Texas Political Spotlight
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Texas Political Spotlight

Texas Lawmakers Advance Bill to Turn Empty Office Space Into Housing
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Welcome back, friends

Texas lawmakers have advanced a bill that would allow vacant commercial space in large cities to be converted into apartments or mixed-use housing. Meanwhile, the House has passed the “Life of the Mother Act,” legislation intended to clarify when doctors may legally perform medically necessary abortions under Texas’ current ban. Lastly, Rep. Vikki Goodwin has officially entered the 2026 race for lieutenant governor, becoming the first major Democratic challenger to take on Republican incumbent Dan Patrick.

Today’s Insights:

  • Texas Lawmakers Advance Bill to Turn Empty Office Space Into Housing
  • “Life of the Mother Act” Passes the House, Heads Back to the Senate
  • Rep. Vikki Goodwin Launches Bid for Lieutenant Governor

Image Credit: KSST Radio

Texas Lawmakers Advance Bill to Turn Empty Office Space Into Housing

Amid Texas’ growing housing affordability crisis, state lawmakers have advanced legislation that could reshape urban development by repurposing underused commercial properties into residential space. On Tuesday, the Texas House gave final approval to SB 840, which would allow apartments and mixed-use developments to be built in areas currently zoned only for office use in major cities. The measure, authored by Sen. Bryan Hughes, eliminates the need for rezoning, a process often cited by developers as a barrier that inflates housing costs. The bill, which passed the House 106-33, now returns to the Senate for action on House amendments before it can head to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk.

The legislation is limited to Texas cities with populations exceeding 150,000 and located in counties of at least 300,000 residents, targeting urban areas where demand for housing is most acute. SB 840 is part of a broader push by Republican leaders to expand housing supply as a means of reducing prices, following years of rapid population growth and a reported statewide shortage of over 300,000 homes. Other bills in the same legislative package aim to permit smaller homes on smaller lots and allow additional units on single-family properties, though several have yet to receive final legislative approval. While previous attempts to ease zoning restrictions have stalled, SB 840’s passage without debate suggests shifting political momentum and growing public support for measures that allow flexible use of Texas’ aging commercial real estate.

»»» Click Here to View the Passage of Senate Bill 840 «««

Image Credit: Texas Standard

“Life of the Mother Act” Passes the House, Heads Back to the Senate

The Texas House has advanced SB 31, known as the "Life of the Mother Act," which aims to clarify when doctors can legally perform medically necessary abortions under the state’s existing abortion ban. The legislation defines a "life-threatening condition" as one that could cause death, though it does not require the patient to be in immediate danger. Supporters say the bill is intended to remove uncertainty for physicians treating patients in critical situations and standardize language across existing laws. It does not expand abortion access, nor does it provide exceptions for rape or incest.

Under the proposed law, doctors would be shielded from criminal prosecution if an abortion is performed in a medical emergency that risks serious bodily harm. The bill also outlines training requirements for physicians and legal support provisions for those involved in such cases. It previously passed the Senate unanimously before advancing in the House by a 129-6 vote.

Image Credit: Austin American-Statesman

Rep. Vikki Goodwin Launches Bid for Lieutenant Governor

Rep. Vikki Goodwin formally launched her campaign for lieutenant governor on Tuesday. Goodwin, who has served four terms in the Texas House representing a safely Democratic district in Travis County, becomes the first major Democratic contender to declare for the 2026 race. Her announcement marks a significant political move: giving up her legislative seat to take on Republican incumbent Dan Patrick, who has already signaled plans to seek a fourth term and enters the race with more than $33 million in campaign funds. In her launch, Goodwin emphasized priorities such as fully funding public education, expanding access to affordable housing and health care, and investing in clean water and energy, all while criticizing current state leadership for undermining public trust in government institutions.

Though Goodwin has hinted at a statewide bid for more than a year, her entry highlights the steep climb Democrats face in Texas, where no member of the party has won a statewide election since 1994. Patrick, a key figure in the state’s conservative leadership, won reelection by double digits in 2022, and his deep fundraising network poses a significant obstacle for any challenger.

