Maddy summarySB 2516 amends Texas law to expand which preliminary court decisions can be appealed before a final judgment is issued. It specifically adds 15 new categories of orders eligible for interlocutory appeal, including decisions on class certification, temporary injunctions, summary judgments involving media immunity or medical malpractice cases (under Section 74.351), special appearances by defendants, and certain municipal or contractor liability cases. The bill also clarifies that appeals under most new categories will automatically stay trial proceedings, while some (like those under Section 74.351) will not. This change directly affects parties in civil litigation who seek to challenge specific rulings earlier in the legal process.
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Maddy summarySB 2537 amends Texas law to adjust how school districts calculate their maximum property tax rate (called the "compressed tax rate"). It changes the formula so that if a district's calculated rate would be less than 90% of another district's rate, it must instead set its rate to equal 90% of that other district's rate (previously 85%). This directly affects all Texas public school districts that determine their tax rates under this specific provision of the Education Code. The change takes effect September 1, 2025.
Maddy summarySB 2493 requires local governments (like cities, counties, and school districts) to clearly state bond election ballot language. The bill mandates that ballots must specify each project's exact purpose, the total bond amount, and confirmation that taxes will cover principal and interest. It also requires a voter information document showing principal, estimated interest, and current debt totals for each bond proposition. These changes aim to make bond election information more transparent and accessible for voters.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 368) recognizing John Sharp for his service as chancellor of The Texas A&M University System, where he served from 2011 until his planned retirement in 2025. The resolution formally acknowledges his leadership in expanding the system to 11 universities and eight agencies, growing enrollment to over 79,000 students, and advancing research and athletic programs. As a commemorative resolution, it has no legislative effect and serves solely to honor his contributions.
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 1882 requires Texas municipalities to hold two public hearings before imposing a permanent moratorium on property development, with a temporary moratorium automatically taking effect 5 business days after notice is published. The bill mandates specific notice requirements (newspaper publication and certified mail to affected parties) and sets a 12-day deadline after the second hearing for the governing body to finalize the moratorium through two readings spaced at least 28 days apart, requiring a two-thirds vote. If the municipality fails to adopt the ordinance within the deadline, the temporary moratorium expires. This bill directly affects municipalities considering development pauses and property developers or residents in areas subject to such moratoriums.
Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 350), not a legislative bill. It formally recognizes Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez for his service as the Texas Senate's "Pastor of the Day" on April 1, 2025, and congratulates him on his appointment as the ninth archbishop of Galveston-Houston. The resolution expresses the Texas Senate's honor and high regard for his religious leadership, community service, and 15 years of dedicated service to the Archdiocese. As a symbolic gesture, it includes no policy changes or binding obligations - it simply documents the Senate's recognition of his appointment.
Maddy summarySB 2016 requires the Texas State Auditor to conduct a one-time compliance audit of counties with populations of one million or more (like Harris or Dallas counties) regarding their use of federal funds received since January 1, 2021. The audit must verify whether counties properly obligated, expended, and accounted for these funds in accordance with federal rules and state laws. It mandates a written report by January 1, 2026, and expires on January 1, 2027. The bill directly affects large counties receiving significant federal funding, focusing on transparency and accountability in fund usage.
Maddy summarySB 2238 prevents counties and municipalities in Texas from banning or fining the use of specific transportation modes (like e-scooters or bicycles) on roadways, unless state law already prohibits that mode. It directly affects local governments by restricting their authority to create new restrictions or fines for transportation methods not already banned under state law. The bill amends the Transportation Code to prohibit county commissioners courts (Section 251.162) and municipal governing bodies (Section 311.905) from imposing such bans or fines. This policy change takes effect on September 1, 2025, ensuring local rules align with state-level transportation regulations.