Dozens of new Texas laws are scheduled to take effect in December 2025 and January 2026, adding to the more than 800 measures that became active on Sept. 1. These laws stem from the regular legislative session, two special sessions, and several constitutional amendments requiring voter approval. Together, they touch nearly every corner of public life — education, law enforcement, taxes, immigration cooperation, and more.
Several high-profile measures are unfolding against the backdrop of ongoing court battles. One of the most watched is the legislation behind Texas Republicans’ push to redraw congressional maps — an effort intended to secure additional seats favorable to former President Donald Trump. That law is scheduled to take effect on Dec. 4, even as litigation continues. The U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily restored the map while it considers a final decision.
Separately, a recent lawsuit has put on hold the constitutional amendment enabling Senate Bill 5, which would establish a statewide Dementia Prevention and Research Institute. Voters approved $3 billion in funding for this initiative in November, but the legal challenge — centered on alleged voting machine issues — has delayed implementation for now.
While some of these larger battles play out, other significant laws are set to quietly activate. Here are the key measures taking effect in December and January.
Laws Taking Effect in December
House Bill 7 — Civil Liability Related to Abortion Drugs (Dec. 4)
HB 7 allows private individuals to sue anyone who manufactures or distributes abortion-inducing drugs to or from Texas. Individuals who take the medications themselves cannot be sued.
Plaintiffs related to the fetus may seek at least $100,000 in damages.
Unrelated plaintiffs receive 10% of damages and must donate the remainder to charity.
Supporters say the law closes loopholes around the state’s abortion ban. Critics argue it encourages lawsuits from individuals acting as “bounty hunters” and extends state abortion policy beyond Texas borders.
House Bill 8 — Replacing the STAAR Test (Dec. 4)
HB 8 overhauls the state’s long-standing STAAR testing system.
The single, high-stakes exam will be replaced with three shorter assessments throughout the academic year.
Most provisions start Dec. 4, with the new test structure rolling out next school year.
The goal, according to supporters, is to reduce pressure on students and free up classroom time. Educators and families will be watching closely to see how the new model performs.
House Bill 18 — Penalties for Breaking Quorum (Dec. 4)
Lawmakers who intentionally break quorum to stall legislation will now face:
Harsher fines
Restrictions on fundraising
Potential loss of seniority and committee positions
This measure was passed after House Democrats left the state in protest of redistricting legislation.
House Bill 25 — Over-the-Counter Ivermectin (Dec. 4)
HB 25 allows ivermectin — commonly used for livestock parasites — to be sold without a prescription.
Supporters frame the measure as expanding medical autonomy, while opponents warn about misuse and safety concerns given that ivermectin is not FDA-approved for COVID-19 treatment.
House Bill 26 — Local Law Enforcement Contracts in Harris County (Dec. 4)
HB 26 allows sheriffs and constables in Harris County to form policing contracts with HOAs, school districts, and utility districts without needing approval from the county commissioners court.
Backers say it protects a popular policing model. Critics say it sidesteps the county’s budgeting and oversight process.
Senate Bill 8 (Special Session) — Restrictions on Public Facility Use by Transgender People (Dec. 4)
This law restricts access to certain private spaces — bathrooms, locker rooms, changing areas — in government buildings, public schools, universities, and correctional facilities based on sex assigned at birth.
Penalties for institutions start at $25,000 and escalate to $125,000.
Supporters say it addresses privacy and safety.
Senate Bill 11 — Protections for Trafficking Victims (Dec. 4)
SB 11 prevents trafficking victims from being prosecuted for certain crimes they committed under coercion.
However, protections do not apply to serious crimes such as murder, sexual assault, or child trafficking.
A similar bill was vetoed earlier this year for being too broad; this version reflects narrower limits.
Laws Taking Effect in January
House Bill 9 — Inventory Tax Exemption Expansion (Jan. 1)
HB 9 significantly expands the tax exemption for businesses’ inventory:
Up to $125,000 in inventory will be exempt from local property taxes.
Previously, only items valued under $2,500 were exempt.
Supporters call this a major win for business competitiveness. Local governments, however, may face revenue reductions estimated at $442 million statewide by 2027 unless tax rates increase.
Senate Bill 8 (Regular Session) — Mandatory Cooperation with ICE (Jan. 1)
Under this law, sheriffs in counties operating a jail must formally participate in the federal 287(g) program, which deputizes local officers to perform certain immigration enforcement duties.
Counties may apply for grants ranging from $80,000 to $140,000 to assist with implementation.
Supporters frame the measure as improving public safety. Opponents warn it could lead to racial profiling and strained relationships between law enforcement and immigrant communities.
Senate Bill 38 — Accelerated Eviction Process (Jan. 1)
SB 38 aims to speed up removal of individuals occupying properties illegally.
Concerns from housing advocates include:
Reduced protections for tenants
A new ban preventing the governor or state supreme court from altering eviction procedures even during emergencies (such as pandemics)
One section took effect in September, with the remainder beginning Jan. 1.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Many of these laws will likely generate continued debate — and in some cases, litigation — as they take effect. Businesses will be assessing the financial impact of the expanded inventory tax exemption. Schools will prepare to transition away from STAAR. Law enforcement agencies will adjust to new policies on immigration cooperation, contract policing, and anti-trafficking protections.
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