Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has enacted over 300 bills passed during the 89th Regular Legislative Session, aimed at maintaining Texas's position as a leading state in the nation. In his remarks, Governor Abbott stated, "Texas is the blueprint for America’s future," emphasizing the importance of safeguarding freedom.

The governor is still reviewing more than 1,200 bills sent to him by the Texas Legislature. The deadline for signing or vetoing these bills is June 22.

Among the 306 newly signed laws are several key pieces of legislation:

Senate Bill 1035 enables agricultural operation stakeholders to take legal action against political subdivisions that breach “right to farm” protections. Senate Bill 2231 introduces Free College Application Week, allowing Texans to apply to state universities without charge during a designated week in October. Senate Bill 2570 adds provisions to protect peace officers and correctional facility guards using less-lethal force weapons from unnecessary litigation.

House Bill 11 facilitates employment in Texas by recognizing out-of-state occupational licenses. House Bill 12 mandates regular efficiency audits of state agencies. House Bill 29 sets water audit validation requirements for large municipally owned utilities providing potable water.

House Bill 33 strengthens school safety through enhanced emergency planning and training. House Bill 229 reinforces a binary understanding of sex within the state. House Bill 1393 proposes year-round daylight saving time pending federal approval.

Additional measures include restrictions on student use of personal communication devices in public schools (House Bill 1481), adjustments in reimbursement rates for childcare providers based on their rating (House Bill 2294), and parole ineligibility for human trafficking offenders when victims are children or disabled individuals (House Bill 2306).

Homeschool programs are shielded from regulatory burdens under House Bill 2674, while election integrity is bolstered by making certain election fraud offenses felonies under House Bill 5115. Lastly, House Bill 5629 aims to enhance job opportunities for veterans and their spouses by easing licensing barriers.

For a complete list of signed bills, visit Governor Abbott's official website.