The 89th Texas Legislative session kicked off Jan. 14, and lawmakers have already filed dozens of bills that may affect higher education institutions across the state.
Lawmakers meet every two years during the regular session to discuss, debate and pass laws over 140 days. This year’s session runs through June 2.
With a focus on policies ranging from diversity and inclusion to residency requirements, these proposals signal potential shifts in how universities operate and how students are impacted. The legislative process will unfold in the coming months, with key debates and decisions that could reshape Texas higher education.
The Texas Legislature consists of 150 members in the House of Representatives, serving a two-year term, and 31 in the Senate, serving either a two-year or four-year term. Republicans currently hold a majority of both the Texas House and Senate.
Lawmakers can introduce legislation from the first Monday after the general election until 60 days into the session. After introduction, bills go through several stages before they may become laws.
First, they undergo a ‘first reading’ and are referred to a committee. The chairman of the committee may hold a hearing, amend the bill and vote to move it forward. Next, the bill is debated and voted on by the full chamber in two readings with possible amendments.
If successful, it passes to a “third reading,” where it again undergoes debate and amendment.
Once legislation passes the third reading, it moves to the opposite chamber for a similar process. If changes are made, the original cham-ber can accept them or appoint a conference committee to reconcile differences. Finally, Gov. Greg Abbott can either sign the bill to become law or veto the legislation, though the Legislature can override a veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.
The Shorthorn compiled a list of bills filed so far that could impact higher education:
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