News

Returning the Ten Commandments Back to our Classrooms: SB 10

It’s time to return the Ten Commandments back to our classrooms where they were displayed for over 200 years, and I’m pleased the Texas Senate has passed my legislation to do so. Few documents in the history of Western civilization and in American history have had a larger impact on our moral and legal code, and our culture, than the Ten Commandments. In 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled – in a now discredited decision – that the Ten Commandments could no longer be displayed in public schools. However, in the 2022 landmark decision in Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, the Supreme Court overturned the precedent that it relied upon in its 1980 decision and that had been used in attempts to eradicate all references to religion from the public square. Now, with the passage of SB 10, the Ten Commandments may once again be posted in Texas public school classrooms. SB 10 will provide moral clarity and help students understand the foundation for much of American history and law. Right now, the Ten Commandments are displayed inside the U.S. Supreme Court and a monument to the Ten Commandments stands prominently on the Texas Capitol grounds.

I appreciate the work of Texas Values, who strongly backed our efforts to pass SB 10.

Protecting the Freedom to Pray in Schools: SB 11

SB 11 allows public schools to provide time for students and educators to pray or read the Bible or other religious texts during school. The provision requires consent of students and educators to participate, and students and educators can revoke their consent at any time. Additionally, prayer time is not permitted to interfere with instructional time. I am encouraged that the Texas Senate is taking this kind of action to restore religious liberty.

Banning Drag Queen Story Hour: SB 18

It’s really outrageous that we must pass laws to protect our kids from the continued, intentional assault on their innocence. But we must, and this week we did. Very simply, any library that facilitates drag queen story hours would receive no state funding. These politically, ideologically driven programs have no place in our public libraries but have taken place in several cities. Last session we passed legislation to ban sexually oriented performances in front of minors, including drag performances. However, the American Civil Liberties Union has challenged that law so it has not yet gone into effect.  

Removing Inappropriate Content From School Libraries: SB 13

In testimony on SB 13 in the Education K-16 Committee, one witness pointed out that the Texas Department of Criminal Justice has a list of over 10,000 books prohibited in Texas prisons, yet hundreds of those books sit on the shelves in some school libraries! We continue to see materials in some school libraries that are simply not age appropriate. In response, we passed SB 13, which gives parents more say in the content of these books available to their kids. The bill mirrors existing FCC guidelines which state that inappropriate content should not be on TV or radio between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. – the hours in which children may reasonably be in the audience. It follows, then, that our young kids should not be exposed to this content in school libraries where they could view this material. SB 13 provides new transparency and structure to ensure that parents have access to the materials their child checks out from the school library. The bill creates school library advisory councils comprised of parents, educators, and local community leaders to provide input on the book acquisition process; books could only be purchased after an elected school board has approved them.

We also passed SB 412, which would repeal “obscenity exemptions” and thereby provide more protection from sexually explicit books turning up in schools. By closing current loopholes, the bill makes clear that the only defense exemptions are for judicial or law enforcement officers performing their official duties.  

Banning Dangerous THC: Law Enforcement, Parents and Texas Senate Unite to pass SB 3

With strong backing from law enforcement and parents whose kids have experienced devastating impacts such as psychosis and paranoia from THC abuse, the Texas Senate passed the toughest THC ban in the nation. 

You have no doubt seen the proliferation of shops that have sprung up in strip centers, gas stations and other outlets across the state selling gummies, vapes, drinks and other products laced with dangerous synthetic tetrahydrocannabinol — or THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. In fact, there are now well over 8,000 of these retailers. To put this in perspective, there are only 1,220 McDonalds restaurants in the entire state of Texas. 

Closing loopholes currently being cynically exploited by retailers often targeting our youth, SB 3 would ban the presence of any amount of THC in a consumable product sold in Texas. Of particular concern is the fact that so many of these outlets are in close proximity to schools, even though it is illegal to sell these products to minors. One North Texas police chief stated, “Most people think that if you walk into a store and you’re able to buy something from a retail establishment, it must be legal and it must be safe. With these THC consumables, neither is true. Intentional mislabeling on many products have led to accidental overdoses and increased addiction.” Many of these products have three to four times the THC content which might be found in marijuana purchased from a drug dealer. Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn stated that the percentage of inmates dealing with mental illness has grown from 25% to 70%, largely due to the dramatic increase in availability of Delta 8 & 9.

To be clear, this ban would not affect doctor-prescribed and regulated substances that are used by veterans to treat chronic pain and PTSD under Texas’ Compassionate Use Program. Under this program, patients dealing with medical issues such as autism, cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and seizure disorders find relief. The difference is, these products are prescribed by medical professionals, not sold at a gas station.

Texas Parental Bill of Rights: SB 12

Over the last several years, parents have been forced to step forward and reassert that they are the ultimate authority on the upbringing, education, and medical treatments concerning their children. SB 12 will provide parents with a powerful new weapon in that fight.  Here are some of the provisions of the bill: 

• Strengthens the ban on Critical Race Theory, addressing some loopholes that some districts have exploited.
• Eliminates DEI mandates in hiring, training, and school policies.
• Bans any sexual orientation or gender identity instruction.
• Guarantees parents full access to their child’s education records—curriculum, test scores, library materials, and any changes to their mental or physical well-being.
• Requires parental consent for medical, psychiatric, or psychological treatment.
• Protects a family’s right to guide their child’s moral and religious upbringing, including decisions about sex education.

Preparing Texas for Growing, Massive Power Demands: SB 6

The Senate passed my bill, SB 6, to ensure the reliability of the electric grid. Given the complexity of this subject, I will provide a more detailed explanation of this legislation in the coming weeks. First, though, I’d like to outline the challenge.

