Sen. Adam Hinojosa

Maddy summarySB 422 creates a specific "construction grants" category under Texas library funding, allowing the State Library and Archives Commission to award grants for building new public libraries or improving existing ones. These grants directly affect Texas public libraries seeking state funding for physical infrastructure projects. The bill clarifies that construction grants may cover new construction, rehabilitation, or renovation of library buildings and associated costs, but explicitly prohibits using state funds for site acquisition, building purchases, or past debts. This policy change takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies to all public libraries eligible for state library grants.

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 summarySB 776 modifies Texas law to allow contractors to seek compensatory damages when government delays cause project setbacks. It defines "compensatory damages" as actual costs incurred due to delays the contractor couldn't reasonably mitigate (excluding profit, overhead, or special damages), and prohibits government contracts from banning such claims for delays caused solely by the government or its responsible parties. The bill affects contractors working on government construction projects and government entities (like cities, counties, or school districts) entering these contracts, while allowing contracts to still require contractors to provide notice or prove damages. It does not apply to disaster recovery projects or certain transportation contracts, and cannot be waived by contractors. The law takes effect September 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 895 modifies Texas' Financial Aid for Swift Transfer (FAST) program to clarify student eligibility for dual credit courses. It requires school districts, charter schools, or private schools to determine if high school students were "educationally disadvantaged" during their prior four school years before enrolling in dual credit courses at participating colleges. Schools must notify colleges of this eligibility determination, and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will distribute funds to colleges based on the number of eligible students enrolled in dual credit courses. This bill directly affects high school students (including those in private or home schools), school districts, and participating colleges by establishing clear eligibility criteria and funding mechanisms for the FAST program.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 342), not a policy bill. It formally recognizes Maria Guadalupe Ortiz of Corpus Christi for celebrating her 100th birthday on April 22, 2025. The resolution expresses the Texas Senate's congratulations and best wishes, and directs that an official copy be presented to Ms. Ortiz as a gesture of respect. It has no legal effect or policy changes, and solely serves to honor an individual's life milestone.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 221), not a law. It formally recognizes the 88th annual Charro Days Fiesta in Brownsville, Texas, held February 27-March 1, 2025. The resolution commemorates the event's history since 1938, its cultural significance honoring charros (Mexican cowboys), and its binational celebration with Matamoros, Mexico, including the Hands Across the Border ceremony. It was adopted by the Texas Senate on March 31, 2025, expressing appreciation for the festival's organizers and its cultural value.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 220) passed by the Texas Senate to honor José Cantoral, a musician and arts educator, for being named "Mr. Amigo 2025" by the Mr. Amigo Association of Brownsville. The resolution recognizes his contributions to cultural ties between Brownsville and Matamoros, Mexico, his musical work (including songs for *Coco* and telenovelas), and his arts education efforts through the Instituto Cantoral. It has no policy impact - it is purely symbolic, expressing the Senate's congratulations and best wishes.

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 summarySR 331 is a Texas Senate resolution honoring Robert "Mo" Morehead, who passed away in January 2025. The resolution commemorates his life, highlighting his career in advertising, community involvement with nonprofits and Rotary Clubs, and dedication to family and civic engagement. It extends condolences to his wife Charmaine, three daughters, five grandchildren, and other relatives, with the Senate formally paying tribute upon its adoption. As a commemorative resolution, it has no legislative effect or policy impact.