More than thirty new laws have come into force across Texas this January, introducing wide-ranging changes that affect everyday life, including business regulations, housing, law enforcement practices, technology oversight, and taxation.
Local Law Enforcement to Assist Federal Immigration Authorities
Under Senate Bill 8, sheriffs in counties that operate jails are now required to enter formal agreements with the federal government, allowing local law enforcement to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement within detention facilities. Supporters argue the law strengthens coordination between agencies, while opponents warn it could weaken trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities.
Faster Evictions for Unauthorized Occupants
Senate Bill 38 aims to accelerate eviction proceedings, particularly in cases where individuals are occupying property without legal permission. The new law simplifies justice court procedures, reduces delays, and shortens timelines for removing unauthorized occupants, often referred to as squatters. While the bill is designed to support property owners, it maintains basic notice requirements and court access for tenants.
Unemployment Benefits Processing Made Quicker
House Bill 3699 revises the unemployment compensation system to help claimants receive benefits more quickly. The law streamlines how initial claims are filed and processed, reducing administrative delays and improving efficiency within the system.
Houston Remembers Fallen Firefighter Brandy Allinience
The city of Houston is honoring fallen firefighter Brandy Allinience with a memorial service today, paying tribute to her service and sacrifice.
Statewide Rules Introduced for Artificial Intelligence Use
House Bill 149 establishes Texas’ first comprehensive regulatory framework for artificial intelligence. The law restricts harmful or discriminatory uses of AI and requires disclosure when AI systems are used in certain situations. Lawmakers say the move balances innovation with safeguards as AI adoption expands.
App Store Age Verification Law Blocked by Federal Court
Senate Bill 2420, also known as the App Store Accountability Act, was intended to require app platforms to verify users’ ages and obtain parental consent for minors before allowing downloads or in-app purchases. However, a federal court has blocked the law’s enforcement, citing First Amendment concerns. Texas officials are expected to appeal the decision.
New Tax Rules for Communities Hit by Natural Disasters
House Bill 30 updates the tax code to allow local governments to apply a Disaster Debris Rate to help cover cleanup and repair costs following natural disasters. The law also restricts local governments from raising property taxes above voter-approved limits in the year after a disaster unless an election is held.
Insurance Companies Must Explain Coverage Decisions
House Bill 2067 now requires insurance providers to give written explanations when they deny, cancel, or refuse to renew regulated policies. Insurers must also report these reasons by ZIP code to the Texas Department of Insurance, which will publish summaries online for public access.
Property Tax Relief for Businesses
House Bill 9 delivers significant tax relief for business owners by increasing the exemption on business property taxes. Businesses can now exclude up to $125,000 worth of equipment, inventory, and other tangible property from local property tax calculations, providing meaningful relief for small and mid-sized enterprises.
Hundreds of Laws Already Took Effect Last Fall
In addition to January’s changes, nearly 800 new Texas laws went into effect on September 1, 2025. Among them was Senate Bill 2, which advanced the state’s private school voucher initiative.
A complete list of all legislation scheduled to take effect is available through the Texas Legislature’s official effective-dates listing.