Over the past few years, we have seen tremendous growth in electricity demand that comes from data centers, AI computing, manufacturing facilities and several other types of industries that consume large amounts of electricity. We are seeing trends in a single customer requesting connection to the grid that uses more power than the entire city it would be located in. We are blessed to be a state that has been experiencing growth for many years and we want this development to continue. However, these facilities require an extraordinary amount of electricity that needs to be managed properly as to not create reliability risks or pricing issues for every day Texans.

To put this in perspective, the peak electricity demand for 2024 was roughly 86 GW (gigawatts) of power. Our grid operators release a report annually that forecasts our electric demand. Last spring we were told the demand could reach 150 GW by 2030 – a dramatic and unprecedented increase no state has ever seen. We are expecting that number to rise even more in the report that will be released within the next month. On top of that, our grid operators also published a report that estimates Texas’ available generation supply could fall short of peak demand by the summer of 2027. 

To protect the jobs and economic growth we have come to expect, we have no choice but to act, or the grid will be at risk. SB 6 will improve our grid reliability so we can take on these large loads and protect consumers.

Protecting Texas Land from Adversarial Foreign Ownership: SB 17

Another important bill passed this week is SB 17, which seeks to protect our land from being owned by countries hostile to the United States. The bill prohibits foreign governmental entities, companies, and individuals from purchasing private property in Texas if they are from countries identified in the latest Annual Threat Assessment reports by the Director of National Intelligence. As of today, those countries are Russia, North Korea, Iran and China. SB 17 also makes clear that the prohibitions do not apply to United States citizens and lawful permanent residents, including dual citizens; furthermore, the bill is not intended to undermine anyone who might be truly fleeing the tyranny of oppressive governments to seek freedom in Texas.

Recognizing World Down Syndrome Day

Terry and I have two grandchildren with Down Syndrome, Sunshine and Joy, who have blessed us tremendously. Friday, March 21st was World Down Syndrome Day, and on Wednesday I presented a resolution to bring awareness to this issue. We were joined by representatives from many organizations from all over the state, including The Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas and the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas. The theme for 2025 is “Improve Our Support Systems” which calls on governments across the world to ensure that people with disabilities have an adequate support system so that they are included in the community. 

To raise awareness for the day many people wear a pair of mismatched, brightly colored socks, and I was happy to do my part.

As the Senate recognized World Down Syndrome Day, we welcomed Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas Executive Director Kim Smiley (right) and Program Assistant Lauren Fairchild. Lauren works full time at the Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas to raise awareness of the potential of all people with Down Syndrome.

Honoring Dr. Gene Getz

Dr. Gene Getz served as Chaplain of the Day for the Texas Senate on Wednesday, and Sen. Brent Hagenbuch and I teamed up to sponsor a resolution honoring him. We were honored that his wife Elaine joined him for the occasion.

Gene Getz is one of the most respected pastors and spiritual leaders of our time, and I have had the privilege of getting to know him over the past decade. In 1972, Dr. Getz began his involvement in church planting and launched the Fellowship Bible Church movement, which has led to the establishment of hundreds of congregations throughout the nation. After retirement, Dr. Getz completed work on his interactive Life Essentials Study Bible, which has been a huge blessing to me as I study scripture. Its unique format includes 1500 “principles to live by,” each with a QR code providing access to 250 total hours of commentary from Dr. Getz. As part of his visit, Dr. Getz delivered each member of the senate one of these bibles, personally inscribed with their name. He is the author of more than 60 books, including The Measure of a Man: Twenty Attributes of a Godly Man, a classic in Christian literature. Dr. Getz graduated from Moody Bible Institute, and he later taught there and at Dallas Theological Seminary; he holds a master’s degree from Wheaton College Graduate School and a Ph.D. from New York University. He is 93 years old and resides in Plano with his wife Elaine.

First Economic Development Committee Meeting Hears My Legislation to Establish Texas Trade Office in Israel

Last Monday, I held the first meeting of the new Senate Economic Development Committee, which I chair. One of our first bills heard was SCR 24, legislation I authored to create a new trade office in Israel, which will provide numerous benefits. Israel is a leader in technology innovation, cybersecurity, energy, agriculture and water conservation, which are all areas that align closely with Texas’ economic strengths. Texas ranks among the top U.S. states for exports to Israel, contributing billions of dollars annually to the economies of both regions through trade in the technology, medical equipment and defense industries. The Middle East is a virtually untapped regional market for Texas companies, and Israel is the only diplomatic country in the Middle East with open trade opportunities for Texas. Israel’s advanced innovation in some of Texas’ largest industries is an underutilized resource. Texas and Israel maintain a robust trade relationship, but there is not a physical presence Texas can rely on to improve the bond.
 
I crafted a resolution which supports a Texas Trade and Investment office in Jerusalem, Israel, as the center of trade and investment activities for Israel and countries that are a part of the Abraham Accords or have signed peace treaties with Israel. A budget rider has been submitted to the Senate Finance Committee to cover the costs of starting this office. The State of Texas Israel Trade and Investment Office would be modeled after the two standing international offices (in Mexico and Taiwan), and would serve as the attraction tool for companies in the region. 

SB 20:  Stopping AI Generated Child Pornography 

Last week the Senate passed Senate Bill 20, a bill aimed at strengthening the laws against possession, promotion, and distribution of sexually explicit material that involves children, including those created by computer or artificial intelligence (AI). We must continue to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our youngest Texans, and punish those who commit these despicable acts to the fullest extent of the law. 