Goodwin’s departure from the House has already triggered movement in her district, with Travis County Democratic Party Chair Pooja Sethi, who also serves as Goodwin’s chief of staff, announcing a campaign to succeed her.

🤝 USLege Secures Venture Capital Funding to Accelerate Nationwide Expansion

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🤝 Texas Venture Forum & Gala May 28–29

USLege is headed to the Texas Venture Forum & Gala May 28–29, sponsoring, speaking, and podcasting live from the floor. Join us for the conference and gala at the intersection of tech and government.

Please use code "USLEGE25" for 20% off table/tickets

🎙️Check Out Our Podcast! 🎙️

Bills and Business is your go-to podcast for conversations related to Texas legislation and business. Hosted by Laura Carr, Co-Founder of USLege—an AI-driven legislative tracking software—we bring you in-depth analysis on economic trends, impactful legislation, and key developments shaping Texas business.

Subscribe on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for weekly episodes!

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🤝 Texas Association of Business 📈

Texas Association of Business (TAB) is the Texas State Chamber, representing companies of every size and industry. TAB’s purpose is to champion the best business climate in the world, unleashing the power of free enterprise to enhance lives for generations.

You can follow TAB on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

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Texas Political Spotlight
x minute read

Texas Political Spotlight

This is some text inside of a div block.

Welcome back, friends

Texas lawmakers have advanced a bill that would allow vacant commercial space in large cities to be converted into apartments or mixed-use housing. Meanwhile, the House has passed the “Life of the Mother Act,” legislation intended to clarify when doctors may legally perform medically necessary abortions under Texas’ current ban. Lastly, Rep. Vikki Goodwin has officially entered the 2026 race for lieutenant governor, becoming the first major Democratic challenger to take on Republican incumbent Dan Patrick.

Today’s Insights:

  • Texas Lawmakers Advance Bill to Turn Empty Office Space Into Housing
  • “Life of the Mother Act” Passes the House, Heads Back to the Senate
  • Rep. Vikki Goodwin Launches Bid for Lieutenant Governor

Image Credit: KSST Radio

Texas Lawmakers Advance Bill to Turn Empty Office Space Into Housing

Amid Texas’ growing housing affordability crisis, state lawmakers have advanced legislation that could reshape urban development by repurposing underused commercial properties into residential space. On Tuesday, the Texas House gave final approval to SB 840, which would allow apartments and mixed-use developments to be built in areas currently zoned only for office use in major cities. The measure, authored by Sen. Bryan Hughes, eliminates the need for rezoning, a process often cited by developers as a barrier that inflates housing costs. The bill, which passed the House 106-33, now returns to the Senate for action on House amendments before it can head to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk.

The legislation is limited to Texas cities with populations exceeding 150,000 and located in counties of at least 300,000 residents, targeting urban areas where demand for housing is most acute. SB 840 is part of a broader push by Republican leaders to expand housing supply as a means of reducing prices, following years of rapid population growth and a reported statewide shortage of over 300,000 homes. Other bills in the same legislative package aim to permit smaller homes on smaller lots and allow additional units on single-family properties, though several have yet to receive final legislative approval. While previous attempts to ease zoning restrictions have stalled, SB 840’s passage without debate suggests shifting political momentum and growing public support for measures that allow flexible use of Texas’ aging commercial real estate.

»»» Click Here to View the Passage of Senate Bill 840 «««

Image Credit: Texas Standard

“Life of the Mother Act” Passes the House, Heads Back to the Senate

The Texas House has advanced SB 31, known as the "Life of the Mother Act," which aims to clarify when doctors can legally perform medically necessary abortions under the state’s existing abortion ban. The legislation defines a "life-threatening condition" as one that could cause death, though it does not require the patient to be in immediate danger. Supporters say the bill is intended to remove uncertainty for physicians treating patients in critical situations and standardize language across existing laws. It does not expand abortion access, nor does it provide exceptions for rape or incest.

