The budget was signed in its entirety with not a single rider removed, including a controversial $1 million gun safety campaign.
Brandon Waltens
Abbott Uses Hurricane Harvey to Extend Plumbing Regulations
Gov. Greg Abbott signed an executive order extending plumbing regulation for two years after the legislature declined to do so.
Property Tax Reform Signed into Law, Bill’s Author Absent
State Sen Paul. Bettencourt’s opposition to a proposed sales tax hike may have led to him not being invited to his own bill’s signing.
House Speaker Dennis Bonnen Draws Early Primary Opponent
Incumbent lawmakers may begin to see more challenges from conservatives unhappy with their performance in Austin.
Texas Joins California, Others in Raising Smoking Age to 21
With Gov. Greg Abbott’s signature, Texas now joins 14 other states—including California, New Jersey, and Vermont—in raising the tobacco age to 21.
Abbott Signs Controversial Mental Health Bill
Many conservative activists raised concerns over parental rights, privacy, and the potential for over-medication of psychotropic drugs.
Abbott Vows to Extend Plumbers Licensing Despite Legislature
Abbott’s vow comes in stark contrast to his previous comments on occupational license reform.
Bonnen Says He Will Punish Republicans for Opposing Democrats
Members following Bonnen’s demand would be banned from helping Republican candidates in swing districts.
Lawmakers Bust Conservative Texas Budget
Only State Rep. Jonathan Stickland (R–Bedford) registered his opposition to the budget-busting bill.
Legislature Sends Property Tax Relief and Reform to Governor’s Desk
With both chambers giving their stamp of approval to both pieces of legislation, the bills now head to a vocally supportive Gov. Greg Abbott.