Making Texas and America Healthy Again

The Senate unanimously passed SB 25, a landmark piece of legislation to combat the growing health crisis in our state due to poor food choices, lack of nutritional education and knowledge, and a sedentary lifestyle. This bill aims to improve health and nutrition standards in Texas schools by mandating that students in full-day PreK through grade eight engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. It requires students in grades six to eight to participate in this activity for at least six semesters, and prohibits schools from penalizing students with restrictions on physical activities due to academic performance or behavior. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for high school students to complete a half-credit course in nutrition, based on guidelines from the Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee, which will also be established by this bill. The Senate also passed SB 314, which will prohibit dangerous chemicals such as cancer-causing dyes from being served in school lunches. 

SB 140: Cracking Down on Unsolicited Text Messages

In our continued quest to cut down on “spam” contacts from telemarketers, we have shored up current law to include specific language regarding unsolicited text messages. Currently, the law does not define “telephone call” and does not include “text messaging,” which created a loophole for telemarketers to hide behind when sending out text solicitations. This law will provide a fix for this issue.
 

Border Wall Update

According to the Texas Facilities Commission (TFC) as of February 20 about 56.9 miles of the border wall program had been completed. Active construction is simultaneously underway at 12 locations in six border counties.  The TFC has closed on 105 easements representing approximately 70.3 miles of Texas Border Wall, with another 31 miles of easements in various stages. Based on current appropriations, the TFC can build up to 85 miles of the wall between Texas and Mexico. Due to border security efforts here in Texas and of course with President Trump’s leadership, we’re trending towards the lowest monthly border crossings in 25 years. During the Biden years, Texas did far more than any other state to secure the border and combat drug and human trafficking. How refreshing to finally have a partner in the White House who works with us – not against us – in that effort. 

Most of SD 10 Faces Elevated Fire Risk  

As you can see in this graphic from National Weather Service in Fort Worth, our region faces a critical fire weather threat. Let’s make sure we do everything possible to avoid fires that can create destruction of homes and businesses as well as threaten agriculture, livestock and even human life. Please honor all burn bans in effect in your local county.  

The Week Ahead

This week we will be past sixty days in the session. This means that we will now be able to consider bills on the floor of the Senate that aren’t emergency items declared by the governor, so we expect many priority bills to pass this week. Always remember, we are a bicameral legislature, which means that the Texas House must also pass the measures we discussed in this newsletter and in previous updates.  If you would like to watch the Senate proceedings, you can visit this LINK to watch both committee hearings as well as when the full Senate is in session. 

Last week I chaired the first meeting of the new Senate Economic Development Committee.

It was great to see Pastor Rafael Cruz in the Senate K-16 Education Committee hearing last week.

I had the chance to meet with Johnson County constituents Craig Hundley, Becca Reese, and Phil Williams.



Nurse Practitioners from SD 10 were in the Capitol this past Monday. Thanks for stopping by our office!
 

Stopping “Deepfakes” and AI Fake Images Used to Exploit Children

This week, the Criminal Justice Committee on which I serve passed numerous bills to address the troubling rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) being used to create fake images of children which can then be used to groom and abuse them. You may have heard the term “deepfakes,” which are AI manipulated images of real people showing them doing and saying things they never did, which typically involves teenagers or adults. However, criminals are increasingly using technology to generate child sex abuse material (CSAM) or non-consensual sexual images of adults. This issue was studied in the interim period since the last session, and these bills ensure bad actors are caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Texas would join 37 other states with similar legislation, giving law enforcement the tools they need to go after those involved in these despicable acts.  

Texas DPS officials testified that current law requires there must be a real, actual victim to proceed with investigations. One of our proposed bills provides that if a reasonable person reviews a fake image and it is clear that it is a child, law enforcement can take action. Our committee also approved two bills providing for both criminal and civil remedies for individuals who find non-consensual, computer generated, explicit images of themselves. Additionally, I supported a bill to remove the educational defense for distributing or displaying harmful material to minors to deter harmful acts of obscenity against our kids. I must share that even after all of my years of exposure to criminal elements as a police officer, it is still deeply unsettling to see the tactics of the seedy online underworld that our committee regularly encounters. These people will stop at nothing in their efforts to destroy the innocence of our children and cause pain and embarrassment to victims of all ages.  

Combating Dementia and Brain Diseases

On Wednesday, the Texas Senate passed a measure intended to create the largest brain health research center in America. SB 5 would create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT), though it would study all brain diseases, not just dementia. Most of us have friends or family who have been affected by this terrible disease, which robs memories and dignity. Did you know that a person over the age of 55 has a 42 percent chance of developing dementia over the course of their life? If approved by voters in November, DPRIT would be endowed with $3 billion drawn from the current surplus. DPRIT would be modeled after Texas’ highly successful Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, or CPRIT, created in 2009. CPRIT is now the largest cancer research organization in the country and second largest in the entire world. 

Establishing the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

The Texas Senate voted on Thursday to create the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, allowing the state to diversify its investments and lead the nation in this emerging resource. The bill will allow the comptroller’s office to buy, sell, and oversee cryptocurrency holdings. Creating the Reserve was identified by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick as a top priority for the current legislative session.  

The bill doesn’t require that we invest in cryptocurrencies; instead, this bill establishes the process for doing so should we choose to invest. The Senate Finance Committee will recommend later in the session what funds – if any – should be invested in Texas’ Bitcoin Reserve. It’s clear that Bitcoin is emerging as a legitimate currency; in fact, on Thursday evening President Trump issued an executive order establishing the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. Texas needs to be prepared to have this tool in our investment toolbox.

Our legislation to return posting of the Ten Commandments to Texas classrooms passed the Education K-16 Committee this week. Prior to the hearing, I met with David Barton and Tim Barton of WallBuilders, along with David’s wife Cheryl, all of whom are longtime friends. David, Tim, and Tarrant County Commissioner Matt Krause (representing First Liberty Institute) provided excellent testimony on the tradition of the Ten Commandments being utilized at many levels of government, and in our public schools,
throughout our nation’s history.