Under the proposed law, doctors would be shielded from criminal prosecution if an abortion is performed in a medical emergency that risks serious bodily harm. The bill also outlines training requirements for physicians and legal support provisions for those involved in such cases. It previously passed the Senate unanimously before advancing in the House by a 129-6 vote.

Image Credit: Austin American-Statesman

Rep. Vikki Goodwin Launches Bid for Lieutenant Governor

Rep. Vikki Goodwin formally launched her campaign for lieutenant governor on Tuesday. Goodwin, who has served four terms in the Texas House representing a safely Democratic district in Travis County, becomes the first major Democratic contender to declare for the 2026 race. Her announcement marks a significant political move: giving up her legislative seat to take on Republican incumbent Dan Patrick, who has already signaled plans to seek a fourth term and enters the race with more than $33 million in campaign funds. In her launch, Goodwin emphasized priorities such as fully funding public education, expanding access to affordable housing and health care, and investing in clean water and energy, all while criticizing current state leadership for undermining public trust in government institutions.

Though Goodwin has hinted at a statewide bid for more than a year, her entry highlights the steep climb Democrats face in Texas, where no member of the party has won a statewide election since 1994. Patrick, a key figure in the state’s conservative leadership, won reelection by double digits in 2022, and his deep fundraising network poses a significant obstacle for any challenger.

Goodwin’s departure from the House has already triggered movement in her district, with Travis County Democratic Party Chair Pooja Sethi, who also serves as Goodwin’s chief of staff, announcing a campaign to succeed her.

🤝 USLege Secures Venture Capital Funding to Accelerate Nationwide Expansion

We hope you enjoyed today’s read!

Stay connected with TXLege News on X and LinkedIn!

🤝 Texas Venture Forum & Gala May 28–29

USLege is headed to the Texas Venture Forum & Gala May 28–29, sponsoring, speaking, and podcasting live from the floor. Join us for the conference and gala at the intersection of tech and government.

Please use code "USLEGE25" for 20% off table/tickets

🎙️Check Out Our Podcast! 🎙️

Bills and Business is your go-to podcast for conversations related to Texas legislation and business. Hosted by Laura Carr, Co-Founder of USLege—an AI-driven legislative tracking software—we bring you in-depth analysis on economic trends, impactful legislation, and key developments shaping Texas business.

Subscribe on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for weekly episodes!

🔍 USLege - The Only AI-First Political Tracking Solution

USLege helps you track legislation and find what you need faster from bills, committee hearings, floor debates, and state agency meetings faster.

Say goodbye to tedious tasks!

You can follow USLege on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

🤝 Texas Association of Business 📈

Texas Association of Business (TAB) is the Texas State Chamber, representing companies of every size and industry. TAB’s purpose is to champion the best business climate in the world, unleashing the power of free enterprise to enhance lives for generations.

You can follow TAB on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

Texas Political Spotlight
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Texas Political Spotlight

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Welcome back, friends

Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, Texas high school students will likely be required to complete a dedicated personal finance course to graduate, a move aimed at better preparing youth with essential money management skills; the legislation passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and directs the Texas Education Agency to make accessible, no-cost curricula available. Meanwhile, the Texas House approved Senate Bill 22, a $1.5 billion film incentive program designed to boost local production and economic growth, though it faces criticism from some lawmakers concerned about public spending on private entertainment ventures.

Today’s Insights:

  • HB 27 Heads to The Governor’s Desk, Looking to Make Financial Literacy a Graduation Must
  • Texas House Passes $1.5B Film Incentive Bill to Grow In-State Productions

Subscribe | USLege | Texas Association of Business

Image Credit: Houston Public Media

HB 27 Heads to The Governor’s Desk, Looking to Make Financial Literacy a Graduation Must

The Legislature has given final approval to HB 27 by Rep. Ken King, which would require high school students to complete a financial literacy course. Beginning with the 2025–2026 school year, students entering ninth grade will need to pass the standalone course, distinct from the previously combined economics and financial literacy model, to satisfy graduation requirements. The revised curriculum will offer more targeted instruction on essential life skills such as budgeting, credit, savings, loans, and financial planning. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is tasked with supporting implementation by compiling a list of free, open-source curricula that school districts may use. Additionally, the State Board of Education (SBOE) will permit students to fulfill the requirement through an Advanced Placement (AP) course, provided it meets equivalent rigor and content standards.

