Sen. Adam Hinojosa

Maddy summarySB 1301 amends Texas Government Code sections 2269.352 and 2269.353 to regulate the use of the design-build contracting method for certain government construction projects. It applies to governmental entities with populations over 100,000 or specific transportation boards (like those under Chapter 54 of the Transportation Code), restricting them to single integrated projects per contract. Key provisions prohibit bundling multiple locations into one contract, except for defined cases like linear transit projects (e.g., bus routes with multiple stops) or comprehensive water/wastewater infrastructure (e.g., treatment plants with connected facilities). The law takes effect September 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes March 4, 2025, as Texas Southern University Day at the Texas State Capitol. It honors Texas Southern University's role as a historically Black institution founded in 1927, highlighting its educational contributions, student enrollment (approximately 8,700), and community impact. The resolution directly affects Texas Southern University and its community by extending official recognition through a formal Senate gesture, with a copy provided to the university.

Maddy summarySB 1034 requires retail public utilities providing water or sewer service in Texas to adopt specific cybersecurity measures. Key provisions include prohibiting direct internet connections for critical operational systems (like SCADA), mandating employee identity verification before network access, and requiring annual cybersecurity training for relevant staff. Utilities must also conduct security assessments and comply with rules developed by the utility commission and the Department of Information Resources. The bill directly affects water and sewer utilities by imposing new operational cybersecurity standards to protect critical infrastructure.

Maddy summarySR 191 is a Senate resolution honoring Johnny Canales, a beloved Texas television host and cultural figure who passed away in June 2024. It commemorates his life, career hosting "The Johnny Canales Show" (which featured artists like Selena), and his role in promoting Hispanic culture through media. The resolution pays tribute to his legacy, his family, and his contributions to Texas entertainment. As a commemorative resolution, it has no policy impact and serves solely to recognize his cultural significance.

Maddy summarySB 1260 amends Texas law to expand the jurisdiction of the 2nd Multicounty Court at Law for certain civil cases and changes the composition of juvenile boards in three counties. It adds the judge of the 2nd Multicounty Court at Law to the juvenile boards of Bee, Live Oak, and McMullen Counties, alongside county judges and district judges. The bill clarifies that the court has concurrent jurisdiction with district courts in specified civil cases (excluding those exceeding $50,000), and the changes apply only to cases filed on or after the bill's effective date. It does not alter existing juvenile services or case procedures but adjusts administrative oversight structures for these counties.

Maddy summarySB 1168 establishes a voluntary disaster identification system for households in areas declared under a state of disaster. It allows residents to attach color-coded illuminated displays to themselves and pets: blue for adults (18+), green for people with disabilities, red for children (<18), and yellow for animals. The system uses continuous light to indicate no medical need and flashing light for medical assistance, helping relief personnel locate people and animals during nighttime operations. This system activates automatically when a disaster declaration is issued under existing emergency management plans.

Maddy summarySB 1170 allows eight designated Texas state agencies - including the Department of Agriculture, Economic Development, and Water Development Board - to issue bonds for infrastructure projects. It requires governor and Legislative Budget Board approval for international agreements involving state funds, specifically enabling cooperation with Mexico. The bill creates a new mechanism for these agencies to partner with the North American Development Bank to jointly fund Texas infrastructure investments. The law takes effect September 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryTexas Senate Bill 1189 adds firefighters and police officers to the list of people exempt from jury duty under state law. Specifically, it exempts permanent, paid employees (including chiefs) of municipal, county, or special district fire and police departments. This change applies only to those summoned for jury service on or after September 1, 2025, and does not affect existing exemptions for other groups like seniors or students. The bill modifies Texas Government Code Section 62.106 to include these professions as automatic exemptions.

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution (SR 175) formally recognizes February 2025 as Black History Month in Texas. It does not create new laws or policies, but serves as a symbolic gesture by the Texas Senate to honor African American contributions to Texas history and culture. The resolution encourages all Texans to learn about the achievements and heritage of Black communities in the state, as detailed in the preamble. As a commemorative resolution, it has no direct legal effect on citizens or government operations.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution, not a policy bill. Senate Resolution 152 formally recognizes February 26, 2025, as "Orange and Maroon Legislative Day" to honor the partnership between The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University. It highlights both institutions' contributions to Texas through education, research, military support, and cultural engagement, citing their combined student enrollment, research funding, and alumni networks. The resolution has no binding effect or policy changes - it serves solely as a symbolic recognition by the Texas Senate.