Was honored that Coach Joe Kennedy testified in support of our bill to restore the Ten Commandments to public school classrooms; he also spoke in favor of another bill to once again allow prayer in our schools. For simply leading his football team in a moment of prayer, Coach Kennedy was fired back in 2015. He fought a seven year legal battle, resulting in a landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court when they ruled against his employer, Bremerton School District. Speaking for the court’s majority, Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote that, “The best of our traditions counsel mutual respect and tolerance, not censorship and suppression, for religious and nonreligious views alike.” Coach Joe’s courageous story was featured in the movie “Average Joe,”
which I have seen and highly recommend.  


This week, I had dinner with members of the Texas Holocaust Genocide and Anti-Semitism Commission as well as legislative colleagues from the House and Senate. We discussed my legislation to crack down on the growing antisemitism on college campus and opening a Texas trade office in Israel.

This week I spoke to the Lt. Governor’s Advisory Board, which consists of businessmen and women from around the state. These are mostly business owners who are assigned to a specific board according to their expertise. The individual boards that make up the Lt. Governor’s Advisory Board focus on economic and workforce development, economic forecast, education, energy/oil and gas, health, tax policy, and transportation/port. In my remarks, I outlined how Texas is preparing to accommodate the explosive demand for electricity, driven in large part by the massive growth from new data centers being built in the state. To illustrate the power needed for these facilities, consider that a medium sized data center uses more power than an entire city the size of Waco!

Reining in Abuse Of the Texas Lottery: SB 28 Passes Senate

When the Texas Lottery was created in 1992, the intention was to allow local Texans an opportunity to play and win, not to have out of state or overseas entities rig the game. The Legislature’s intent was clear: tickets were to be bought in person (by adults, not minors) at brick and mortar retailers, and at the face value of the ticket. 

Testimony this week included very serious allegations of organized criminal activity in the Texas Lottery that would have violated this legislative intent. Lax enforcement – or none at all – most likely permitted outside actors to conspire to win previous lottery jackpots. Texans must have confidence in this process and know that illegal gambling is not taking place, and I am very pleased that Governor Abbott has called for the Texas Rangers to investigate.

In the meantime, Senate Bill 28 makes clear that the Texas Lottery Commission must enforce the rules and laws that the agency has ignored, enabling bad actors to exploit the system. SB 28 would outlaw the use of third-party couriers who buy lotto tickets on behalf of customers. The bill also makes clear there should be no gaming of the process using mobile devices. 

Combating Federal Overreach: Texas Sovereignty Bill Passes Senate State Affairs Committee

I’m pleased to report action on my legislation, SB 707, which establishes a process by which the Legislature can challenge the constitutionality of federal directives that hurt our state. This is another tool that Texas can use to combat federal overreach and allows the state to take a two-pronged approach to combating unconstitutional federal directives – through the Legislature and the Office of the Attorney General. Over the last four years alone, federal directives passed by the Biden Administration imposed a historic $1.7 trillion in new costs onto Americans. Attorney General Paxton has filed over 100 lawsuits challenging this federal overreach. Under current law, however, only the Texas Attorney General has the authority to challenge the constitutionality of these federal directives through the judicial system. Senate Bill 707 seeks to provide another way for the state to challenge federal overreach by establishing a process for the Legislature to do so as well.

Historic Teacher Pay Raise Passes Senate

Senate Bill 26, a $4.3 billion package that is the largest single outlay for a teacher pay raise in the country, has passed the Texas Senate and is headed to the House. This bill supports our Texas teachers by providing across the board teacher pay raises, improving the Teacher Incentive Allotment, providing free Pre-K for teachers and creating statewide teacher liability insurance.

If passed into law as currently written, SB 26 offers more to those in urban and rural districts to address the significant pay gap between the two. Teachers with three or four years on the job would get a pay bump of $2,500 in urban districts and $5,000 for rural districts (those with less than 5,000 enrollment). Teachers with five or more years’ experience in urban districts would receive $5,500; rural district teachers would receive $10,000. SB 26 ensures that incoming teachers can expect those raises going forward.

This increase is not a one-time bonus, but rather a direct pass through salary increase from the state. This increase will not go through a local school district, ensuring that this well-deserved salary increase reaches our hard working teachers.

Texas Conservative Coalition Black Tie and Boots Gala

Wednesday evening, I attended the Black Tie and Boots Gala, put on by the Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute (TCCRI), on which I serve as Chairman. TCCRI was founded in 1996 by state leaders determined to promote conservative public policies in Texas government. TCCRI holds fast to four LIFT core principles: limited government, individual liberty, free enterprise, and traditional values. TCCRI provides legislators with analysis of proposed legislation using the LIFT principles, which helps us access the thousands of bills filed each session through a conservative lens. This event helped raise funds for the organization and was very successful, with over 800 people in attendance. 

Speaking at the Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute’s Black Tie and Boots Gala.

Parker County Reagan Day Dinner with Lt. Governor Dan Patrick

Last Thursday night, the Parker County Republican Party hosted their annual Reagan Day Dinner, held at Dove Ridge Ranch in rural Parker County. Over 230 people were in attendance. I had the privilege of attending and introducing our keynote speaker, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who laid out an inspiring and compelling vision for Texas and our future, and what’s at stake. He also shared some interesting anecdotes from his service as chairman of President Trump’s Texas campaign. Congressman Roger Williams updated everyone on what he is working on in Washington, DC. 

My bride and I at the Parker County Reagan Day Dinner.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick at the Parker County Reagan Day Dinner.

