Sen. Tan Parker

Maddy summaryHB 5115 increases criminal penalties for election fraud in Texas by elevating the offense from a Class A misdemeanor to a second-degree felony under Election Code Section 276.013. It directly affects individuals who commit specific election fraud acts, such as tampering with ballots, voting for deceased voters, or counting invalid votes. The bill amends the law to impose harsher penalties for these violations, excluding certain scenarios like election officials acting in their official capacity (which remains a state jail felony) or attempted offenses (classified as a third-degree felony). This change applies only to offenses committed on or after its September 1, 2025 effective date.

Maddy summarySB 441 creates civil liability for producing, soliciting, disclosing, or promoting AI-generated intimate visual material without a person's consent and with intent to harm. It specifically targets material that reveals the depicted person's identity (e.g., through facial recognition or unique features) and requires proof of actual harm. The law holds both creators of the material and owners of websites/social media platforms liable if they fail to remove such content after notice. This directly affects individuals whose images are used without consent in AI-generated intimate content, providing a legal path to seek damages for the harm caused.

Maddy summarySCR 18 designates Trophy Club, Texas as the official "Texas Town of Patriotism" for a 10-year period ending in 2035. This symbolic resolution recognizes the town's longstanding community traditions, including daily flag displays, patriotic events like the Medal of Honor Motorcade, and named public spaces such as Freedom Dog Park. It does not create new laws or policies but formally honors Trophy Club's civic engagement efforts as documented in the resolution's supporting statements. The designation became effective after Governor's signature on June 20, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires all Texas state agencies to modernize their websites and digital services to improve accessibility and user experience. Agencies must assess their online platforms for issues like slow loading, complex navigation, and lack of mobile compatibility, then implement changes such as simplifying forms, reducing paper requirements, and adopting consistent design templates. The state department will provide guidance, templates, and best practices for agencies to follow, with a requirement to report progress to the legislature by November 2026. The law takes effect September 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 2166 requires standardized testing of voting tabulation equipment used in Texas elections. It mandates three specific tests per election: one conducted jointly with the public logic/accuracy test (at least 48 hours before voting), one immediately before counting begins, and one immediately after counting ends. The bill specifies that election officials (including the general custodian and central counting station staff) must conduct these tests using identical ballot stock and test materials from the public logic/accuracy process. This directly affects election administrators and voting equipment at both polling places and central counting stations, ensuring consistent equipment accuracy before, during, and after ballot counting.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates new civil remedies for victims of financial exploitation using AI-generated media (like deepfakes) or phishing communications. It allows individuals to sue perpetrators for actual damages - including mental anguish and the perpetrator's profits - and to seek court orders halting further dissemination. The bill also imposes a civil penalty of up to $1,000 per day for violations, enforceable by the Texas Attorney General. Platforms like social media companies are exempt from liability under this law, as they are protected by federal Section 230.

Maddy summaryTexas SB 8 requires sheriffs in counties with 100,000+ residents to request agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that allow local officers to enforce federal immigration law. Smaller counties may voluntarily enter similar agreements. The bill creates a state grant program to cover costs for counties implementing these agreements, including personnel and resources needed for compliance. It directly affects Texas county sheriffs and law enforcement agencies participating in federal immigration enforcement programs.

Maddy summaryTexas Senate Bill 1964 requires state and local government agencies to track and report on their use of artificial intelligence systems, particularly those making decisions affecting access to government services (like benefits or permits). The bill defines "heightened scrutiny AI systems" as those autonomously influencing such decisions and mandates agencies to inventory these systems, document their purpose, assess risks, and confirm compliance with ethics standards. Agencies must also include AI systems in regular technology infrastructure reviews, detailing how each supports agency goals and strategic plans. This focuses on transparency and accountability for AI use in public services, not restricting AI deployment.

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.

Maddy summarySB 510 requires Texas voter registrars (county election officials) to timely complete specific voter registration duties, such as processing registration changes or scheduling hearings. If a registrar fails to meet these deadlines, the Secretary of State may withhold state funds distributed under Chapters 19 or 31. Registrars can regain funds by completing the required duty within 30 days of the funds being withheld. The bill directly affects county election offices and aims to ensure timely voter registration processing. It takes effect September 1, 2025.