Sen. César Blanco

Primary SB 169

In committee · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

Relating to the temperature at which a facility operated by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice is maintained.

Maddy summarySB 169 requires Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facilities to maintain indoor temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. This directly affects all TDCJ-operated correctional facilities and the inmates housed within them. The bill establishes a specific temperature range standard and delays full compliance until September 1, 2026, though the law takes effect on September 1, 2025. The legislation provides clear, measurable requirements without specifying enforcement mechanisms or exemptions beyond the implementation timeline.

In committee Feb 3, 2025 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SB 164

In committee · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

Relating to state, local, and court involvement in determining whether victims and witnesses to an offense and certain detained, arrested, or incarcerated persons are lawfully present in the United States.

Maddy summarySB 164 repeals nine existing Texas laws that required courts, law enforcement, and local officials to determine the immigration status of victims, witnesses, and certain detained or incarcerated individuals in criminal cases. Specifically, it removes provisions from the Code of Criminal Procedure and Government Code that mandated checks on whether these individuals were "lawfully present" in the U.S. The bill’s key change is eliminating these verification requirements, which affects how courts handle cases involving immigration status. This is a procedural repeal bill with no new requirements; it simply removes outdated legal mechanisms. The bill is currently pending in the State Affairs committee.

Criminal JusticeSupports Criminal JusticeRepeals laws requiring immigration status checks for victims/witnesses in criminal cases, removing barriers to participation and aligning with civil rights protections in criminal justice.92% confidence ImmigrationSupports ImmigrationRepeals laws requiring courts/local officials to verify immigration status in criminal cases, reducing state cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.95% confidence

In committee Feb 3, 2025 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SR 17

Passed · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

Recognizing January 28, 2025, as Sexual Assault Survivors Day.

Maddy summaryThis resolution formally recognizes January 28, 2025, as Sexual Assault Survivors Day at the Texas State Capitol. It commemorates an annual observance established in 2019 to honor sexual assault survivors, raise awareness about sexual violence, and acknowledge the work of advocates and law enforcement. The resolution does not create new laws or policies but serves as a symbolic statement supporting survivors and prevention efforts.

Passed Jan 28, 2025 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SR 14

Passed · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

In memory of Jesus "Jesse" Vargas of Brazoria County.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 14) honoring Deputy Jesus "Jesse" Vargas of the Brazoria County Sheriff's Office, who died in the line of duty on January 15, 2025. The resolution extends condolences to his wife, three daughters, parents, siblings, and colleagues, and memorializes him as a 17-year veteran dedicated to community service. It has no policy impact - it serves solely as a formal tribute with no legislative effect.

Passed Jan 28, 2025 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SB 5

Passed · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

Relating to the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program and the establishment of a school safety grant program; making an appropriation.

Passed Dec 5, 2023 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SR 85

Passed · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

In memory of Joyce W. Dorrycott.

Passed Dec 5, 2023 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SR 62

Passed · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

In memory of Brad Jones.

Passed Dec 1, 2023 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SB 37

Introduced · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

Relating to the public school finance system.

Introduced Nov 14, 2023 0 co-sponsors Track

Primary SR 4

Passed · Texas Senate · Lead sponsor

In memory of Barbara Jean York Hancock.

Passed Nov 9, 2023 0 co-sponsors Track

Co-sponsor SB 4

Passed · Texas Senate · Co-sponsor

Relating to the punishment for certain criminal conduct involving the smuggling of persons or the operation of a stash house; increasing criminal penalties.

Passed Nov 2, 2023 1 co-sponsor Track