Our table at the Parker County Event included our pastor Eric Kuykendall and his son Pearson, Gloria and Quad Boenker, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, and Charlie Gilchrist.

On Friday, it was a treat to read to elementary school children here in Parker County. Thank you for the invitation! 

Legislative Progress This Week

Bail Reform – Keeping Dangerous Criminals off our Streets:  You may remember last week I wrote to you about four bills reforming our broken bail system that were voted out of the Criminal Justice Committee. This week, those four bills were passed by the full Senate: 

SJR 1 – requires the denial of bail for an illegal alien accused of a felony

SB 9 – strengthens our bail system and protects our communities by creating more tools to keep repeat, violent offenders off our streets

SJR 5 – allows Texas to detain our most habitual, violent felony offenders without bond

SB 40 – bans taxpayer dollars from being spent on bail bonds

Pay Raises for Teachers:  Also this week, Senate Bill 26, legislation for teacher pay raises, passed the Senate Education Committee, on which I serve, and is headed to the Senate floor. This bill supports our Texas teachers by providing across the board teacher pay raises (providing them the opportunity to earn over $100,000), improving the Teacher Incentive Allotment, providing free PreK for teachers’ kids, and creating statewide teacher liability insurance.

Brown County Day at the Texas Capitol

It was so good to have citizens from across Brown County in town this week as Wednesday was “Brown County Day” at the Capitol. With a population of over 38,000, the county is the economic hub for eight surrounding counties in central Texas. Major manufacturers such as 3M and Kohler have called Brownwood home for almost 50 years. The county is home to the historic Camp Bowie military base, and the county was crucial in supplying a quarter of a million soldiers during World War II. Brown County is also home to Howard Payne University, one of the premier faith-based universities in the State of Texas. Since 1889, Howard Payne University has provided its students the opportunity to further their education while growing in their faith. It’s an honor to serve the wonderful people of Brown County, who always welcome me with hospitality on my visits there.

Grateful that over 30 citizens from Brown County came to town. Some of the leaders visiting the Capitol included Brown County Republican Party Chairman Robert Porter, Brownwood City Councilman Draco Miller, Brownwood City Manager Emily Crawford, Brownwood Economic Development Department Executive Director Ray Tipton and Brownwood Deputy City Manager Marshal McIntosh. 

During our question and answer session, we discussed electricity, continuing to secure the border, addressing the water crisis and educational freedom. 

Recognizing Manufacturing Jobs In Our District

Tuesday was Texas Manufacturers’ Day at the Capitol. I sponsored Senate Resolution 103, highlighting the significant impact of manufacturing jobs in our senate district and across Texas. More than 847,000 Texans work in manufacturing, including over 48,000 here in Senate District 10. These are the employees who create goods and products and help make the Lone Star State the top exporting state for manufactured goods. 

Manufacturing jobs are high quality and high wage jobs for our citizens, paying workers an average annual compensation of over $123,000. In Senate District 10, these employees are making products for aerospace and defense, oil and gas, agriculture, food and beverage, chemical and plastic, and metal fabrication.

To keep the “Texas Miracle” going strong, we must ensure we continue to provide the pro-growth, pro-business, and pro-job policies that have made our economy the envy of the nation. 

Honoring Riley Gaines for her Courage and Leadership

On Thursday, the Texas Senate honored Riley Gaines, who was robbed of her legitimate win in college swimming by being forced to compete against a biological man. Instead of standing silent, she launched a national movement to correct this injustice. Riley was a 12-time NCAA All-American and 5-time SEC Champion. In 2022, she was forced to compete against transgender athlete Lia Thomas for a national title. Even though Riley and Lia tied with the exact same time, the NCAA awarded the trophy to Lia Thomas. In large part because of Riley’s courage, landmark legislation banning this insanity has been passed in Texas, around the country, and signed nationally by President Trump. Last session, I was proud to co-author Senate Bill 15, which requires athletes in college sports to compete under their biological gender, and protects the integrity of fair competition and women’s sports in Texas. 

Inspired and Encouraged at the Texas Legislative Prayer Breakfast

Wednesday morning I joined many of my Senate and House colleagues for the Annual Texas Legislative Prayer Breakfast. Former baseball great Darryl Strawberry was the guest speaker, presenting his story not just of the gospel but the hope of redemption. Darryl played in the Major Leagues for 17 years, and led the New York Mets to win the World Series in 1986, and he won again with the New York Yankees in 1996 and 1999. He was also voted to the All-Star team eight years in a row.

This was an encouraging and inspiring message for those who follow Christ, and really to anyone present. Darryl shared his struggles and what really matters in life. Thank you to Dallas Baptist University for inviting me to be a guest at their table for this well attended event.

Senator Pete Flores (a former game warden himself) and I took time to honor those who serve as Texas Game Wardens. These law enforcement professionals work every day to protect our state’s wildlife and natural resources, and promote safety on land and water. We commend these men and women who courageously protect our state every day.

Arlington ISD trustees, Vice President Sarah McMurrough (left) and Secretary Brooklyn Richardson (right) came by to meet with me this week. Thank you for stopping by. I enjoyed our visit. 

The work of your Texas State Senate is in full swing, with important action this week on providing property tax relief as well as progress on reforming a broken bail system that has allowed violent criminals to get out of jail and harm our citizens. Lots of folks from SD 10 were in Austin this week as Monday and Tuesday were Tarrant County Days at the Capitol. I hope you will take a few minutes to review my latest update, and of course you can always email me with your feedback at [email protected].

