Dozens of new laws are set to take effect in Texas this month and the next, introducing significant changes across various sectors, including education, law enforcement, and taxation. Following the implementation of over 800 laws on September 1 from the year’s regular legislative session, additional measures from both the regular and second special sessions are on the horizon.
Among these, legislation aimed at redistricting the congressional map—part of the Texas GOP’s strategy to gain five more seats for President Donald Trump—is scheduled to be enacted on December 4. This measure faced considerable delays, as Texas House Democrats temporarily halted proceedings in protest. Currently, the legality of the new congressional lines is under scrutiny, having reached the U.S. Supreme Court after a federal court issued a ruling against Texas.
Additionally, a recent lawsuit has put a hold on a constitutional amendment that would allow the implementation of Senate Bill 5, which aims to establish the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. This initiative is particularly crucial as the state’s population ages at a faster rate than the national average. In early November, voters endorsed an amendment dedicating $3 billion in surplus state revenue to fund this institute, although the lawsuit claims that the voting machines used were faulty—echoing tactics previously employed by right-wing activists to obstruct constitutional amendments. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has urged a swift resolution to ensure the law can take effect.
Laws Taking Effect in December
House Bill 7 enables private citizens to file lawsuits against anyone involved in the manufacturing or distribution of abortion medications in Texas. Under this law, individuals who take the drugs cannot be sued, but plaintiffs with a connection to the fetus may receive at least $100,000 if their case is successful. Critics argue that this law transforms individuals into “bounty hunters” and seeks to extend the state’s abortion ban beyond its borders. This measure will come into effect on December 4.
House Bill 8 repeals the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) test, replacing it with three shorter assessments throughout the academic year. This change is largely in response to concerns that the existing standardized test imposes excessive pressure on students and requires significant class preparation. Most of the provisions under this law will be activated on December 4, with new assessments set to be administered in the following school year.
House Bill 18 introduces stricter penalties for lawmakers who disrupt quorum to stall legislative processes, including increased fines and restrictions on fundraising during such breaks, alongside loss of seniority and committee positions. This law was enacted during the second special session after a significant number of Texas House Democrats left the state to protest the congressional redistricting efforts. The law will take effect on December 4.
House Bill 25 permits individuals to purchase ivermectin—a drug primarily used to treat livestock parasites—without a prescription. This medication gained notoriety during the pandemic as a supposed treatment for COVID-19, despite the FDA’s lack of approval for such use. Proponents advocate for medical freedom, while opponents voice concerns regarding potential misuse and safety. This law will also take effect on December 4.
House Bill 26 allows Harris County’s sheriffs and constables to enter contracts with homeowner associations, school districts, and municipal utility districts for additional policing services without needing approval from the county commissioners court. Supporters argue this measure protects an established deputy contract program, while critics, including county commissioners, fear it may disrupt the county’s budgeting process. This law will take effect on December 4.
Senate Bill 8, originating from the second special session, restricts the public restroom access of transgender individuals in government buildings, schools, universities, prisons, and jails based on their sex assigned at birth. It also prohibits those assigned male at birth from entering women’s domestic violence shelters unless they are minors and the children of women receiving services there. Institutions violating this law could face fines starting at $25,000 for the first offense and $125,000 for subsequent violations. Advocates claim this law safeguards women’s privacy and safety, while critics argue it endangers both transgender individuals and cisgender people falsely accused. This legislation is set to take effect on December 4, marking a culmination of a decade-long effort by Texas Republicans.
Senate Bill 11 provides immunity for trafficking victims from prosecution for crimes committed under duress from their traffickers. Previous attempts to pass similar legislation were vetoed by Gov. Greg Abbott for being overly broad. The new law will take effect on December 4 and excludes individuals who have committed serious offenses such as murder or sexual assault from receiving these protections.
Laws Taking Effect in January
House Bill 9 will exempt up to $125,000 of business inventory from taxation by local entities, including counties, cities, and school districts. Currently, inventory valued under $2,500 is not taxed. Proponents herald this measure as a victory for Texas businesses, with the law set to take effect on January 1 following voter approval of a related constitutional amendment. However, the legislative budget board has estimated that local revenue could decrease by $442 million in fiscal year 2027 if local governments do not adjust tax rates accordingly.
Senate Bill 8 from the regular session mandates that sheriffs in counties operating jails must cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and undertake specific immigration enforcement actions under the 287(g) program. The law also permits sheriffs to apply for grants ranging from $80,000 to $140,000 based on county population to support these efforts. Proponents argue this law enhances public safety, while critics warn it may lead to increased racial profiling of immigrants and citizens alike. This law will take effect on January 1.
Senate Bill 38 accelerates the eviction process for squatters. Although it is designed to address illegal property occupation, housing advocates are concerned it may weaken protections for tenants. This law effectively prohibits the governor and state supreme court from altering eviction proceedings during emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. A portion of this law has already come into effect, with the remainder scheduled for activation on January 1.