HB 27 passed the House 140-1 and passed unanimously in the Senate, where it was sponsored by Senator Pete Flores

The final legislation reflected a more structured and prescriptive approach than when it was originally proposed. As filed, the bill would have embedded personal finance more broadly within social studies while encouraging optional electives. As passed by the Legislature, HB 27 establishes personal finance as a separate, standalone course requirement for graduation. The final bill also places a stronger emphasis on curriculum accessibility and cost containment by directing TEA to identify no-cost instructional materials. These changes align with a broader national movement to bolster financial preparedness among students.

Texas House Passes $1.5B Film Incentive Bill to Grow In-State Productions

The Texas House of Representatives voted 114-26 on Monday to approve SB 22, legislation that would allocate $300 million every two years to support film, television, and digital media production within the state. The bill, which now returns to the Senate to consider House amendments, establishes a multi-tiered grant program that awards up to 25% of in-state production spending to qualifying projects. To be eligible, productions must employ a minimum of 35% Texas residents—a threshold that will rise incrementally—and must be approved by the Governor’s Music, Film, Television, and Multimedia Office. Additional incentives are available for projects filming in rural areas, highlighting Texas heritage, employing veterans, partnering with higher education institutions, or completing significant post-production work within the state. The program excludes certain categories such as adult content, political messaging, religious services, and class projects.

Supporters of the measure describe it as a strategic investment in a growing sector that could expand Texas' creative economy, retain local talent, and attract major productions currently drawn to other states with more robust incentives. Critics have expressed concerns over the use of public funds to support private entertainment ventures, arguing the money could be better directed toward other taxpayer priorities. The legislation follows a broader national trend of states increasing film and media incentives to compete for a larger share of domestic production activity, particularly as streaming platforms and independent studios seek cost-effective filming environments.

We hope you enjoyed today’s read!

Stay connected with TXLege News on X and LinkedIn!

🤝 Texas Venture Forum & Gala May 28–29

USLege is headed to the Texas Venture Forum & Gala May 28–29, sponsoring, speaking, and podcasting live from the floor. Join us for the conference and gala at the intersection of tech and government.

Please use code "USLEGE25" for 20% off table/tickets

🎙️Check Out Our Podcast! 🎙️

Bills and Business is your go-to podcast for conversations related to Texas legislation and business. Hosted by Laura Carr, Co-Founder of USLege—an AI-driven legislative tracking software—we bring you in-depth analysis on economic trends, impactful legislation, and key developments shaping Texas business.

Subscribe on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for weekly episodes!

🔍 USLege - The Only AI-First Political Tracking Solution

USLege helps you track legislation and find what you need faster from bills, committee hearings, floor debates, and state agency meetings faster.

Say goodbye to tedious tasks!

You can follow USLege on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

Texas Political Spotlight
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Texas Political Spotlight

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Governor Greg Abbott is weighing whether to sign SB 3, a bill that would ban all THC products in Texas, sparking intense debate over the future of a thriving hemp industry and its impact on small businesses. In Houston, Abbott signed four key bail reform bills, including SB 9, aimed at tightening pretrial release rules and giving prosecutors more authority to appeal bail decisions, amid strong reactions from crime victims and civil liberties advocates. Meanwhile, the San Antonio mayoral runoff draws national attention as Democrat Gina Ortiz Jones and Republican Rolando Pablos face off in a high-stakes race.