Texas Senate Passes Additional Historic Property Tax Relief

With Texas enjoying another budget surplus, I believe we must return those funds to the taxpayers. On Thursday, the Texas Senate voted out priority property tax relief legislation, SB 4 and SJR 2. This legislation would raise the current property tax exemption from $100,000 to $140,000. The exemption would be $150,000 for seniors over 65 and the disabled.

SB 4/SJR 2 must next pass the Texas House (SB 4 is the enabling legislation for SJR 2). Then, voters would need to approve this measure in a statewide constitutional election, just as prior increases to the homestead exemption have gone before the voters. Amending the constitution makes it much harder for these exemptions to ever be rolled back in the future, because passing an SJR in Texas requires a two-thirds supermajority in the House and Senate, not just a simple majority. Also, Texas voters have made clear in these elections they support these increased exemptions. Included in SB 4 is a “hold harmless” to school districts – the state will make up any formula funding deficit a school district might incur as a result of this exemption increase.

In addition to using the surplus to increase the property tax exemption, the proposed Texas budget continues what is known as “property tax compression.” Remember not too many years ago the M&O (maintenance and operation) portion of your school property tax bill was $1.50 per $100 valuation. For several sessions now, the Legislature has been using the surplus to “buy down” the M&O, and in the new budget it will go to .60 per $100 valuation, providing additional relief. Tax compression also provides tax relief to small businesses, not just homeowners.  

This action continues an effort which began in 2015, when the residence homestead exemption was increased from $15,000 to $25,000. In 2017, the Legislature passed and voters approved increasing the exemption up to $40,000 per homestead. In the most recent legislature, we asked voters to raise the homestead exemption to $100,000. In 2023, voters overwhelmingly approved this measure with 83% support. 

Keeping Dangerous, Violent Criminals Behind Bars: Major Bail Reform Voted Out of Committee

During my time as a Fort Worth police officer, I would arrest a criminal, book them into jail, and trust that the bail system would work to protect citizens from those who shouldn’t be released. For the most part, the system worked well, as we could usually trust judges to use their discretion properly in making these decisions. 

However, the system is now broken, due to the irresponsible and reckless actions of certain liberal judges in recent years. I have not seen this occur in SD 10, where we are blessed with many fine judges – many of whom I know personally. Though Harris County and the Greater Houston area are home to some of the most shocking and egregious examples of this judicial abuse, make no mistake – these abuses have impact all across Texas. Far too often, bail is granted to violent criminals who are then released on the streets to terrorize law abiding citizens. Those who are released in one part of Texas can migrate to any county, any community, and inflict their violence again. This is frustrating to law enforcement, as those they apprehend are released in very short order.   

This week in the Criminal Justice Committee, I listened to heartbreaking testimony from family members whose relatives were murdered at the hands of those released on bond. One such person was Alexis Nungaray, whose 12-year old daughter Jocelyn was kidnapped, assaulted and strangled last year. Harris County prosecutors say her alleged killers came into the country illegally, and Alexis was forced to appear in court as part of determining bail for her daughter’s killers. Jocelyn’s Mom told us, “I feel outraged that Texas judges are allowed to provide bail for evil people who do heinous things. I feel like it was a slap in the face to Jocelyn and our family to even have to make sure they got an adequate bond, because they preyed on her, on her innocence, and they had no business being here (in the U.S.) in the first place.”

Four bills to correct these injustices and reform the bail system were voted out of the Criminal Justice Committee on which I serve. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has named bail reform as one of the Senate’s top legislative priorities, and Gov. Abbott designated bail reform as an emergency item during his State of the State address. These bills now move the full Senate, and here is a summary of what each bill does. 

SJR 1 prevents bail for an illegal alien accused of a felony. President Trump recently signed the “Laken Riley Act” to protect against violent offenders that are here illegally, and SJR 1 is the Texas version of this important legislation. SJR 1, to be named “Jocelyn’s Law,” would amend the Texas Constitution to prohibit bail for an undocumented immigrant accused of a felony offense. 

Congressman Roger Williams calls on Congress to Reimburse Texas for Border Security

This week, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced the Operation Lone Star Reimbursement Act, allowing the State of Texas to be reimbursed for the $11.1 billion we were forced to spend on border security efforts from 2021-2025. I applaud this effort and wish Roger much success. On February 5, Gov. Greg Abbott was in Washington, D.C., meeting with President Donald Trump to discuss border security. In that meeting, the Governor said he asked the President to reimburse Texas for the $11 billion. As you know, because of the failure of the Biden/Harris administration to protect the southern border, we had no choice but to act. We have deployed aircraft, gunboats, DPS troopers, Texas Rangers, the State Guard and National Guard, installed over 5,000 cameras, established the new Texas Task Force on Border & Homeland Security, and invoked the Emergency Management Assistance Compact to work collaboratively with neighboring states.  Texas has done far more than any other state to secure our border.   

Tarrant County Days at the Texas Capitol

Over 140 people from Tarrant County converged on Austin to make their presence known, meet with elected officials, and enjoy their state capitol. Thanks to everyone who stopped by our office to say hello. It’s an honor to serve Tarrant County, Texas’ largest conservative county. 

Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare joined us on the Senate Floor on Tuesday. Judge O’Hare is doing a great job of increasing government efficiency and keeping Tarrant County a great place to live and work.  

On Monday, I met with Fort Worth City Council Members and staff members about their legislative priorities for this session. Fort Worth is rapidly growing – nearing one million residents – thanks to the fantastic leadership from their local government officials, and private partners like the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce.  


I was honored to give remarks and recognize those gathered in the gallery for Tarrant County Days at the Capitol. Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare, and Commissioner Matt Krause joined us on the Senate floor. Mattie was my Chief of Staff many years ago, and I have been proud to watch her serve as Mayor. 


