Maddy summarySB 1083 modifies Texas law to allow counties with populations of 2.5 million or more (adjacent to counties over 2.1 million) to appoint attorneys solely for an indigent person's initial court appearance under specific statutes (Articles 14.06(a), 15.17(a), or 15.18(a)). This limited appointment applies only if the county appropriates funds for this purpose, and the attorney cannot represent the person in later court proceedings unless separately appointed under other law. The bill affects criminal defendants in designated large-county areas arrested on or after September 1, 2025, while those arrested earlier follow existing rules. It does not change general indigent defense standards but creates a narrow pathway for initial appearance representation in specific jurisdictions.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the Texas Art Therapy Board to regulate art therapy practice in Texas. It requires art therapists to obtain an occupational license, creates a fee structure for licensing, and defines the scope of practice for licensed professionals. The bill also creates a criminal offense for practicing art therapy without a license, aiming to protect the public by ensuring practitioners meet specific qualifications and standards.
Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (SR 116) passed by the Texas Senate to honor the late Eddie Bernice Johnson, a pioneering public servant who died in 2023. The resolution recognizes her legacy as the first Black woman elected to the Texas House (1972), the first Black person to serve in the Texas Senate since Reconstruction (1986), and a 15-term U.S. Congresswoman representing Texas. It highlights her career as a nurse, her advocacy for women and children, and her authorship of over 175 enacted bills during her congressional service. The resolution serves as a formal tribute to her life and impact on Texas and national policy.
Maddy summaryThis Texas legislative resolution (SCR 17) designates the fourth Thursday of March each year as "Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day" in the state. It honors the historical contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen, who broke racial barriers in the U.S. military during World War II and helped pave the way for military integration. The bill does not create new policies or funding but establishes an annual observance to recognize their service and legacy. It directly affects Texans by providing a formal day for commemoration within the state.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 119) honoring Maynard Yates for 50 years of membership and service to the Dallas Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. It recognizes his long-term leadership, mentorship, and contributions to the fraternity's mission of community service, academic support, and civic engagement in North Texas. The resolution formally commends Yates and provides him with a copy of the resolution as a gesture of esteem from the Texas Senate, coinciding with the chapter's 90th anniversary celebration. This resolution does not create any new laws or affect policies - it is solely a symbolic gesture of appreciation.
Maddy summarySB 1419 amends Texas education code to clarify rules for the Texas Leadership Scholars Program, affecting public universities and students receiving leadership or research scholarships. It requires research scholarships to be at least 150% of leadership scholarship amounts, limits students to four years per scholarship program, and mandates that each eligible institution receives at least one research scholarship. The bill prohibits rules that restrict which universities can participate or favor specific institutions, ensuring broader access. These changes aim to standardize scholarship distribution while maintaining program flexibility for participating universities.
Maddy summaryThis bill requires the University Interscholastic League (UIL) to use a formal request-for-proposals process when selecting host locations for its statewide extracurricular competitions. The process mandates that UIL specify selection criteria and require potential hosts (such as colleges or other entities) to submit details about facilities, accommodations, and capabilities. These rules apply only to competitions held on or after September 1, 2026, and take effect September 1, 2025.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 117) honoring State Representative Harold V. Dutton, Jr. on his 80th birthday. It recognizes his 40-year legislative career in the Texas House, including his service as chair of multiple committees and his sponsorship of initiatives supporting minority businesses and public education. The resolution, adopted by the Texas Senate, expresses congratulations and best wishes for his birthday and includes a formal copy for him. It has no policy impact or legal effect.
Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution designates February 18, 2025, as Texas Music Advocacy Day to honor the Texas Chapter of the Recording Academy. It recognizes the state's musical heritage, including Texas-born artists and industry contributions that support over 210,000 jobs and generate billions in economic activity. The resolution specifically celebrates the Recording Academy's Texas Chapter and its role in advancing music education and the state's music industry. (SR 61)
Maddy summarySB 940 allows certain Texas school districts to appoint a nonvoting student trustee to their board of trustees. The student trustee can attend and participate in board meetings but cannot vote, second motions, or count toward quorum. This position is created solely at the board's discretion for districts not covered by another specific law. The bill takes effect September 1, 2025, and does not alter voting procedures or board composition.