Here are five key updates happening across Texas this week:
1. State Budget for the Next Biennium Passes the Senate
This week, the Texas Senate passed its version of the state budget for the next two years. The proposed budget, Senate Bill 1, will allocate $153.5 billion in state revenue, with a total spend of $336 billion when including federal funds. Key provisions include funding for lowering school property taxes and raising the homestead exemption to $140,000.
Public schools will also receive a $500 million increase for school safety. The bill is now moving to the Texas House where it’s being reviewed by the Appropriations Committee before heading to a conference committee to resolve any differences. Once finalized, it will go for approval by both chambers.
2. Major Water Infrastructure Bill Passes Out of Committee
Senate Bill 7, authored by Senator Charles Perry, passed out of committee on Monday. The bill aims to secure $1 billion annually to fund water projects across the state.
With concerns growing about water shortages, particularly in rural areas, the bill is a critical step toward ensuring the state can maintain its water supply. SB 7 will support the development of non-traditional water supply solutions and protect existing freshwater resources.
The bill will also be presented for voter approval after the session concludes. Senator Perry stressed the importance of ensuring the future sustainability of Texas’ water infrastructure.
3. Bill to Improve Pedestrian Railroad Crossings Passes
This week, Senate Bill 1555, authored by Senator Carol Alvarado, passed the Senate, establishing a grant program for political subdivisions to construct pedestrian railroad crossings. The bill is paired with Senate Concurrent Resolution 25, which urges the city of Houston to build a crossing in honor of Sergio Ivan Rodriguez, who tragically lost his life at a railroad crossing near Milby High School.
The bill allocates $350 million for the program, including $10 million to build a crossing in the location where Sergio was killed. The new program aims to improve safety and protect lives.
4. $239 Million in Grants for Rural Mental Health Care
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission announced $239 million in construction grants to expand mental health care in rural areas. This funding will support the creation of up to 332 new beds for patients in four communities, including $64 million for improvements in Beaumont.
The expansion will help combat rising mental health concerns and ease pressure on the criminal justice system by providing proper care for individuals assessed through the system.
5. East Texas Cowboys Rank in the PRCA World Rankings After Houston Rodeo
Two cowboys from East Texas have made it to the Top Five in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) world rankings following their performances at the Houston Rodeo. Holden Myers, a steer wrestler, placed second with a 5.2-second run and is now ranked second in the world.
Kincade Henry, a tie-down roper, finished second with an 8.1-second time and is now ranked third in the world. Other East Texans, including Lighting Aguilera and Logan Cook, also delivered strong performances, further elevating East Texas’ presence in the rodeo world.