On Monday and Tuesday, the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce and Arlington Chamber of Commerce welcomed business leaders from Tarrant County to the capitol. On Monday, I spoke to the group about our efforts to bolster the electricity grid so we can continue to provide reliable, affordable electricity to all Texans. 

With my former Chief of Staff and now Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker.

Today, I filed SB 10, priority legislation that would require Texas’ public schools to once again display the Ten Commandments in classrooms. SB 10 follows the historic 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision which overturned a faulty legal precedent used since 1980 to prohibit these displays.

The Ten Commandments are part of our Texas and American story. They are ingrained into who we are as a people and as a nation. Today, our students cry out for the moral clarity, for the statement of right and wrong that they represent. If our students don’t know the Ten Commandments, they will never understand the foundation for much of American history and law.

In fact, few documents have had a greater impact on the whole of Western Civilization than the Ten Commandments. That’s why for 200 years, up until 1980, they were displayed in public buildings and schools across America. Today you’ll still find them displayed inside the U.S. Supreme Court and a monument to the Ten Commandments stands prominently on the Texas Capitol grounds.

Religious liberty is a bedrock of America’s founding. Until 1980, in a now discredited U.S. Supreme Court decision, Stone v. Graham, schools could acknowledge the role that fundamental religious documents, such as the Ten Commandments, had in America’s heritage. Now however, the legal landscape has been restored. In 2022, in the case Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, the Supreme Court overturned what was known as the Lemon test (Lemon v. Kurtzman, 1971) which was the precedent upon which Stone v. Graham was errantly decided. The now overturned Lemon test had been used for decades in an effort to eradicate all references to religion from the public square. 

SB 10 recognizes the fundamental shift in the legal landscape of religious liberty in America. This legislation is in accord with the history and traditions of our state and nation. It will help ensure our students understand and appreciate the role of the Ten Commandments in our heritage, our system of law, and their impact throughout Western Civilization.

I hope everyone is enjoying this brief respite from cold winter weather and the needed rains from this past week. It looks like we will begin the week with sunshine and temps in the 70s and possibly the 80’s in some parts of SD 10. Enjoy! In the meantime, here’s an update on what is happening in your state capitol.

 Establishing Education Savings Accounts: SB 2 Passes Out of Senate Education Committee

On Tuesday, I voted to pass SB 2, the Texas Education Freedom Act, out of the Senate Education K-16 Committee. We expect this school choice bill will be voted out of the full Texas Senate this coming week. As you know, last session this bill died in the Texas House, but we have hopes that it will pass during this new session.

Texas is normally a leader in conservative reforms, but sadly in this area we are way behind. Did you know that 34 other states have empowered families with education freedom? Families can access school choice programs in these states and it’s past time for Texas to create a universal education savings account program. SB 2 makes it clear that parents make the decision concerning one of the most important issues in their child’s life: how and where they are educated. 

SB 2 will provide nearly 100,000 students with the opportunity to benefit from an Education Savings Account. SB 2 includes anti-fraud safeguards, mandatory criminal history checks for vendors, rigorous reporting requirements, and robust data protections. This will be the largest initial education choice rollout for any state.

With this bold legislation, Texas will move to the head of the class as a national leader in providing education freedom to families.

Ten Commandments Bill Named Top 10 Priority Bill

This week, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick released his list of top 25 bills receiving priority status in the Texas Senate; an additional 15 priority bills will be released soon. I’m pleased that my bill to restore the Ten Commandments in Texas classrooms was named as priority bill number ten. As I have stated previously, this bill is about restoring religious liberties that have been lost, liberties that were a bedrock of America’s founding until a 1971 court decision which rolled them back. Texas students will once again be reminded of a fundamental foundation of American and Texas law: the Ten Commandments.

DOGE: Senate Economic Development Committee to Lead Government Efficiency Efforts

I learned that the Economic Development Committee, which I have the privilege of chairing, will be tasked with exploring ways to increase government efficiency and reform. This DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) initiative will be soliciting ideas from citizens and businesses in the effort to ensure that state government is stewarding your taxpayer dollars in the best manner possible. More on this later.

Sponsoring Senate Resolution for Holocaust Remembrance Week

It was a powerful moment this week as the Texas Senate highlighted Holocaust Remembrance Day, which marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and death camp. In Texas, this week is also Holocaust Remembrance Week as we remember over six million Jewish victims of the brutal Nazi regime.

I introduced SR 15, a resolution commemorating Holocaust Remembrance Week and underscoring the work of the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission. This entity, established by the legislature, educates all Texans about the Holocaust and other genocides in an effort to dismantle antisemitism and prevent such future atrocities. It was very moving to hear heartfelt remarks from many of my colleagues from both parties. These senators shared their thoughts on why we must remember this horrific chapter in the history of mankind to ensure it never happens again. If you’d like to see the video, click on the image above, or on this link.

Texas Police Chiefs Association Meeting

On Wednesday, I was honored to welcome 85 police chiefs from across Texas to the Capitol for the Texas Police Chiefs Association Legislative Day. I’m proud to note that SD 10 resident Trevor Barnes, Chief of Police in Clyde (Callahan County) is this year’s statewide president. It was a pleasure to welcome him, his fellow officers and staff, and others who serve SD 10 including Mansfield Assistant Chief of Police Travis Waybourn. I also got to say hello to Carrie West, former Chief of Police in Willow Park. As a former police officer, I am especially grateful for the role these men and women play in their communities, working to keep us safe and free from harm.

 More Meetings and Greetings

Matt and Kelly Ticzkus stopped by the SD 10 office on Tuesday. Matt was in town to testify before the Senate Committee on Education K-16 in support of school choice on behalf of the Texas Private Schools Association. Matt also serves on the Republican Party’s State Republican Executive Committee and on the Weatherford City Council. Thanks, Matt and Kelly, for saying hello.
 

