Sen. Chuy Hinojosa

Maddy summarySB 1315 allows counties and cities in Texas to restrict tobacco sales near certain locations. Local governments can ban cigarette, e-cigarette, or tobacco product sales within 300 feet of churches, public hospitals, or schools, or within 1,000 feet of schools upon request by school boards. The law includes an exception for businesses where tobacco sales make up less than half of total revenue. This policy directly affects tobacco retailers near schools, hospitals, and churches, while giving local authorities flexibility to implement these restrictions. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 1317 prohibits minors from entering smoke shops unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. It defines a "smoke shop" as an establishment where at least 50% of sales come from tobacco products like cigarettes or e-cigarettes. Owners or employees who allow unaccompanied minors on premises face a misdemeanor charge with a maximum $500 fine. The law takes effect September 1, 2025, directly affecting smoke shop operators and minors seeking to enter such locations.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative Senate resolution (SR 356) honoring Carole Stewart Keeton, a pioneering Texas public servant who died in March 2025. It recognizes her historic achievements as the first woman elected mayor of Austin, first woman on the Texas Railroad Commission, and first woman Texas Comptroller, along with her dedication to education, fiscal responsibility, and community service. The resolution expresses the Texas Senate's condolences to her family and directs the Senate to adjourn in her memory. As a purely ceremonial resolution with no policy changes, it does not affect any laws or directly impact constituents.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (SR 333) adopted by the Texas Senate on March 27, 2025, to honor Gordon Robert Johnson, a longtime Austin resident and legal advisor with deep ties to Texas state government. The resolution recognizes his career as a lawyer, his service as political director for former House Speaker Joe Straus, his role in securing key legislation like the Texas Racing Act, and his family life. It does not create new laws or policies; it solely serves to memorialize Johnson following his death on March 16, 2025, and extend condolences to his family.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 316) recognizing the Rotary Club of Edinburg for its 100th anniversary. It formally commends the club's century of community service, highlighting its role in founding local programs like Little League Baseball and cultural initiatives. The resolution has no policy impact - it simply expresses the Texas Senate's appreciation for the club's contributions to Edinburg. No specific individuals or policies are directly affected by this recognition.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 314) formally recognizes March 21-26, 2025, as "Marine Week Austin" to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. It is a ceremonial gesture by the Texas Senate, not a law affecting policies or funding. The resolution expresses tribute to Marines' legacy of service, emphasizing their 250-year history of dedication and values. It does not create new obligations or changes for individuals, communities, or government programs.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 315), not a bill with policy changes. It formally commends Senior Deputy Mike Aleman of the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office for rescuing a man from a burning mobile home in McAllen on February 22, 2025, while off-duty. The resolution recognizes his actions as heroic and notes he was treated for smoke inhalation after the rescue. It has no effect on laws, regulations, or public policy - it is solely an expression of the Texas Senate’s appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SR 317) is a ceremonial resolution by the Texas Senate recognizing Trinity Episcopal Church in Pharr for its 100th anniversary. It formally extends "best wishes" to the church's clergy and congregants and directs that a copy of the resolution be provided to the church as a token of esteem. The resolution does not create any new laws, allocate funding, or affect any policies or individuals beyond this symbolic acknowledgment. It solely commemorates the church's historical milestones and community service over its century of operation.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution (SR 329) recognizes March 26, 2025, as "REALTOR Day" in Texas. It honors Texas REALTORS, a professional association with over 140,000 members, for their role in protecting property rights, contributing to the state's economy (accounting for 17.8% of Texas' GDP in 2024), and upholding ethical standards in real estate. The resolution extends a formal welcome to REALTORS visiting the State Capitol during legislative sessions and acknowledges their community involvement. It has no policy or financial impact - it is purely symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 330), not a law. It formally recognizes Tim Lee, executive director of the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA), for his 21 years of collaboration with the Texas Legislature. The resolution honors his work advocating for teacher pension benefits, cost-of-living adjustments, and federal policy changes like the Social Security Fairness Act. It does not create new laws or affect any policies; it is solely a symbolic gesture of appreciation from the Texas Senate.