Governor Greg Abbott signed 306 new bills into law Friday afternoon, a sweeping move that touches nearly every aspect of life in Texas — from education and public safety to agriculture and workforce development. Fifteen of those bills were labeled as “critical legislation” by state officials, signaling top priorities for the 2025 legislative session.
Here's a breakdown of some of the most notable measures:
Protecting Farmers from Legal Disputes
Senate Bill 1035 strengthens protections for agricultural operations under Texas’ Right to Farm laws. The new law gives farmers and ranchers legal standing to sue if a local government passes ordinances that interfere with their right to operate, as long as the farm has been in operation for at least one year. The bill aims to curb nuisance lawsuits from neighbors and protect the state’s rural economies.
Easing Access to Higher Education
Under SB 2231, the second week of October will now be designated as Free College Application Week. During this week, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board must waive all college application fees for in-state students applying to Texas public universities. Advocates say the move will lower financial barriers for first-generation and low-income students.
Support for Law Enforcement and Correctional Officers
SB 2570 authorizes the use of less-lethal weapons — such as pepper spray, batons, and stun guns — by correctional officers and peace officers starting September 1. Lawmakers say this law is intended to reduce “frivolous litigation” against officers acting within the scope of their duties.
Streamlining Job Licensing for New Texans
House Bill 11 removes red tape for new residents moving to Texas. The bill allows the state to recognize out-of-state occupational licenses — such as those for electricians, cosmetologists, and real estate agents — if their original licenses meet comparable standards. This measure is expected to help fill workforce gaps across multiple industries.
Improving Government Oversight
HB 12 mandates that the Sunset Advisory Commission — responsible for evaluating the efficiency of state agencies — now issue performance reviews every 10 years. The bill also strengthens public input requirements, part of what legislators are calling “DOGE” (Data, Oversight, Governance, Efficiency) reforms to increase transparency in state government.
Water Conservation and Accountability
HB 29 targets large municipal water utilities that report significant water loss. If an audit confirms waste, the utility must file a plan to prevent future losses, and the audit must come from an independent firm — not the utility itself or the Texas Water Development Board.
School Safety and Emergency Preparedness
One of the most emotionally charged bills, HB 33, also known as the Uvalde Strong Act, mandates comprehensive emergency planning for K-12 schools. It requires schools to update law enforcement coordination, conduct active shooter training, and implement stricter safety drills — a direct response to the 2022 Uvalde school tragedy.
Defining Sex in State Law
HB 229 sets legal definitions for “male” and “female” in Texas, affirming only two sexes under state law. Supporters argue the measure provides clarity for state regulations, while critics say it could impact the rights of transgender and non-binary Texans.
Preparing for Permanent Daylight Saving Time
HB 1393 establishes a “trigger law” that would move Texas to permanent Daylight Saving Time — but only if federal law is changed to allow it. Texas, which spans two time zones, would adopt the change statewide.
Banning Phones in Classrooms
HB 1481 directs public schools to create clear policies banning cellphones, smartwatches, and other personal communication devices during school hours. The bill is aimed at reducing classroom distractions and boosting academic focus.
More Childcare Support for Working Families
HB 2294 expands support for low-income working parents. Workforce boards can now reimburse childcare providers at competitive rates as long as they meet quality standards under the Texas Rising Star Program — even if the market rate is lower.
No Parole for Certain Human Traffickers
Under HB 2306, individuals convicted of human trafficking involving a child or a person with disabilities will no longer be eligible for parole. The bill passed with strong bipartisan support.
Protecting Homeschooling Autonomy
HB 2674 blocks the Texas Education Agency and other public education entities from regulating homeschooling families. Lawmakers say the bill ensures parental control over education and keeps government influence at bay.
Strengthening Election Integrity
HB 5115 raises the stakes for election fraud. New penalties now apply to tampering with ballots, counting invalid votes, and altering election totals. The offense is now a second-degree felony, up from a lower classification.
Prioritizing Veterans and Military Families
HB 5629 requires state agencies to waive fees and expedite occupational licenses for veterans, active-duty military members, and their spouses. This measure aims to help military families transition smoothly into civilian life in Texas.
Next Steps
Governor Abbott has until Sunday to sign or veto any remaining bills passed during the legislative session. Any unsigned bills will automatically become law. The bulk of the newly signed laws will go into effect September 1, unless otherwise specified.