Today’s Insights:

  • Abbott Weighs THC Ban as Industry, Advocates Rally Against SB 3
  • Bail Reform Bills are Becoming Law
  • San Antonio Mayoral Race Gains (Even More) National Attention

Subscribe | USLege | Texas Association of Business

Abbott Weighs THC Ban as Industry, Advocates Rally Against SB 3

Governor Greg Abbott is facing mounting pressure as he considers whether or not to sign SB 3, a measure that would ban all THC products in Texas, including hemp-derived variants that have been legal since the state passed its agricultural hemp law in 2019. That law’s passage ignited a multibillion-dollar industry supporting thousands of small businesses and farmers statewide. While Republican leaders like Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick argue the market lacks regulation and poses risks to children, critics—including veterans groups, industry advocates, and agricultural stakeholders—warn that the legislation would devastate livelihoods and dismantle a thriving sector. The Texas Hemp Business Council has delivered over 5,000 letters and a petition with 120,000 signatures urging a veto. Abbott, who has until June 22 to make a decision, has so far withheld a clear position, stating only that SB 3 is among more than a thousand bills requiring his careful review. Observers across the political spectrum are closely watching the governor’s move, with even seasoned analysts calling the outcome uncertain.

Bail Reform Bills are Becoming Law

Governor Greg Abbott signed four major bail reform measures into law in Houston on Tuesday, marking a significant overhaul of Texas' judicial system. Chief among them is SB 9, which restricts the use of cashless bonds and permits prosecutors to appeal a judge’s decision to grant bail. SJR 5, meanwhile, will go before voters in November as a proposed constitutional amendment to allow judges to deny bail to individuals accused of violent crimes, particularly repeat offenders. At the signing ceremony, Abbott underscored the need for reform, calling it a “travesty” that accused offenders can return to their lives while victims and families are left with permanent losses. Advocacy groups like Crime Stoppers of Houston heralded the legislation as a turning point, emphasizing the bills as promises kept to those affected by violent crime. Crime victims, including Aimee Castillo, whose brother was murdered by a man out on bond—spoke emotionally about the consequences of a system they see as too lenient on repeat offenders.

However, the legislative effort was not without resistance. Two bail ban proposals, including SJR 87, were blocked by Democrats during the session, with critics raising deep concerns about the potential erosion of civil liberties and due process. State Rep. Joe Moody of El Paso warned that expanding pre-trial detention without convictions would exact a heavy toll on individual rights and public resources. In response, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick condemned Democratic lawmakers by name for opposing the measures, urging voters, especially in Harris County, to hold them accountable for what he characterized as a refusal to protect crime victims. Patrick accused these legislators of enabling a system that releases both undocumented and U.S. citizens accused of violent crimes. While Abbott and Patrick pledged to revisit the failed measures, they stopped short of calling for a special session, leaving the fate of additional bail reforms uncertain for now.

San Antonio Mayoral Race Gains (Even More) National Attention

The San Antonio mayoral runoff has emerged as one of the most closely watched political races in Texas, drawing national media, political operatives, and even a documentary film crew. The contest pits Democrat Gina Ortiz Jones, a former congressional candidate and high-ranking military official, against Republican-aligned Rolando Pablos, former Texas Secretary of State. Jones led the initial round of voting in a crowded field, capitalizing on her progressive credentials and appeal among grassroots Democrats.

Pablos, a business attorney with deep ties to the state GOP, has shifted from a business-centered, unity-driven message to an overtly partisan campaign, aligning himself with Trump-era rhetoric and state elected leaders including Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. He has attempted to redefine Jones as an outsider, questioning her ethnicity, military record, and loyalty to San Antonio. His strategy includes rallying conservative voters on the city’s North Side while benefiting from heavy investment by a PAC linked to Abbott and the local police union. This shift underscores the GOP’s growing ambitions in urban, majority-Hispanic areas, which have shown increasing openness to Republican messaging in recent election cycles.

For Jones, the runoff has become a test of whether progressive politics can still thrive in a city long considered a Democratic stronghold but with a political culture often defined by pragmatism and bipartisanship. Though she boasts a compelling personal narrative as the daughter of a Filipina immigrant who rose through the ranks of the U.S. Air Force, she has faced resistance from parts of the city’s business elite and some Democratic leaders. Her criticism of high-dollar downtown projects and her emphasis on expanding social services and public education reflect her broader commitment to equity-focused governance, but they have complicated her relationship with traditional power brokers. Meanwhile, some Democratic voices have expressed concern over the party’s lack of cohesion and the potential consequences of losing a high-profile local office.

