts that choose to pay the full required amount in one lump sum before August 15 of a school year receive a 1% reduction in their total payment for each full 30-day period remaining until that deadline. This credit applies to the amount districts must pay to purchase attendance credit, reducing their overall cost if they pay early. The bill directly affects school districts participating in Texas' public school finance system and takes effect September 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a new communications office within the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office. It requires the office to establish a communications team to market Texas domestically and internationally through advertising and public service announcements, focusing on business and tourism laws. The office must also provide clear information about state laws, programs, and enforcement related to business entry, tourism, and immigration. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025, directly affecting businesses and tourists seeking guidance on Texas regulations.

Maddy summaryHB 244 amends Texas Local Government Code Section 140.011 to expand eligibility for state aid to local governments disproportionately affected by property tax relief for disabled veterans. It specifically includes municipalities in counties with military installations (or adjacent to them) and counties containing such installations as qualifying local governments for disabled veteran assistance payments. The change applies to eligibility starting with the fiscal year ending in the 2025 tax year, effective September 1, 2025. This adjustment ensures state aid reaches jurisdictions facing financial impacts from tax relief policies for disabled veterans.

Maddy summaryHB 161 allows Texas public school students with physician-diagnosed menstrual disorders (such as endometriosis, severe cramps, or heavy bleeding) to miss up to 10 school days per year without penalty. Students or their parents must provide medical documentation confirming the disorder to excuse absences. The bill ensures these absences do not count against attendance records, require makeup work, or result in academic penalties. It takes effect for the 2025-2026 school year.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates February 18-19, 2025, as "El Paso Days" at the Texas State Capitol to honor the region's economic, military, and educational contributions. It recognizes El Paso business leaders and policymakers visiting Austin for this event, highlighting the city's role as a binational hub, military support center, and innovation leader. The resolution does not create new laws or policy changes - it is a symbolic gesture of recognition with no direct legal effect on residents or stakeholders.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a substantive bill. It formally recognizes February 5, 2025, as "Maverick County and Eagle Pass Day" at the Texas State Capitol. The resolution extends a welcome to a visiting delegation from Maverick County and Eagle Pass for a celebration event. It has no policy impact or effect on residents, as it solely serves to acknowledge the community's heritage and economic contributions.