Sen. Judith Zaffirini

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (not a substantive bill) passed by the Texas Senate. It formally recognizes February 4, 2025, as "UTSA and UT Health San Antonio Day" at the State Capitol. The resolution commemorates the planned visit of representatives from The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) to the Capitol. It acknowledges their upcoming merger, which will create Texas' third-largest public research university with over 40,000 students and significant economic impact. The resolution has no binding effect or policy changes - it is purely symbolic recognition.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 33) symbolically honors Laredo, Texas, by designating February 4, 2025, as "Laredo Day." It recognizes Laredo residents gathering at the Texas State Capitol for a community celebration. The resolution acknowledges Laredo's historical significance as a border trading hub, its cultural heritage, and its role as a major inland port and educational center. It does not create new laws or affect policy; it is purely a ceremonial recognition.

Maddy summarySB 161 requires lobbyists in Texas to submit proof of completing two specific trainings when registering: sexual harassment prevention training and ethics training, both completed within the previous two years. This applies directly to individuals registering as lobbyists under Texas law. The bill adds new requirements to the registration form (Section 305.005(f)) and creates new sections mandating these trainings every two years (Sections 305.0052 and 305.0053). The Texas Ethics Commission must adopt implementing rules by December 1, 2025, and the new requirements take effect for registrations filed on or after January 1, 2026.

Maddy summarySB 61 preserves existing tuition benefits for senior citizens at Texas public colleges by clarifying that certain current exemptions remain unaffected. The bill amends the Education Code to explicitly state that Section 54.2001(g) does not apply to specific programs, including dual credit courses for high school students, certain tax exemptions under Sections 54.341 and 54.342, and the tuition benefit under Section 54.365(c). It directly affects seniors enrolled in these existing programs who currently receive reduced tuition rates. The bill maintains current policy without creating new benefits or restrictions, ensuring these exemptions continue under existing law.

Maddy summarySB 47, titled "Allie's Way," amends Texas law to prohibit using wireless devices for electronic messaging (like texting) while driving, unless the vehicle is stopped outside a travel lane. It defines "hands-free devices" to include speakerphone, voice control, and mounted navigation systems, allowing their use without penalty. Exceptions include contacting emergency services, using GPS navigation, or operating a device mounted solely for video recording. The bill specifies that officers may issue written notices for violations and clarifies that devices used only for navigation (e.g., GPS) are exempt from the restriction. This law directly affects drivers in Texas who use phones for messaging while operating vehicles.

Maddy summarySB 145 would allow any qualified Texas voter to request a ballot by mail without restrictions. It removes a prior requirement that voters in the address confidentiality program (for safety reasons) must submit mail-in voting applications in person. The bill also repeals criminal penalties for soliciting or distributing mail-in voting application forms. These changes make mail-in voting more accessible and simplify the process for voters. The bill is currently in committee referral after being filed in early 2025.

Maddy summarySB 70 allows vehicles transporting aggregates (like sand, gravel, or crushed stone) to exceed standard axle weight limits by up to 15% for the axle weight, provided the vehicle's total gross weight does not exceed the roadway's maximum authorized limit. This change directly affects commercial trucking companies and construction firms that haul aggregate materials across Texas highways. The bill amends the Transportation Code to create this specific tolerance for aggregate transport while maintaining overall weight restrictions. It would take effect immediately if approved by a two-thirds vote, or on September 1, 2025, otherwise.

Maddy summarySB 147 requires Texas counties to establish polling places on the main campuses of public institutions of higher education within their borders if those institutions enroll at least 5,000 students. Specifically, counties must designate one polling place for campuses with 5,000-9,999 students, two places for 10,000-19,999 students, and one additional place for every 10,000 students beyond 10,000. The bill applies to all public colleges and universities meeting these enrollment thresholds located in the county. It takes effect September 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 44 establishes the Texas B-On-time student loan program, providing no-interest loans to students enrolled at eligible public colleges and universities in Texas that offer bachelor's degree programs. The program aims to help students earn bachelor's degrees without accruing interest, with loan forgiveness available under specific conditions. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will administer the program, charge a loan origination fee to cover operational costs, and implement strategies to improve student awareness and satisfaction with the program. Eligible institutions include public universities offering bachelor's degrees and junior colleges with bachelor's programs.

Maddy summarySB 575 makes it a criminal offense to tamper with gas pump meters or self-service payment systems at fuel stations. It prohibits actions like altering devices, selling tools designed to cheat pumps, or profiting from such tampering. Exceptions apply for authorized technicians, state regulators, and law enforcement acting in their official duties. Violations are punishable as second-degree felonies under Texas law.