The San Antonio Mayoral Election is slated for June 7th

We hope you enjoyed today’s read!

Stay connected with TXLege News on X and LinkedIn!

🎙️Check Out Our Podcast! 🎙️

Bills and Business is your go-to podcast for conversations related to Texas legislation and business. Hosted by Laura Carr, Co-Founder of USLege—an AI-driven legislative tracking software—we bring you in-depth analysis on economic trends, impactful legislation, and key developments shaping Texas business.

Subscribe on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for weekly episodes!

🔍 USLege - The Only AI-First Political Tracking Solution

USLege helps you track legislation and find what you need faster from bills, committee hearings, floor debates, and state agency meetings faster.

Say goodbye to tedious tasks!

You can follow USLege on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

Texas Political Spotlight
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Texas Political Spotlight

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Texas has referred 33 potential noncitizen voters from the 2024 election to the Attorney General’s Office after cross-checking voter rolls with a federal immigration database. State Rep. Jolanda Jones has entered the race to succeed the late U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner in Texas’ 18th Congressional District, joining a crowded Democratic field ahead of the November special election.

Today’s Insights:

  • Texas Flags 33 Voters as Possible Noncitizens, Refers Cases for Investigation
  • Rep. Jolanda Jones Enters Race for 18th District Congressional Seat

Subscribe | USLege | Texas Association of Business

Texas Flags 33 Voters as Possible Noncitizens, Refers Cases for Investigation

Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced Thursday that her office has referred the names of 33 individuals identified as “potential noncitizens” who voted in the November 2024 general election to the state Attorney General’s Office for investigation. The referrals come after Texas gained access to the federal SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) database, which is managed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Nelson said the database not only helped flag the 33 voters but also confirmed the naturalization of dozens more. The individuals in question represent a small fraction of the more than 11.3 million Texans who cast ballots in that election, and state officials have not disclosed which counties the cases originated from.

The announcement follows a broader national debate over voter eligibility and efforts in several states, including Texas, to require proof of citizenship to register to vote. Although such legislation failed to pass during Texas’ most recent legislative session, Republicans have proposed a constitutional amendment to reinforce the existing legal requirement that only U.S. citizens can vote. Similar audits in states like Michigan, Ohio, and Georgia have led to referrals of small numbers of potential noncitizen voters. Past attempts by Texas to purge voter rolls have sparked controversy, with investigations revealing that some removals were based on outdated or incomplete data, occasionally flagging naturalized citizens as ineligible. Nelson’s office noted that Texas recently joined a pilot program with federal agencies aimed at improving the accuracy of the SAVE database.

Rep. Jolanda Jones Enters Race for 18th District Congressional Seat

Rep. Jolanda Jones, announced Monday that she is entering the special election to succeed the late U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner. Jones, an attorney and former Houston City Council member, joins a growing field that includes Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee and former City Council member Amanda Edwards. The district, a Democratic stronghold and longtime center of Houston’s Black political leadership, was previously represented by Sheila Jackson Lee, who also died last year. Governor Greg Abbott scheduled the special election for November 4th, 2025.

Jones, elected to the Texas House in 2022, cited her experience across various levels of government, including the city council, school board, and courtroom. During her time in the Legislature, she served on key committees such as criminal jurisprudence and public health, and said she delayed her campaign launch to prioritize work on behalf of her constituents during the legislative session. Jones has positioned herself as a candidate focused on healthcare access, Social Security protections, and abortion rights. Though Menefee launched his campaign earlier and has gained several prominent endorsements, including from former Reps. Colin Allred and Beto O’Rourke, Jones has received bipartisan praise, including from Republican colleagues in the House.

We hope you enjoyed today’s read!

Stay connected with TXLege News on X and LinkedIn!

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Bills and Business is your go-to podcast for conversations related to Texas legislation and business. Hosted by Laura Carr, Co-Founder of USLege—an AI-driven legislative tracking software—we bring you in-depth analysis on economic trends, impactful legislation, and key developments shaping Texas business.

