Legislative Services

The Texas House was facing a flurry of looming deadlines as this week’s Tuesday Morning Breakfast began, a clear signal that the regular session of the 89th Legislature has entered the home stretch. With just 17 days left before adjournment on June 2, lawmakers are racing to move bills across the finish line.

Whatever hackneyed sports metaphor you prefer, one thing is certain. Senate bills are in the House, House bills are in the Senate and everything is now moving at breakneck speed.

County officials have been closely monitoring a host of major bills throughout the session. Several were highlighted Tuesday, including House Bill 1109 by Rep. Gary VanDeaver (R-New Boston). A priority for the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas, the bill would exempt counties from motor fuel taxes and allow for related tax credits or refunds. It was sent to the governor on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, wary eyes watch for bills that could be resurrected as floor amendments, and attention is beginning to shift to measures that could prompt a special session if they fail to pass. Shannon Edmonds, executive director of the Texas District and County Attorneys Association, pointed to bail reform and Senate Bill 3 as potential triggers for a special session.

Gov. Greg Abbott has designated bail reform as an emergency item for three sessions in a row. To take effect, bail reform would require voters to pass a constitutional amendment, meaning it must receive a two-third vote in the House to appear on the November ballot.

SB 3 by Sen. Charles Perry (R-Lubbock) would ban the sale of all consumable hemp products containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The bill is a top priority for Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and has support from the Sheriffs’ Association of Texas. While only the governor can call a special session, Patrick has indicated he may block other key legislation unless the THC ban is passed, potentially pressuring Abbott to act.

See this newsletter’s Bills on the Move article for the latest updates on measures affecting counties. To track bills by county office, visit our Bills by Office webpage.

Only two Tuesdays remain in the regular session and hence only two Tuesday Morning Breakfasts. Please join us in person or online by registering here.