The 89th Texas Legislative session kicked off this month in Austin! Over the next 140 days, state lawmakers will debate and vote on new laws that could dramatically impact Houstonians, from a proposal to fund students’ private schools to more money for border security. So, why do lawmakers only meet every two years? And what issues are at stake this session? Let’s get into it!
Why Does It Meet Every Two Years?
The Texas Legislature held their first session in February 1846, and back then, not many lawmakers were interested in making the trek to Austin from all over the state, according to Nancy Baker Jones, president of the Ruthe Winegarten Memorial Foundation for Texas Women's History. As other major events happened, like the Civil War and Reconstruction, state representatives had other priorities on their mind, so they weren’t interested in having more regular meetings.
Even today, you could say we have an independent streak in Texas. Many state lawmakers don’t feel the need for more structure and believe meeting every two years is enough to take care of business for the Lone Star State — even if we have one of the largest economies in the world. Another factor: Most state legislators work separate, full time jobs when the legislature is not in session, partly because they’re paid so little. (It’s hard to live on $600 a month in Houston!) Texas is one of only four states that meets every two years, along with Montana, Nevada, and North Dakota. All other states meet annually.
What Issues Will Legislators Consider This Session?
Although about 2,000 bills have been filed this session, many will die before they ever make it for a vote. So, what high-profile issues should you keep tabs on? Well, a new school voucher program could drastically the education landscape in Texas. If passed, eligible families would receive $10,000 to fund a child’s education at an accredited private school. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick also has said the legislature should amend the state’s near total abortion ban “so that doctors are not in fear of being penalized if they think the life of the mother is at risk.” And potential good news for next hurricane season: Lawmakers could launch a program to help homeowners retrofit their property to withstand hurricane and windstorm losses.
Follow a bill’s progress using the state’s tracker or the Houston Chronicle’s bill tracker. Also, here’s how to find out who your state representative is this session.
Do you have other questions about the legislative session you want answered? Send them my way.