Subscribe on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for weekly episodes!

🔍 USLege - The Only AI-First Political Tracking Solution

USLege helps you track legislation and find what you need faster from bills, committee hearings, floor debates, and state agency meetings faster.

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Texas Political Spotlight
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Texas Political Spotlight

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Wow, what a week in Texas politics. From the Governor’s call of a special session to the U.S. Supreme Court backing Texas’ age-verification law for adult websites, the Lone Star State is making headlines on multiple fronts. Meanwhile, Senator Joan Huffman threw her hat in the ring for attorney general, setting the stage for a lively Republican primary filled with debate over experience and direction.

Today’s Insights:

  • THC Policy Divide in Austin Sparks High-Stakes Special Session
  • Supreme Court Upholds Texas Law Requiring Age Checks for Adult Websites
  • Senator Huffman Announces Run for Attorney General

Subscribe | USLege | Texas Association of Business

THC Policy Divide in Austin Sparks High-Stakes Special Session

Texas state government drew major attention this week following Governor Greg Abbott’s surprise veto of SB 3, which would have banned hemp-derived THC products statewide. While Abbott argued the bill was "well-intentioned," he cited concerns that it would likely be struck down in court, as has occurred with similar legislation in Arkansas. Instead, he has called for a special legislative session in July, urging lawmakers to adopt a regulatory framework modeled after alcohol enforcement that could immediately take effect and survive legal scrutiny.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who had championed SB 3 as a priority, publicly expressed frustration with the governor’s decision during his press conference on Monday morning, describing it as an unexpected reversal of previous commitments.

»»»Watch a 9 minute clip from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s press conference here «««

As president of the Texas Senate, Patrick has significant power to stall or block regulation efforts during the special session, and he has floated alternatives such as heavy taxation or severe product restrictions that could effectively eliminate the industry. Abbott, meanwhile, laid out a detailed vision for potential regulation, including provisions for age restrictions, licensing, product testing, child-resistant packaging, and strict marketing guidelines. His proposal emphasizes a fully funded enforcement mechanism led by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, aiming to control the sale and distribution of THC products without triggering protracted legal challenges. By emphasizing immediate enforceability and alignment with federal law, Abbott framed his plan as both a legal safeguard and a public safety measure.

Industry stakeholders, including manufacturers and retailers of hemp-derived THC products, have voiced support for a regulatory approach over a total ban. They argue that criminalizing these products would not reduce demand but would instead push sales into unregulated and potentially unsafe markets. Business leaders also warn that overly broad definitions, such as bans on “synthetic” cannabinoids or smokable products, could restrict consumer access and stifle innovation.

Image Credit: Politico

Supreme Court Upholds Texas Law Requiring Age Checks for Adult Websites

In a 6-3 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a Texas law that mandates age verification for users attempting to access online content deemed sexually explicit. The ruling marks a pivotal moment in the national conversation over digital privacy, free speech, and the government’s role in protecting minors online.

The law, (HB 1181) passed in 2023, requires users to submit government-issued identification before entering websites where one-third or more of the content is classified as “harmful to children”, defined as material that is sexually explicit, lacks serious literary or scientific value for minors, and appeals to prurient interests. In addition, covered websites must display prominent health warnings like mental health issues caused by pornography, cognitive development risks, and increased vulnerability to exploitation. Notices must appear on the landing page and every subsequent page, along with the federal SAMHSA helpline number for addiction.

Supporters of the law argue it offers critical safeguards in a digital ecosystem where children are easily exposed to explicit content. Critics warn that it creates privacy concerns for adults. Still, the Court’s ruling makes clear: the state’s compelling interest in shielding minors can outweigh the incidental burdens placed on adult access.
With 24 states having passed similar age-verification laws, the decision is expected to accelerate legislative efforts nationwide. As digital regulation increasingly moves from debate to enforcement, the balance between safety and civil liberty is being redrawn in real time, and this ruling may serve as the new blueprint.