I was able to say hello to Judge Nicki Harle from Callahan County and Judge John Viertel from Shackelford County. It’s always great to see county leadership from across SD 10 in their capitol and hear their counsel on issues that affect their counties back home.

I met with Public Utility Commission Chair Thomas Gleeson in my Capitol Office on Monday. As we explore ways to ensure that the Texas grid can keep up with our exploding growth, I look forward to continuing to work with Chair Gleeson on a range of issues this legislative session. 

 Governor Greg Abbott to Deliver State of the State Address

On Sunday, February 2nd, at 5 pm, Governor Greg Abbott will deliver his annual State of the State address. Nexstar Media Group Inc. television stations across Texas will carry the live telecast. For viewing in SD 10, the address will air on KDAF-TV (CW) in Dallas and on KTAB-TV (CBS) in Abilene.

At the beginning of last week, many of our state leaders and officeholders were in Washington, D.C. for President Trump’s inauguration. I spent much of the week preparing for the important work ahead on my various committees.  

Tuesday, January 28, is the first meeting of the Senate Education K-16 Committee, on which I serve.  During this hearing we will begin hearing testimony on SB 2 which creates a fully universal Education Savings Account (ESA) Program. Various aspects of SB 2 will be covered by the author including eligibility, prioritization of applicants, allocation per student, measures to prevent fraud, and eligible expenses.

To watch this hearing, tune in Tuesday at 11:00 AM (or upon Senate adjournment), by clicking here.

SB 1 Filed – First Draft of State Budget

The only official legislative business mandated by the Texas Constitution is that we must pass a state budget. On Wednesday, Senate Bill 1, the State Budget, was filed. This is the beginning of the process that culminates in passage of a budget covering the 2026-2027 biennium. This document will be the subject of numerous public hearings over the coming months in order to receive feedback from the public and the state agencies covered by the budget. Though I’ll do a deeper dive on the budget in future newsletters, I’m pleased to report that the Senate draft makes continued property tax relief a priority. SB 1 includes over $32 billion to extend the historic property tax cuts from last session and increase the homestead exemption to $140,000 for regular homeowners and $150,000 for seniors.

New Leadership For America, An Ally For Texas 

What a great day on Monday of last week as President Trump assumed the oath of office, bringing a return of leadership and competence. We are only as secure in our homes as we are at our borders, so I am thrilled to have a president and federal agencies working with us in this effort, not against us. President Trump’s actions in the first few days make clear that he means business in the effort to secure our borders and restore American respect in the world. We are praying for you, Mr. President!

Honoring the Life of Patty Williams

As announced in the above statement by her husband, Congressman Roger Williams, Patty Williams passed away last week. She is at home with the Lord, of this there is no doubt. She trusted with all her heart in Jesus her Savior. On Saturday, Terry and I had the opportunity to attend her funeral and it was an uplifting service honoring a great life. Patty was such a part of our local community, always so uplifting. Her family is such a wonderful legacy and tribute to her life. She will be deeply missed. We pray for Roger and the family but take comfort knowing they will be together again someday.

Closing on Some Personal Notes

As of Sunday (yesterday), Terry and I have been married for 46 years! If you’ve read Proverbs 31 that’s Terry. She’s amazing. We didn’t have a long courtship. In fact, we were engaged two weeks after our first date! We kept our engagement quiet for a while, because we thought people would think we were being rash, but we knew it was forever. Six children and eighteen grandchildren later we are more in love than ever.

There is no “formula” for a great marriage. And there have been some difficult times—not in our marriage but just in life. However, if I had to pick one thing that got us through everything, it’s that we have prayed together every day. God just seems to work everything out when we pray. Thank you Terry for 46 years. Looking forward to 47!

Also, as you can see from our latest emails, we have updated our family photo. As you can imagine, it’s hard to get a decent family picture and with 18 grandchildren, it’s more like organized chaos! This photo was taken during our New Year’s celebrations. Terry and I are grateful for the amazing family that God has blessed us with.

On Tuesday at noon the Texas Legislature gaveled in for the start of the 89th Legislative Session. It is always a humbling experience to stand on the floor of this historic body, lay my hand on the Bible, and with my wife Terry by my side, take the oath of office to protect and defend the Texas and United States constitutions. What an honor and privilege to begin another term representing the counties of Brown, Callahan, Johnson, Palo Pinto, Parker, Shackelford, Stephens and Tarrant in the Texas Senate.   
 

New Committee Assignments

Friday morning, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced committee assignments for the 89th Legislative Session. I’m honored with the confidence the Lt. Governor has placed in me as I will Chair the Senate Economic Development Committee and also continue as Vice Chair of the Business & Commerce Committee. Additionally, I’ll serve as a member of the Transportation, Education K-16 and Criminal Justice committees. 

These assignments provide an incredible opportunity to implement solid public policy anchored in our conservative perspectives and also advocate for the needs of our eight counties. In the weeks ahead I’ll be sharing more about the jurisdiction of these committees and the work we hope to accomplish.

How to Stay Connected with Our Office and Your State Capitol

If you are in the Texas Capitol please stop by my office to visit with me and my staff. We are located on the ground floor of the Capitol building, in GE.5.

My official email is [email protected] and the capitol phone number is (512) 463-0110. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.  

To keep apprised of activities in the Senate, please visit https://senate.texas.gov/. There, you can view live or past Senate proceedings, including Committee meetings, and view calendars of upcoming events.

If you want to track a bill as it moves through the legislative process, click here: https://capitol.texas.gov/billlookup/billnumber.aspx.