Sen. Angela Paxton

Maddy summarySJR 51 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow retroactive civil lawsuits for victims of child sexual abuse. It would amend Texas' Constitution to explicitly permit retroactive laws for civil cases (not criminal) arising from childhood sexual abuse, removing a current constitutional barrier. This would enable survivors to file lawsuits for past abuse even if the original statute of limitations had expired, directly affecting victims seeking legal recourse for historical abuse. The amendment must be approved by voters in the November 2025 election.

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 summarySB 911 defines key terms for regulating advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in Texas, including nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists. The bill amends licensing definitions in the Occupations Code to clarify their scope of practice, such as administering medications under authorized protocols. It also authorizes a fee related to this regulatory framework. This bill directly affects APRNs and healthcare facilities employing them by standardizing their licensing and practice parameters under Texas law.

Maddy summarySR 98 is a ceremonial Senate resolution recognizing Senator Judith Zaffirini on her birthday. It honors her service as Dean of the Texas Senate - the longest-serving and highest-ranking member - and acknowledges her historic role as the first Mexican American woman elected to the Texas Senate. The resolution celebrates her 38 years of legislative service, including over 72,000 consecutive votes since 1987, and her work on health care, education, and family support. It has no policy impact or direct effect on constituents, as it is purely a tribute with no legislative action required.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 26), not a law. It honors Dr. Richard C. Benson for his service as president of the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), recognizing his leadership over eight years. The resolution highlights his achievements, including raising over $415 million through the New Dimensions campaign, overseeing major campus projects like the Biomedical Engineering building, and advancing UTD's research profile. As a symbolic gesture, it has no legal effect or policy changes - it simply expresses the Texas Senate's appreciation for his contributions to UTD and higher education.

Maddy summarySB 635 creates a supplemental pay program for Texas military members (including National Guard) who face economic hardship due to serving on active duty. It allows eligible members to receive payments up to the lesser of the hardship amount or the difference between lost civilian income and military pay received. The bill establishes a dedicated funding account in the general revenue fund, which can be supported by legislative appropriations, gifts, or grants. This program applies to military duty occurring on or after September 1, 2025, with payments subject to available funds.

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.

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.