Image Credit: Austin American-Statesman

Senator Huffman Announces Run for Attorney General

State Senator Joan Huffman of Houston has formally launched her campaign for Texas attorney general, entering a competitive Republican primary for the seat being vacated by Ken Paxton as he pursues a U.S. Senate bid. Huffman, one of the longest-serving members of the Texas Senate and current chair of the powerful Senate Finance Committee, emphasized her experience and knowledge of state government as key qualifications in her announcement. She positioned herself as the most seasoned candidate in a race that includes fellow Senator Mayes Middleton and former Department of Justice official Aaron Reitz, highlighting her ability to remain in the Senate while campaigning.

Huffman’s entry into the race sets the stage for a contest defined by contrasting approaches and generational divides within Texas Republican politics. She has criticized her opponents as less experienced, a point challenged by Reitz, who dismissed her as the “liberals’ candidate.”

Voters will ultimately decide the state’s next attorney general, beginning with the March 2026 primary election. Huffman’s campaign focuses on leveraging tenure and institutional knowledge amid a crowded field and an evolving political landscape in Texas.

We hope you enjoyed today’s read!

Stay connected with TXLege News on X and LinkedIn!

🎙️Check Out Our Podcast! 🎙️

Bills and Business is your go-to podcast for conversations related to Texas legislation and business. Hosted by Laura Carr, Co-Founder of USLege—an AI-driven legislative tracking software—we bring you in-depth analysis on economic trends, impactful legislation, and key developments shaping Texas business.

Subscribe on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify for weekly episodes!

🔍 USLege - The Only AI-First Political Tracking Solution

USLege helps you track legislation and find what you need faster from bills, committee hearings, floor debates, and state agency meetings faster.

Say goodbye to tedious tasks!

You can follow USLege on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

🤝 Texas Association of Business 📈

Texas Association of Business (TAB) is the Texas State Chamber, representing companies of every size and industry. TAB’s purpose is to champion the best business climate in the world, unleashing the power of free enterprise to enhance lives for generations.

You can follow TAB on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.

TXBIZNEWS
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TXBIZNEWS

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Subscribe | USLege  | Texas Association of Business

Stellar Bancorp Inc., the parent company of Stellar Bank and one of Houston’s largest community banking institutions, became the third major Houston-based company to list on NYSE Texas, the state’s newly launched electronic stock exchange. The move, announced on June 6, 2025, positions Stellar as the first bank holding company to dual-list on the Dallas-based platform while retaining its primary listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker “STEL.” This milestone comes nearly two years after Stellar’s formation through the merger of Allegiance Bancshares Inc. and CBTX Inc., and reflects a broader trend of Texas-headquartered firms embracing the state’s evolving financial infrastructure.

The Details:

  • Listing Details: Trading under the “STEL” ticker, the dual listing leverages NYSE Texas’s Dallas-based electronic exchange, launched to attract firms.
  • Financial Growth: With $9.5B in assets (2025 estimate), Stellar Bancorp aims to enhance liquidity and visibility, following its 2023 NYSE debut post-merger.
  • Economic Impact: CEO Robert Franklin hailed the move as a milestone, boosting investor access in Texas’s thriving economy, home to over 50 Fortune 500 firms.

Why It Matters:
Stellar’s listing strengthens Texas’s emerging financial ecosystem, supporting local economic growth.

D.R. Horton Inc., the nation’s largest homebuilder by volume and a Texas-based firm for nearly five decades, also announced the dual listing of its common stock on NYSE Texas. The company will maintain its primary listing on the New York Stock Exchange and continue trading under the ticker symbol “DHI.” In a statement, Chairman David Auld called the move a reflection of the company’s long-standing roots in Texas and its commitment to the state’s dynamic growth. “We are pleased to be a Founding Member of NYSE Texas and show our support to the state we have called home for nearly fifty years,” Auld said. NYSE Group Chief Development Officer Chris Taylor welcomed D.R. Horton to the new exchange, highlighting the company’s leadership in the housing sector and its foundational role in the Texas economy.

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